What is a Floating Firing Pin?
This video explains the phenomenon of light primer strikes in AR-style firearms, attributing it to the design of the floating firing pin. The instructor demonstrates how a floating firing pin can leave a dimple on a primer even without a full ignition, which is normal for many AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. He also notes that the sound of the firing pin moving freely within the bolt carrier group can be an indicator of a clean firearm.













