Do I Need to Check Headspace on My AR?
When it comes to maintaining your AR rifle, one question that often arises is whether or not you need to check the headspace. This is a crucial aspect of rifle maintenance that can affect the accuracy and reliability of your firearm. In this detailed guide, we will explore the importance of headspace, how to check it, and the potential consequences of not doing so.
What is Headspace?
Headspace refers to the distance between the face of the bolt head and the breech face of the receiver when the bolt is fully closed. It is an essential dimension that ensures the chamber is the correct size for the cartridge being fired. Proper headspace is crucial for the safe and accurate operation of your AR rifle.
Why is Checking Headspace Important?
Checking the headspace on your AR rifle is important for several reasons:
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Ensures the firearm is safe to use: If the headspace is too tight, it can cause the cartridge to be pushed back into the chamber, potentially leading to a dangerous situation. Conversely, if the headspace is too loose, it can allow the cartridge to move forward, increasing the risk of a misfire or a bullet not seating properly.
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Prevents accuracy issues: An incorrect headspace can lead to inconsistent chamber pressure, which can affect the accuracy of your rifle. Ensuring proper headspace can help maintain the accuracy of your firearm over time.
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Extends the life of your firearm: Regularly checking and maintaining the headspace can help prevent wear and tear on the chamber and bolt, extending the overall lifespan of your AR rifle.
How to Check Headspace on Your AR Rifle
Checking the headspace on your AR rifle is a relatively simple process, but it requires the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
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Remove the bolt and magazine from your rifle.
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Insert a headspace gauge into the chamber. There are two types of headspace gauges: the full-length gauge and the chamber gauge. The full-length gauge is used to measure the overall length of the cartridge, while the chamber gauge is used to measure the headspace specifically.
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Secure the gauge in place using the bolt, ensuring it is fully seated in the chamber.
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Use a caliper to measure the gauge. The measurement should be within the specified range for your rifle’s chamber. For example, if your rifle has a 1.015″ to 1.025″ headspace specification, the gauge should measure within that range.
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Repeat the process with a new gauge to ensure accuracy.
Tools Needed for Checking Headspace
Here’s a list of tools you’ll need to check the headspace on your AR rifle:
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AR rifle
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Bolt and magazine
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Full-length headspace gauge
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Chamber headspace gauge
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Caliper
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Chamber brush
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Gun cleaning solvent
Consequences of Not Checking Headspace
Not checking the headspace on your AR rifle can lead to several negative consequences:
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Reduced accuracy: An incorrect headspace can cause inconsistent chamber pressure, leading to reduced accuracy.
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Increased risk of malfunctions: A loose headspace can allow the cartridge to move forward, increasing the risk of a misfire or a bullet not seating properly.
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Firearm damage: A tight headspace can cause the cartridge to be pushed back into the chamber, potentially leading to damage to the chamber or bolt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, checking the headspace on your AR rifle is an important part of maintaining its accuracy and safety. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your firearm is in good working condition and ready for use. Remember, regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your rifle and ensuring a positive shooting experience.
