Mortar Clearing the AR-15

Published on November 7, 2020
Duration: 6:54

This guide details the 'mortaring' technique for clearing a jammed AR-15 when the bolt is stuck shut and cannot be cleared by normal means. It emphasizes collapsing the stock, gripping the charging handle firmly, and striking the rifle's butt on the ground to dislodge a stuck cartridge or bolt. The instructor, with personal experience using this method, explains the mechanics behind why it works and its applicability primarily to AR-15 platforms due to their non-reciprocating charging handles.

Quick Summary

The 'mortaring' technique is an advanced method to clear a severe AR-15 jam where the bolt is stuck shut. It involves collapsing the stock, firmly gripping the charging handle, and striking the rifle's buttstock on the ground to dislodge the bolt and any stuck cartridge, allowing it to unlock and extract.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Mortaring AR-15 Jams
  2. 00:14Step 1: Collapsing the Buttstock
  3. 00:23Step 2: Gripping the Charging Handle
  4. 00:43Step 3: Striking the Rifle on the Ground
  5. 00:53Why Mortaring Works: Stuck Cartridge Explanation
  6. 01:41Removing Scope and Magazine Safety Check
  7. 02:11AR-15 Specificity vs. Other Firearms
  8. 03:02Personal Experience: Mortaring in the Wild
  9. 03:15Case 1: Reloaded Ammunition Malfunction
  10. 04:20Case 2: Cheap Ammunition Malfunction
  11. 05:02Concern About Damaging the AR-15
  12. 06:06Firearm Ownership Philosophy: Scratches vs. Safe Queen
  13. 06:26Conclusion and Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'mortaring' technique for an AR-15?

The mortaring technique is a method to clear a severe AR-15 jam where the bolt is stuck shut. It involves collapsing the stock, firmly gripping the charging handle, and striking the rifle's buttstock on the ground to dislodge the bolt and any stuck cartridge.

Why does mortaring an AR-15 work?

Mortaring works because a stuck cartridge in the chamber or rifling prevents the bolt from twisting and unlocking. By striking the rifle on the ground, the inertia helps to overcome the resistance, allowing the bolt carrier group to move back, unlock the bolt, and extract the faulty round.

When should I use the mortaring technique on my AR-15?

You should only use the mortaring technique when the bolt is jammed shut and you cannot clear the malfunction by normal means, such as pulling the charging handle. It's a last resort for severe jams, often caused by ammunition issues or debris.

Can mortaring damage my AR-15?

Mortaring can cause cosmetic damage, like scratches to the buttstock, especially if performed on rough surfaces. However, for most robustly built AR-15s, the internal components are designed to withstand this force. The risk of cosmetic damage is often accepted to restore firearm functionality.

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