How to Strip, Clean and Reassemble an AR-15 | Modern Defensive Training Systems

Chris Fry of MDTS Training provides a comprehensive guide on how to field strip, clean, and reassemble an AR-15. The tutorial covers detailed steps for cleaning the upper and lower receivers, bolt carrier group, and individual components like the bolt and extractor. Fry emphasizes proper lubrication techniques, focusing on 'witness marks' to avoid over-lubrication which can attract debris. The guide concludes with reassembly and a crucial function check to ensure the firearm is safe and operational.

Quick Summary

Chris Fry of MDTS Training explains how to clean and reassemble an AR-15 by first separating the upper and lower receivers. He emphasizes using degreaser on all parts, cleaning the chamber and bore with specialized tools, and lubricating only 'witness marks' to prevent debris attraction. Proper reassembly, especially aligning the bolt's extractor tooth, and a final function check are crucial for safe operation.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction and Overview
  2. 00:36Upper and Lower Receiver Separation
  3. 01:44Removing Bolt Carrier Group and Charging Handle
  4. 02:09Cleaning the Upper Receiver and Chamber
  5. 03:26Cleaning the Bore and Throat
  6. 06:38Cleaning the Lower Receiver
  7. 07:12Removing Buffer Spring and Buffer
  8. 09:42Cleaning the Charging Handle
  9. 11:53Disassembling the Bolt Carrier Group
  10. 13:18Cleaning the Bolt Carrier
  11. 15:32Cleaning the Bolt and Gas Rings
  12. 17:27Cleaning the Bolt Face and Lugs
  13. 18:00Removing and Cleaning the Extractor
  14. 20:40Reassembling the Bolt Carrier Group
  15. 24:07Reassembling Upper and Lower Receivers
  16. 25:42Function Check and Safety Test
  17. 27:20Conclusion and Maintenance Importance

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you properly clean an AR-15 chamber?

To clean an AR-15 chamber, spray degreaser directly into it and the ejection port. Use a specialized chamber cleaning tool with bristles or a brass brush on a cleaning rod to scrub the chamber and throat, loosening debris. Follow up with a bore snake or patches to remove any remaining residue.

What is the correct way to lubricate an AR-15?

Proper AR-15 lubrication involves applying a small amount of lubricant to 'witness marks' – areas where metal rubs against metal, indicated by worn finish. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris, potentially causing malfunctions. The bolt face should remain dry.

How do you reassemble the bolt into the bolt carrier of an AR-15?

When reassembling the AR-15 bolt into the bolt carrier, ensure the extractor tooth is positioned 'high and left' (from the shooter's perspective). This alignment is crucial for the cam pin channel to properly engage. Once aligned, insert the cam pin and rotate it perpendicular to the gas key.

What are the key components to clean on an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

The AR-15 bolt carrier group requires cleaning of the firing pin retention pin, firing pin, cam pin, bolt, and extractor. Pay close attention to the firing pin channel within the bolt carrier, the tail of the bolt, gas rings, bolt face, lugs, and the extractor tooth and its channel.

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