AR-15 Schematics: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the AR-15, one of the most popular firearms in the United States, requires a deep dive into its schematics. These schematics provide a detailed look at the internal components and their functions, allowing enthusiasts and professionals alike to appreciate the intricate design of this iconic firearm. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the AR-15 schematics, from the receiver to the barrel, and everything in between.
Receiver
The receiver is the heart of the AR-15, serving as the central housing for the firearm’s components. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is responsible for holding the bolt carrier group, trigger assembly, and magazine release. The receiver is also where the firearm’s serial number is located, making it a critical component for identification and legal purposes.
Component | Description |
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Receiver | The central housing for the firearm’s components, including the bolt carrier group, trigger assembly, and magazine release. |
Receiver Extension | Connects the stock to the receiver and provides a place for the buffer tube to attach. |
Receiver Pin | Secures the receiver extension to the receiver. |
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component of the AR-15, responsible for cycling the firearm’s action. It includes the bolt, carrier, and gas key, all of which work together to cycle the firearm’s action. The bolt carrier group is also where the firing pin and extractor are located, making it a crucial part of the firearm’s operation.
Component | Description |
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Bolt | Engages with the barrel and bolt lugs to lock the firearm’s action. |
Carrier | Supports the bolt and gas key, allowing the bolt carrier group to cycle the firearm’s action. |
Gas Key | Secures the bolt to the carrier and allows the bolt to move with the carrier during cycling. |
Barrel
The barrel is the longest and most critical component of the AR-15, responsible for directing the bullet down the barrel and propelling it out of the firearm. The barrel is typically made of stainless steel or aluminum and is available in various lengths and calibers. The barrel’s rifling pattern is also a critical factor, as it determines the bullet’s spin and accuracy.
Feature | Description |
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Barrel Length | Available in various lengths, such as 16″, 18″, and 20″, affecting the firearm’s weight, balance, and velocity. |
Caliber | Available in various calibers, such as .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, and .308 Winchester, affecting the bullet’s weight and velocity. |
Rifling Pattern | Available in various rifling patterns, such as right-hand twist and left-hand twist, affecting the bullet’s spin and accuracy. |
Trigger Assembly
The trigger assembly is responsible for initiating the firearm’s action. It includes the trigger, hammer, and sear, all of which work together to pull the hammer back and release it, allowing the firing pin to strike the primer and ignite the propellant. The trigger pull weight and the trigger’s overall design are critical factors in the firearm’s accuracy and ease of use.
Component | Description |
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Trigger
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