AR-15 Parts Names: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the various parts of an AR-15 rifle is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. Whether you’re looking to build your own custom rifle or simply want to know more about the components that make up this popular firearm, this guide will provide you with a detailed overview of the key parts of an AR-15.
Receiver
The receiver is the central component of the AR-15 rifle, serving as the frame that holds all the other parts together. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in several different types, including the lower receiver and the upper receiver.
| Receiver Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Lower Receiver | The lower receiver is the part that houses the magazine, trigger, and fire control group. It is the part that is typically used to apply for a firearm purchase permit. |
| Upper Receiver | The upper receiver is the part that houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and gas system. It is the part that is often customized with different calibers and barrel lengths. |
Barrel
The barrel is the tube that guides the bullet down the barrel and propels it out of the rifle. It is one of the most critical components of the AR-15, as it directly affects the rifle’s accuracy and performance.
Barrels are available in various lengths, ranging from 10.5 inches to 24 inches, and come in different calibers, such as .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, and .308 Winchester. The barrel’s rifling pattern, twist rate, and material also play a significant role in its performance.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component of the AR-15 rifle, responsible for cycling the action and feeding rounds from the magazine to the chamber. It consists of several parts, including the bolt, carrier, gas key, and firing pin.
The bolt carrier group is available in various materials, such as aluminum, steel, and titanium, and can be customized with different coatings and finishes to improve its performance and durability.
Gas System
The gas system is responsible for controlling the amount of gas that is bled from the barrel to cycle the action. It consists of several components, including the gas block, gas tube, and gas key.
The gas system can be customized with different gas blocks and gas tubes to adjust the gas flow and improve the rifle’s performance. Some shooters prefer a carbine-length gas system for better maneuverability, while others opt for a mid-length or full-length gas system for improved accuracy.
Handguard
The handguard is the tube that runs along the barrel and provides a place for the shooter to grip the rifle. It is available in various materials, such as aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and can be customized with different attachments and accessories.
Handguards come in various lengths and shapes, including carbine, mid-length, and full-length, and can be equipped with various accessories, such as rails, flash hiders, and suppressors.
Stock
The stock is the part of the rifle that provides a place for the shooter to rest their shoulder. It is available in various materials, such as wood, polymer, and composite, and can be customized with different lengths and designs.
Stocks can be adjusted for length of pull and cheek weld to fit the shooter’s preferences and body type. Some shooters prefer a collapsible stock for better maneuverability, while others opt for a fixed stock for simplicity and reliability.
Magazine
The magazine is the part of the rifle that holds the rounds of ammunition. It is available in various capacities, ranging from 10 to 30 rounds, and can be customized with different materials and finishes.
Magazines can be made from various materials, such as aluminum, steel, and polymer, and can be equipped with different features, such as windowed bodies, anti-tilt followers, and extended floorplates.
Trigger
The trigger is the part of the rifle that initiates the firing sequence. It is available in various pull weights and designs, and can be customized with different features, such as a trigger guard, safety, and overtravel stop.
The trigger is a critical component
