If there’s one thing ARP lovers can agree on, it’s that they’re pretty much all always looking for ways to make their platforms smaller, lighter and more compact. 

Well, one of the best things you can do in that case is to build with a bufferless AR pistol build kit.

Whereas many ARPs are operated by direct gas impingement systems like their larger cousins, bufferless ARPs typically utilize direct blowback operation (and in some cases, roller-delayed blowback operation) rather than gas impingement. 

There are many reasons to consider a bufferless ARP build that does so; here are 3 of the best of them.

It’ll Be Shorter and Lighter

The main argument in the camp of building with a bufferless AR pistol build kit is that it will result in a much shorter and lighter build. 

This means that some of the shortest micro ARPs you can make will be built with a bufferless upper. They will be easier to conceal, even in small spaces, and will also handle much more like a handgun, which will potentially make them more suitable in close quarters engagements. 

They’ll also serve well for defensive applications around the home or as a truck gun, just to name two examples. 

By the way, just since this is relevant here, there are other things you can do to make the build lighter and shorter, too. Among these are starting with a micro ARP upper, and removing the flash hider and replacing it with thread protectors. All it really does is add weight and length. 

The Action’s Operation Will Be Simpler 

Direct blowback is a much, much simpler action type than direct gas impingement. The latter has a gas block and tube which communicates with a bolt carrier group that has a gas key and which has a locking mechanism governed by a cam pin. In addition to that it has a whole buffer system with weights and a spring. 

Direct blowback is unbelievably simple by comparison, and relies on bore pressures alone, plus bolt mass and friction, to keep the action shut. Once pressure builds and blows the bolt back (hence the name) the recoil spring returns the action to battery. 

It’s not as smooth-shooting, but it is highly reliable and there are fewer action parts to troubleshoot if something ever does go wrong or need to be addressed or replaced. 

It’ll Be Easier to Maintain

The other component of the fact that direct blowback is a lot simpler in operation than gas impingement is that it is a lot easier to maintain since there is just so much less going on.

There are no gas rings to wear out, as there are on the BCG. There isn’t a gas system to tune. There isn’t a gas system to clean. There are no buffer weights to tune, and there is no buffer spring, though there is a recoil spring. 

All in all cleaning and general maintenance are considerably streamlined with an action type that is so much simpler, as in the case with a direct blowback ARP upper.

Shop Bufferless ARP Uppers and AR Pistol Build Kits 

Whether you’re sure you’re ready to start your build with a bufferless ARP upper or some other AR pistol build kit, visit MCS Gearup. 

They carry a wide range of assembled uppers as well as micro ARP build kits. Visit their website for more information and if you have any questions about anything they sell, or about parts and compatibility, get in touch with their customer service team at Sales@MCSGearup.com.

For more information about Assembled Uppers and Lower Parts Kit GLOCK 19/23 Please visit: MCS Gearup.