Understanding the Heart of the AR-15: The Bolt Carrier Group
The Bolt
This is the cylindrical component that directly engages the chamber of the barrel. It houses the extractor, which grips the rim of the cartridge to pull it from the chamber, and the ejector, which pushes the spent casing out of the rifle. The bolt itself rotates to lock and unlock within the barrel extension, creating a seal that contains the explosive force of the fired round.
The Bolt Carrier
The bolt carrier houses the bolt and moves back and forth within the upper receiver during the firing cycle. This movement is driven by the expanding gases from the fired round (direct impingement system). The bolt carrier is the main body and mechanism that allows the bolt to work.
The Charging Handle
This handle is located on the upper receiver and is used to manually retract the bolt carrier group. Pulling back the charging handle, for the most part, causes the BCG to cycle rearward, allowing the shooter to load or unload the chamber, or lock the bolt back.
The Forward Assist (Optional)
While not present on all AR-15s, the forward assist is a button located on the upper receiver that, when pressed, pushes the bolt carrier group forward, ensuring that the bolt is fully locked into battery.
Why Lock That Bolt Back? The Importance Explained
Locking the bolt back on your AR-15 isn’t just a procedural step; it’s a safety measure, a diagnostic tool, and a valuable asset in certain tactical situations. The reasons for this action are numerous and significant:
Unquestionable Safe Handling
Locking the bolt back provides a clear visual indicator that the weapon is unloaded. With the bolt held open, you can immediately see into the chamber, confirming the absence of a round. This is the single most crucial safety protocol. It’s essential to clear and verify the rifle before maintenance, cleaning, or even storage. If a firearm is stored for an extended period, it’s always best to lock the bolt back.
Efficient Reloading
When reloading, locking the bolt back streamlines the process. When you insert a new magazine, the bolt’s forward movement will feed the first round into the chamber, readying the rifle to fire.
Inspection and Maintenance
With the bolt locked back, you have unobstructed access to the chamber and bore. This allows for easy visual inspection for fouling, debris, or any potential obstructions. When cleaning, this position lets you properly and effectively clean the barrel. Also, it’s a good position to visually inspect the bolt and bolt carrier.
Addressing Malfunctions
When facing a failure to feed or other issue, locking the bolt back provides valuable space and access to investigate the problem and remedy it.
Safety Checks
This action is a non-negotiable part of any comprehensive safety routine. Whether you’re teaching a novice, handing off the weapon, or just confirming your own handling, verifying the open bolt confirms the rifle is safe.
Methods for Securing That Bolt: Detailed Instructions
There are two primary methods for locking the bolt back on an AR-15, each with a slight variation in approach. Both are simple to execute, but knowing both can be useful depending on the situation or your preferences.
Leveraging the Charging Handle
This method is arguably the most straightforward and widely used. Follow these steps for a safe and effective procedure:
Prioritize Safety
Ensure the rifle is unloaded. Visually and physically confirm that the chamber is clear and the magazine has been removed. Point the muzzle in a safe direction throughout this process.
Grip and Pull
Grasp the charging handle firmly and pull it fully rearward. Apply enough force to move the BCG to its rearmost position within the upper receiver.
Engage the Bolt Catch
While holding the charging handle back, use your other hand to engage the bolt catch (located on the left side of the receiver, above the magazine well). Push the bolt catch lever upward. This movement should catch and hold the bolt carrier in the rear position.
Release the Charging Handle
With the bolt catch engaged, slowly and carefully release the charging handle. The bolt carrier group should remain locked to the rear.
Final Verification
Visually inspect the ejection port to confirm the bolt is locked back.
Secure the Bolt Catch (optional)
You can engage the bolt catch to release the bolt by pressing on the bolt catch release button (generally located on the left side of the receiver).
Tips and Tricks
Make sure the rifle is unloaded before attempting these steps. Be sure to be firm when pulling the charging handle to the rear. A firm pull engages the bolt catch.
Utilizing the Bolt Catch Lever
This method skips the charging handle pull at the end, using the empty magazine.
Prioritize Safety
Again, it’s crucial to verify that the rifle is unloaded, with no magazine inserted. Clear the chamber. Point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times.
Pull and Hold
Grasp the charging handle and pull it fully rearward, as far back as it will go.
Locate and Actuate the Bolt Catch
Find the bolt catch lever. Use your finger to push the bolt catch lever upwards.
Release the Charging Handle
Carefully release the charging handle. The bolt carrier should remain locked open.
Final Verification
Again, visually verify through the ejection port that the bolt is locked to the rear. Also, check by looking into the magazine well.
Tips and Tricks
Make sure you fully retract the charging handle before operating the bolt catch. Some bolt catches can be stiff when new, so don’t be afraid to apply a bit more pressure.
Troubleshooting Common Hurdles
Occasionally, you may encounter issues preventing the bolt from locking back. Recognizing and addressing these problems is a critical part of responsible AR-15 ownership. Here are some common scenarios and how to tackle them:
The Bolt Refuses to Stay Open
Several factors can prevent the bolt from locking back.
Magazine Issues
A malfunctioning magazine can cause this. Ensure the magazine is properly seated and not damaged. In particular, it might not be pushing the follower up enough, if its not the same spec as the AR-15 receiver, or it may be damaged, or it is not built with the correct materials.
Failure to Feed
Sometimes an issue with the ammunition or how it’s being fed may stop the BCG from fully cycling.
A Sticky Bolt Catch
Debris or corrosion may be impeding the bolt catch. If so, a thorough cleaning and lubrication of the bolt catch may be needed.
Insufficient Gas
If the rifle isn’t receiving enough gas from the firing cycle, the BCG won’t have enough force to lock open. A leak in the gas system, an improperly installed gas block, or an improperly sized gas port in the barrel can cause this.
Under Gassed or Over Gassed
Incorrect gas flow can also be the issue.
The Bolt Won’t Release
After locking the bolt back, you may have difficulty releasing it.
Stiff Bolt Catch
Sometimes, the bolt catch can be difficult to press, especially on a new or dirty rifle. Apply firm, deliberate pressure.
Issues with the Magazine
If a magazine is causing problems, try removing it and then reinserting it.
Important Safety Measures to Always Employ
Firearm safety is of paramount importance. The process of locking the bolt back is a safety measure and should be part of a broader approach:
Treat Every Firearm as if Loaded
This foundational principle should always be observed. Never make assumptions.
Muzzle Discipline
Always point the muzzle in a safe direction, ensuring it is never pointed at anything you are not prepared to destroy.
Verify and Re-verify
Before any manipulation, unloading, and after reassembly, thoroughly check and double-check that the firearm is unloaded.
Eye and Ear Protection
Always wear appropriate eye protection and hearing protection when handling firearms.
Seek Professional Training
Consider taking a firearm safety course from a certified instructor.
In Conclusion: Solidifying Your Mastery
Locking the bolt back is a simple yet critical skill for anyone who owns or uses an AR-15. By understanding the components involved, the reasons for locking the bolt, the methods to achieve it, and common troubleshooting tips, you will be more confident and safe in the handling of your rifle.
Further Resources to Enhance Your Knowledge
Manufacturer’s Manual
Consult the manual for your specific AR-15 model.
YouTube Tutorials
Numerous video tutorials on AR-15 operation are available.
Firearm Safety Courses
Local gun ranges and training facilities offer comprehensive courses.
By consistently practicing these techniques and prioritizing safety, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a responsible and proficient AR-15 owner. Remember, ongoing training and a commitment to safety are essential for all firearm enthusiasts.
