This thread is to create a checklist for ar15 users to inspect thier rifles.
This is a list of stuff I’ve learned to look for. This applies to both new rifles and during maintenance.
Im creating this thread to share what I know, and hoping people share other items/points of inspection to help newer members, and those new to the “platform” learn what to look for so they can repair/replace before experiencing a malfunction. Pointers from experts (which I am not) like IG, are needed to ensure we cover everything. On a new gun, this should be after initial clean/lubricating and a few hundred rounds/initial break-in, as brand new guns may be tight in some areas.
I run through this every couple thousand rounds (once or twice a year at current pace) during deep cleaning. I just wipe/relube in between. I hope this is useful for some people as an easy checklist, and Im open to critiquing/additions. I’ll update the OP as necessary to keep it a current refernece.
- Ensure muzzle device is not loose, if a brake, ensure no baffle hits.
- Check that gas block and fas tube are tight.
- Check hanguard/barrel nut are tight.
- Check optic/sights for tightness. Check witness marks.
- Inspect gas key for tightess/stake marks have not moved
- Make sure extractor is stiff, but moves, and has sharp edge.
- Make sure ejector is stiff, but is smooth
- Gas ring check: bolt movement should be smooth, but not fall out of carrier when inverted.
- Inspect bolt lugs for cracks, especially at the back where the lugs meet the body
- Measure action spring to ensure within relevant spec (rifle/carbine/A5)
- Check buffer condition, roll pin holding platic end should be flush on both sides
- Funtion check lower fcg. Dont let hammer hit mag catch. Dry fire, check that disconnector catches hammer.
- Disconnector should be smooth, but positive.
- Fcg pins should be flush on both sides
- Mag catch should be smooth, but positive (not as forceful as other springs, but return instantly when not contacted by hammer.
- Make sure fcg is clear, no primers or other debris in there.
17.after assembly, action should be smooth, no binding (a dry action spring will cause some roughness/noise, thats ok) - Final function check (dry fire, hold trigger and cycle for reset check).
- Inspect castle nut is tight, staking marks are in-line
- Ensure pistol grip is tight