I'm new to the forum and recently purchased a new M&P 15-22 Sport MOE edition. I cleaned and lubed the gun really good before my first outing and ended up having terrible FTE and stove-pipe issues. (About every 4th or 5th round) I was really disappointed in my new rifle.

This happened with just about all ammo I tried except CCI Minimags.

I read all the forums about this issue and inspected both and the ejector and extractor assembly, but everything seemed fine. I was about to send the rifle back to S&W under warranty but decided to replace the stock extractor with the Volquartsen Extractor.

The extractor is very easy to install with some patience. Once you get the hang of it, you can do it in about 30 seconds. I now remove the extractor assembly during each cleaning because it gets really dirty.

I wasn't expecting much on my next outing, but hoped it would help. Well, I couldn't believe the difference!!!

I tried about 7 different types of ammo, (Loading the different rounds in each mag) I used CCI Minimags, Federal Auto Match, CCI standard velocity, American Eagle JHP, Remington Golden Bullets, Winchester Super X, etc. The rifle happily ate any ammo I fed it. I shot over 1000 rounds and did not have one single FTF or FTE or stove-pipe. I couldn't believe it.

I was totally impressed! It's hard to believe that this extractor could make this much difference, but it did. It's like a completely different gun. I think S&W should purchase this extractor from Volquartsen and put them in as standard equipment.

If you are having FTE issues or stove-pipes - try the Volquartsen extractor first. It clearly extracts bullet cases faster and more effectively than the standard stock extractor. I am so impressed, I purchased an extra one just to have it on hand. (In case they stop making them in the future)

BTW - S&W warranty repair turn around time now is 6-8 weeks. They are totally slammed due to all the sales and promotions that have been going on.

Just thought I would pass my experience on the extractor on to other owners.

good to hear the volquartsen extractor solved your dilemma. I installed one for preventive measures.

Learn to clean your gun first! Remove the carbon ring around the rim seat, you'll gain back that C-Hair you need for the extractor to engage.
then when you've mastered that install your extractor.

I can assure you my gun was completely clean before going to the range!

Although i have never had any issues with my original extractor, you're 100% correct on the performance of the VQ extractor, the slight difference in angle seems to engage the round in a very positive way. I have never had one FTF/FTE since it's been in. Always nice to have a fully functioning spare in my pistol grip as well.

After cleaning the extractor, spring and plunger, I can see that it would be easy to lose one of these components. I decided to purchase another VQ extractor, spring and plunger to have on hand as spares. I was able to acquire the extractor and plunger, but the springs are no where to be found. A couple of vendors claim they will get them in again in the summer. I'll try to snag one later if they become available.

I ordered one before I even had the rifle, installed it before I even shot the gun..I have about 1000 rounds through my M&P AR-22 and honestly ...I have never had one issue ..not FTF, or FTE.. perfect track record so far..
Money well spent on that little part

Where did you find the plunger? And what vendor will have the spring soon?

Please let me know, I have had zero luck finding them. Also could use a spare firing pin if you know where to get one.

Thanks

Rick

I bought the plunger from Firearm Parts & Accessories | Military Surplus | Numrich Gun Parts (Numrich Corporation) They had the plunger in stock but the Spring isn't going to be back in until this summer. They said to check back in June/July. The plunger cost $3.75 + $3.75 shipping.

I'm hoping some other vendors will start making more replacement parts for the 15-22.

I was the same issues and installed the VQ the extractor, or rather my gunsmith did, and it took care of the problems.

Has any one had any luck finding the extractor spring?

Numrich told me they wouldn't be getting more in until July or August. I hope someone else can source them before that.

Thank you. I've tried Wolff, Volquartsen, & S&W as well. Fingers crossed. Thanks again.

Yes, let us know if you find a source. I want one as a spare to have on hand. I bought the spare plunger and extra VQ extractor - but now need the spring to complete the set