How To Clean Your AR-15

Published on May 16, 2022
Duration: 31:03

This guide details the essential steps for cleaning and maintaining an AR-15 rifle, emphasizing safety checks and proper disassembly. It covers cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG), barrel, chamber, and lower receiver, highlighting the impact of carbon buildup on reliability. The video also stresses the importance of cleaning muzzle devices for suppressor compatibility and concludes with reassembly and a crucial function check.

Quick Summary

To clean your AR-15, start with a safety check, then separate receivers. Disassemble the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG), clean components like the bolt and carrier, and scrub the chamber and barrel. Reassemble and perform a function check.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Safety Check
  2. 01:57Separating Receivers
  3. 04:11Removing the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
  4. 04:41BCG Disassembly
  5. 07:52Cleaning Tools and Bolt Scrubbing
  6. 09:10Chamber and Barrel Cleaning
  7. 13:34Muzzle Device and Suppressor Maintenance
  8. 15:48Lower Receiver and Buffer System
  9. 19:21Reassembly of the BCG
  10. 21:11Final Reassembly and Function Check

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first steps before cleaning an AR-15?

Before cleaning your AR-15, always perform a thorough safety check. Ensure the chamber is empty and the magazine is removed. This is a critical step to prevent accidental discharge during maintenance.

How do you disassemble the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) for cleaning?

To disassemble the BCG, remove the firing pin retaining pin, then the firing pin. Next, remove the cam pin, and finally, slide the bolt out of the carrier. Soaking these parts in a cleaner like Ballistol is recommended.

Why is cleaning the muzzle device important on an AR-15?

Cleaning the muzzle device is important, especially for Quick Detach (QD) suppressor mounts. Carbon buildup on the indexing points can prevent a secure and proper fit for your suppressor, affecting performance and safety.

What is a crucial final step after reassembling an AR-15?

After reassembling your AR-15, a vital function check is essential. Test the safety selector, trigger pull, and trigger reset to ensure all components are working correctly and safely before the firearm is used.

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