Proper Side Charging BCG ??s

[BeeKay]

What are the options for getting a decent quality Bolt Carrier for use with a side charging mechanism ?

I bought a couple of side charging uppers from BCA and I like the design of the side charging handle, but the finish quality of the Bolt Carrier is mediocre and I'm not sure about the metallurgy.   They are functioning well, and finish quality is superficial, but if it reflects anything about metallurgy then wear may be an issue..

So what are guys doing  ?   Can a good quality BCG be drilled and tapped ?    It seems like the angles aren't correct for the same geometry of BCA (Bear Creek Arsenal) style handle.

Thanks for any suggestions 

Edited September 28, 2022 by BeeKay

[blue109]

I have as ASA non reciprocating side charger. Pretty cool design. I really don't like the ones that thread into the carrier. Seems like a hassle waiting to happen. 

 

With that said, it still seems like a novelty. In theory there are a few scenarios where it could be beneficial, but unlikely in practice. 

[BeeKay]

I'll check out ASA - Thanks

[BeeKay]

1 hour ago, blue109 said:

I have as ASA non reciprocating side charger. Pretty cool design. I really don't like the ones that thread into the carrier. Seems like a hassle waiting to happen. 

 

With that said, it still seems like a novelty. In theory there are a few scenarios where it could be beneficial, but unlikely in practice. 

I tried searching ASA, with no results other than Arizona State Armory - but didn't see a web site

[blue109]

American Spirit Arms out of AZ. Maybe they went under. Doesn't look like their website works. Left side folding handle. Notch machined into BCG. Deletes charging handle completely. Mine is a small frame upper, but I'm pretty sure they offered a big frame version as well. 

 

[BeeKay]

Nice !

[83107]

I have to admit that I picked up a couple of the BCA right side charging uppers. The price was right for a small frame to be used for short distance shooting. So far, no issues. I will report after using them more.

[BeeKay]

There's a place in the world for BCA stuff - Especially considering the AR 10s for under $1000.

Sort of reminds me of entry level RIA 1911s 

[98Z5V]

On 9/29/2022 at 12:53 AM, blue109 said:

American Spirit Arms out of AZ. Maybe they went under.

They did.  They shut down.   They used to offer a machining service for any BCG that you'd send them, to convert it to their side-charger setup.  IIRC, it was pretty cheap, like $25 or something like that.