AR15 Bolts Vs Calibers

[Shovelhead]

Over a number of our favorite libations we were discussing the various calibers that could be built upon the standard AR15 platform. The usual .223/5.56 , 30 Remington, 300BO, 6.8SPC, 450 Bushmaster 450 SOCUM.......... Most require a new bolt while some dont. The discussion came down to, can you look at 6.8 SPC, next to say .223/5.56/300BO bolts and pick out the 6.8? My answer was yes. But not having done it maybe not by "eyeball" Since the case base of a 6.8 is a larger diameter then a .223 family. I would expect to see the "wall" of the bolt face to be thinner on the 6.8. What'cha think?

 

[RamRoddoc]

Over a number of our favorite libations we were discussing the various calibers that could be built upon the standard AR15 platform. The usual .223/5.56 , 30 Remington, 300BO, 6.8SPC, 450 Bushmaster 450 SOCUM.......... Most require a new bolt while some dont. The discussion came down to, can you look at 6.8 SPC, next to say .223/5.56/300BO bolts and pick out the 6.8? My answer was yes. But not having done it maybe not by "eyeball" Since the case base of a 6.8 is a larger diameter then a .223 family. I would expect to see the "wall" of the bolt face to be thinner on the 6.8. What'cha think?

Yep, and more prone to fracture. Don't skimp on quality on a 6.8 bolt and I'd carry a spare.

 

[DTK Supply]

The difference in the 223/5.56 bolt face and 6.8 bolt face are pretty easy to see.

I did mark my 6.8 BCG with tan paint so I can easily see the difference without studying them.

Pay the difference and get a good 6.8 bolt for reasons already stated.

 

[Shovelhead]

I'm back home and pulled all my BCG's. Very easy to tell the differences. I may take your advice and pack an extra 6.8 bolt. it is really thinned walled.

 

[Shovelhead]

Forgot to mention Big shoutout for providing a great venue for the ODT swap meetup!!!!!!