How to Remove Forward Assist AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide
Removing the forward assist on an AR-15 can be a task that many firearm enthusiasts undertake to customize their rifle. The forward assist is a feature that helps in manually cycling the action of the firearm, particularly useful in situations where the magazine is not fully seated. However, many shooters prefer to remove it for aesthetic reasons or to streamline the rifle’s design. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of removing the forward assist from your AR-15, step by step.
Understanding the Forward Assist
The forward assist is a small lever located on the right side of the upper receiver of an AR-15. It is designed to engage with the bolt carrier group (BCG) to push it forward, thus cycling the action and chambering a round. This feature is particularly useful in situations where the magazine is not fully seated, such as when using a low-quality magazine or in dusty environments.
However, many shooters find the forward assist to be unnecessary or even cumbersome. Removing it can make the rifle look sleeker and can simplify the process of cycling the action.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
| Tool/Item | Description |
|---|---|
| AR-15 Upper Receiver | The upper part of the rifle that houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and other components. |
| Hex Wrench | Used to remove the forward assist screw. |
| AR-15 Cleaning Rod | Used to push the bolt carrier group forward if necessary. |
| Gun Cleaning Kit | Optional, for cleaning the rifle after removing the forward assist. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Forward Assist
Follow these steps to remove the forward assist from your AR-15:
- Ensure the rifle is unloaded and the magazine is removed.
- Locate the forward assist lever on the right side of the upper receiver.
- Use the hex wrench to loosen the screw that holds the forward assist in place. The screw is typically located at the bottom of the lever.
- Remove the screw and set it aside.
- With the screw removed, the forward assist lever should now be loose. Gently pull it out of the upper receiver.
- Inspect the area where the forward assist was attached. Clean any debris or gunk that may have accumulated.
- Reassemble the rifle by reversing the steps above. Ensure that the forward assist lever is securely in place and that the screw is tight.
Precautions and Tips
Here are some important precautions and tips to keep in mind when removing the forward assist:
- Always ensure the rifle is unloaded and the magazine is removed before attempting to remove the forward assist.
- Be gentle when handling the forward assist lever to avoid damaging it.
- Check the fit of the forward assist lever after reassembly to ensure it is securely in place.
- Consider using a gun cleaning kit to clean the rifle after removing the forward assist.
Conclusion
Removing the forward assist from your AR-15 can be a straightforward process with the right tools and a bit of patience. By following this guide, you can customize your rifle to suit your preferences and streamline its design. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time to ensure a successful removal.
