You’ve just acquired an AR15 and are curious to know what it does. You’re in luck. We’re peeling back the layers to help you understand the bits and bobs that make up this iconic firearm. Read more now on AR15 Parts

Let’s be clear: this isn’t rocket-science, but it may feel like a puzzle to a newbie. Trust me, once you’re familiar with your AR15 Parts, it’ll be like understanding the quirks of your favorite video game.

The upper receiver: the Brain Box

Start with the upper receiver. Think of this as the brain box of your rifle. It’s literally where the action takes place. The barrel, the bolt carrier group (BCG), as well as the charging handle are all housed in this compartment. The barrel is where the bullets leave. What is the BCG? The engine is like that. The charging handle is it? Well, it’s akin to pulling the string on a lawnmower to get things started.

The Lower Receiver: The Heart of the Matter

Now, let’s chat about the lower receiver. This part doesn’t get as much glam, but it’s the real heart of your AR15. It’s where the trigger, magazine well, and buttstock live. The trigger is your direct connect to the action. Pop in a fresh mag in the magazine well, and you’re good to go. Buttstock? The gun is resting on the shoulder.

Handguards and Rail Systems on the Swiss Army Knife

Have you ever heard of a Handguard? It’s a Swiss Army Knife attached to the barrel. It offers a place to mount accessories and protects you from the heat of the barrel. Picatinny, M-Lok, or KeyMod rails? Yeah, those are just fancy terms for different mounting systems for lights, lasers, and grips.

The Middleman in the Gas System

Gas is also used in your rifle to fire the bullet. Gases are released when you fire the gun, and they also cycle the BCG. This is like killing two birds at once: the bullet moves and the gun is ready for the next shot.

We’re not talking about ultra-obsessive routines here, but it is important to keep your AR15 clean. It’s like driving a car that has mud on the windshield. Keep it lubed and free of gunk, and it’ll treat you well.