Is an AR-14 an Assault Rifle?
When it comes to firearms, the term “assault rifle” is often thrown around, but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the AR-14 and determine whether it fits the criteria of an assault rifle. Let’s explore its history, design, and features to get a clearer picture.
History of the AR-14
The AR-14 was designed by Eugene Stoner in the early 1950s. It was initially developed for the United States military as a lightweight, selective-fire rifle. The AR-14 was intended to replace the M1 Garand as the standard service rifle for the U.S. Army. However, the project was canceled in 1957 due to budget cuts and the introduction of the M14, which was based on the AR-14 design.
Design and Features
The AR-14 is a gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle with a rotating bolt. It is known for its lightweight and compact design, which makes it highly maneuverable. Here are some key features of the AR-14:
- Caliber: The AR-14 is typically chambered in .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO, which are both popular rifle calibers.
- Barrel Length: The barrel length can vary, but it is usually around 20 inches.
- Weight: The AR-14 weighs approximately 6.5 pounds, making it one of the lighter rifles in its class.
- Magazine Capacity: The magazine capacity can range from 10 to 30 rounds, depending on the model.
- Rate of Fire: The AR-14 can be fired semi-automatically or fully automatically, with a rate of fire of approximately 700 rounds per minute in full-auto mode.
Now, let’s take a look at the table below, which compares the AR-14 to some other popular assault rifles:
| Assault Rifle | Caliber | Barrel Length | Weight | Rate of Fire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR-14 | .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO | 20 inches | 6.5 pounds | 700 rpm (full-auto) |
| AK-47 | 7.62x39mm | 16.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | 600 rpm (full-auto) |
| M16 | 5.56x45mm NATO | 20 inches | 7.5 pounds | 600 rpm (full-auto) |
| AR-15 | .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO | 16-20 inches | 6.9-7.5 pounds | 700 rpm (full-auto) |
As you can see from the table, the AR-14 shares many similarities with other assault rifles, such as the AK-47, M16, and AR-15. However, there are some key differences that may affect its classification.
Classification of Assault Rifles
According to the United Nations, an assault rifle is defined as a selective-fire rifle with a caliber of less than 7.62 mm. The AR-14, with its .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO chambering, falls within this category. However, the classification of an assault rifle can vary depending on the country and its specific regulations.
In the United States, the term “assault rifle” is often used to describe semi-automatic rifles with certain features, such as a folding stock, pistol grip, and flash suppressor. While the AR-14 does not have all of these features, it does share
