Building an AR-15 requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of the firearm’s components. This guide will provide a basic overview of assembling an AR-15, but always consult the manual provided with your specific components, as manufacturers may have specific requirements. Remember to always follow safety protocols.
This is a general guide. The actual assembly can be more detailed, and certain steps might require specialized tools. Always ensure that you are complying with local laws and regulations when assembling or modifying firearms.
1. Safety First
– Ensure your work area is clean and free of ammunition.
– Wear safety glasses.
2. Tools You’ll Need
– AR-15 armorer’s wrench
– Roll pin punches and hammer
– Allen wrenches
– Needle-nose pliers
– Small rubber mallet
3. Assemble the Lower Receiver
a. Trigger Assembly:
1. Insert the trigger into the lower, aligning its holes with the receiver holes.
2. Insert the trigger pin, ensuring it goes through both sides of the receiver and the trigger assembly.
b. Hammer Assembly:
1. Place the hammer into position over the trigger.
2. Align the holes and insert the hammer pin.
c. Safety Selector and Pistol Grip:
1. Drop the safety selector into its slot.
2. Position the pistol grip so that it holds the safety detent in place, then screw the grip into place.
d. Install the Bolt Catch:
1. Place the bolt catch spring and plunger into their hole.
2. Position the bolt catch and use a punch and hammer to install the roll pin.
e. Magazine Catch:
1. Insert the magazine catch into its hole from the left side.
2. Screw the magazine button onto the magazine catch from the right side.
f. Stock Assembly:
1. Slide the buffer tube into the back of the lower receiver.
2. Use the armorer’s wrench to tighten it.
3. Insert the buffer spring and buffer.
4. Assemble the Upper Receiver
a. Barrel Installation:
1. Slide the barrel into the front of the upper receiver.
2. Use the armorer’s wrench to tighten the barrel nut.
b. Gas Block and Gas Tube:
1. Slide the gas block onto the barrel.
2. Insert the gas tube into both the gas block and the upper receiver.
c. Handguard Installation:
1. Slide the handguard over the barrel and onto the upper receiver.
2. Tighten any necessary bolts or clamps.
d. Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) and Charging Handle:
1. Slide the charging handle into the upper receiver.
2. Insert the BCG, ensuring it slides into the charging handle.
5. Marrying the Upper and Lower Receivers
1. Align the pivot pin holes on both the upper and lower receivers.
2. Push the pivot pin in from the left side.
3. Swing the receivers together.
4. Push in the takedown pin.
6. Final Checks
– Perform a function check: with the gun unloaded, pull back the charging handle, release, and pull the trigger. The hammer should drop.
– Retract the charging handle again, release, and while holding down the trigger, pull back and release the charging handle once more. Release the trigger. A click should be heard.
Remember, safety first! Before attempting to use your newly assembled AR-15, it’s advised to have it inspected by a professional gunsmith to ensure everything has been done correctly. Always follow proper safety guidelines when handling firearms.
