AR-15 Maintenance: Field-strip, Clean and Lubricate an AR-15 | Gunsite Academy Firearms Training

This video provides a comprehensive guide to AR-15 maintenance, covering field stripping, cleaning, and lubrication. It emphasizes critical safety checks, proper lubrication points on the bolt carrier, and the importance of gas key staking. The content also clarifies chamber differences between .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, and recommends durable magazine options.

Quick Summary

The 'wiggle test' checks AR-15 gas ring health: hold the bolt carrier vertically; if it falls off the bolt, the rings need replacement, typically around 3,500 rounds. Gas key staking is also critical; improperly staked keys can wobble, causing gas leaks and cycling failures.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Field Stripping and Safety
  2. 01:35Fire Control System & Magazines
  3. 04:07Chamber and Barrel Specs
  4. 07:09Bolt Assembly Maintenance
  5. 11:16Gas Rings & Extractor Service
  6. 17:09Function Check & Cleaning Philosophy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most critical part of AR-15 bolt carrier maintenance?

The most critical inspection point for an AR-15 bolt carrier group is the gas key staking. If the screws are not properly staked, the key can wobble, leading to gas leaks and potential cycling failures.

How do you check the health of AR-15 gas rings?

Perform the 'wiggle test': hold the bolt carrier vertically. If the bolt carrier falls off the bolt, the gas rings are worn and need replacement. This typically occurs around 3,500 rounds.

What is the difference between .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO chambers?

While .223 Remington can safely fire in a 5.56 NATO chamber, firing 5.56 NATO ammunition in a .223 Remington chamber can create dangerous pressure spikes due to the smaller chamber volume.

Where should an AR-15 bolt carrier be lubricated?

Heavy lubrication is required on the four specific raised friction rails of the AR-15 bolt carrier. The rest of the carrier should remain relatively dry to prevent excessive carbon buildup.

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