The Differences of an AR15 and an Assault Rifle - TheFireArmGuy

Published on June 15, 2016
Duration: 4:07

This expert guide, presented by TheFirearmGuy, clarifies the crucial differences between the popular AR-15 platform and true assault rifles. It emphasizes that the AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle, while assault rifles feature select-fire capabilities. The guide also touches upon the legal complexities and accessibility differences between these firearm types, drawing on extensive experience in firearm education.

Quick Summary

The key difference between an AR-15 and an assault rifle lies in their fire modes. Standard AR-15s are semi-automatic (one shot per trigger pull), while true assault rifles are select-fire, offering modes like 3-round burst or full-auto. Owning select-fire weapons involves significant NFA regulations, including extensive paperwork and a tax stamp, making them less accessible than civilian AR-15s.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Misconceptions
  2. 00:41AR-15 Popularity and Customization
  3. 00:58The Core Difference: Select Fire
  4. 01:41Legal and Regulatory Barriers
  5. 02:34Demonstration of Select Fire

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between an AR-15 and an assault rifle?

The primary difference is the fire mode. A standard AR-15 is semi-automatic, firing one round per trigger pull. True assault rifles are select-fire, offering options like 3-round burst or full-automatic fire, which are heavily regulated.

Does 'AR' in AR-15 stand for 'Assault Rifle'?

No, 'AR' in AR-15 stands for Armalite Rifle, named after the original manufacturer. This is a common misconception; the AR-15 platform is typically semi-automatic and not classified as an assault rifle in its standard civilian configuration.

Are assault rifles legal for civilians to own?

Owning a true assault rifle (select-fire firearm) is legal for civilians in the U.S. under strict federal regulations, primarily the National Firearms Act (NFA). This involves extensive paperwork, background checks, and a $200 tax stamp, making them significantly less accessible than semi-automatic firearms.

What makes a firearm a 'select-fire' weapon?

A select-fire weapon is capable of switching between different firing modes. Typically, this includes safe, semi-automatic (one shot per trigger pull), and either fully automatic (continuous fire while the trigger is held) or a 3-round burst (three shots per trigger pull).

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