AR-15 Buffer Weight: What Are They, Types, How To Pick

The AR-15 is a feat of ingenuity. It has several integral parts, including the tiny buffer weight, which is located in the buffer system alongside the buffer spring.

Generally, there are five buffer weights you can pick from, ranging from 3 ounces to 8.5 ounces. Choosing the correct buffer weight for your rifle’s setup and your use case is pertinent to an overall enjoyable shooting experience. That is where we come in. In this article, we’ll delve deep into AR-15 buffer weights, helping you find the best buffer weight for your AR-15 setup.

We’ll also provide some helpful insight into other AR-15 modifications you can make to further optimize your AR-15 for your shooting applications!

What Is An AR-15 Buffer Weight?

The AR-15 buffer weight is a weighted component located in the buffer tube of the rifle. The buffer weight is critical, ensuring the smooth running of the cyclic operation of the firearm – balancing and regulating the movement of the bolt carrier group (BCG) during firing. The buffer weight forms an essential part of the buffer system.

What Parts Make Up A Buffer System?

The buffer system of an AR-15 consists of three main parts. The buffer tube is the most characteristic part (also known as the receiver extension). You also get the buffer weight and the buffer spring. The unique assembly aids in the cycling of rounds and absorbs recoil – two vital functions of an AR-15.

What Is The Primary Function Of AR15 Buffer Weights?

The primary function of the buffer weight is to slow down the BCG’s rearward motion during the firing cycle. Basically, the buffer weight ensures the bolt locks back into place before the next round is fed, ensuring smooth and reliable firing.

How Do Buffer Weights Impact The BCG?

Buffer weights impact the BCG by exerting a force against the BCG, slowing its movement. This process aims to help mitigate recoil, thereby protecting your rifle’s critical components from premature wear and ensuring the next round is chambered correctly. Without the buffer weight, the AR-15 will fail to cycle properly.

What Are The Different Types Of Buffer Weights For AR-15?

There are five different types of buffer weights for AR-15, which we explain below.

• Carbine Buffer — 3 oz: Carbine buffer weights can be found in standard carbines.
• Heavy (H) Buffer — 3.8 oz: This is a slightly heavier buffer weight and an ideal option for rifles with a shorter gas tube.
• H2 Buffer — 4.6–4.7 oz: These buffers are often featured in a mid-length gas system and suppressed weapons.
• H3 Buffer — 5.0–5.4 oz: Ideal for rifles with a heavy adjustable gas block, which is often over-gassed, or those with full-auto capabilities.
• Pistol Buffer — 5.0–8.5 oz: The pistol buffer is designed specifically for AR-15 pistols, accommodating their unique requirements.

How Do You Pick The Best Buffer Weight?

Selecting the best buffer weight depends on your personal preference, use case, and your rifle’s setup. For most applications, a standard carbine buffer, which offers a slightly lighter buffer weight, will work perfectly.

However, ideally, you need to test the different buffer weights and observe the ejection patterns, felt recoil, and overall function of the rifle. Who knows, you might end up with the heaviest buffer weight as your top pick.

What Is The Importance Of Use Case On Choosing A Buffer Weight?

The importance of use case in choosing a buffer weight cannot be stressed more. AR-15s have all kinds of use cases, from hunting, competition, and home defense to range shooting and plinking.

It is your job to ensure you get the right buffer weight for your use case. For instance, competitive shooters should prioritize rapid cycling and reduced recoil, while hunters, myself included, should opt for reliability in varied conditions – standard carbine buffers usually do the job.

What Is The Most Common Type Of Buffer Weight?

The carbine rifle-length buffer, weighing 3 ounces, is the most common type of buffer weight. It is versatile – performing well in a broad range of AR-15 configurations and use cases.

Buffer Weight Chart

Below is a visual chart highlighting the different buffer weights.

What Other Modifications Can You Make To Your AR-15?

There are a myriad of modifications you can make to your AR-15, from optics to lasers and handguards. The most popular AR-15 modifications include optics such as red dots and LPVOs, grips, stocks, triggers, handguards, barrels, and even rails.

Honestly, the platform’s modularity and user-friendliness are why I enjoy the AR-15 so much.

Is It More Important To Install A Rifle Scope Or New Buffer Weight?

If you’re not happy with the performance of your rifle’s recoil or cycling or you need to enhance your aiming capabilities, then it’s important to install a new buffer weight or AR-15 rifle scope.

AR-15 rifle scopes enhance your aiming and target acquisition. Buffer weight improves your firearm’s functionality and user comfort. Remember, when making modifications to your AR-15, always prioritize what you want to do first – trust me, it can get expensive real quick!

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

While you might think the AR-15 buffer weight is a minor component, it actually holds a significant influence over your rifle’s performance and shooting experience. Therefore, when you understand the buffer weight’s function and how choosing the right weight for your needs can influence the overall performance, you can optimize your AR-15’s operation, reliability, and comfort to be tailor-made for you!