AR-15 - Forward Assist and What It's For

Published on July 12, 2014
Duration: 2:06

This video explains the function of the AR-15's forward assist, primarily used to ensure a round is fully seated in the chamber when the bolt doesn't lock on its own. It demonstrates how to use the forward assist with dummy rounds and compares it to the AK-47's manual bolt manipulation. The speaker argues it's a useful reliability feature for specific scenarios, not just for forcing problematic rounds.

Quick Summary

The AR-15 forward assist manually pushes the bolt carrier group forward to ensure the bolt is fully seated and locked into battery. It's used when the bolt doesn't close completely on its own, typically due to a slow bolt release, and is not meant for forcing obstructed or faulty rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro to AR-15 Forward Assist
  2. 00:22Primary Function Explained
  3. 00:33Demonstration with Dummy Rounds
  4. 01:02AK-47 Comparison
  5. 01:21Reliability Debate & Use Cases

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of the AR-15 forward assist?

The AR-15 forward assist is used to manually push the bolt carrier group forward, ensuring the bolt is fully seated and locked into battery. This is typically done when the bolt doesn't close completely on its own due to a slow bolt release.

When should you use the AR-15 forward assist?

You should use the forward assist when the bolt carrier group doesn't fully lock into battery after chambering a round, often due to a less forceful bolt release. It's not intended for forcing rounds that are obstructed or faulty.

How does the AR-15 forward assist compare to the AK-47?

The AR-15's forward assist manually pushes the bolt forward. Similarly, the AK-47's reciprocating charging handle can be manually pushed forward to ensure the bolt is fully seated and the rifle is ready to fire.

Is the AR-15 forward assist necessary for reliability?

While debated, the forward assist can enhance reliability in specific situations where a round doesn't fully seat due to the bolt's momentum. It's a tool for ensuring proper chambering, not for overcoming significant malfunctions.

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