Adjustable gas block vs adjustable BCG . SUPPRESSOR QUESTION

nikdanja

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Apr 6, 2014
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Warrenton Virginia
I got my paperwork filled out and the clock starting on my first suppressor on Monday.

My question is relating to gas pressure. My buddy has an adjustable BCG so when he fires suppressed, he has less gas in the face. I’ve been looking into them and they are crazy expensive! So what’s the difference between this and an adjustable gas block? The gas block is way less expensive and sounds like it does the same thing. Thoughts?
 
I have both (2 with gas block and one with BCG)

Gas block is the way to go if your semi inclined to change it out. A adjustable BCG is a drop in if your not

The BCG has more gas to the face but is very manageable. If I was building an AR an adjustable gas block would be priority 1

I can’t understand (other than cost) why AR companies don’t make them standard especially with the popularity of suppressors

I run a Bootleg BCG. Syrac and Superlative Arms gas block

I recommend superlative if you have to have any of the 3

They all work for me but my preference is an adjustable gas block

Depending on your setup you may not need anything at all

My 300 BO with pistol length gas runs supers and subs and suppressor or not without either
 
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I’ll add my adjustable BCG is on my SBR with a 10.5 FN barrel and Saker
ASR 556 and works great. I’d assume the size of the gas port would be a major factor. The BCG is only in in the half position and runs like a top

My 30 cal (TBAC Ultra 9), which I run on a precision rig, needs nothing to tune it. The 30 cal in addition to the size of the suppressor vs the Saker runs great. This is a 16” barrel and carbine gas
 
My opinion: you'd do well to manage your rifle as a system vs individual parts to accomplish individual tasks. Adjustable gas blocks, different buffer tubes/systems, vented charging handles, adjustable bolt carriers: they all work together in unique ways, aside from possibly helping relieve some of the pressure.
 
My opinion: you'd do well to manage your rifle as a system vs individual parts to accomplish individual tasks. Adjustable gas blocks, different buffer tubes/systems, vented charging handles, adjustable bolt carriers: they all work together in unique ways, aside from possibly helping relieve some of the pressure.
Vented charging handles? Am I that far behind the times?
 
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I run a PRI gas buster in my SBR. It helps

IMO if you put in an adjustable gas block (like Superlative or SLR) you can avoid the other nonsense. If not then handles, buffers and springs will help
 
For a specific rifle you are better off with the adjustable gas block. I have experimented with many brands over the years and recommend the Seekins Select model. It gives you very precise control (30 settings) and lets you create three select positions to switch from suppressed to unsupressed quickly and without tools. I've also run into issues with certain manufacturers incorrectly sizing gas ports on barrels. This will help you finely tune your rifle. https://seekinsprecision.com/select-adjustable-gas-block-876.html

If you do go with an adjustable block, I suggest err on the side slightly over-gassing for the sake of reliability. If your environment changes (outside temperature, altitude) or you get carbon build up, you want the rifle to run reliably.

I have used a Gemtech BCG, which worked well. The advantage of the BCG is that you can swap it in and out of several guns. If you want to run your suppressor on another gun, all you have to do is quickly swap out the BCG. No need to install a gas block. I agree with redneckbmxer24, ideally you do not want the carbon buildup in your action. That would be the major drawback to the BCG and why I personally wouldn't consider it as a permanent solution.

Hope that helps.

BTW if you think $200 for an adjustable BCG is "crazy expensive", you are on the wrong forum. :)
 
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I would start with the adj. gas block and go from there, if not just because you can limit the gas input before it ever reaches the action. But as other people mentioned, you may need to change other parts as well to achieve the optimal setup.
 
I run (3, 2 LW AR15 and 1 308 Ti) 2aArmament RBCGs with their standard Ti GB, very nice products. Easy to tune, and If anything happens, just throw a Milspec carrier in it and run the gas wide open