AR-15 Rifle Parts Diagram: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the various components of an AR-15 rifle is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. This guide will delve into the different parts of an AR-15, providing you with a detailed diagram and explanation of each component.
Receiver
The receiver is the central part of the AR-15 rifle, serving as the frame that holds all the other components together. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is available in two types: the lower receiver and the upper receiver.
| Lower Receiver | Upper Receiver |
|---|---|
| Contains the magazine well, trigger group, and fire control group. | Contains the barrel, bolt carrier group, and gas system. |
Barrel
The barrel is the tube that houses the bullet and propels it down the barrel when the trigger is pulled. It is one of the most critical components of the rifle, as its length and rifling pattern affect the bullet’s trajectory and accuracy.
Barrels come in various lengths, such as 16″, 18″, and 20″, and are available in different materials like stainless steel, chrome-moly, and titanium. The rifling pattern also varies, with common options including 1:7, 1:8, and 1:9 twist rates.
Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is responsible for cycling the action of the rifle, including feeding the bullet from the magazine, extracting the spent casing, and chambering a new round. It consists of several components, including the bolt, carrier, gas key, and firing pin.
The bolt carrier group is available in various materials, such as aluminum, steel, and titanium, and can be customized for different shooting applications. Some popular options include the Mil-Spec, M4, and Geissele Enhanced Bolt Carrier Groups.
Gas System
The gas system is responsible for controlling the amount of gas that is bled from the barrel to cycle the action of the rifle. It consists of the gas block, gas tube, and gas key.
There are three main types of gas systems: direct impingement, gas piston, and short stroke gas piston. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of gas system depends on the shooter’s preferences and the intended use of the rifle.
Handguard
The handguard is the tube that runs along the barrel, providing a place to grip the rifle and protecting the barrel from damage. Handguards come in various materials, such as aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber, and can be customized with various attachments, such as Picatinny rails and M-LOK slots.
Some popular handguard options include the Magpul MOE, Daniel Defense, and BCM Gunfighter. The choice of handguard depends on the shooter’s preferences, the intended use of the rifle, and the accessories they plan to attach.
Stock
The stock is the part of the rifle that is used to support the shooter’s shoulder and absorb recoil. Stocks come in various materials, such as wood, polymer, and carbon fiber, and can be adjusted for length of pull and cheek weld.
Some popular stock options include the Magpul CTR, Lancer Systems, and BCM Gunfighter. The choice of stock depends on the shooter’s preferences, the intended use of the rifle, and the comfort level of the shooter.
Trigger Group
The trigger group is responsible for the firing of the rifle. It consists of the trigger, hammer, sear, and disconnect. The trigger pull weight and the overall feel of the trigger can significantly impact the accuracy and comfort of the shooter.
Some popular trigger options include the Geissele SSA, Noveske, and Timney. The choice of trigger group depends on the shooter’s preferences, the intended use of the rifle, and the desired trigger pull weight.
Magazine
The magazine is the container that holds the ammunition. It is inserted into the magazine well of the lower receiver and is available in various capacities, such as 10, 30, and 45 rounds.
Some popular magazine options include the Magpul PMAG, Lancer Systems, and Brownells. The choice of magazine depends on the shooter’s preferences, the intended use of the rifle, and the type of ammunition being used.