4 Things To Do Before You Shoot Your New AR-15

Published on March 22, 2024
Duration: 18:45

This guide outlines four essential steps for new AR-15 owners before their first range trip, focusing on ensuring reliability and longevity. It covers visual inspection, fastener checks, function testing, and proper cleaning and lubrication. The presenter, an experienced enthusiast, emphasizes the importance of a maintenance log for tracking rifle health and component wear.

Quick Summary

Before shooting a new AR-15, perform a visual inspection, check critical fasteners (like the castle nut and gas key) for tightness and staking, conduct a dry function test, and thoroughly clean and lubricate the rifle to ensure reliability and longevity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Disclaimer
  2. 01:12Basic Visual and Physical Inspection
  3. 02:18Checking Critical Fasteners
  4. 07:29Comprehensive Function Test
  5. 10:15Cleaning and Lubrication
  6. 12:28Establishing a Maintenance Log

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four essential steps to take before shooting a new AR-15?

Before shooting a new AR-15, you should perform a basic visual and physical inspection, verify critical fasteners are tight and staked, conduct a comprehensive dry function test, and thoroughly clean and lubricate the rifle.

Why is it important to check fasteners on a new AR-15?

Checking fasteners like the castle nut and gas key ensures they are properly tightened and staked. This prevents them from loosening due to recoil, which can cause malfunctions or damage to the firearm.

Should I clean my new AR-15 before shooting it?

Yes, new AR-15s often come with heavy factory grease or manufacturing debris. Cleaning and lubricating the rifle with products like CLP ensures it operates smoothly and reliably from the first round.

What is a dry function test for an AR-15?

A dry function test involves checking the safety selector, trigger pull and reset, bolt catch, and magazine release without live ammunition. Using a snap cap allows you to simulate feeding and extraction.

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