Everything To Know About BCGs - Materials, Coatings, Special Features | AT3 Cheap Vs Expensive

In this video, C.J. is breaking down what makes some BCGs so expensive while others remain budget-friendly. We’ll cover materials, coatings, design features, and testing methods and demystify complex terms like C-158, MPI, 9310, DLC, TiN, and more so you can confidently choose the right BCG for your build. Whether you’re after reliability for home defense, precision for competition, or just a budget-friendly range gun, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to look for.

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:43 – BCG Materials: Carpenter 158 vs. 9310 vs. 8620
01:14 – Carpenter 158 Steel
02:42 – 9310 Steel
03:17 – 8620 Steel
03:56 – Coatings Explained: Phosphate, Nitride, Nickel Boron, DLC & More
04:48 – Phosphate
06:07 – Nitride
07:14 – Nickel Boron
08:17 – DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon)
09:10 – Titanium Nitride
10:00 – Special Design Features: Staking, Lightweight BCGs, Enhanced Cuts
10:06 – Full Auto VS Semi Auto BCG
13:45 – Properly Staked Gas Key
13:45 –
17:30 – BCG Testing: MPI, HPT & What They Mean for You
20:00 – Final Thoughts & Which BCG You Should Get

🔑 Key Takeaways:
✅ Not all BCGs are created equal—your intended use should determine your choice.
✅ Materials like Carpenter 158 and 9310 steel impact longevity and reliability.
✅ Coatings affect friction, cleaning, and durability—phosphate vs. nitride vs. DLC.
✅ Proper staking and MPI/HPT testing matter for long-term performance.

🔗 Relevant Links:
🎥 Related video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmhcs34rYSg&t=158s&pp=ygUHYXQzIGJjZw%3D%3D

🛒 Our top BCG picks: https://bit.ly/4gqpGQu
🔧 Check out our website for the latest giveaway: https://content.at3tactical.com/
💬 Join the Conversation!
Which BCG do you run in your AR? Let me know in the comments!

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🤝 Transparency
We strive to provide the growing AR-15 shooting community with helpful, fact-driven information about the AR-15 & AR-15 style firearms and accessories to do our part in bolstering a more well-informed community and safer when handling, building, or shooting their personal firearm. Let's face it, we all have to start somewhere when it comes to becoming a firearms expert. Our goal is to help you get there one small step at a time. The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the products and their applications on any/all related firearms that strictly comply with all federal, Minnesota state, and local laws. The viewer expressly agrees that AT3 Tactical LLC; its officers, directors, employees, and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products and information provided in this video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages. AT3 Tactical LLC is a Federal Firearms Licensee.
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