For Lage Versa users--what rate of fire/buffer configuration do you prefer?

[Tactical Ben]

I recently got the Versa-11, and had a fun time yesterday shooting at all three rates of fire using the variable buffer system. If anyone's interested, I found this small T15 driver that I can easily throw in my kit to add and remove buffers at the range: link.

The 0 buffer/530 RPM configuration is just a bit slow for my taste, and feels a bit "bouncy." The very long cycle length also gives quite a notable forward push at the end of a burst or in semi automatic, as described here.

The 2 buffer/670 RPM configuration feels very nice and smooth. I note very little difference in controllability.

The 3 buffer/930 RPM configuration is spicy. It's still controllable, but is a bit fast. It does completely remove the forward push as well.

I think I like the 2 buffer/670 RPM configuration the best, as a kind of happy medium. What are others using?

 

[m11stuff@hotmail.com]

The Variable Buffers for the VERSA series of uppers does not require you to disassemble the recoil rod to install. All you have to do is remove the bolt assembly from the upper, slide the ejector rod back so it clears the rear of the bolt and leaves room for the Variable Buffers to be installed. The Variable Buffer has a cut in it to allow the recoil rod to slip in place. You then push the ejector rod forward through the Variable Buffers and into the rear of the bolt, fully seating it against the recoil plate.

 

[m11stuff@hotmail.com]

For me, the best rate of fire for accuracy and controllability in matches is without any VBS installed. If there are a bunch of paper targets requiring three hits each, I will install all of the VBS for maximum rate of fire. It still groups surprisingly well.

 

[skoda]

I use three but it is very much a personal preference thing.

The Versa is Lage's best upper by far in my opinion. With a good stock it's a truly modern SMG.

 

[Tactical Ben]

The Variable Buffers for the VERSA series of uppers does not require you to disassemble the recoil rod to install. All you have to do is remove the bolt assembly from the upper, slide the ejector rod back so it clears the rear of the bolt and leaves room for the Variable Buffers to be installed. The Variable Buffer has a cut in it to allow the recoil rod to slip in place. You then push the ejector rod forward through the Variable Buffers and into the rear of the bolt, fully seating it against the recoil plate.

Thanks, Richard. That actually makes even more sense! That really long guide rod threw me for a loop and I'm still getting used to the platform.

 

[Tactical Ben]

I use three but it is very much a personal preference thing.

The Versa is Lage's best upper by far in my opinion. With a good stock it's a truly modern SMG.

Agreed on both points. It's a slick setup!

 

[Tactical Ben]

For me, the best rate of fire for accuracy and controllability in matches is without any VBS installed. If there are a bunch of paper targets requiring three hits each, I will install all of the VBS for maximum rate of fire. It still groups surprisingly well.

Does the ”thump” at the end of a burst from the long cycle distance with no VBS bother you? Any concern that the bolt hitting the sear from so far back could damage the sear, bolt or even receiver holes?

 

[m11stuff@hotmail.com]

That “Thump” is normal bolt lurch from firing an open bolt Subgun on an empty chamber. You will notice it when dry firing the gun too.

With the VERSA upper, the bolt rarely fully reaches the full rearward stroke. Take a look at your buffer and you will notice very little wear. Also, you will notice using one VBS has very little impact on the rate of fire because the bolt is rarely touching it.

I have tens of thousands of rounds through my lower receivers and I am using the same sear, retaining pin and selector/sear pin. The pin holes in the lower have not significantly “egged”. I say significantly, because there will be some enlargement with use, but I am talking about a .003”-.005” increase in diameter.

 

[Tactical Ben]

That “Thump” is normal bolt lurch from firing an open bolt Subgun on an empty chamber. You will notice it when dry firing the gun too.

With the VERSA upper, the bolt rarely fully reaches the full rearward stroke. Take a look at your buffer and you will notice very little wear. Also, you will notice using one VBS has very little impact on the rate of fire because the bolt is rarely touching it.

I have tens of thousands of rounds through my lower receivers and I am using the same sear, retaining pin and selector/sear pin. The pin holes in the lower have not significantly “egged”. I say significantly, because there will be some enlargement with use, but I am talking about a .003”-.005” increase in diameter.

Thanks for that! When I run the Versa without any VBS spacers, I feel a thump even when I just come off the trigger. In semi auto, it almost feels like I’m firing two shots because the bolt first goes forward to fire, then comes all the way back, and hits the sear. Totally normal, I agree, but I find it a little distracting myself. Fortunately, your design lets us tune to our preferences! I’m definitely going to play around with the buffers a bit more.

 

[PUCKER]

I use three but it is very much a personal preference thing.

The Versa is Lage's best upper by far in my opinion. With a good stock it's a truly modern SMG.

Sidebar here - recommendations for a good stock? I've got the Lage folder, happy with it from a space-savings perspective, but always open to other considerations. Appreciate it!