How to Tell If Your AR-15 Is Over Gassed
When it comes to maintaining your AR-15, one of the most common issues that shooters encounter is over-gassing. Over-gassing can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced accuracy, malfunctions, and even damage to your firearm. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the signs of over-gassing, how to diagnose it, and what you can do to fix it.
Understanding Over-Gassing
Over-gassing occurs when the gas system in your AR-15 is too aggressive, causing too much gas to enter the action. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as a worn-out gas key, incorrect gas setting, or a dirty gas system.
Here’s a quick overview of the gas system in an AR-15:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Gas Key | Secures the gas tube to the upper receiver |
| Gas Tube | Directs gas from the barrel into the action |
| Gas Block | Attaches to the barrel and controls the amount of gas entering the action |
| Gas Regulator | Adjusts the amount of gas entering the action |
Now that we have a basic understanding of the gas system, let’s dive into the signs of over-gassing.
Signs of Over-Gassing
There are several signs that may indicate your AR-15 is over-gassed:
- Malfunctions: Over-gassing can cause malfunctions, such as stovepipes, where the cartridge case is stuck in the chamber, or double feeds, where two rounds are fed into the chamber.
- Reduced Accuracy: If your AR-15 is over-gassed, the action may not cycle smoothly, leading to reduced accuracy.
- Excessive Gas Leaks: You may notice gas escaping from the gas tube or regulator, which is a clear sign of over-gassing.
- Excessive Noise: Over-gassing can cause your firearm to be louder than normal, as more gas is escaping from the barrel.
It’s important to note that these signs may not always indicate over-gassing, as other issues can cause similar problems. However, if you experience one or more of these signs, it’s worth investigating your gas system.
Diagnosing Over-Gassing
Diagnosing over-gassing involves a few steps:
- Check the Gas Key: Ensure that the gas key is properly secured and not worn out. A loose or worn-out gas key can cause over-gassing.
- Inspect the Gas Tube: Look for any signs of wear or damage on the gas tube. A damaged gas tube can allow too much gas to enter the action.
- Examine the Gas Block: Check the gas block for any signs of damage or misalignment. A misaligned gas block can cause over-gassing.
- Adjust the Gas Setting: If your firearm has a gas regulator, adjust the gas setting to see if it improves the performance. Start with the lowest setting and work your way up if necessary.
By following these steps, you can determine if over-gassing is the root cause of your problems.
Fixing Over-Gassing
Once you’ve diagnosed over-gassing, there are several steps you can take to fix it:
- Clean the Gas System: A dirty gas system can cause over-gassing. Use a cleaning solvent and a brush to clean the gas tube, gas block, and regulator.
- Replace Worn Parts: If you find worn-out parts, such as the gas key or gas tube, replace them with new ones.
- Adjust the Gas Setting: If your firearm has a gas regulator, adjust the gas setting to the appropriate level for your ammunition and
