Does the Forward Assist Allow for Quiet Loading???? πŸ˜†

Published on December 7, 2023
Duration: 2:41

This video debunks the myth that the AR-15's forward assist is designed for silent loading. The instructor demonstrates that using the forward assist requires significant force and is not a quiet operation. Instead, the forward assist was intended as a mental aid for manually pushing the bolt forward when it fails to fully seat, a practice the instructor advises against in favor of clearing and chambering a new round.

Quick Summary

The forward assist on an AR-15 is not designed for silent loading. It was intended as a mental aid to manually push the bolt forward if it fails to seat, but this action requires significant force and is noisy. Forcing a bolt that hasn't closed properly can cause malfunctions.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction to the Forward Assist
  2. 00:11The Silent Loading Myth
  3. 00:37Demonstrating Silent Loading Attempt
  4. 01:09Why the Forward Assist Fails for Silent Loading
  5. 01:30True Purpose of the Forward Assist
  6. 01:41Correct Procedure for Bolt Not Closing
  7. 01:52Addressing the Kyle Rittenhouse Example
  8. 02:28Conclusion on Forward Assist Utility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of the forward assist on an AR-15?

The forward assist on an AR-15 was primarily designed as a mental aid for the user, intended to manually push the bolt carrier group forward if it fails to fully seat. It was not designed for mechanical reasons or for silent loading.

Can the forward assist be used for silent loading of an AR-15?

No, the forward assist cannot be used for silent loading. Demonstrations show that engaging the forward assist requires significant force and is inherently noisy, making it unsuitable for quiet operations.

What should you do if your AR-15's bolt fails to close on a round?

If your AR-15's bolt fails to close on a round, you should not use the forward assist to force it. Instead, clear the chamber, remove the problematic round, and chamber a new one to ensure proper function.

Does the forward assist cause more problems than it solves?

According to firearms instructors, the forward assist can indeed cause more problems than it solves. Forcing a bolt that hasn't properly seated can lead to malfunctions, and its intended use is often misunderstood.

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