Prioritizing Safety: Essential Preparations
Ensuring an Unloaded Firearm
The first and most critical step is verifying your AR-15 is unloaded. This might seem obvious, but it’s the most common cause of accidental discharges. Never assume your firearm is unloaded; *always* confirm it.
Visual Inspection: Begin by pointing the muzzle in a safe direction. Then, open the action (charging handle) and visually inspect the chamber. Ensure there’s no cartridge present.
Physical Verification: Remove the magazine. Cycle the charging handle several times to eject any rounds that might be in the chamber. Then, physically check the magazine well to ensure no magazine or rounds remain.
Bolt Catch: Engage the bolt catch to lock the bolt to the rear. This provides a clear view of the chamber and confirms the absence of any obstruction.
Confirm Empty: With the bolt locked back, visually and physically confirm the chamber and magazine well are empty.
Double Check: Do a second check. It’s always better to be overly cautious when dealing with firearms.
Gathering Your Essential Tools
Having the right tools makes the process significantly easier and safer. Assemble the following tools and keep them organized within easy reach.
Armorer’s Wrench: This specialized wrench is designed for AR-15s and is used to remove the barrel nut. It will be required if you have a free-float handguard. Ensure you choose a wrench compatible with your barrel nut type.
Delta Ring Tool: For standard two-piece handguards, a delta ring tool will be needed to compress the delta ring. This tool can be a dedicated delta ring tool, or a specialized tool for disassembling the AR-15, such as an AR-15 Armorers Wrench.
Punch Set: A set of roll pin punches is highly recommended. These punches are designed to safely remove and install roll pins without damaging the rifle.
Hammer: A gunsmithing hammer or a small, non-marring hammer is essential. Choose one with a good weight and balance for controlled strikes.
Vice with Padded Jaws (Recommended): A vice provides a secure way to hold your AR-15, allowing you to use both hands for other tasks. Using padded jaws will protect your rifle from scratches.
Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set (If Applicable): Some handguards require specific screws for installation or removal. Having a set of gunsmithing screwdrivers that fit your handguard is crucial.
Cleaning Supplies: Have a set of cleaning supplies, including bore cleaner, gun oil, and cleaning patches, available for any cleaning you decide to do.
Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses while working on firearms. This is critical to protect your eyes from flying debris or accidental impacts.
Other Useful tools: Thread locker (for barrel nut installation), and a torque wrench.
Preparing Your Workspace
Choose a clean, well-lit, and uncluttered workspace. Lay down a gun mat or a protective surface like a towel to prevent scratches on your rifle. Make sure you have ample room to move around comfortably.
Understanding Different Handguard Types
Before you start, it’s crucial to identify the type of handguard your AR-15 has, as the removal process will vary. Understanding the differences can save you frustration and time.
Traditional Two-Piece Handguards (with Delta Ring)
These handguards, typically found on older or more basic AR-15 models, consist of an upper and lower section that clamp together. They are secured to the rifle using a delta ring, handguard cap, and front handguard retainer.
Free-Float Handguards
Free-float handguards are a more modern upgrade. They don’t contact the barrel, allowing the barrel to flex freely and potentially improve accuracy. They attach directly to the receiver, often with a barrel nut that threads onto the upper receiver. They can be further categorized by their attachment method.
Removing the Standard Two-Piece Handguard
The following steps outline the process for removing a standard two-piece handguard:
Depressing the Delta Ring
The delta ring is the mechanism that holds the handguard in place.
Position the rifle securely, ensuring the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.
Use a delta ring tool or a similar tool to compress the delta ring. You might need to wiggle the tool to get it in the right position.
Once the delta ring is compressed, you should be able to move the handguard forward.
Removing the Upper and Lower Handguards
With the delta ring compressed, slide the upper handguard forward and off the barrel.
Next, pull the lower handguard downwards and remove it. You may have to manipulate the handguard cap to fully remove the handguard.
Removing a Free-Float Handguard
The process for removing a free-float handguard is a little more involved.
Disassembly of Accessories
Remove any optics, lights, foregrips, or other accessories attached to the handguard. This will give you a clear view of your handguard.
Removing the Barrel Nut
This is the most critical part of the process.
If you have a vice, secure the upper receiver in the vice using padded jaws. This will make it easier to apply force to the barrel nut.
Using your AR-15 armorer’s wrench, engage the barrel nut.
The barrel nut typically loosens by turning counterclockwise. Apply steady pressure to break the nut free.
If the barrel nut is stubborn, consider applying some penetrating oil and letting it soak for a while.
Use heat: In certain cases, if the barrel nut is seized, a heat gun may be used to heat the barrel nut, but be careful not to damage the rifle’s finish.
Sliding Off the Handguard
Once the barrel nut is removed, your handguard should slide off of the barrel nut.
If it seems stuck, double-check to make sure you have removed all necessary screws or attachment components.
Cleaning the Threads (If Necessary)
After removing the handguard, inspect the threads on the upper receiver and barrel nut for any debris or old thread locker.
If you notice any debris, clean the threads with a brush and appropriate solvent. If you’re installing a new handguard, it’s crucial to apply the right amount of thread locker on the barrel nut threads.
Important Considerations and Useful Tips
While the steps are generally straightforward, several factors and issues can arise during the removal of an AR-15 handguard.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
It’s important to know how to tackle potential problems.
Handguard is stuck: Ensure you’ve released the delta ring or removed any screws securing the handguard.
Delta ring is difficult to compress: Try different delta ring tools. Lubricating the delta ring may help it move.
Barrel nut is stuck: Apply penetrating oil, ensure the upper receiver is securely mounted in the vice, and use an appropriate wrench. Use heat.
Reassembly Tips
When reassembling the rifle, paying close attention to detail will guarantee proper performance.
Tightening the Barrel Nut: Consult your handguard manufacturer’s specifications for the correct torque setting for the barrel nut. If using a thread locker, apply it according to the product’s instructions. Over-tightening can damage the upper receiver and barrel.
Aligning the Gas Tube: Ensure the gas tube slides smoothly through the handguard and is correctly aligned with the gas block.
Potential Upgrades and Modifications
Once you know how to remove the handguard on your AR-15, you can consider several modifications.
Free-Float Handguards: These are a popular upgrade, as discussed before, and will provide better accuracy and performance.
Different Lengths: Varying handguard lengths offer flexibility.
Various Materials: Carbon Fiber, Aluminum, and other materials can be used to create a unique AR-15.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning will prolong the life of your AR-15, and the handguard area is no exception. Use a brush and appropriate cleaning solution to remove any dirt, debris, or carbon buildup. After cleaning, lubricate the internal parts of the rifle.
