Introduction
The AR-15 rifle, a ubiquitous firearm in the United States, has become a cultural icon, both lauded and debated. Its modular design, adaptability, and widespread availability have made it a favorite among sport shooters, hunters, and collectors. However, the AR-15’s story is multifaceted, and one of the most intriguing aspects is its potential for full auto operation. This article dives deep into the heart of this topic, exploring the function, history, and legal intricacies surrounding the AR-15 full auto hammer. This component is a critical element in enabling full auto capability, a feature that brings both fascination and complex legal ramifications.
Understanding the Basic Mechanics
Understanding the basic function of the AR-15 is essential before delving into the full auto hammer. The AR-15 operates on the direct impingement gas system, where propellant gases from the fired cartridge are channeled back into the bolt carrier group to cycle the action. Key to this operation is the hammer, a spring-loaded component that strikes the firing pin, which in turn ignites the primer of the ammunition. When the trigger is pulled, the hammer is released, moving forward under spring tension to strike the firing pin. This simple mechanism is at the core of the AR-15’s ability to fire a single shot with each trigger pull.
The Full Auto Hammer: Design and Operation
The full auto hammer presents a significant departure from its semi-automatic counterpart. While the core function of striking the firing pin remains the same, the full auto hammer possesses subtle but critical differences. Most notably, a full auto hammer will typically have a notch or a protrusion that allows it to interact with a mechanism called an auto sear. The auto sear’s presence is essential for full auto operation.
To visualize how a full auto hammer works, imagine this sequence: the trigger is pulled, releasing the hammer. The hammer strikes the firing pin, sending the bullet down the barrel. The bolt carrier group cycles, extracting and ejecting the spent casing while simultaneously loading a new round. At this point, the auto sear, when present and correctly configured, catches the hammer. As the bolt closes, the auto sear disengages, allowing the hammer to strike the firing pin again, as long as the trigger is held down. This allows for continuous firing until the trigger is released or the magazine is empty. This is the essence of full auto, where the AR-15 fires continuously with each trigger pull. The AR 15 full auto hammer is essential to this function.
Historical Context
The evolution of the AR-15, which began as a fully automatic weapon, saw a necessary transformation for civilian markets. The original AR-15, designed by Eugene Stoner for ArmaLite in the late 1950s, was intended for military use. Consequently, early models were equipped with full auto capabilities. The U.S. military adopted the AR-15, which became the M16, in the early 1960s, with full auto firing capabilities being standard.
However, the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934, as amended, placed significant restrictions on the ownership of fully automatic firearms, classifying them as machine guns. The NFA required extensive registration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a background check, and the payment of a substantial tax. As a result, the AR-15 sold to civilians was modified to function only in semi-automatic mode. This modification removed the components needed for full auto operation, including the auto sear and changing the design of the AR 15 full auto hammer. The hammer remained a functional part of the weapon but did not function the same.
Legal Considerations
The legal landscape surrounding full auto firearms in the United States is complex and constantly evolving. Under federal law, machine guns, which include any weapon that can fire more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger, are heavily regulated. Owning a legally registered machine gun requires compliance with stringent regulations under the NFA. This includes a lengthy registration process with the ATF, background checks, and the payment of a tax stamp. In addition to federal regulations, state and local laws further complicate the issue. Some states have banned the possession of machine guns altogether, while others have specific requirements that must be met to legally own these firearms. Violations of these laws carry severe penalties, including substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. It is vital to be informed about all local, state, and federal regulations before even thinking about purchasing or converting an AR-15 into a full auto firearm.
Legality of Conversion and Aftermarket Parts
The legality of owning or modifying an AR-15 for full auto functionality is highly regulated. Converting a semi-automatic AR-15 into a full auto weapon is extremely difficult and carries substantial legal risks. Attempting to convert a semi-automatic AR-15 into a full auto configuration is often illegal and can result in severe criminal charges. This is because any unauthorized modification to a firearm that results in full auto firing capacity makes the firearm a machine gun.
While the aftermarket for AR-15 parts is extensive, the legal constraints surrounding full auto components are very strict. Even possessing certain components intended for full auto use can be illegal, depending on their configuration and intent. The legality of installing any part of a full auto setup will depend on your state and local laws.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount when handling firearms, and the AR-15, in any configuration, is no exception. Full auto firearms are inherently dangerous. The rapid rate of fire creates a higher risk of accidental discharges and loss of control. Proper training in safe gun handling practices is essential for anyone handling firearms, especially those with full auto capabilities.
Full auto firearms can also be prone to malfunctions. Overheating, parts failure, and ammunition issues can all contribute to malfunctions that can increase the risk of injury. Responsible gun owners should understand the mechanics of their firearms and be prepared to deal with potential malfunctions.
Conclusion
The AR 15 full auto hammer represents a fascinating, yet legally complex, aspect of the AR-15’s history and evolution. Understanding its function, its role in full auto operation, and the legal requirements associated with such firearms is critical. Owning a full auto AR-15 means going through strict federal registration and passing an intense background check. The legal and practical hurdles to acquiring and owning full auto firearms are significant.
This article offers a general overview of the subject. The laws surrounding firearms are complex and vary significantly from place to place. This information is not a substitute for legal advice. Consult with a qualified legal professional if you have any questions about the legality of owning, modifying, or possessing any firearm. Always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership. Never attempt to modify your firearm to full auto operation unless you are fully knowledgeable about and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it legal to buy a full auto AR-15?
A: It is legal to own a registered full auto AR-15 in the United States, but the process is difficult and requires compliance with federal and state laws. You must go through the NFA registration process, which includes a tax stamp, background checks, and other requirements. Not all states permit civilian ownership of full auto firearms.
Q: Can I convert my semi-automatic AR-15 to full auto?
A: Converting a semi-automatic AR-15 to full auto is extremely risky and is likely to be illegal under federal and state laws. Unauthorized modifications to a firearm that increase its rate of fire may classify it as a machine gun, which carries severe legal consequences.
Q: Are full auto AR-15 hammers legal to own?
A: It depends. A full auto hammer by itself is typically just a part. The legality can come into play when you have other related parts and have an intent to convert your weapon into a machine gun. If you have the hammer along with other parts that are used for automatic firing, the ATF may take action against you. Again, consult with legal counsel for clarification.
Q: What is the cost of a registered full auto AR-15?
A: Registered full auto AR-15s can be quite expensive. The current market values vary, but they can range from several thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. The price reflects the rarity of these firearms and the legal restrictions associated with them.
