Quality and Inspection

Quality and Inspection Process

Bear Creek Arsenal inspects products at four stages before they leave the facility: gauge checks during machining, batch measurement on a CMM every shift, a final dimensional and visual inspection before assembly, and a three-shot function test on every complete upper and rifle. BCA's goal is to follow industry best practices in precision manufacturing and inspection so every customer receives a quality product. This page explains what each stage checks and how the stages work together.

1. How Does BCA Inspect Its Products?

Each inspection stage catches a different kind of problem. In-process checks catch dimensional drift while parts are being made, CMM batch testing confirms each production run, the final inspection screens parts before assembly, and the function test confirms that finished uppers and rifles cycle.

What Are In-Process Checks During Machining?

In-process checks are inspections done while parts are still being machined, using pin gauges and other gauges. Checking critical features during production means a problem such as tool wear is caught before it affects a large number of parts.

What Is CMM Batch Testing?

A CMM (coordinate measuring machine) uses a precision probe to measure a part's dimensions and compare them with the specification. BCA batch tests product runs on a CMM each shift, which gives a regular measurement record across production rather than a single check at the start or end.

What Happens in the Final Inspection Before Assembly?

Before parts are assembled, they go through a final dimensional and visual inspection. The dimensional check confirms the part meets specification, and the visual check screens for cosmetic and finish issues, so assembly starts with parts that have already passed inspection.

What Is the Three-Shot Function Test?

Every complete upper and rifle is test fired for three shots as a function test. This confirms the assembled firearm cycles and operates as designed before it leaves the facility. It is a function check, not an accuracy guarantee.

Why Does BCA Use Multiple Inspection Stages?

BCA's goal is to deliver the best possible product to every customer by following industry best practices for precision manufacturing and inspection. Using several separate checks, from in-process gauging to CMM measurement to live function testing, means a problem can be caught at the stage where it is easiest to detect, rather than relying on a single final check.

2. BCA Inspection Stages at a Glance

These steps take place at BCA's facility before products ship.

3. What Happens After the Product Ships?

Does Factory Inspection Replace My Own Check?

No. Inspection reduces the chance of a defective product reaching you but cannot eliminate it, and the factory function test is three shots, not a substitute for your own testing. BCA recommends checking the cosmetics, confirming all parts are present, function checking without live rounds, and test firing at the range.

What Should I Do When My Package Arrives?

Follow BCA's recommended process, from inspecting the cosmetics through function testing, accuracy testing, cleaning, and storage. See our Inspection and Setup Guide for each step explained.

4. Related BCA Guides