I would say I’ve fired approximately 500 rounds with this buffer. The same buffer was used in the full auto clip. There’s is zero signs of wear.
The three pack comes in at under $3 per buffer with free shipping.
https://jspmanufacturing.com/collec...coil-buffer-made-in-usa?variant=5848269488160
As for lifespan, I cannot say at the moment but I would guess 2k rounds (just a guess).
Some buffers don’t work the best, others have their ups and downs. My goal is to make the receiver last lifetimes; therefore, a buffer on the receiver (the most important part) and the gas block is important to me. However, combinations with buffers on both (the receiver end and the gas block end) can cause problems. The newer mini 14s have a step on the front face of the op-rod and that might cause problems. Some people file that step down. If you use a gas block buffer ITS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU MAKE SURE THE BOLT TRAVELS ALL THE WAY HOME AND IS FULLY LOCKED BEFORE SHOOTING IT. I HAVEN'T had any issues with this but I guess it could happen. On my Rugers there’s ample space after the bolt is fully locked for a buffer.
I’ve made my own buffers, bought a few and this is the best in my opinion. My previous setup was two Wilson 1911 buffers and that had some limitations in my opinion. Mostly, the area that they covered were minimal in size to the area that needed coverage. Furthermore, my personal opinion after testing them, is the 1911 buffers were either too thick or to thin. I mean that the 1911 buffer on the receiver end is too thin and the gas block section too thick. I should mention, I haven’t tried this on a 13” AC-556 yet.
Lastly, I plan on making more videos about the Mini-14 / AC-556, the thread has been dormant way too long. If you can’t hear the pinging sound with the non buffered mini, TURN YOUR VOLUME UP or wear headphones, it’s clearly there.