The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Warranty: When is it reasonable to request a new gun?

captainprice · March 3, 2025, 06:43 PM

Interested in everyone's thoughts as to when it is reasonable to request a new gun during the warranty process (1st return to factory, 2nd, entirely manufacturer's discretion, etc)...

Backstory: bought a brand new mid-range (about 2k) AR that is currently on its second trip back to the factory for failing to cycle/short-stroking. On first return the manufacturer's note stated the upper receiver was replaced, however the issue remained unresolved and renders the gun essentially non-functional. I'm also skeptical that the upper was even replaced on the first trip as, both before and after, the upper had a noticeable and unique discoloration to it. Currently 6 weeks since first warranty request, absolutely no functional improvement after first warranty service.

Suppose my question is when might it be considered reasonable to simply request a new gun or full refund (bought direct from manufacturer)? There is clearly a defect that was unable/incorrectly identified on the first RMA trip, and I feel as though this can quickly turn into "RMA/Return ping-pong" where the issue remains unresolved after four or more trips to the factory. Also the element of "polishing crap" comes to mind with each subsequent return trip - sure, they may get lucky and get it to run eventually, but is that product in line/equal to a unit that didn't have issues off the production line? I would be inclined to say no.

Tried searching the forum for a similar topic without luck - thanks for your input and hoping this may also help anyone in a similar situation.

March 3, 2025, 06:43 PM	#1
captainprice Junior Member Join Date: January 12, 2024 Posts: 12	Warranty: When is it reasonable to request a new gun? Interested in everyone's thoughts as to when it is reasonable to request a new gun during the warranty process (1st return to factory, 2nd, entirely manufacturer's discretion, etc)... Backstory: bought a brand new mid-range (about 2k) AR that is currently on its second trip back to the factory for failing to cycle/short-stroking. On first return the manufacturer's note stated the upper receiver was replaced, however the issue remained unresolved and renders the gun essentially non-functional. I'm also skeptical that the upper was even replaced on the first trip as, both before and after, the upper had a noticeable and unique discoloration to it. Currently 6 weeks since first warranty request, absolutely no functional improvement after first warranty service. Suppose my question is when might it be considered reasonable to simply request a new gun or full refund (bought direct from manufacturer)? There is clearly a defect that was unable/incorrectly identified on the first RMA trip, and I feel as though this can quickly turn into "RMA/Return ping-pong" where the issue remains unresolved after four or more trips to the factory. Also the element of "polishing crap" comes to mind with each subsequent return trip - sure, they may get lucky and get it to run eventually, but is that product in line/equal to a unit that didn't have issues off the production line? I would be inclined to say no. Tried searching the forum for a similar topic without luck - thanks for your input and hoping this may also help anyone in a similar situation.