Okay I managed to sneak out quick and put around 150 rounds through the gun. I am happy to report that so far the gun works FLAWLESSLY!
No degrading of accuracy, no malfunctions of any kind. After I finished shooting I broke the gun down and inspected the bolt, inside of the upper and of course the lower. All normal. no indication of wearing or stresses.

The only difference that stood out to me, and I'm not sure if this is of any consequence, but it did seem that you felt the recoil differently. I didn't hear the "sproing" sound you get with a real AR from the buffer spring and tube, but there was a kind of knock or clunk as though the buffer does move slightly or something. Could also have to do with the hollow, open nature of the spacer the bolt rests against.

In any case I didn't mind the clunk, in fact I liked the feel of it. Made the gun seem more substantial. Might not be for everyone though.

I will continue to update if something bad happens.....