SmythBusters: Dropping The Hammer On An AR15 Lower

Published on July 22, 2024
Duration: 6:24

This guide from Brownells' SmythBusters debunks the myth that dropping the hammer on an empty AR-15 chamber will inevitably cause damage. While considered bad practice due to potential wear on the hammer and bolt catch, the video demonstrates that high-quality, mil-spec or better components are remarkably durable. Military personnel often perform this action during cleaning, highlighting the robustness of properly manufactured parts. The key takeaway is that while avoidance is recommended, accidental occurrences with quality components are unlikely to result in significant damage.

Quick Summary

Dropping the hammer on an empty AR-15 chamber without the upper receiver causes the hammer to impact the bolt catch, potentially leading to wear. However, high-quality, mil-spec or better components are durable enough to withstand this, and military personnel often perform this action during cleaning.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction: AR-15 Hammer Drop Myth
  2. 00:35User-Requested Myth: Hammer Drop on Empty Chamber
  3. 01:04Demonstrating Hammer Impact on Bolt Catch
  4. 01:42Common Concerns vs. Military Practice
  5. 02:17Historical Context & Mil-Spec Durability
  6. 03:02Mil-Spec vs. Commercial Parts Quality
  7. 04:10Personal Firearm Demonstration: High-Quality Parts
  8. 05:00Conclusion: Bad Practice, But Durable Parts

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when you drop the hammer on an empty AR-15 chamber without the upper receiver?

When the hammer drops on an empty AR-15 chamber without the upper receiver, it impacts the bolt catch. This action can cause wear on both the hammer and the bolt catch, and the impact transfers to the receiver itself.

Is it safe to drop the hammer on an empty AR-15 chamber?

While considered bad practice due to potential wear, dropping the hammer on an empty AR-15 chamber is unlikely to cause significant damage if the firearm is built with high-quality, mil-spec or better components. Military personnel often perform this during cleaning.

Are mil-spec AR-15 parts durable enough to withstand hammer drops?

Yes, mil-spec AR-15 components are designed to meet rigorous government standards for durability. While not ideal, they are generally robust enough to withstand the impact of a hammer drop on an empty chamber without significant damage.

What is the difference between mil-spec and commercial AR-15 parts?

Mil-spec parts meet strict government standards for materials and manufacturing, ensuring high durability and reliability. Commercial parts, especially cheaper ones, may not adhere to these standards and can be of inferior quality and less durable.

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