AR 15 Ultimate Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Table of Contents
*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**
Are you thinking of buying an AR 15 for home defense? If so, then you have come to the right place. Whether you are a beginner looking to learn more about AR 15s, or an experienced gun enthusiast looking for a refresher, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about AR 15s and the versatility of the AR platform.
The AR-15 is known for its reliability and good performance, making it one of the most sought-after rifles in the market. Its simple and proven design ensures that even entry-level rifles and parts can deliver thousands of rounds with great accuracy and minimal failures.
Today, the AR-15 is the most popular rifle sold in the United States. The NRA estimates that well over 8,000,000 ARs (nicknamed “black rifles”) were circulating in ownership in 2020. That number is estimated to be well over 20 million today.
From the parts and accessories to the ammunition and maintenance, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about owning and using an AR 15.
Introduction to AR 15’S
An AR 15 is a semi-automatic rifle based on the AR-15 design. It is one of the most popular rifles among gun enthusiasts and is used for a variety of purposes, including sport shooting, hunting, and self-defense.
While the AR 15 looks similar to an M4, it is not actually the same rifle. The AR 15 is a civilian version of the M4, and it has some slight differences such as a different barrel length and a different stock.
The AR 15 is a versatile rifle that can be customized to fit a variety of needs. The modular design allows for different parts and accessories to be added to the rifle, making it customizable for different shooting situations.
The AR 15 is also a popular rifle for competition shooting, and it can be used for many different types of target shooting.
Benefits of Owning an AR 15
There are several benefits to owning an AR 15. First, the AR 15 is a lightweight and accurate rifle, which makes it ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios. It is also easy to use and maintain, which makes it a great choice for beginners.
The modular design allows you to customize your rifle to fit your needs, and the wide variety of parts and accessories available make it easy to upgrade or adjust your rifle as needed.
Another benefit of owning an AR 15 is that it is affordable. AR 15s are generally cheaper than other types of rifles, making them a great choice for budget-minded gun owners.
They are also reliable and durable, so you can count on them to perform in even the toughest conditions.
Finally, the AR 15 is a popular rifle, so it is easy to find parts and accessories for it. Whether you are looking for a new stock, barrel, or trigger, you will be able to find what you need for your AR 15.
AR 15 Parts and Accessories
As mentioned before, the AR 15 is a modular rifle, so it can be customized with a variety of parts and accessories. There are a few basic parts that all AR 15s have, such as the barrel, receiver, and stock.
The barrel is the part of the rifle that the bullet travels through, and it can be changed to fit different shooting scenarios. The receiver is the part that holds the other parts of the rifle together, and it can be customized with different grips, stocks, and sights.
The stock is the part that rests against your shoulder when shooting, and there are a variety of stocks available to choose from.
Beyond the basic parts, there are a variety of other parts and accessories available for the AR 15. These include triggers, handguards, muzzle brakes, and magazines.
Triggers can be customized to fit your needs, and they can make a huge difference in the accuracy of your shots. Handguards provide a barrier between your hand and the barrel, and they can also be customized to fit your needs.
Muzzle brakes help to reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to stay on target. Magazines come in a variety of sizes and can be used to store ammunition for quick reloading.
AR 15 Ammunition
The type of ammunition you use in your AR 15 is important, as it can affect the performance of the rifle. The most common type of ammunition for the AR 15 is the .223 Remington cartridge, and also 5.56 NATO. They are both pretty similar but have some differences.
This type of ammunition is popular because it is widely available and relatively inexpensive. It is also accurate and has relatively low recoil, making it a great choice for target shooting and hunting.
Another popular type of ammunition for the AR 15 is the 7.62x39mm cartridge. This type of ammunition is commonly used in AK-47s, and it is popular for its power and accuracy.
It is also more affordable than some other types of ammunition, making it a great choice for budget-minded shooters.
AR 15 Maintenance and Storage
Maintaining your AR 15 is important, as it will ensure that the rifle is functioning properly and safely. The most important part of maintenance is cleaning the rifle after each use.
This should be done with a cleaning kit that includes cloth patches, cleaning rods, and gun oil. Cleaning your rifle will help to prevent dirt, debris, and carbon buildup, which can interfere with the performance of the rifle.
In addition to cleaning the rifle, it is also important to store the rifle properly. This means keeping it in a secure location that is out of reach of children and is inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
It should also be stored unloaded and with the action open. This will help to ensure that the rifle is safe and ready for use when needed.
AR 15 Shooting Tips
Learning how to shoot an AR 15 properly is important for safety and accuracy. The first step is to get comfortable with the rifle. This means learning how to properly hold and aim the rifle, as well as understanding the controls.
Once you are comfortable with the rifle, you can move on to the basics of shooting.
The basics of shooting include proper form, breath control, and trigger control. Proper form means keeping a stable stance with your shoulder and arms at a comfortable angle.
Breath control means taking a deep breath and slowly releasing it as you pull the trigger. Finally, trigger control means slowly squeezing the trigger until the shot is fired.
Safety Tips for Using an AR 15
Safety should always be your number one priority when using an AR 15. The first step is to always treat the rifle as if it is loaded, even when it is not.
This means always keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and never pointing it at anything that you do not intend to shoot. It is also important to always wear eye and ear protection when shooting, as the loud noise and flying debris can be hazardous.
In addition to these safety tips, it is also important to abide by local gun laws. This means knowing what types of firearms are allowed in your area and understanding the regulations for using them.
It is also important to know how to properly store your AR 15 and how to safely transport it.
Gun Laws for AR 15 Owners
It is important to understand the gun laws in your area before purchasing an AR 15. Each state has its own state laws, so it is important to research the laws in your state and seek out legal advice, if necessary, before buying an AR 15.
Some states may require a permit or background check before you can purchase an AR 15, while other states may have more stringent restrictions. It is also important to understand the laws regarding transporting and using firearms, as well as the laws regarding concealed carry.
So, make sure to check your respective state laws and get legal counsel , or check with your local atf representative if you have a lot of questions, you need answered. You definitely want to make sure you get your information from a reliable source.
F.A.Q.
What is an AR-15 rifle?
An AR-15 rifle is a popular semi-automatic firearm known for its versatility, modularity, and widespread use among civilian shooters. It was originally designed by Eugene Stoner and has evolved into a platform that accommodates various accessories, calibers, and configurations.
Is the AR-15 the same as an assault rifle?
No, the AR-15 is not an assault rifle. The term “AR” stands for “ArmaLite Rifle,” referring to the company that developed the original design. Unlike assault rifles, AR-15s are typically semi-automatic, meaning they fire one round per trigger pull.
What calibers can an AR-15 rifle be chambered in?
AR-15 rifles can be chambered in various calibers, with 5.56x45mm NATO and .223 Remington being the most common. Other calibers, such as 6.5 Grendel, 6.8 SPC, and even larger cartridges like .300 Blackout, are also available.
This is all determinate on your personal preference.
Are AR-15 rifles customizable?
Yes, one of the key features of AR-15 rifles is their modularity. Users can customize nearly every aspect, including stocks, grips, handguards, barrels, optics, rear sight, red dots, iron sights, and more, to suit their preferences and intended use.
What is the effective range of an AR-15 rifle?
The effective range of an AR-15 rifle depends on factors like the caliber, barrel length, and the shooter’s skill. Generally, AR-15 rifles chambered in 5.56mm have an effective range of around 300-600 yards.
How accurate is an AR-15 rifle?
AR-15 rifles are known for their accuracy, especially when properly configured and used with quality ammunition. The accuracy can vary based on factors like the barrel, optics, ammunition, and the shooter’s skill.
What is the difference between a carbine and a rifle-length AR-15?
The main difference lies in the barrel length and overall size. Carbine-length AR-15s have shorter barrels, making them more maneuverable in tight spaces, while rifle-length AR-15s have longer barrels, potentially offering improved accuracy at longer ranges.
What are different terms you might hear when talking about AR 15’s
Upper receiver, lower receiver, gas block, bolt carrier, gas tube, gas system, charging handle, buffer tube, carrier group, bolt carrier group, forward assist, roll pin, upper receiver assembly, lower receiver assembly, gas port, flash hider, dust cover, carry handle, lower parts kit, gas key, firing pin, carbine buffer, trigger assembly, picatinny rail, stripped upper, stripped lower receiver, twist rate, full rotation, ar pistol, barrel life, and upper assembly.
Familiarize yourself with these terms so you will know what is being talked about when you search for your first rifle.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is a lot to know about AR 15s. From the parts and accessories to the ammunition and maintenance, this full guide has provided you with all the information you need to know about owning and using an AR 15.
Now that you are more familiar with AR 15s, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right gun for you.
The ultimate guide to AR 15s has provided you with all the information you need to know about owning and using an AR 15.
Whether you are a beginner looking to learn more about AR 15s, or an experienced gun enthusiast looking for a refresher, this guide has given you all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not an AR 15 is the right gun for you.
So, go out, get informed, and enjoy your AR 15.
Check out the best AR-15’s out there today:
About The Author
My name is Robert and those that know me know that I like to research and to always be prepared the best I can for whatever life brings my way. This website was born out of putting those two things together. I am married with 3 children, a dog, 2 hamsters, 3 fish, and a gecko.
There is plenty of adventures and fun situations that happen at my house. We live in a rural down home town and like to enjoy lots of time with our immediate and extended family. My primary job is in the medical field which can be an adventure of it’s own at times.
My desire for this website is for it to be a place where you can come and find products and information that will help you be prepared for whatever life throws at you.
Thanks For Reading,
Robert
*All information in this post is my opinion and gathered through my own research. Please do your own research before following any information in this post. This is for information purposes only. Also consult your doctor before taking any supplements*
**This post contains affiliate links. I receive a commission from any purchases that are made. This in no way changes the price for you. I am paid directly from the manufacturer.**
