Faxon Superfinished 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Group – Nitride
The Faxon Superfinished 5.56 Gunner Lightweight Bolt Carrier Group (Nitride) was engineered to close a performance gap in the lightweight BCG market—delivering reduced mass without compromising strength, durability, or reliability. Designed to live up to the Gunner name, this BCG is purpose-built for fast, smooth, competition-ready AR-15 platforms.
At just 8.5 ounces complete, this lightweight carrier reduces reciprocating mass to improve cycling speed, reduce recoil impulse, and enable faster follow-up shots. Faxon achieves this through careful geometry and an optimized cam path—rather than sacrificing critical material strength.
All components are salt bath nitrided to increase surface hardness, reduce friction, and provide excellent corrosion resistance. The carrier body receives Faxon’s proprietary Superfinish to further reduce fouling and enhance smoothness of operation.
Faxon recommends the use of an adjustable gas block when running the Gunner Lightweight BCG to properly tune gas flow and ensure optimal function.
Key Performance Design Goals
- Lightest weight possible — 8.5 oz complete
- MIL-SPEC materials and finishes or better
- Optimized cam path for smooth cycling
- Reduced recoil impulse and faster follow-up shots
- Maintains full-auto trip sear compatibility
- Compatible with dust covers and forward assist
Key Features
- 9310 Tool Steel Bolt
- Salt Bath Nitrided Bolt & Carrier
- Superfinished Carrier Body
- Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)
- Full MIL-SPEC Heat Treatment & Shot Peening
- Back of Lugs Chamfered for Reliable Cycling
- S7 Extractor
- Spring, Insert, & “Crane” O-Ring Installed
- Grade 8 Gas Key Fasteners, Fully Staked
- M16 Pattern – Full Auto Compatible
- Forward Assist Serrations
- Laser-Engraved Faxon Shield (post-QC)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this bolt carrier group full-auto compatible?
Yes. This is an M16-pattern carrier that maintains the full-auto trip sear and is compatible with full-auto fire control groups and modern multi-stage triggers.
Why should I use an adjustable gas block?
Lightweight BCGs reduce reciprocating mass and typically require less gas. An adjustable gas block allows you to tune the system for optimal reliability, recoil control, and component longevity.
What makes this different from other lightweight BCGs?
Faxon focused on geometry, cam path optimization, and material selection instead of simply removing mass. The result is a lightweight carrier that maintains strength, reliability, and long-term durability.
