The AR-15 platform, known for its modularity and relative ease of maintenance, requires regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Knowing how to field strip your AR-15 is a crucial skill for any responsible owner. This guide provides a step-by-step process, covering both partial and complete field stripping. Always ensure your firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before beginning any disassembly.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Before you even think about touching your AR-15, prioritize safety:
- Unloaded Weapon: Verify the chamber is empty. Visually inspect the magazine well and visually and physically check the chamber.
- Safe Direction: Point the rifle in a safe direction, preferably downrange at a target backstop.
- Clear Area: Ensure a clean, well-lit workspace free of distractions.
- Proper Tools: Gather necessary tools (typically just a punch or similar tool for the takedown pins).
- Patience: Take your time. Rushing can lead to mistakes and potential damage.
Partial Field Stripping: Quick Cleaning
Partial field stripping allows for basic cleaning and lubrication without completely disassembling the weapon. This is ideal for regular maintenance.
Steps:
- Remove the Magazine: Eject the magazine from the magazine well.
- Check the Chamber: Visually and physically check the chamber again to ensure it's empty.
- Charging Handle: Pull the charging handle to the rear to lock the bolt to the rear.
- Upper Receiver Removal: Push the takedown pins out from both sides of the lower receiver using a punch or similar tool. The upper receiver will now separate from the lower receiver.
Complete Field Stripping: Thorough Cleaning
Complete field stripping allows for more thorough cleaning and inspection of all components. This is recommended for deeper cleaning or after exposure to harsh conditions.
Steps:
- Follow Steps 1-4 from Partial Field Stripping: Remove the magazine, check the chamber, lock the bolt to the rear, and separate the upper and lower receivers.
- Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Removal: With the upper receiver separated, the bolt carrier group (BCG) can be pulled straight back and out of the upper receiver.
- Bolt Removal: Once the BCG is out, the bolt can be separated from the carrier. This typically involves depressing a small retainer. Consult your firearm's manual for specifics.
- Buffer Tube and Spring Removal (Optional): While not strictly part of a field strip for cleaning, you might remove the buffer tube and spring for thorough cleaning. This typically requires removing a castle nut and end plate (requires specialized tools).
Reassembly: Returning Your AR-15 to Operational Status
Reassembly follows the reverse order of disassembly. Pay close attention to how each part fits together. Improper reassembly can lead to malfunctions.
Steps (Complete Field Stripping Reassembly):
- Insert Bolt into Carrier: Engage the bolt with the bolt carrier.
- Insert BCG into Upper Receiver: Carefully slide the BCG back into the upper receiver.
- Reattach Upper Receiver: Align the upper receiver with the lower receiver and push the takedown pins back in.
- Insert Magazine: Place the magazine in the magazine well.
Important Notes & Resources:
- Consult Your Owner's Manual: This guide is for general information; always consult your specific AR-15's owner's manual for detailed instructions and diagrams. Manufacturer-specific variations exist.
- Watch Videos: Numerous videos demonstrate AR-15 field stripping and cleaning. Watching these can greatly enhance your understanding. (Note: We cannot provide specific links to videos here.)
- Professional Help: If unsure about any step, seek help from a qualified gunsmith. Improper disassembly or reassembly can damage your firearm.
By following these steps carefully and prioritizing safety, you can confidently perform both partial and complete field stripping of your AR-15, ensuring its proper maintenance and reliable operation. Remember, regular cleaning and lubrication are vital for maintaining the accuracy and longevity of your firearm.
