How to Disassemble a Colt AR-15
The Colt AR-15 is the civilian and law-enforcement version of the M16A1 rifle used by the U.S. military. Unlike the M16, the AR-15 does not have automatic-fire capability. The AR-15 is chambered for the .223 Remington cartridge. The M16's mil-spec 5.56 NATO round appears identical to the .223 Remington, but it is not and 5.56 NATO ammunition should not be used in an AR-15. Like every firearm, it is important to know how to break down your AR-15 for cleaning, repair and replacement of any parts that may have become damaged over time.
Instructions
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1
Press the magazine release button on the right side of the rifle and eject the magazine. Then pull back the charging handle to eject any cartridge that may have been loaded in the firing chamber. Clearing your weapon of live ammunition should always be the first step when working on a firearm.
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2
Pull out the two takedown pins. The first is located immediately above and behind the pistol grip and the second is just below and behind where the barrel attaches to the frame. Then pull the frame down and back to separate the upper receiver and barrel assembly from the frame. Set the frame aside.
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3
Pull the charging handle and bolt carrier out through the back of the upper receiver. Separate the charging handle and the bolt carrier once they have been removed from the receiver.
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4
Pull the firing pin retaining pin out from the right side of the bolt carrier and set it aside. Then pull the firing pin out through the front of the bolt carrier.
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5
Push the back of the bolt inwards into the bolt carrier to reveal the bolt carrying pin. Pull this pin out and set it aside, then pull the bolt out the back of the carrier.
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References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
