Best Budget Bolt Carrier Group: Top Picks for Affordable Performance

A bolt carrier group (BCG) is one of the essential components of an AR-15 rifle. It is responsible for loading, firing, and ejecting rounds, making it a critical part of the firearm. A budget bolt carrier group is an excellent option for those who want to save money without compromising on quality.

When shopping for a budget bolt carrier group, it’s essential to consider the material, durability, and reliability. The type of coating and the weight of the BCG also play a significant role in the overall performance. A high-quality bolt carrier group can significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of your rifle.

We spent countless hours researching and testing different budget bolt carrier groups to identify the ones that offer the best value for money. Our goal was to find a BCG that performs well, lasts long, and doesn’t break the bank.

After thorough testing and evaluation, we have narrowed down the list to the top contenders. In the following sections, we will discuss each BCG in detail, highlighting its features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, our guide will help you find the best budget bolt carrier group for your AR-15 rifle.

Best Budget Bolt Carrier Groups

We understand that finding the right bolt carrier group for your firearm can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you our top picks for the best budget bolt carrier groups. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, our list has something for everyone. From durability to reliability, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks.

VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller

VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller, Compatible with Dana 30, 40, 60, 70, Ford 9" Bearings, Pinion Puller Tool with 2 Clamshells, 45# Steel Clamshell Carrier Bearing Puller for Auto Repair

If you're looking for a budget-friendly carrier & pinion bearing puller, the VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller might be worth considering.

Pros:

• Great compatibility with Dana 30, 40, 60, 70, Ford 9" bearings
• Premium performance and features
• Complete equipment with all necessary parts included

Cons:

• May not work for all types of vehicles
• Some users may find the instructions confusing
• Not suitable for heavy-duty use

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We found that the VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller is a solid tool that can meet your needs without breaking the bank. The clamshell bearing puller is compatible with a wide range of bearings, making it a versatile tool for various types of vehicles.

The carrier bearing puller is designed with high performance in mind, and it can remove the pinion bearings with minor damage, reducing dismantling time and improving working efficiency. The complete equipment is also a plus, as you don’t need to purchase any additional parts to get started.

However, we did notice that the tool may not work for all types of vehicles, so it’s important to check the compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, some users may find the instructions confusing, so it may take some time to figure out how to use the tool properly. Finally, the VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller may not be suitable for heavy-duty use, so it’s best to use it for occasional repairs only.

Overall, we think that the VEVOR Carrier & Pinion Bearing Puller is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly tool that can get the job done.

Lantsun Spare Tire Carrier Tailgate Bracket Hinge Reinforcement Kits Oversized for 2018-2021 JL Wrangler

Spare Tire Carrier Tailgate Bracket Hinge Reinforcement Kits Oversized for 2018-2021 JL Wrangler

If you're looking for a budget-friendly spare tire carrier tailgate bracket hinge reinforcement kit, the Lantsun product may be worth considering.

Pros:

• Easy to install, no drilling required
• High-quality aluminum alloy material
• Accommodates 35-inch tires

Cons:

• Some users report issues with the supplied bolts
• May require additional hardware for mounting
• Not compatible with all Jeep models

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We found the Lantsun Spare Tire Carrier Tailgate Bracket Hinge Reinforcement Kits Oversized for 2018-2021 JL Wrangler to be a solid option for those on a budget. The installation process was straightforward and required no drilling, making it a breeze to set up. The high-quality aluminum alloy material used in construction ensures durability and corrosion protection.

One thing to note is that some users have reported issues with the supplied bolts. We recommend checking the bolts before installation and recoating them if necessary. Additionally, some users have found that additional hardware is required for mounting, so be sure to double-check compatibility with your Jeep model before purchasing.

Overall, the Lantsun Spare Tire Carrier Tailgate Bracket Hinge Reinforcement Kits Oversized for 2018-2021 JL Wrangler is a solid choice for those looking to strengthen their tailgate for increased load capacity and durability. While there are some potential downsides, the low price point and ease of installation make it a worthwhile option to consider.

Ventura Economical Bolt-On Bicycle Carrier Rack

Ventura Economical Bolt-On Bicycle Carrier Rack, Adjustable Fit for 26"/28"/700c, Steel , Black

If you're looking for an affordable and durable bike rack to carry your cargo, the Ventura Economical Bolt-On Bicycle Carrier Rack is a great option to consider.

Pros:

• The rack is made of steel, making it strong and durable, and can carry up to 40 pounds of weight.
• It creates a flat surface over your wheel, allowing you to attach a basket or box of your choice for carrying a wider range of items.
• The rack is adjustable and can fit 26- or 28-inch bicycle tires, making it versatile and compatible with most bikes.

Cons:

• Some bicycles may require additional hardware for installation, so make sure to check before purchasing.
• The rack may not fit all bike types, so double-check the fitting set before buying.
• The lock nuts may need to be tightened with an 8mm wrench or pliers, which are not included in the package.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We recently tried out the Ventura Economical Bolt-On Bicycle Carrier Rack and found it to be a reliable and practical addition to our bikes. The steel construction of the rack made it sturdy and capable of carrying a decent amount of weight, while the flat surface over the wheel allowed us to attach a basket and carry a variety of items.

Installation was relatively easy, but we did need to use an additional 8mm wrench to tighten the lock nuts completely. However, the included 3mm Hex Wrench made assembly straightforward, and we appreciated the adjustable height mechanism that made positioning the rack a breeze.

One thing to note is that some bikes may require additional hardware for installation, so it’s best to check first before purchasing. Additionally, the rack may not fit all bike types, so double-check the fitting set to ensure compatibility.

Overall, the Ventura Economical Bolt-On Bicycle Carrier Rack is a great budget-friendly option for those looking to add a practical and durable bike rack to their ride.

USA Standard Gear Master Overhaul Kit

USA Standard Gear (ZK C9.25-R-B) Master Overhaul Kit for Chrysler 9.25 Rear Differential

If you're looking to finish your install with confidence, the USA Standard Gear Master Overhaul Kit is a great option for you.

Pros:

• The kit comes with all the necessary parts, including carrier bearings and races, pinion bearings and races, pinion seal, complete shim kit, ring gear bolts, pinion nut, crush sleeve, thread locker, marking compound with brush, and gasket.
• The kit uses Koyo bearings and races, which are known for their durability and reliability.
• Compatible with a variety of models, including Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Ram 1500 1/2 Ton, Dodge Ram Van 1500 1/2 Ton, Dodge Ram Van 2500 3/4 Ton, Dodge Durango, and Mitsubishi Raider.

Cons:

• Some users have reported that the kit did not contain the parts they needed to complete their job, but they were refunded quickly.
• The pinion bearing may be too small for some models, so make sure to double-check before purchasing.
• The gasket may not meet some users' expectations.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Overall, we recommend the USA Standard Gear Master Overhaul Kit for anyone looking to finish their install with confidence. With all the necessary parts included and the use of durable Koyo bearings and races, this kit is a great value for the price. Just make sure to double-check compatibility and be aware of the potential issues with the pinion bearing and gasket.

ARKSEN Roof Rack Cargo Basket

ARKSEN 84 x 39 Inch Universal 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo with Two Cargo Nets, Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck, & Car Steel Construction

If you're looking for a budget-friendly cargo basket that can hold up to 150 lbs, the ARKSEN Roof Rack Cargo Basket is a great option.

Pros:

• Large storage capacity
• Rigid construction
• Extra security

Cons:

• Assembly can be challenging
• Cargo nets may not be durable
• Wind fairing is not very effective

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We recently used this cargo basket on a camping trip and were impressed by its storage capacity. It easily held all of our camping gear, firewood, and even a few fishing poles. The heavy-duty steel construction with black epoxy coating also held up well against the elements.

However, assembly was a bit challenging and took longer than expected. The cargo nets that come with the basket were also a bit flimsy and didn’t hold up as well as we had hoped. Additionally, the wind fairing didn’t seem to make much of a difference in reducing wind resistance.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable cargo basket that can hold a lot of gear, the ARKSEN Roof Rack Cargo Basket is a good option. Just be prepared for a bit of a challenge during assembly and consider investing in more durable cargo nets.

Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit

Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK (Not for JL) | Textured Black Fits up to 37inch Spare Tire

If you're looking for a budget-friendly tire carrier kit for your Jeep Wrangler JK, then the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit is worth considering.

Pros:

• The kit can hold up to a 37-inch spare tire, making it ideal for those with larger tires.
• The heavy-duty steel structure with a dual-stage powder-coated textured black finish provides both strength and rust resistance, ensuring durability.
• The kit can work with all aftermarket and factory bumpers and comes with brackets for the third brake light if more clearance is required.

Cons:

• Installation can be a little difficult, and it may take some mechanical ability to get it right.
• Some users have reported issues with lining up the fastener holes during installation.
• The bolts provided with the kit may be too long, which can be frustrating.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We found the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit to be an excellent budget-friendly option for those with larger tires. The kit is made of heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability and rust resistance. It can work with all aftermarket and factory bumpers, and the brackets for the third brake light are a nice touch. However, installation can be a bit difficult, and some users have reported issues with lining up the fastener holes. Overall, we recommend this product for anyone looking for an affordable tire carrier kit for their Jeep Wrangler JK.

ARKSEN Universal Roof Rack Cargo

ARKSEN 84 x 50 Inch Universal Extra Wide 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo with Extension Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck, & Car Steel Construction

If you're looking for an affordable cargo rack that can hold a lot of items, then the ARKSEN Universal Roof Rack Cargo is a great choice.

Pros:

• With a weight capacity of up to 150 pounds, this cargo rack can hold a lot of items, freeing up space inside your vehicle.
• The heavy-duty steel construction with black powder coating makes it resistant to weather elements and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting use.
• The bottom metal bars and side rails keep your items secure during traveling, while the steel wind fairing protects cargo from wind damage and reduces wind resistance.

Cons:

• The rack is quite heavy, weighing in at 55.3 pounds, which may make it difficult to install or remove by yourself.
• The cargo basket's large size may make it difficult to park in garages or other low-clearance areas.
• Some customers have reported issues with missing or damaged parts upon arrival, so be sure to inspect the product carefully upon delivery.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We recently used the ARKSEN Universal Roof Rack Cargo on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The cargo basket was easy to assemble and install on our SUV using the universal mounting hardware, and we appreciated the additional security provided by the bottom metal bars and side rails.

During our trip, we were able to fit all of our camping gear, including firewood, a cooler, and a tent, on top of the cargo rack, freeing up valuable space inside our vehicle. We also appreciated the steel wind fairing, which helped to reduce wind noise and protect our items from wind damage.

Overall, we would recommend the ARKSEN Universal Roof Rack Cargo to anyone in need of an affordable and versatile cargo rack for their vehicle. Just be sure to inspect the product carefully upon delivery and enlist some help if needed during installation.

Yukon Gear & Axle (YGLGM8.5-3-30) 30-Spline Grizzly Locker

Yukon Gear & Axle (YGLGM8.5-3-30) 30-Spline Grizzly Locker for GM 8.5/8.6 Differential with 2.73 & Upward Axle Ratio

If you're looking for a high-performing mechanical locking differential for your off-road or drag competition vehicle, the Yukon Gear & Axle (YGLGM8.5-3-30) 30-Spline Grizzly Locker is definitely worth considering.

Pros:

• The 8620 steel internals make this locker exceptionally strong and durable.
• The patented internal design reduces common locker failures, ensuring that you can rely on this locker to perform when you need it to.
• Assembled in the USA, this locker is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

Cons:

• Some users have reported that it can make a little noise as it ratchets on turns, but this is to be expected with a locker.
• The locker is always ready for the throttle to call for power, so you may need to adjust your driving habits a little.
• Shifting into forward or reverse can feel a bit sloppy, but this is a minor issue that doesn't affect the locker's performance.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We recently installed the Yukon Gear & Axle (YGLGM8.5-3-30) 30-Spline Grizzly Locker in our off-road vehicle, and we’ve been very impressed with its performance. The locker provides 100% power to both tires, which has helped us navigate even the toughest terrain with ease. Plus, the ability to disengage the locker when navigating corners or bends has been a real lifesaver.

The locker’s 8620 steel internals make it exceptionally strong and durable, and its patented internal design reduces common locker failures, ensuring that we can rely on it to perform when we need it to. We also appreciate that it’s assembled in the USA with high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

While some users have reported that the locker can make a little noise as it ratchets on turns, we haven’t found this to be a major issue. We have noticed that the locker is always ready for the throttle to call for power, so we’ve had to adjust our driving habits a little. Additionally, shifting into forward or reverse can feel a bit sloppy, but this is a minor issue that doesn’t affect the locker’s performance.

Overall, we highly recommend the Yukon Gear & Axle (YGLGM8.5-3-30) 30-Spline Grizzly Locker to anyone looking for a high-performing mechanical locking differential for their off-road or drag competition vehicle.

MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate

MTM AC4C 4- can Ammo Crate, Convenient size, Stackable, easy carry and transport of 30 caliber ammo, Rugged tactical carrying crate, USA Made, Brown

If you're looking for a reliable and convenient way to store and transport your ammo, the MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate is a great option to consider.

Pros:

• This crate includes four O-ring sealed 30 Caliber ammo cans, making it easy to store and transport all types of bulk ammo.
• The stackable design of the crate ensures that your ammo cans won't tip over, even during transport.
• The crate is made of rugged polypropylene, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

Cons:

• The crate is a bit bulky and heavy, which may make it difficult to transport if you're traveling long distances.
• The crate is not completely watertight, so you'll want to take extra precautions if you're transporting your ammo in wet or rainy conditions.
• The crate can be a bit difficult to secure if you're using it with an ATV or other vehicle.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We were impressed with the MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate’s overall durability and convenience. The stackable design of the crate makes it easy to transport multiple ammo cans at once, and the included O-ring seals ensure that your ammo stays dry and secure. While the crate is a bit bulky and heavy, we found that it was still easy enough to transport for short distances. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to store and transport your ammo, the MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate is definitely worth considering.

MTM 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box

MTM 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box 17, 204, 223, 5.56x45, 6x47

If you're looking for an affordable and reliable ammo storage solution, the MTM 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box is definitely worth considering.

Pros:

• The scuff-resistant textured surface makes it easy to grip and harder to scratch, ensuring that your ammo stays safe and secure.
• The snap-lock latch protects the contents from accidental spilling, providing an extra layer of protection.
• The mechanical hinge and stacking feet make it easy to store multiple boxes together, saving you space and keeping your ammo organized.

Cons:

• The box can be a bit difficult to open at times, especially if it's brand new.
• The load labels that come with the box may not be very durable and could wear off over time.
• The box's green color may not be to everyone's liking.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We’ve found that the MTM 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box is a great option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly ammo storage solution. The scuff-resistant textured surface is a nice touch, as it makes it easier to grip the box and helps to prevent scratches. The snap-lock latch is also a welcome feature, as it ensures that your ammo stays put and doesn’t spill out accidentally.

One thing to keep in mind is that the box can be a bit difficult to open at times, especially if it’s brand new. However, we’ve found that it gets easier to open with use. Additionally, the load labels that come with the box may not be very durable and could wear off over time, so you may want to consider labeling your boxes another way.

Overall, we think that the MTM 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable ammo storage solution. It’s well-made, easy to use, and provides plenty of protection for your valuable ammunition.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best budget bolt carrier group, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of features to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The type of material used in the bolt carrier group is an important factor to consider. The most commonly used materials are steel, titanium, and aluminum. Steel is the most durable and reliable, but also the heaviest. Titanium is lightweight but expensive. Aluminum is the lightest, but not as durable as steel or titanium.

Coating

The coating on the bolt carrier group is important for durability and longevity. A good coating should protect against corrosion and wear. The most common coatings are phosphate, nitride, and chrome. Phosphate is the most affordable, but not as durable as nitride or chrome. Nitride and chrome are more expensive but offer better protection against wear and corrosion.

Weight

The weight of the bolt carrier group is important for the overall weight of your firearm. A lighter bolt carrier group can improve the handling and maneuverability of your firearm. However, a heavier bolt carrier group can improve the reliability and durability of your firearm.

Price

Price is always a consideration when purchasing any firearm accessory. A budget bolt carrier group can be found for under $100, but it may not have all the features of a more expensive option. A mid-range bolt carrier group can be found for $100-$200 and will have more features and better quality. A high-end bolt carrier group can cost upwards of $200 and will have the best quality and features.

In summary, when looking for the best budget bolt carrier group, consider the material, coating, weight, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose the best bolt carrier group for your firearm.

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

See author's posts