The AR-15 platform, known for its modularity and relative ease of maintenance, requires regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of how to field strip an AR-15, covering both the upper and lower receiver assemblies. Always prioritize safety: ensure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before commencing any disassembly.
Tools You'll Need:
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- A punch or similar tool: This is useful for pushing out the takedown pins. A dedicated AR-15 takedown pin punch is ideal, but a small, appropriately sized punch will suffice.
- A cleaning mat or soft surface: This will protect your firearm and components during disassembly and cleaning.
Step-by-Step Field Stripping Guide:
1. Safety First: Verify the firearm is unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine well.
2. Upper Receiver Disassembly:
- Remove the Charging Handle: Pull the charging handle to the rear and rotate it upward and away from the upper receiver.
- Remove the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): With the charging handle removed, the bolt carrier group should slide out of the upper receiver. Set it aside. This is the core of the firearm's action, and should be handled with care.
3. Lower Receiver Disassembly:
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Depress the Takedown Pins: Locate the takedown pins on either side of the lower receiver, near the pivot point connecting the upper and lower receivers. Use your punch or tool to gently tap the pins out from the receiver. They'll usually pop out easily with a light tap.
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Separate the Upper and Lower Receivers: With the takedown pins removed, carefully separate the upper and lower receivers.
4. Optional: Further Disassembly (for deeper cleaning):
While the above steps constitute a basic field stripping, you can further disassemble the BCG for a more thorough cleaning. This is typically done only when necessary for deep cleaning or maintenance. Proceed with caution as this involves smaller parts that can easily get misplaced. Consult more advanced guides if you choose to disassemble the BCG further.
- Disassemble the BCG: Typically involves removing the firing pin retaining pin and the bolt cam pin. Again, reference a detailed guide for specific instructions before attempting this.
- Clean and Lubricate: Thoroughly clean and lubricate all components before reassembly.
Reassembly:
Reassembly is essentially the reverse of the disassembly process. Take your time and ensure all parts are properly aligned and seated.
1. Reassemble the BCG: (If disassembled) Carefully reinsert all BCG components and ensure they are properly seated and secured.
2. Reattach the Upper and Lower Receivers: Align the upper and lower receivers and gently insert the takedown pins. Tap them in lightly with your punch until they are flush with the receiver.
3. Replace the Bolt Carrier Group: Carefully slide the bolt carrier group into the upper receiver.
4. Reinstall the Charging Handle: Insert the charging handle and rotate it down until it's securely locked in place.
5. Final Check: Perform a function check to confirm the firearm functions correctly. Always practice safe gun handling.
Conclusion:
Regular field stripping and cleaning are essential for maintaining the reliability and accuracy of your AR-15. By following this guide, you can perform basic field stripping safely and efficiently. Remember to consult additional resources and videos for visual guidance, especially when disassembling the bolt carrier group. Always prioritize safety and handle your firearm responsibly. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional gunsmithing advice. If you are uncomfortable performing these steps, consult a qualified gunsmith.
