How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip

Larry Potterfield • August 23, 2023

Because the pistol grip contains the safety detent, you need to install the AR-15 safety and pistol grip at the same time. Here are all the parts neatly laid out:

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
AR-15 safety and pistol grip parts

The first step is to cock the hammer.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Cock the hammer

Then you need to put a little oil on the safety...

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Grease the safety

and some light grease on the detent and detent spring.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Grease safety detent and detent spring

Insert the safety and the lower from the left side...

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Insert safety from left side

and secure the receiver on a hammer block that is held in the vise.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Secure the receiver on a hammer block

The safety detent goes here:

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Safety detent location

Insert the safety detent spring in the hole in the pistol grip.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Insert safety detent spring

Line the spring up with the hole in the lower and slide the pistol grip into position.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Slide pistol grip into position

Here's a tip that may save some frustration: Tape the end of the screwdriver with masking tape then force the bit into the screw slot.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Masking tape to help hold the screw

This will hold the grip screw, making it easier to install.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Screw the grip onto the receiver

Be sure to check the safety several times for proper functioning.

Image relating to How to Install an AR-15 Safety and Pistol Grip
Check safety functionality

--Larry Potterfield