AR-15 Exploded View: A Detailed Multi-Dimensional Introduction

The AR-15, a firearm that has gained immense popularity worldwide, is renowned for its modularity, reliability, and accuracy. In this article, we will delve into the exploded view of the AR-15, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its various components and their functions.

Barrel and Muzzle

The barrel is the heart of any firearm, and the AR-15 is no exception. It is the tube through which the bullet travels and is responsible for the bullet’s velocity. The barrel is typically made of steel or aluminum and is available in various lengths, such as 16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches. The muzzle is the end of the barrel and is where the bullet exits the firearm. It is often equipped with a flash suppressor or a muzzle brake to reduce muzzle flash and recoil.

Receiver

The receiver is the central component of the AR-15, housing the trigger group, bolt carrier group, and magazine. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in various calibers, such as .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm, and 9mm. The receiver is also where the stock and handguard are attached, providing the firearm with its overall structure.

Bolt Carrier Group

The bolt carrier group is responsible for cycling the firearm, including the feeding, firing, and extracting of rounds. It consists of the bolt, carrier, gas key, and firing pin. The bolt is the part that moves back and forth, extracting the spent casing and feeding a new round into the chamber. The carrier is attached to the bolt and is responsible for guiding the bolt’s movement. The gas key is a locking piece that secures the bolt to the carrier, and the firing pin is used to ignite the primer of the cartridge.

Trigger Group

The trigger group is the mechanism that initiates the firing of the firearm. It consists of the trigger, hammer, sear, and disconnect. The trigger is the part that the shooter pulls to release the hammer, which in turn strikes the firing pin. The hammer is the part that strikes the firing pin, and the sear holds the hammer in place until the trigger is pulled. The disconnect is a safety feature that prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin if the firearm is dropped or if the magazine is removed.

Stock and Handguard

The stock and handguard are the parts of the firearm that provide the shooter with a comfortable and secure grip. The stock is the part that is held against the shoulder, and it can be adjusted for length of pull and cheek weld. The handguard is the part that covers the barrel and provides a place for the shooter to hold the firearm. It is also where the magazine is inserted and removed.

Magazine

The magazine is the container that holds the rounds of ammunition. The AR-15 uses a detachable magazine, which can be quickly and easily removed and replaced. The magazine is typically made of plastic or metal and is available in various capacities, such as 10, 30, 45, and 60 rounds.

Table: AR-15 Exploded View Components

Understanding the exploded view of the AR-15 is crucial for anyone interested in owning,