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 and calibers, with common lengths including 16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component of the AR-15’s gas system. It is responsible for cycling the action of the rifle, including feeding the next round into the chamber, extracting the spent casing, and chambering the next round. The bolt carrier group is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in various weights and designs.
Gas System
The gas system is responsible for controlling the amount of gas that is bled from the barrel to cycle the action of the rifle. The gas system consists of several components, including the gas block, gas tube, and gas key. The gas system can be adjusted to accommodate different barrel lengths and shooting styles.
Handguard
The handguard is the tube that runs along the length of the rifle, providing a place for the shooter to grip the rifle and protecting the barrel from damage. Handguards are available in various materials, including aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and come in a wide range of lengths and designs.
Stock
The stock is the part of the rifle that is used to support the shooter’s shoulder and absorb recoil. Stocks are available in various materials, including wood, synthetic, and composite, and come in a wide range of lengths and designs to accommodate different shooters and shooting styles.
Trigger
The trigger is the mechanism that initiates the firing of the rifle. It is one of the most critical components of the rifle, as it directly affects the shooter’s accuracy. Triggers are available in various designs and weights, with some shooters preferring a lighter trigger for faster follow-up shots.
Magazine
The magazine is the component that holds the rounds of ammunition. It is available in various capacities and designs, with common capacities including 10, 30, and 45 rounds. The magazine is an essential component of the rifle, as it determines how many rounds the shooter can fire before reloading.
Fire Control Group
The fire control group is the collection of components that control the firing of the rifle, including the hammer, trigger, and sear. It is an essential component of the rifle, as it ensures that the rifle fires reliably and safely.
Understanding the various parts of an AR-15 rifle is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. By familiarizing yourself with the key components and their functions, you can make informed decisions when building or customizing your rifle. Whether you’re looking to improve your rifle’s performance, increase its accuracy, or simply want to know more about the components that make up this popular firearm, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the AR-15’s parts.
