How to Function Test an AR-15

Larry Potterfield • July 25, 2023
Guns Gunsmithing Shooting

Before we head for the range let's check the operation of the AR-15 safety. Pull the charging handle all the way back, check the chamber, then release it.

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Pull charging handle

Now rotate the safety to the safe position and pull the trigger. The hammer shouldn't release.

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Pull trigger

Move the safety to the fire position and pull the trigger. Now the hammer should release.

Image relating to How to Function Test an AR-15
Turn safety to fire mode

Pull the trigger back and recock the hammer.

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Hold trigger while pulling charge handle

Now, slowly release the trigger and listen.

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Slowly release trigger

As the disconnector releases the hammer and is caught by the sear. Now squeeze the trigger and the hammer should fall.

Repeat this test several more times before you head for the range.

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Repeat whole process multiple times

--Larry Potterfield

Related Products

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Larry Potterfield

Larry Potterfield is the Founder and Chairman of the Board of MidwayUSA. He and his wife Brenda, both country kids from Missouri, turned their passion for shooting sports into a career by opening a small gun shop in 1977 that would eventually become the industry-leading internet retailer it is today. For over 45 years, MidwayUSA has maintained an unyielding focus on Customer Satisfaction and continues to offer JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING® for Shooting, Hunting and the Outdoors.

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