How to Tell If Your AR Is Over Gassed
When it comes to maintaining your AR rifle, ensuring it’s properly gassed is crucial for optimal performance. Over-gassing, however, can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced accuracy and increased wear on internal components. In this article, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of an over-gassed AR rifle, and provide you with the knowledge to identify and address this problem.
Understanding the Basics of Gas Systems
Before we delve into the signs of an over-gassed AR rifle, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the gas system. Most modern AR rifles use a direct impingement gas system, which means that the gas from the barrel is directed into a gas key on the upper receiver, where it pushes a gas piston that cycles the action of the rifle.
Proper gas flow is essential for the rifle to cycle smoothly and efficiently. If the gas flow is too great, the rifle may become over-gassed, leading to the issues we’ll discuss later.
Signs of an Over-Gassed AR Rifle
Identifying an over-gassed AR rifle can be challenging, as the symptoms can be subtle. Here are some common signs to look out for:
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Recoil | Over-gassing can cause the rifle to cycle too quickly, leading to increased felt recoil. |
| Reduced Accuracy | When the rifle cycles too fast, it may not have enough time to reset properly, resulting in reduced accuracy. |
| Excessive Firing Pin Travel | Over-gassing can cause the firing pin to travel further than necessary, increasing the risk of malfunctions. |
| Excessive Wear on Internal Components | Over-gassing can lead to increased wear on the gas key, gas cylinder, and other internal components. |
These signs can be caused by various factors, so it’s important to consider the overall condition of your rifle when diagnosing an over-gassed issue.
Diagnosing an Over-Gassed AR Rifle
Diagnosing an over-gassed AR rifle involves a few steps:
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Check the gas key and gas cylinder for signs of excessive wear or damage.
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Inspect the gas port for any obstructions or damage.
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Measure the gas pressure using a gauge to determine if it’s within the recommended range.
It’s important to consult your rifle’s manual for the recommended gas pressure and to use the appropriate gauge for your specific model.
Addressing an Over-Gassed AR Rifle
Once you’ve confirmed that your AR rifle is over-gassed, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
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Adjust the gas key: If the gas key is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. This will help ensure proper gas flow.
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Check the gas port: Clean the gas port and remove any obstructions. This will help improve gas flow and reduce the risk of over-gassing.
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Adjust the gas pressure: If the gas pressure is too high, you may need to adjust the gas key or use a different gas cylinder to reduce the pressure.
It’s important to consult with a professional if you’re unsure about making these adjustments yourself.
Preventing Over-Gassing
Preventing over-gassing is the best way to ensure your AR rifle performs optimally. Here are some tips to help you avoid this issue:
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Regularly clean and maintain your rifle: Keeping your rifle clean and well-maintained will help prevent issues with gas flow and internal components.
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Use the correct ammunition: Using ammunition that’s designed for your rifle’s gas system will help ensure proper gas flow and reduce the risk of over-gassing.
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Consult your rifle’s manual: Always refer to your rifle
