Ar 15 to Full Auto: A Comprehensive Guide
Transforming your AR-15 into a full-auto firearm is a process that requires careful consideration, technical knowledge, and adherence to legal regulations. This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding the legal implications to the technical aspects of the conversion.
Understanding the Legal Implications
Before diving into the conversion process, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications. Full-auto firearms are heavily regulated in many countries, including the United States. In the U.S., the sale, transfer, and possession of full-auto firearms are subject to strict regulations under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
| Country | Regulation Status |
|---|---|
| United States | Strict regulation under the National Firearms Act (NFA) |
| Canada | Prohibited without a special permit |
| United Kingdom | Prohibited |
| Germany | Prohibited |
Ensure that you are in compliance with local laws and regulations before proceeding with the conversion. In the U.S., you will need to obtain an ATF Form 4, pay a $200 tax stamp, and undergo a background check.
Identifying the Right Parts
Converting an AR-15 to full-auto requires specific parts and modifications. Here’s a list of essential components you’ll need:
- Full-Auto Fire Control Group: This is the heart of the conversion, including the sear, hammer, and trigger. It must be specifically designed for full-auto operation.
- Buffer Tube: A full-auto buffer tube is required to accommodate the additional weight and force of full-auto fire.
- Buffer Spring: A heavier buffer spring is necessary to control the full-auto fire.
- Full-Auto Bolt Carrier Group: This bolt carrier group is designed for full-auto operation and features a different cam pin and firing pin.
- Full-Auto Lower Receiver: Some full-auto conversions require a special lower receiver that is marked as a full-auto firearm.
Ensure that all parts are compatible with your specific AR-15 model and that they meet the necessary legal requirements.
Performing the Conversion
Converting an AR-15 to full-auto is a complex process that requires technical expertise. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Remove the existing fire control group, buffer tube, and bolt carrier group from your AR-15.
- Install the new full-auto fire control group, ensuring that all parts are properly aligned and secured.
- Install the new buffer tube and buffer spring, making sure that the buffer spring is properly seated in the buffer tube.
- Install the new full-auto bolt carrier group, ensuring that the cam pin and firing pin are correctly positioned.
- Reassemble the lower receiver, ensuring that all parts are properly aligned and secured.
- Perform a thorough inspection of the firearm to ensure that all parts are functioning correctly.
It’s important to note that this is a simplified guide, and the actual process may vary depending on your specific AR-15 model and the parts you’re using. If you’re not confident in your ability to perform the conversion yourself, it’s best to seek the assistance of a professional gunsmith.
Testing and Safety
Once the conversion is complete, it’s essential to test the firearm thoroughly to ensure that it’s functioning correctly and safely. Here are some key points to consider:
- Function Testing: Fire several rounds to ensure that the firearm cycles properly and that there are no malfunctions.
- Safe Operation: Familiarize yourself with the safe operation of a full-auto firearm, including the proper use of the selector switch and the safety features.
- Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on your full-auto AR-15 to ensure that it remains in good working
