are incredibly tight. The charging handle can feel very stiff, and the bolt may drag across the internal rails.
Avoid light target loads or birdshot during the break-in phase.
Low-brass birdshot or light target loads often lack the velocity or pressure to cycle the bolt completely, resulting in the empty shell getting caught in the ejection port (stovepiping) or failing to pick up a new round from the magazine.
Q: Can I use any type of ammunition with the Centurion BP-12? A: No, it's recommended to use only 12-gauge, 2 3/4" or 3" ammunition that is specifically designed for the Centurion BP-12. Using incorrect ammunition can cause problems with the shotgun's operation. centurion bp-12 problems
However, a gun that requires expensive defensive ammunition to function correctly is a significant drawback for a platform advertised as a versatile all-around shotgun. Many users expect to be able to practice with inexpensive target loads, but the BP-12 often refuses to cooperate.
Owners report success only with 1300+ FPS loads or "high brass" hunting/defense rounds. Unfortunately, this makes the shotgun expensive to practice with and essentially useless for clay shooting or pest control using cheap bulk packs.
A frequently reported "problem" with the BP-12 is not necessarily a defect, but rather a necessity: it requires a substantial break-in period. Many users report that the shotgun is "picky" or jams frequently right out of the box. are incredibly tight
The Centurion BP-12 is a reliable and popular shotgun, but like any mechanical device, it's not immune to problems. By understanding common issues and their causes, you can troubleshoot and resolve problems quickly and effectively. Regular maintenance, proper use, and correct ammunition can help prevent many of these issues. If you're experiencing persistent problems with your Centurion BP-12, it's always best to consult a professional gunsmith or the manufacturer's customer support.
The BP-12 uses a gas-operated system. If the gas ports are undersized or become fouled quickly, the bolt may not travel rearward with enough force to fully eject the spent shell and pick up a new one. This is particularly noticeable after 50-100 rounds without cleaning.
relies on a gas-piston system designed around heavy combat loads. Out of the box, the internal springs and action components are exceptionally stiff. Low-velocity ammunition simply does not generate enough gas pressure to fully push back the bolt. Low-brass birdshot or light target loads often lack
Load the magazines to full capacity and let them sit for a week to relax the springs.
: Some owners report issues where the firing pin fails to reset after the first shot, necessitating a manual rack of the bolt to fire subsequent rounds. Feeding and Magazine Reliability
Some aftermarket magazines manufactured for ProMag or MKA 1919 shotguns offer smoother follower travel than factory Centurion mags. 2. Failure to Extract (FTE) and Cycle Low-Brass Ammo
: The BP-12 is often "picky" with ammunition. Users frequently report "stovepipe" jams (failed ejections) and feeding issues, particularly when using low-velocity or light birdshot loads. Sharp Internal Threads
The Centurion BP-12 uses a detachable magazine to feed the shotgun. Common issues with the magazine include: