Del-Ton AR 15 Bolts

[JayPee]

I've seen some posts on different forums, including this one, indicating that at some point in time there was a problem with some Del-Ton AR 15 bolts. However, the nature of the problem and the time frame isn't clear from the posts I've seen. One said "several years ago" and another said "a couple of years ago." I've seen one reference to broken bolts, but don't know if that was the problem being referred to or not. The whole thing is a bit of a mystery.

Does anyone here know what the problem was and if a reasonably specific time period can be given?

I have two Del-Ton uppers and I'd like to know all of this for obvious reasons. Thanks very much for any information.

JayPee

 

[kwelz]

I don't remember exactly when it was but the problem was bolts sheering off the ears.

It is also a perfect example of why a company should not cut corners. Proper testing Would probably have caught these issues and kept it from getting out.

 

[Z-Michigan]

I believe the bad batch was in either 2008 or 2009, or possibly bridging those years. The bad bolts, along with a bunch of seemingly OK bolts, have "VIM" or something similar stamped on them. You may find more specifics at ar15.com.

My understanding is that the bad bolts were 8620 steel and improperly heat treated, two strikes against them. I've also heard that DTI is replacing bolts that actually break, but not doing any preemptive replacements. I could be wrong on either or both.

I've been at several competitions where people had these bolts shear lugs (you probably saw one of my posts). It disables the gun but as far as I know doesn't damage anything else or cause any serious problems apart from needing to replace the bolt.

 

[JayPee]

Thanks for the information, Z, I appreciate it very much. I have a five year old Del-Ton upper and a brand new one, so its looks as if I may have skirted the bolt issue. Nonetheless, as a result of your post about them in another thread, I ordered three new bolts from Palmetto State Armory to upgrade the ones in my Del-Tons and a Bushmaster. I also read of some of the BM bolts doing something similar. So I'll just play it safe and rotate the existing factory bolts into the spare parts bin in the buttstock and keep on going. Your information has been very helpful and thanks again.

JayPee

 

[Z-Michigan]

Glad to hear it. All bolts will eventually fail, and if you have a carbine-length gas system they fail sooner. The PSA bolts are probably GTG, but when I want something I can really depend on, I choose among Colt, BCM, Daniel Defense, and LMT, and probably no others. And FWIW I believe the LMT is the best of those due to the radiused lug roots.

 

[1stmarine]

They had a few broken bolts like many others. Actually the bolts are the same that come in many other AR's. Come from the same mill. MP, SP...
One of he problems wiht the M4 in general is the overgassing that puts extra stress in the system. have your system always properly gased or go with the mid length or full length gas blocks and you should be ok.
In any case there are sources for enhanced and exotic superbolts.
Always get an M16 carrier group (Also available at delton) and check the above and you should be ok for a lifetime of reliability.
Cheers.