Young MFG chromed BCG (ar-15) review

During a recent AR-15 build, I decided to try out a chromed bolt & carrier. The natural choice for this criteria was a unit from Young Manufacturing, since they are probably the most well-known chromed BCG maker in the industry.

I ordered an in-stock unit from a retailer, choosing the standard chromed semi-auto BCG. I installed this into my 18″ SPR rifle, built on a VLTOR billet upper and using a Noveske SPR barrel.

Product strengths: superior durability, easier to clean, stays clean longer, superior materials & workmanship

Weaknesses: Initially, the BCG worked great with the rifle suppressed. However when running without the suppressor, the rifle had a severe short-stroking problem. After swapping in an RRA carrier from one of my other rigs, I determined the carrier was the source of the malfunction.

Customer service: I called Young MFG and to my surprise, I was greeted by the owner of the company. He knew his product inside & out, and was very courteous and helpful. At his request, I removed the gas key and re-sealed it using locktite and new screws. This did not fix the problem, so after another phone call I sent the BCG to them for inspection. I sent it priority, and it was returned the same way. Total turn around time was within a week. Young MFG determined that the area of the carrier which contacts the gas rings was out of spec, so they replaced the entire carrier and reinstalled my bolt with new gas rings. They sent it back priority, and even refunded my original shipping cost.

The new carrier runs perfectly, I have had ZERO issues with it. The level of customer service was more than I expected, certainly a rare thing these days. I would absolutely buy their products again, and I fully intend to on my next build. I do recommend this carrier and this company to friends, and will continue to do so simply for the integrity they showed in customer service.

By: Brad Woodard