Parts Diagram AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the AR-15 rifle’s components is crucial for both enthusiasts and professionals. This guide will delve into the various parts of an AR-15, providing you with a detailed look at each component and its function.
Receiver
The receiver is the central part of the AR-15 rifle, serving as the frame that holds all the other components together. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in two types: the lower receiver and the upper receiver.
| Lower Receiver | Upper Receiver |
|---|---|
| Contains the magazine well, trigger group, and fire control group. | Holds the barrel, bolt carrier group, and gas system. |
| Used for attaching the stock, grip, and magazine. | Used for attaching the handguard, sights, and barrel. |
Barrel
The barrel is the heart of the AR-15, responsible for directing the bullet down the rifling grooves and propelling it out of the rifle. It is typically made of stainless steel or aluminum and comes in various lengths and calibers.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component that cycles the action of the rifle. It includes the bolt, carrier, and gas key. The bolt carrier group is responsible for extracting the spent cartridge case, chambering a new round, and locking the bolt into the receiver.
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 shooting styles.
Handguard
The handguard is the part of the rifle that covers the barrel and provides a place for the shooter to grip the rifle. It is available in various materials, including aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and comes in various lengths and designs.
Sights
Sights are used to aim the rifle and can be of various types, including iron sights, scopes, and red dot sights. Iron sights are the most basic type of sights and consist of a front sight and a rear sight. Scopes and red dot sights provide magnification and a larger field of view.
Stock
The stock is the part of the rifle that is used to support the shooter’s shoulder and absorb recoil. It is available in various materials, including wood, synthetic, and composite, and comes in various lengths and designs.
Grip
The grip is the part of the rifle that is used to hold the rifle and provide a secure grip. It is available in various materials, including wood, polymer, and rubber, and comes in various designs.
Magazine
The magazine is the part of the rifle that holds the ammunition. It is available in various capacities and designs, including box magazines, drum magazines, and stick magazines.
Trigger Group
The trigger group is responsible for the firing of the rifle. It includes the trigger, hammer, and sear. The trigger group can be adjusted for pull weight and trigger travel, allowing the shooter to customize the feel of the trigger.
Understanding the various parts of the AR-15 rifle is essential for maintaining and customizing your firearm. By familiarizing yourself with each component and its function, you can ensure that your rifle is in top condition and ready for action.
