Aaaaannnnnnddddd it broke

[BuffCyclist]

Gas rings are considered a consumable item. When they lose tension they are sacked and should be replaced. A quick test will tell: extend the bolt in the carrier and set it on a hard surface boltface down. If the rings have sufficient tension the bolt will hold the carrier up in the extended position. If it drops, replace the rings.
The carrier/bolt will get crusty and fouled. You need to keep it relatively clean. I always coat the carrier and backside of the bolt with Tetra or a similar SYNTHETIC oil. It helps to keep the carbon from sticking as badly.
Hell, I have worked on a couple of them that were so bad I had to soak them overnight in Berrymans carb cleaner overnight.
Some "Smiths" and owners insist on polishing the back of the bolt thinking it will prevent carbon from sticking. Wrong, it is still going to stick and now you have taken off the parkerizing which is essential for corrosion resistance.
If Eugene Stoner would have thought it best to polish it he would have designed it that way.

Thanks for explaining BP, I might have to take mine apart now and do a more thorough cleaning. It hasn't been cleaned in at least 3k rounds. I had forgotten about that test with setting it bolt side up. I know I have a spare set of gas rings, so I'll be covered anyways.

after every moderate to heavy firing cycle, I take it apart and inspect for wear. This firing cycle was not excessive due to amount of rounds (less than 250) but rather due to the knowledge that a suppressor increases the heat, pressure, etc. in a DI gun. I checked the gun, lubed it up a lot, then started firing. Then, when I got home, I checked the equipment.

Then I cried a little because it was broken.

Thanks, good to know. Might just have to spend a little time cleaning it tomorrow.

I bet by your whining that you don't have a spare set of gas rings to use?