How to Use an AR-15 [2025 Update]

Published on March 4, 2025
Duration: 16:18

This guide covers the fundamental safe handling and operation of an AR-15 rifle. It details the four universal gun safety rules, proper clearing procedures, loading and chambering a round, and basic shooting stances and grip. The video also touches on sight usage, including red dots and iron sights, and emphasizes the importance of disengaging safety only when ready to fire and re-engaging it immediately after.

Quick Summary

The four basic rules of gun safety are: treat all guns as if they are loaded, always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and know your target and what is behind/around it.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Safety Rules
  2. 01:00The Four Basic Rules of Gun Safety
  3. 02:04Clearing the Rifle
  4. 03:36Operating the Bolt Catch
  5. 04:39Safety Selector and Storage
  6. 05:27Loading the Magazine
  7. 06:07Chambering a Round
  8. 08:23Forward Assist and Stance
  9. 09:36Grip and Shouldering
  10. 11:09Sights and Optics
  11. 13:49Firing and Stopping

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four basic rules of gun safety?

The four fundamental rules are: 1. Treat all guns as if they are loaded. 2. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. 4. Know your target and what is behind/around it.

How do you safely clear an AR-15 rifle?

To clear an AR-15, first remove the magazine. Then, pull the charging handle to the rear to open the bolt and visually inspect the chamber and ejection port to ensure no round is present.

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

The forward assist is a button on the right side of the receiver used to manually push the bolt carrier group forward, ensuring the bolt is fully seated and locked if it fails to close completely on its own.

What is the recommended stance for shooting an AR-15?

An athletic stance is recommended, with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and leaning forward at the waist. This provides a stable base and allows for better control of the rifle during recoil.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Lucky Gunner Ammo

View all →