New to me carbine

[imarangemaster]

If you do take the bolt apart, it is a good idea to do it in a gallon ziplock bag, even when using a bolt tool. If doing it without a bolt tool (possible, but difficult to re-assemble) a gallon ziplock bag is an absolute must. It is a good idea to completely strip it down, and thoroughly clean it. If the bolt has excessive carbon, carburetor cleaner or brake cleaner works. LEAVE THE GAS PISTON IN UNLESS IT IS FROZEN IN PLACE. They are not made to generally be removed.

Also check your recoil spring. It should be exactly 10 1/4" long (new) or even as little as 10 1/8" long (serviceable). If it is 10"or shorter, it will give you problems. Recoil spring degrade through prolonged usage. Don't use a commercial "extra power" one, as they will also cause problems. Get a USGI replacement from Fulton Armory or Numrich.

As far as magazInes go, USGI 15 round are 100% reliable, as are the Korean (KCI) 15 rounders. Commercial 30 rounders SUCK. The only 30 rounder I have used with 99.99% reliability are USGI. I have heard mixed reviews on the KCI 30s. There are a lot of fake USGI 30s out there. USGI have crisp sharp corner folds, and the back is absolutely flat. Fakes have more rounded corners and a slightly bowed back.

If it comes with magazines, take them apart, inspect and clean them. MAKE SURE you put the springs in with the longer side to the rear: /\/\/\/\/\/\/\ The bottom here is the long side. It is not uncommon to see mags with it in backwards, since many magazines are the reverse.

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