Safety First: Your Most Important Responsibility
Before even thinking about picking up a bottle of gun oil, the most important step is prioritizing safety. This isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a non-negotiable rule. Firearms, when handled improperly, can be dangerous, and the AR-15 is no exception. Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded.
Begin by verifying that your AR-15 is unloaded. The first step is to remove the magazine. Once the magazine is out, pull back the charging handle to eject any round that might be in the chamber. Visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty. You can also run your finger along the inside of the magazine well and the ejection port to ensure there are no rounds remaining.
Next, eye protection is absolutely essential. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any potential debris or oil splatters.
Work in a well-ventilated area. Gun oil can have strong fumes, and exposure in a confined space can be unpleasant. Make sure you’re in a location where you can breathe comfortably.
Finally, clear your workspace of anything you don’t want to get gun oil on. A dedicated gun cleaning mat is highly recommended; it provides a clean surface and helps contain any spills.
Gathering Your Arsenal: Tools and Materials
With safety protocols in place, it’s time to gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything you need readily available will streamline the oiling process.
First and foremost, you’ll need a quality gun oil or lubricant specifically designed for firearms, or at the very least, a product specifically made for AR-15’s. Not all lubricants are created equal; using the wrong type of oil can lead to malfunctions. Look for products that are designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures, offering corrosion protection and excellent lubricity. There are many reputable brands on the market, and it’s worth researching to find one that suits your needs and preferences.
Next, you’ll require some essential cleaning tools. A nylon brush is ideal for scrubbing away carbon buildup and other grime from various parts of the rifle. A detail brush, often with smaller bristles, is excellent for reaching into tight spaces and crevices.
Cleaning patches are crucial for applying oil and wiping away excess. Cotton or microfiber patches are the standard. Make sure you have a good supply.
Cleaning rods are helpful for cleaning the bore of the barrel; however, for this guide, it is not necessary. If you choose to clean the barrel, be sure to use appropriate attachments, like bore brushes and jags, that are the correct size for your rifle’s caliber.
Q-tips or cotton swabs are indispensable for applying oil to hard-to-reach areas and wiping away excess. Stock up on these.
Cleaning solvents or degreasers are optional but can be helpful for removing stubborn carbon deposits. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products.
Nitrile gloves can be a good idea to keep your hands clean.
The Oiling Process: A Smooth Operation
Now, with all the necessary materials and safety precautions in place, it’s time to dive into the heart of the matter: how to oil an AR-15. This step-by-step guide will take you through each crucial area.
The first step is to separate the upper and lower receivers. This is a fundamental part of AR-15 maintenance and provides access to critical components that require lubrication. Simply push out the two takedown pins that secure the upper and lower receivers together. The upper receiver, with its barrel and bolt carrier group, will now separate from the lower receiver, which houses the fire control group and buffer system.
Next, remove the bolt carrier group (BCG) from the upper receiver. The BCG is the heart of the AR-15’s operating system, so lubricating it properly is paramount.
Bolt Oiling
Begin by applying a few drops of oil to the bolt itself. Focus on the locking lugs. These are the protrusions on the bolt that engage with the barrel extension to lock the bolt in place during firing. Also apply oil to the extractor, the claw-like piece that pulls the spent casing from the chamber. Ensure the ejector, the spring-loaded plunger that kicks the spent casing out, is lightly oiled as well.
Firing Pin Lubrication
Give the firing pin a light coating of oil. This ensures it can move freely to strike the primer of the cartridge.
Bolt Carrier Lubrication
This is a critical area for lubrication. The bolt carrier houses the bolt and reciprocates during the firing cycle. Apply oil to the inside of the bolt carrier, where the bolt moves, and to the outside where it slides against the upper receiver. Ensure complete coverage.
Gas Rings
These small rings fit around the bolt’s tail and help seal the gas system. Apply oil very lightly to these rings. Too much oil here can attract carbon and cause issues.
Cam Pin and Bore
The cam pin, a small pin that rotates the bolt to lock and unlock it, is another critical spot. Oil both the pin itself and the bore it sits in.
Once the BCG is adequately oiled, apply some lubricant to the charging handle channel inside the upper receiver. This is where the charging handle slides back and forth. This will make it easier to operate.
Then, lightly lubricate the inside of the upper receiver where the bolt carrier group travels. A light film of oil here will help ensure smooth cycling.
Oiling the lower receiver involves a few crucial spots. Lightly oil the hammer and trigger pins. These pins connect the trigger and hammer mechanisms. The buffer and buffer spring also require lubrication. Apply a light coating of oil to the buffer spring to help it move freely. Also, oil the other moving parts, such as the magazine release button, if applicable.
After completing these steps, carefully reassemble the rifle. Reinsert the BCG into the upper receiver. Reattach the charging handle. Put the upper receiver back onto the lower receiver, and push the takedown pins back in to connect the two receiver halves.
Mastering the Art: Best Practices and Tips
While the steps are straightforward, some best practices can help you refine your technique and ensure optimal results.
“Less is More”
Over-lubrication is a common mistake. Excess oil can attract dirt, dust, and carbon, turning into a gritty paste that can hinder the rifle’s function. The goal is a thin film of oil, not a saturated surface.
Wipe Away the Excess
After applying oil to each area, take a clean patch or cotton swab and wipe away any excess lubricant. This is especially important in areas where debris accumulation could be problematic.
Choosing the Right Oil
Invest in quality gun oil designed for the AR-15 platform. These oils are formulated to withstand high temperatures, resist corrosion, and provide excellent lubricity.
The Frequency of Oiling
The frequency of oiling depends on usage. After firing, it’s essential to clean and lubricate the rifle. Even if you haven’t fired it, a periodic oiling every few months, or more often if stored in a humid climate, is a good practice.
Storage Considerations
Store your AR-15 in a cool, dry place. This will help preserve the lubricant and prevent corrosion.
Troubleshooting
If your AR-15 starts experiencing malfunctions, don’t immediately assume a lack of lubrication. Sometimes, too much oil can be the problem. If the rifle is consistently failing to cycle, try cleaning and re-oiling it, taking care to remove any excess lubricant. Check your gas rings, as they tend to be the most common issue.
Cleaning and Maintenance: The Complete Package
While this article focuses on oiling, remember that proper cleaning and maintenance go hand in hand. Regular cleaning is vital to remove carbon buildup, powder residue, and other contaminants that can compromise the rifle’s performance. The process is relatively simple, involving cleaning the bore with a brush and patches, and removing dirt from the chamber. You will also need to perform other cleaning tasks on all the other areas of the rifle.
Conclusion: The Pathway to Reliability
Understanding how to oil an AR-15 is a fundamental part of responsible firearm ownership. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your rifle running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
By lubricating key components, you reduce friction, minimize wear, and protect your AR-15 from the elements. This, in turn, contributes to the longevity and reliability of your firearm.
Make regular maintenance a priority. The time you invest in taking care of your AR-15 will be paid back in performance and peace of mind. Consider this guide as a starting point; continue to learn and refine your maintenance skills. Regularly check your rifle for problems. Always make sure that your rifle is stored securely when not in use.
And finally, share this guide with fellow gun owners! Knowledge is most valuable when shared.
