AR-15 Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide
The AR-15, a firearm that has gained immense popularity among shooters and enthusiasts worldwide, is renowned for its versatility and reliability. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the various components of the AR-15, providing you with an in-depth understanding of its design and functionality.
Understanding the Basics
The AR-15 is a semi-automatic, gas-operated firearm that operates on the direct impingement system. It is chambered in various calibers, with .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm being the most common. The following diagram will help you visualize the different parts of the AR-15:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Receiver | The receiver is the central part of the firearm, housing the bolt carrier group and the trigger assembly. It is typically made of aluminum or steel. |
| Bolt Carrier Group | The bolt carrier group is responsible for cycling the action of the firearm. It includes the bolt, carrier, and gas key. |
| Barrel | The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels. It is available in various lengths and calibers. |
| Handguard | The handguard is the part of the firearm that covers the barrel and provides a grip for the shooter. It is available in various materials and designs. |
| Stock | The stock is the part of the firearm that is held against the shooter’s shoulder. It is available in various lengths and designs to accommodate different body types. |
| Trigger | The trigger is the mechanism that initiates the firing of the firearm. It is available in various designs and weights. |
| Safety | The safety is a mechanism that prevents the firearm from firing. It is typically located on the left side of the receiver. |
| Magazine | The magazine holds the ammunition and feeds it into the chamber. It is available in various capacities and designs. |
Receiver
The receiver is the backbone of the AR-15. It is the part that holds all the other components together. The receiver is typically made of aluminum or steel, with aluminum being the more common material due to its lightweight nature. The receiver is also where the bolt carrier group and the trigger assembly are mounted.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component of the AR-15. It is responsible for cycling the action of the firearm, including the feeding, firing, and extracting of the ammunition. The bolt carrier group consists of the bolt, carrier, and gas key. The bolt is the part that moves back and forth, while the carrier holds the bolt in place and guides it during operation. The gas key is a locking piece that secures the bolt to the carrier.
Barrel
The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels. It is a crucial component of the AR-15, as it determines the firearm’s accuracy and performance. Barrels are available in various lengths and calibers. The most common barrel lengths are 16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches. The caliber of the barrel determines the type of ammunition that can be used with the firearm.
Handguard
The handguard is the part of the firearm that covers the barrel and provides a grip for the shooter. It is available in various materials, including aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber. The handguard also allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as optics, flashlights, and lasers.
Stock
The stock is the part of the firearm that is held against the shooter’s shoulder. It is available in various lengths and designs to accommodate different body types and preferences. The stock also allows for the adjustment of the firearm’s length of pull, which can improve comfort and accuracy.
Trigger
The trigger is the mechanism that initiates the firing of the firearm. It is available in various designs and weights, with some shooters
