AR-15 Illustrated Parts Breakdown
The AR-15, a popular semi-automatic rifle, has gained a reputation for its modularity and reliability. Understanding the various parts of this firearm can help you maintain it, customize it, or simply appreciate its intricate design. In this detailed breakdown, we’ll explore the key components of the AR-15 and their functions.
Receiver
The receiver is the central component of the AR-15, serving as the housing for the trigger group, bolt carrier group, and magazine. It’s typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in various calibers, such as .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO.
Material | Caliber | Description |
---|---|---|
Aluminum | .223 Remington | Lightweight and durable, commonly used in civilian models. |
Steel | 5.56x45mm NATO | More robust and suitable for military and law enforcement applications. |
Firearm Safety Act of 1968
It’s important to note that the Firearm Safety Act of 1968 requires that the receiver be marked with the manufacturer’s name, model number, and serial number. This marking is crucial for identifying the firearm and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
Trigger Group
The trigger group is responsible for the firing mechanism of the AR-15. It includes the trigger, hammer, sear, and safety. The trigger pull weight can vary depending on the model, with some shooters preferring a lighter pull for faster follow-up shots.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is the heart of the AR-15’s gas system. It includes the bolt, carrier, gas key, and firing pin. The bolt carrier group cycles the rounds, extracting spent casings, and feeding new rounds into the chamber.
Barrel
The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels before exiting the firearm. It’s typically made of stainless steel or chrome-molybdenum and is available in various lengths and calibers. The barrel length affects the rifle’s overall length, weight, and bullet velocity.
Length | Caliber | Velocity |
---|---|---|
16 inches | .223 Remington | 3,000 feet per second |
20 inches | 5.56x45mm NATO | 2,800 feet per second |
Handguard
The handguard is the tube that encloses the barrel and provides a grip for the shooter. It’s available in various materials, such as aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and can be customized with accessories like Picatinny rails for mounting optics, sights, and other accessories.
Stock
The stock is the part of the firearm that supports the shooter’s shoulder and allows for a stable firing position. It’s available in various materials, such as wood, synthetic, and composite, and can be adjusted for length of pull and cheek weld to fit different shooters.
Magazine
The magazine is the container that holds the rounds of ammunition. It’s available in various capacities and types, such as box magazines, drum magazines, and banana magazines. The magazine must be compatible with the rifle’s caliber and magazine well.
Chamber
The chamber is the area at the end of the barrel where the bullet is seated and the primer is struck. It’s typically made of steel and is designed to withstand the high pressures generated during firing.
Gas System
The gas system is responsible for propelling the bolt carrier group during firing. It includes the gas block, gas tube, and gas key. The gas system can be adjusted for different shooting environments and ammunition types.
Conclusion
Understanding the various parts of the AR-15 can help