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AR-15 Parts Names: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the various parts of an AR-15 rifle is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. Whether you’re looking to build your own custom rifle or simply want to know more about the components that make up this popular firearm, this guide will provide you with a detailed overview of the key parts of an AR-15.
Receiver
The receiver is the central component of the AR-15 rifle, serving as the frame that holds all the other parts together. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in several different types, including the lower receiver and the upper receiver.
| Receiver Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Lower Receiver | The lower receiver is the part that houses the magazine, trigger, and fire control group. It is the part that is typically used to apply for a firearm purchase permit. |
| Upper Receiver | The upper receiver is the part that houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and gas system. It is the part that is often customized with different calibers and barrel lengths. |
Barrel
The barrel is the tube that guides the bullet down the barrel and propels it out of the rifle. It is one of the most critical components of the AR-15, as it directly affects the rifle’s accuracy and performance. Barrels are available in various lengths and calibers, with common lengths ranging from 10.5 inches to 24 inches.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component that includes the bolt, firing pin, and gas key. It is responsible for cycling the action of the rifle, including feeding the next round, extracting the spent casing, and chambering the next round. Bolt carrier groups are available in various materials, including aluminum, steel, and titanium.
Gas System
The gas system is responsible for controlling the amount of gas that is bled from the barrel to cycle the action of the rifle. It consists of the gas block, gas tube, and gas key. The gas system can be adjusted to accommodate different barrel lengths and calibers, and it is an important factor in ensuring the rifle’s reliability and performance.
Handguard
The handguard is the tube that runs along the length of the rifle, providing a place to grip the rifle and protecting the barrel from damage. Handguards are available in various materials, including aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and come in a wide range of designs and lengths.
Stock
The stock is the part of the rifle that is used to support the shooter’s shoulder and absorb recoil. Stocks are available in various materials, including wood, synthetic, and composite, and come in a variety of lengths and designs to accommodate different shooters and shooting styles.
Trigger
The trigger is the mechanism that initiates the firing of the rifle. It is one of the most critical components for accuracy, as a good trigger can significantly improve the shooter’s performance. Triggers are available in various types, including single-action, double-action, and safety triggers, and come in a wide range of pull weights and designs.
Magazine
The magazine is the component that holds the ammunition and feeds it into the rifle. It is an important factor in the rifle’s reliability and performance, as a good magazine can significantly improve the shooter’s ability to keep the rifle fed with ammunition. Magazines are available in various capacities and designs, including box magazines, drum magazines, and polymer magazines.
Fire Control Group
The fire control group includes the hammer, trigger, and sear, and is responsible for controlling the firing of the rifle. It is an important component for accuracy and reliability, as a well-designed fire control group can significantly improve the shooter’s performance.
Understanding the various parts of an AR-15 rifle is essential for anyone looking to own or customize this popular firearm. By familiarizing yourself with the key components and their functions, you can make informed decisions when it comes to building, maintaining, and customizing your AR-15 rifle.
