Pump Action AR: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you intrigued by the world of firearms and looking to delve into the specifics of the pump action AR? Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of the pump action AR, providing you with a detailed and multi-dimensional introduction. From its history to its design, functionality, and usage, we’ve got you covered.
History of the Pump Action AR
The pump action rifle has been around for over a century, with its origins dating back to the late 19th century. The first pump action firearm was the Winchester Model 1893, designed by John Moses Browning. Since then, the pump action design has been adapted for various firearms, including the AR-15 platform.
Design and Construction
The pump action AR is a semi-automatic firearm that utilizes a pump mechanism to cycle the action. This mechanism allows for quick reloading and unloading of rounds. The design of the pump action AR is both simple and efficient, making it a favorite among hunters and recreational shooters alike.
Here’s a breakdown of the key components of a pump action AR:
- Receiver: The receiver is the main housing of the firearm, which houses the action and the magazine. It is typically made of aluminum or steel.
- Barrel: The barrel is the tube through which the bullet travels. Pump action ARs typically come with barrels ranging from 16 to 20 inches in length.
- Stock: The stock is the part of the firearm that is held against the shoulder. Pump action ARs come with various stock options, including synthetic, wood, and composite materials.
- Handguard: The handguard is the part of the firearm that covers the barrel and provides a grip for the shooter. Pump action ARs often come with Picatinny rails for attaching accessories.
- Charging Handle: The charging handle is used to cycle the action of the firearm. It is typically located on the right side of the receiver.
- Trigger: The trigger is the mechanism that releases the hammer or striker, causing the firearm to fire.
- Magazine: The magazine holds the rounds of ammunition. Pump action ARs typically use detachable magazines, which can be quickly changed out for reloading.
Functionality
The pump action AR operates on a simple, yet effective, mechanism. When the charging handle is pulled back, it opens the action, allowing the shooter to load or unload rounds. Once the magazine is loaded, the charging handle is pushed forward, closing the action and locking the bolt into place. When the trigger is pulled, the hammer or striker is released, causing the bolt to cycle and fire the round.
One of the advantages of the pump action design is its ease of use. The pump action AR is relatively simple to operate, making it a great choice for beginners or those with limited hand strength.
Usage
The pump action AR is a versatile firearm that can be used for a variety of purposes, including hunting, recreational shooting, and home defense. Here are some of the most common uses for the pump action AR:
- Hunting: The pump action AR is a popular choice among hunters due to its reliability and ease of use. It is well-suited for hunting small to medium-sized game, such as deer, hogs, and turkeys.
- Recreational Shooting: The pump action AR is a great choice for recreational shooters looking for a firearm that is both fun to shoot and easy to maintain.
- Home Defense: The pump action AR is a reliable and effective choice for home defense. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a great choice for those who may not be as familiar with firearms.
Comparison with Other Firearms
When comparing the pump action AR to other firearms, such as the semi-automatic AR-15, there are several key differences to consider:
- Reliability: The pump action AR is generally considered to be more reliable than the semi-automatic AR-15, especially in adverse conditions.
- Capacity: The pump action AR typically has a higher magazine capacity than the semi-automatic AR-15, which can be an advantage in certain situations.
- Operation: