AR Extractor Problems Overseas!

20 Aug 09

Report from a friend in-Country (Iraq):

"Big gun-battle here yesterday!

I experienced a failure-to-extract with my M4. I couldn't clear it, so I had to default to my M9 (Beretta 92F). Insurgents tried to shoot me as I was performed immediate-action/transition, but I was moving so fast they were unsuccessful. M9 ran fine.

My experience is not unusual. Lots of extraction issues here with the M4. Ammunition is being blamed, but it strikes me that the real problem is soft-extraction, due to worn extractors. Many are chipped and otherwise badly haggard."

Comment: It is well know that the bolt, and particularly the extractor, is a weak-point with the Stoner System. The extractor and extractor-spring must be perpetually looked after.

MGI's "D-Ring" is an interim fix that is enormously helpful. Highly recommended for all ARs.

/John

The Real Author!

20 Aug 09

On 9 Aug 09, I sent a Quip entitled, "Two Things."

Included in it was a wonderful poem about bearing arms. The poem was sent to me some time ago, with its author listed as "Unknown." I have since learned that the real author is the lovely Brigid Durham, and she is the one who deserves credit. I regret not knowing this when I published the Quip.

/John