Why Oiling Your AR-15 is Crucial
The Benefits of Lubrication
The AR-15 rifle, a symbol of American innovation and a favorite among firearm enthusiasts, is celebrated for its modularity, accuracy, and reliability. However, the consistent performance of this iconic rifle hinges on one often-overlooked aspect: proper lubrication. Just like the engine in your car, the AR-15 relies on lubrication to minimize friction, reduce wear, and ensure smooth operation. Neglecting this essential maintenance step can lead to malfunctions, premature part failure, and a less-than-satisfactory shooting experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the critical AR-15 oiling points, providing you with the knowledge and techniques needed to keep your rifle running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
The heart of any AR-15’s flawless function lies in its intricate dance of moving parts. From the rapid cycling of the bolt carrier group to the precise action of the trigger mechanism, every component is designed to work in harmony. Without lubrication, these parts grind against each other, generating heat and wear that can quickly degrade performance. Effective lubrication reduces friction, allowing the rifle to cycle smoothly and consistently, even under the stress of rapid firing. This translates to fewer jams, enhanced accuracy, and a longer lifespan for your valuable firearm.
Beyond the immediate benefits of smoother operation, proper lubrication also plays a crucial role in preventing corrosion. Exposure to moisture and environmental elements can wreak havoc on unprotected metal surfaces, leading to rust and pitting. Gun oil acts as a protective barrier, repelling water and creating a shield against corrosion. This is especially important if you store your AR-15 in a humid environment or frequently expose it to the elements. Regular lubrication is an investment in the longevity and value of your rifle.
Essential Tools and Materials
To embark on this essential maintenance task, you’ll need a few key tools and materials. Fortunately, the required items are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
First and foremost, you’ll need high-quality gun oil. The market offers a wide array of options, each with its unique formulation. Consider oils specifically designed for firearms, as they are engineered to withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures experienced during firing. Some popular choices include products like CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Preservative) which offers a multi-function solution, or dedicated lubricants. When choosing an oil, prioritize those known for their ability to provide excellent lubrication, corrosion protection, and resistance to extreme temperatures.
You may also want to invest in a gun cleaning solvent. This is not strictly necessary for lubrication, but it is highly recommended for cleaning your AR-15 before lubricating it, as it removes built-up carbon and residue. Make sure to use a solvent specifically designed for firearms, as other solvents can damage the finish.
For applying the oil and cleaning, you’ll need cleaning patches or swabs. Cotton patches are a common choice, and they can be used with a variety of solvents and oils. For hard-to-reach areas, consider using swabs made from synthetic materials. These are often more absorbent and can reach smaller spaces within your rifle.
A small brush is also a valuable tool. A toothbrush or a specialized gun cleaning brush is ideal for scrubbing away stubborn carbon buildup in crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Ensure the brush is made of nylon or another non-abrasive material to avoid damaging your rifle.
Finally, you’ll need a rag or paper towels for wiping away excess oil and cleaning up any spills. For added protection, especially when working with solvents, consider wearing gloves.
Key Oiling Points: A Detailed Guide
The secret to a well-lubricated AR-15 lies in knowing the correct AR-15 oiling points. This is where the real work begins. Let’s break down the key areas that require your attention.
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
Starting with the Bolt Carrier Group, or BCG, this is the heart of the AR-15’s operating system. Proper lubrication here is paramount for reliable function.
Bolt
First, focus on the bolt itself. The bolt houses critical components that engage with the barrel extension to lock the action. Apply a small amount of oil to the lug recesses on the bolt face, where the bolt locks into the barrel extension. This ensures smooth engagement and disengagement, minimizing wear and tear. Also, apply oil to the extractor claw and spring. This is the part that grips the spent casing to extract it from the chamber. Lubrication here ensures reliable extraction. Likewise, lightly oil the ejector and its spring, responsible for kicking the spent casing out. Finally, and very lightly, apply oil to the firing pin. The firing pin is the component that strikes the primer, igniting the cartridge. A small amount of oil helps it move smoothly.
Bolt Carrier
Next, move onto the bolt carrier. Inside the carrier, where the bolt sits, apply a thin coat of oil to reduce friction and allow the bolt to move freely within the carrier. The rails on the carrier, which slide within the upper receiver, are another critical AR-15 oiling point. A light coating of oil on these rails minimizes friction and ensures smooth cycling. You should also oil the cam pin, the pin that rotates the bolt to lock and unlock it.
Upper Receiver
The upper receiver, the housing for the bolt carrier group, is the next major area to address. The inside of the upper receiver, specifically where the bolt carrier slides, requires lubrication. Applying a thin, even coat of oil along this surface ensures smooth movement of the BCG. Be sure to also lubricate the barrel extension lugs. This area, where the bolt lugs lock into the barrel extension, experiences significant friction and wear.
Lower Receiver
Now, shift your attention to the lower receiver. Although it doesn’t bear the same stress as the bolt carrier group, the lower receiver requires lubrication to ensure smooth trigger pull and proper function. The hammer and sear engagement surfaces are crucial. These surfaces interact to release the hammer, firing the round. Apply a small amount of oil to these areas to reduce friction and ensure a crisp trigger break. The trigger and disconnector engagement surfaces are another AR-15 oiling point to consider. These parts work together to reset the trigger after each shot. The hammer and trigger pins also need lubrication, as these pivot points can experience wear over time. Lastly, apply a very light coating to the buffer and buffer spring. While this part of the system doesn’t experience as much wear as other areas, lubrication can improve cycling and reduce noise.
Charging Handle
The charging handle is a final point to consider. Where the charging handle slides in the upper receiver, apply a small amount of oil.
It’s important to emphasize that you do not need to soak your rifle in oil. Over-lubrication can be just as detrimental as under-lubrication. Excessive oil attracts dirt and debris, which can form a gritty paste that hinders function. Always apply a thin, even coat of oil to the AR-15 oiling points, and wipe away any excess with a clean rag or paper towel.
While gun oil is usually the primary lubricant, some prefer to use grease in certain high-wear areas. Grease provides superior lubrication in high-pressure situations, where the parts rub together repeatedly. However, it tends to attract more dirt. When choosing between grease and oil, consider the use of your rifle. For competition rifles or those that experience heavy use, grease might be an option. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Before lubricating your AR-15, it is recommended to clean the rifle. Disassemble the AR-15 (field stripping) which involves removing the upper receiver from the lower receiver, removing the bolt carrier group from the upper receiver, and separating the bolt from the carrier. Cleaning removes carbon, powder residue, and other contaminants, improving the effectiveness of the lubrication. You can use a gun cleaning solvent and brush to remove the build up of carbon and other contaminants from the AR-15 oiling points that are difficult to reach.
Step-by-Step Oiling Procedure
Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of oiling your AR-15.
First, disassemble the AR-15. Field stripping is a crucial step for proper cleaning and lubrication. Refer to your rifle’s manual or online resources for detailed instructions on how to disassemble your specific model. This usually involves separating the upper and lower receivers, removing the bolt carrier group, and disassembling the BCG.
Next, clean the rifle. While not always necessary, cleaning your rifle before oiling helps remove any dirt, debris, or old lubricant. Use a gun cleaning solvent and brush to remove carbon buildup and other contaminants from the areas you will be lubricating. This is especially important in the AR-15 oiling points that experience the most wear.
Now, apply the oil. Using a cleaning patch, a brush, or a dropper, apply a thin coat of gun oil to each of the key oiling points discussed earlier. Start with the bolt carrier group, then move to the upper and lower receivers, and finally to the charging handle. Be sure to reach all the AR-15 oiling points to prevent problems.
Wipe away excess oil. After applying the oil, use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe away any excess lubricant. This prevents the build-up of dirt and debris and ensures that the oil stays where it’s needed.
Reassemble the AR-15. Carefully reassemble the rifle, following the disassembly steps in reverse. Ensure all parts are correctly aligned and secured.
Finally, function check the rifle. Once reassembled, cycle the action several times to ensure smooth operation. Check for any unusual noises or resistance. If you encounter any issues, recheck your assembly and ensure that you did not over-lubricate any of the AR-15 oiling points.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, some common mistakes can sabotage your lubrication efforts. Knowing these pitfalls will help you avoid them and maximize the benefits of proper maintenance.
Over-Lubricating
Over-lubricating is a major mistake. As mentioned earlier, excessive oil attracts dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions. Only apply a thin, even coat of oil, and wipe away any excess.
Using the Wrong Type of Oil
Using the wrong type of oil can also be problematic. Be sure to use a gun oil specifically designed for firearms. Automotive oil or other generic lubricants may not offer the same level of protection or performance.
Neglecting Key Areas
Neglecting key areas is another common error. Ensure you lubricate all the AR-15 oiling points discussed in this guide, especially those that experience high wear.
Not Cleaning the Rifle Before Oiling
Failing to clean your rifle before oiling is an oversight that reduces the effectiveness of lubrication. Cleaning removes built-up carbon and residue, allowing the oil to penetrate the metal and provide optimal protection.
Not Wiping off Excess Oil
Failing to wipe off excess oil after the application also attracts debris.
Maintenance Frequency
The frequency of lubrication depends on several factors, including your shooting habits, the environment in which you use your rifle, and the type of oil you’re using.
As a general guideline, oil your AR-15 after each shooting session or before a range trip. This ensures that your rifle is properly lubricated before you start shooting.
It is also important to oil your rifle after cleaning it. After cleaning, the metal parts of your rifle can be prone to rust and corrosion. Applying oil after cleaning will help to protect them.
Depending on your environment and the conditions, you may need to oil your rifle more frequently. If you live in a humid environment or often shoot in dusty or dirty conditions, you may need to oil your rifle more often.
Safety Precautions
Gun safety is the paramount concern when handling any firearm. Always ensure your AR-15 is unloaded before performing any maintenance. Verify this by visually inspecting the chamber and magazine well. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction, and never assume a firearm is unloaded.
Follow the instructions on your gun oil and solvent carefully, and wear gloves to protect your hands and skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper lubrication is essential for the reliable performance, longevity, and enjoyment of your AR-15 rifle. By understanding the AR-15 oiling points and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can keep your rifle operating at its peak. Remember to choose a high-quality gun oil, apply it judiciously, and wipe away any excess. Regular maintenance is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is ready to perform when you need it most.
To continue learning, consider exploring additional resources such as manufacturer-provided resources, online forums, and YouTube tutorials, which offer valuable insights on specific AR-15 oiling points and maintenance techniques. Mastering these techniques will not only enhance your shooting experience but also protect your investment in a high-quality firearm.
