So I was doing my monthly AR checkup today, being a holiday and all. I noticed on one of my factory BCM lowers that the RE has several “cracks” or machining marks all around it. I wiped down the RE with CLP and the lines did not go away, as I thought it was plastic shavings from the stock. Will this cause problems down the line? I’ll try to affix a picture. The lines do no look very deep but has the markings on the entire circumference of the RE.
After several e-mails back and forth of me asking questions, BCM sent me a shipping label (2 day UPS) to have the lower inspected. The lower was at BCM for approximately one day, and they had fixed the issue.
I sent an e-mail and inquired what had been done. BCM stated that the original RE was in spec but they had switched it out for another. I also had a Troy sling mount attached to the RE which the allen bolt was rounded. They removed it. They also installed their QD endplate for me.
Basically BCM went above and beyond to put my mind at ease. I can’t thank them enough.
If they were cracks it would be a major concern. But I can’t identify any cracks. What it looks like is anodizing. I think it would be prudent to upload better photos perhaps. Drag your fingernail across, can you catch your nail on them?
Did a little more research. One source says Colts’ are forged then machined. That might explain why this one looks like it the victim of galling from the machining process.
I have a vltor RE that has the same tiny cracks. I got it many years ago during one of the great “panics”. It didnt see much use being on a back up gun but now resides in the spares bin. I always wondered if this was a serious defect, finding a replacement at the time was problematic so I went with it till I could replace it.
I don’t see cracks. I see voids from the forging process, would suspect the extension was too cool. When the billet or dies are not hot enough, the alloy is not as mailable, it starts to tear. It’s quite possible these are the marks you are seeing.
Looks minor to nothing to me. I’m sure you did the right thing contacting BCM. BTW, I can’t find any rule violation. I find the rules but not one that would have been violated short of of a very, very, loose interpretation.* I see you posting an observation, asking for other to take a look. Would like to see the specific rule please. Thanks.
* “4) Contact The Manufacturer or Dealer First – Internet forums have a large global audience and unsubstantiated or ill-informed comments will affect the livelihoods of a lot of hard working people in the industry. If you have an issue with a manufacturer or dealer that you would like to resolve, we ask that your first contact them to resolve it.”
