Mod Minute: Take Your AR-15 from A2 to Magpul®

This guide, presented by School of the American Rifle, details how to identify and replace a malformed weld spring in an AR-15 Delta Ring assembly. A misaligned weld spring can cause the gas tube to be pushed off-center, leading to excessive friction or damage to the carrier key and gas tube. Replacing the faulty component ensures proper gas tube alignment and firearm reliability.

This YouTube video focuses on the top 5 upgrades for an AR-15 rifle. While the description provides links to the creator's other channels (shorts, podcast, outside the warehouse) and social media (Instagram, Twitter, Rumble), the core content is about enhancing the popular AR-15 platform. Viewers can expect information related to modifications and accessories that improve the performance or functionality of this widely used firearm.

This entry details the unique XR-86 custom rifle, a 1986 build by Wilfred Ellis. It masterfully combines components from an M60 (flash hider), an M14 (gas system), and an AR-15 (trigger, bolt, locking system). The AR-15 trigger is notably rotated 90 degrees, and its bolt is integrated with the M14 gas system, showcasing advanced gunsmithing.

This video from School of the American Rifle highlights critical manufacturing defects in AR-15 bolt carrier keys, specifically focusing on rough internal bores. Lead instructor demonstrates how a poorly finished carrier key can cause significant friction, premature wear on components like gas tubes, and operational issues, contrasting a problematic new Colt carrier with a well-functioning older model. The expert emphasizes the importance of a smooth bore for reliable function and longevity of expensive parts.

This video from Brownells features Steve and Caleb reviewing the Magna-Tip® Screwdriver Set, highlighting its importance as a gunsmithing tool. They discuss the advantages of this modular system, including its versatility, durability, and precision, emphasizing the significance of hollow-ground bits and proper handle selection. The review contrasts the Magna-Tip® system with lower-quality alternatives, explaining how the right screwdriver prevents screw damage and covers the variety of screws encountered in firearms. The presenters touch on essential gunsmithing toolkits and answer viewer questions, providing valuable insights for both professional gunsmiths and hobbyists.

This guide, presented by an expert firearms instructor, details the benefits and installation of adjustable triggers for platforms like the AR-15. It covers understanding trigger mechanics, adjusting pull weight, reset, and overtravel, and highlights ideal users for these components. The instruction emphasizes safety and practical application for competition and precision shooting.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.

Modern firearm magazines with quality, tempered springs can be safely stored loaded long-term without significant degradation. Spring wear is primarily caused by cycling (use) rather than static compression. However, low-quality or poorly manufactured magazines may experience spring failure if stored loaded for extended periods.