How to Put an AR-15 on Safety: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding how to safely operate an AR-15 is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. This guide will walk you through the process of putting your AR-15 on safety step by step, ensuring that you can handle your firearm responsibly and with confidence.
Understanding the Safety Mechanism
The safety mechanism on an AR-15 is designed to prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally. It is typically located on the left side of the receiver, just above the magazine well. Here’s how it works:
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| Up | Firearm is ready to fire. The hammer is cocked and the trigger is engaged. |
| Down | Firearm is on safe. The hammer is not cocked and the trigger is disengaged. |
Before you proceed, make sure you understand the difference between the safety and the selector switch. The selector switch is used to select between semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes, while the safety is used to prevent accidental discharge.
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting an AR-15 on Safety
Now that you understand the safety mechanism, let’s go through the steps of putting your AR-15 on safety:
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Secure the firearm. Always keep your finger off the trigger and the firearm pointed in a safe direction when handling a loaded firearm.
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Locate the safety lever. It is typically located on the left side of the receiver, just above the magazine well.
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Push the safety lever down. This will engage the safety mechanism and prevent the firearm from firing.
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Check the safety indicator. Most AR-15s have a red dot or a “SAFE” indicator on the top of the receiver to indicate that the firearm is on safe.
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Verify the selector switch. Make sure the selector switch is in the appropriate position for your intended use (semi-automatic for most recreational shooting).
Additional Safety Precautions
While putting your AR-15 on safety is an important step, there are other safety precautions you should always follow:
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Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction. Never point the firearm at anyone or anything you do not intend to shoot.
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Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. This is a fundamental rule of safe firearm handling.
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Be aware of your surroundings. Always know what is in front of you, behind you, and to the sides when handling a firearm.
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Use proper ammunition. Always use the correct type and caliber of ammunition for your firearm.
Conclusion
Putting an AR-15 on safety is a simple yet crucial step in responsible firearm handling. By following this guide and practicing safe firearm handling habits, you can ensure that you can operate your AR-15 safely and confidently.
