Can a Fire Damaged PSA AR-15 be saved? - Part 7 (Test Firing)

Published on July 2, 2022
Duration: 2:51

This video details the test firing of a fire-damaged Palmetto State Armory AR-15. The firearm was secured in a Savage Range System test trap using a portable armors vise. A trigger pull device, constructed from a shotgun cleaning rod, was employed for remote operation. The test utilized Winchester 193 ammunition to assess the integrity of the barrel and bolt after potential heat damage, with the receivers being deemed less critical for catastrophic failure.

Quick Summary

When test firing a fire-damaged AR-15, the barrel and bolt are the most critical components to assess for integrity, as receiver damage is less likely to cause catastrophic failure. A safe setup includes a test trap, vise, remote trigger pull device, and personal protective equipment.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Fire Damaged AR-15 Test
  2. 00:16Firearm Fixturing and Test Setup
  3. 00:30Trigger Pull Device Construction
  4. 00:42Armoring and Safety Precautions
  5. 01:04Receiver vs. Barrel/Bolt Integrity
  6. 01:40Test Firing Preparation
  7. 02:19Test Firing Sequence
  8. 02:39Test Fire Results and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the critical components to check for damage in a fire-affected AR-15 before test firing?

The most critical components to assess for integrity in a fire-damaged AR-15 are the barrel and the bolt. While receivers can be weakened, they are less likely to cause a catastrophic failure compared to potential damage to the barrel or bolt.

What safety equipment and setup are recommended for test firing a potentially compromised firearm?

For safely test firing a compromised firearm, it's recommended to use a secure test trap, such as a Savage Range System, and a stable vise. A remote trigger pull device and personal protective equipment like armor are also crucial safety measures.

Can a fire-damaged AR-15 receiver cause the firearm to explode?

According to the instructor, a weakened AR-15 receiver is unlikely to cause a catastrophic explosion. The design of firearms, including those with plastic or cast receivers, suggests that receiver integrity is less critical for preventing catastrophic failure than the barrel and bolt.

What type of ammunition was used for the test firing of the fire-damaged AR-15?

The test firing of the fire-damaged Palmetto State Armory AR-15 utilized Winchester 193 ammunition. This standard 5.56x45mm NATO round was chosen to assess the firearm's performance under typical operational stress.

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