Safety First: Your Top Priority
Unloaded Firearm
Before diving into any AR-15 tear down, prioritizing safety is non-negotiable. Never handle a firearm without taking these critical precautions: First, ensure your work area is clear, clean, and well-lit. A dedicated space minimizes the risk of losing small parts and keeps your work organized. Make sure you have all the tools needed before you begin. Second, and perhaps most importantly, confirm that the firearm is unloaded. This is a crucial step in any gun-handling activity. Start by removing the magazine. Next, pull back the charging handle to eject any round that might be in the chamber. Finally, visually inspect the chamber and receiver to confirm that they are completely empty. Run your finger in the magazine chamber as well to ensure it’s empty. Do this in front of a camera so that you are showing everything is unloaded and safe. Third, when the rifle is shown to be clear, perform a function check. Pull the charging handle to cycle the bolt. Then, pull the trigger and ensure the hammer drops. This verifies the firing mechanism. Make sure the safety is engaged to ensure it also works. Always wear appropriate safety gear. Eye protection is non-negotiable, as springs or small parts can eject unexpectedly. Consider wearing work gloves to improve grip and protect your hands.
Essential Tools and Materials
Successfully completing an AR-15 tear down requires the right tools. Here’s a list of essentials you’ll want to gather before starting: The AR-15 Armorer’s Wrench is a versatile tool that allows you to remove and install components like the barrel nut and buffer tube. Get one with multiple capabilities. A punch set is essential for removing and reinstalling pins. Choose a set with various sizes, including roll pin punches, to accommodate the different pin diameters found on an AR-15. A hammer, preferably plastic or brass, is required for tapping out pins and performing other tasks without damaging the firearm. Cleaning solvent and lubricant are critical for keeping your rifle functioning smoothly. These items should be the highest quality to ensure no damage and proper function. A small parts tray or a magnetic tray will keep all those small components organized and prevent you from losing anything. A magnetic tray is particularly handy for retaining small steel parts. A bench block can be beneficial when removing and installing pins. It provides a stable surface and supports the receiver to prevent damage. A cleaning rod and appropriate brushes are necessary for cleaning the barrel.
Disassembling the Lower Receiver: A Foundation of Knowledge
Disassembling the lower receiver is where your AR-15 tear down journey begins. This part houses the trigger group, pistol grip, and buffer system. To start, ensure the magazine is removed, as mentioned. Separate the upper and lower receivers. Push out the rear takedown pin located near the stock. Then, push out the forward pivot pin located near the front of the receiver. Once these pins are removed, the upper and lower receivers can be separated.
Bolt Catch
This device holds the bolt open after the last round. Using a punch and a hammer, drive out the roll pin that secures the bolt catch. Be careful not to lose the spring and plunger located behind the bolt catch.
Trigger Group
The trigger group is the heart of the firing mechanism. Carefully remove the pins that hold the trigger, hammer, and disconnector. Note the orientation of the springs and ensure you understand how each component fits together before disassembly. Consider taking pictures during disassembly to help with reassembly.
Pistol Grip
Unscrew the screw that holds the pistol grip in place.
Buffer Tube, Buffer, and Buffer Spring
Unscrew the castle nut that holds the buffer tube to the lower receiver. Be careful as the buffer and spring can eject forcefully.
Disassembling the Upper Receiver: Unveiling the Mechanics
Now, let’s move onto the upper receiver, which houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and other essential components. Remove the Charging Handle. Pull the charging handle straight back and remove it.
Bolt Carrier Group
This is a core component. Pull the charging handle back, then remove the bolt carrier group. You can remove the bolt from the carrier by rotating the firing pin retainer and removing the firing pin. Then, the bolt can be pushed out the front of the bolt carrier.
Handguard
Depending on the handguard type (drop-in, free-float), the removal process will vary. Drop-in handguards are generally easier to remove. Free-float handguards often require the removal of screws or other retaining mechanisms. If your handguard removal involves removing the barrel, you may need a barrel wrench and a vise.
Barrel and Handguard Components
If you must remove the barrel to remove the handguard, use the armorer’s wrench.
Gas Tube and Gas Block
Loosen the set screws on the gas block and remove the gas tube and gas block.
Forward Assist
Remove the forward assist. Push the forward assist pin to the side to remove the component.
Ejection Port Cover
Push the ejection port cover pin to the side. This allows removal of the ejection port cover.
Cleaning and Inspection: The Key to Longevity
With the rifle disassembled, it’s time for cleaning and inspection. This is a crucial step in maintaining the reliability and extending the life of your AR-15 after a AR-15 tear down. Cleaning the Upper Receiver Components:
Barrel
Use a cleaning rod, brushes, and solvent to thoroughly clean the barrel. Run patches soaked in solvent through the barrel until they come out clean.
Bolt Carrier Group
Remove carbon buildup from the bolt carrier group. Scrape off any carbon with a brush or pick. Then, use solvent and a brush to scrub the components.
Other Upper Receiver Components
Clean other upper receiver components, such as the charging handle and upper receiver itself.
Lower Receiver Components
Clean the lower receiver parts. Inspect for wear, damage, and functionality. Examine all parts for wear, damage, and proper function. Pay close attention to the bolt face, extractor, and firing pin. The chamber is a common wear area.
Reassembly: Bringing it Back Together
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Reverse the Disassembly Steps: Start with the lower receiver and reassemble the trigger group, pistol grip, and buffer tube. Reassemble the upper receiver and slide it back onto the lower. Consider the Spring and Pin Orientations: Ensure all springs and pins are oriented correctly. Proper Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts with a high-quality gun lubricant. Function Testing: After reassembly, perform a function check.
Lubrication: The Lifeblood of Your Rifle
Proper lubrication is essential for smooth operation and to prevent wear and tear after any AR-15 tear down. Use a quality gun oil or grease on the bolt carrier group, trigger group, and other moving parts. Too much oil is just as bad as too little, so a thin, even coat is best. Apply the lubricant to the bolt carrier rails, the charging handle, the hammer, the trigger, and any other sliding surfaces.
Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Issues
Even with careful assembly, issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems. Trigger Not Working: Check the trigger group for proper installation.
Final Thoughts: The Importance of Knowledge
Knowing how to perform an AR-15 tear down empowers you to maintain your firearm, identify problems, and keep it running reliably. This knowledge extends the life of your rifle, keeps you safe, and increases your enjoyment of shooting. Regular maintenance is crucial.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide has covered the essential steps of an AR-15 tear down. Understanding the process is vital for all AR-15 owners. Always practice safe firearm handling, and enjoy your shooting experience. If you need a gunsmith, ask one for guidance!
