What benefit is there in purchasing a “heavy” CAR Buffer?

[massnee]

I need to pick up a new CAR buffer assembly and spring for my ar15.

Rock River Arms sells one they call "heavy". It is $23 as opposed to $10.50 for a regular one. What is the benefit in purchasing the "heavy" one?

This is for a RRA 16" Mid-Length.

[Algaroth]

I believe the heavier spring reduces bolt/carrier movement during cycling. I think with a .223 rifle though, it would only cause cycling issues. It's best used for heavier caliber ARs, but I'm not sure.

Someone with more knowledge should chime in.

EDIT: Or 5.56 rounds handloaded pretty hot. I don't really know. LOL.

[WolfiePacker]

It slows the bolt a bit, sometimes it is needed for 10.5 inch uppers for proper function. The extra gases (especially when running a can) can have a negative impact on bolt function. On anything longer than the 10.5 the standard is the best bet for reliability. Although if you were to put one in a 14.5-16in upper you would feel a slight reduction in recoil and it may still operate just fine. Depends on the barrel length and ammo whether or not reliability will be affected positively or negatively.

[Skintop911]

Keeping a gas gun running is a balancing act, and discipline unto itself in the specialty aps.

Increasing the mass of components generally decreases the stroke velocity and resultant force transferred to the shooter. At some point, that mass will provide enough resistance to induce short-stroking. Where that line is depends on the cumulative effect of all the variables.

I remain an advocate of training and practice for recoil control, and eschew widgets.

[amd65]

Just try the heavier buffer. I did alot of research on the subject when I first heard about using the 9mm buffer--I did not find one single negative post from anyone who actually tried it.
My experiance was 100% positive.
Does a "widget" replace proper technique? Of course not. Is it a useful supplement? you will never know unless you try. Spend $25--you can always sell it if it dosn't work out for you.
For myself, my CAR runs with the 9mm buffer great, and unless further range time proves otherwise, it will continue to do so.

[Mnukedude]

The hvy buffer slows down the operation of the action slightly. I recall seeing an AR in which it functioned normally withh .223 ammo, but with 5.56 it would fail to lock back on the last round in the magazine because the action cycled faster than the magazine spring could push up the follower. It did this with brand new mags, too. Putting a hvy buffer in solved the problem.