help me figure out my M&P 15T problem

[zabuzan]

Hi everyone, just registered to post my problems here since this would be the perfect place IMO!

I bought my M&P 15T less than 3 months ago, shot less than 1500 rounds thru it, cleaned and lubed her after every range visit, really babied my rifle! Here is the problem, about a week ago, I found out one of the gas ring had broken while I was cleaning it, searched around online, it is uncommon for it to happen with such a low round count but also been told it wouldnt be a problem as 2 gas rings are enough for it to function right. Next day when I went to test it out, I got a bullet(no casing, just the BULLET)stuck in my barrel, I manage to get it out with light taps from a brass rod. Yesterday when I shoot it again, the BCG is stuck completely forward, one of the RO had to slam the buttstock on the bench while pulling the charging handle to get it unstuck and we cant put the bcg back completely as it will not seat in all the way. I went home and tried to put the bcg back and this time it went it smoothly. I am very concerned and decide to call S&W for repair, sent it out today.

I shoot Fiocchi factory ammo only and had not experienced any malfunctions prior. I am worried that since the bcg goes in smoothly now so S&W repairmen would not inspect it thoroughly for any damage in the chamber,lugs or barrel. What you guys think the problem is and would S&W do a perfect job solving my problem?

 

[MichiganScott]

Kinda late to be concerned about the quality of the repair after having already sent it in. S&W gunsmiths will thoroughly inspect and repair the rifle.

Although unusual for a gas ring to break with low round count, it does happen, and is usually caused by improper reassembly.

Although the rifle will run with two rings, why in the world would you shoot a gun that you knew had a parts problem and a missing ring? The loss of one ring gives the other two more room to move around and kink or break and jam up the bolt carrier. Buy some spares and keep them on hand.

The bullet stuck in the barrel is a totally different issue and is ammunition related.

 

[blues7]

I won't opine on the issues with your rifle as there are others here with much more savvy in that arena.

It's possible that you may have damaged one of the gas rings accidentally when cleaning the bolt, especially if you used a brush in the area and it happened to snag on one of the rings. Rings are an easy and inexpensive fix.

As for S&W service...I sent mine in after issues developed with the second round the rifle had attempted to fire. Turn around time was quick, the necessary repair / replacement was performed and I haven't had an issue since.

I trust that they will check your rifle thoroughly, make necessary adjustments and / or swap out parts, fire it to ensure that it is fully within spec and return your rifle as good as new.

 

[zabuzan]

Thank you guys so much for your help!