Out of spec but looks great! - Superlative Arms AR15 Bolt Carrier, Direct Impingement

I've been building and shooting ARs for 30 years. I can troubleshoot almost all issues and have the tools, gauges, and drawings to predict performance and make repairs. Sometimes a tolerance stack up can work to the builder's advantage but often it will ruin a build if too large.

The design and appearance of the carrier body is top notch. The only visual issue I had was the gas key staking. It was uneven and looked like it was done with a square punch. It left sharp burrs that were not impressive. The OACKS screws are wonderful but only a proper staking can utilize their innovation. Star deduction.

With this carrier I used a brand-new JP Enterprises bolt, cam pin, firing pin, and fp retainer. All critical dimensions were well within spec. After assembly, I checked headspace and headed to the range. Note: The feel of the new carrier in relation to the new gas ring was surprisingly course but not unusual being brand new.

Upon firing I immediately ran into issues. Short stroking and misfeeds. I then used a lighter buffer (A5H0) and it helped but only with full power M193 5.56 NATO. I swapped out the Sprinco green spring with a polished rifle spring (used) and now it locked back on low power .223 Wolf ammo. The gas port on this barrel can cycle everything so upon closer examination I found that the bolt tail bore was oversized and leaking way too much gas. The JP bolt tail measured exactly .250" and showed almost no wear associated with a good seal. All other dimensions were in spec but I could also suspect a leaky/loose gas key. However, it's the bolt tail bore that cannot be repaired so it's a moot point.

2 stars overall. I really wanted to like this carrier but this was going in a HD gun and it needs to be utterly reliable. IME, swapping out parts to make it work is why specs exist and this carrier did not meet expectations.