Navigating the Landscape of AR-15 Ownership
The Ruger AR-556, a name synonymous with accessible entry into the world of AR-15 style rifles, has earned its reputation for affordability and widespread availability. This American-made firearm has found favor with a broad spectrum of shooters, from those taking their first steps into responsible gun ownership to seasoned enthusiasts seeking a reliable and cost-effective platform. However, like any mechanical device, the Ruger AR-556 isn’t entirely immune to the occasional hiccup. This article delves into the realm of potential challenges associated with the Ruger AR-556, providing a comprehensive guide to common problems and offering practical solutions to keep your rifle running smoothly and performing optimally.
Reliability Hurdles: Keeping Your Rifle in Action
A reliable firearm is paramount, and the ability to consistently cycle rounds is critical. Unfortunately, the Ruger AR-556, like all AR-15s, can occasionally experience malfunctions. Let’s break down some of the most frequently encountered reliability problems and explore the solutions.
Cycling Failures and Their Fixes
One of the most common issues, a failure to feed, prevents the next round from chambering. This can stem from a variety of causes, starting with the magazine itself. Ensure you’re using high-quality magazines that are designed to function reliably with your AR-15. Damage to the feed lips, or internal obstructions can cause issues. Consider replacing the magazine to ensure its function isn’t the root of the problem.
The bolt’s ability to properly engage and strip a round from the magazine is also critical. Sometimes, the bolt fails to catch the round, and this is usually solved by ensuring the bolt is clean. A more involved issue could be a problem with the bolt itself. The bolt carrier group, or BCG, should be routinely inspected to check for damage, and lubricated. Finally, ammunition can sometimes cause FTFs. Try varying ammo brands and grain weights to identify whether a specific type is the culprit.
A failure to extract problem, where the spent casing doesn’t leave the chamber, can interrupt the firing cycle. This can manifest in several ways: the empty casing being stuck in the chamber, or failing to eject out of the ejection port. A dirty chamber, where carbon buildup creates friction, might be the problem. A thorough cleaning with a chamber brush, as well as a deep clean of the bolt face, will usually resolve it. Examine the extractor, the small metal claw that pulls the spent casing from the chamber. If the extractor is worn, damaged, or loses tension, it may not effectively grip the casing rim. A replacement extractor can be a quick and cost-effective solution. Additionally, an over-gassed system, where too much gas pressure is driving the bolt carrier, can sometimes cause extraction problems, although this is less common in the Ruger AR-556.
Ejection Woes: Getting Rid of Spent Casings
A failure to eject is where the spent casing is not cleared from the action and can cause malfunctions. The result might be that the spent case remains in the chamber, or in the way of the next round being loaded. Proper ejection relies on the extractor, the ejector (the part that kicks the casing out of the ejection port), and the action cycling correctly. Issues in any of these areas can disrupt the ejection process. Cleaning the chamber and ensuring proper cycling of the action is important here, and checking for obstructions. Ensure the rifle is getting enough gas; if the gun is “short stroking,” it may not have enough gas to cycle the bolt.
Stovepiping: A Nasty Surprise
One of the most recognizable malfunctions is called stovepiping. The spent casing fails to eject fully, usually getting caught between the bolt face and the ejection port, resembling a stovepipe. This is often related to FTE problems or insufficient gas pressure to cycle the action. Diagnosing a stovepipe usually begins with cleaning. If the chamber or bolt is dirty, then a stovepipe might occur. Check for a weak extractor, or weak ejection. It’s a good practice to ensure you are using quality magazines as well.
Misfires: When the Bang Doesn’t Happen
Light primer strikes, where the firing pin doesn’t generate enough force to ignite the primer, are another issue that can occur. This often stems from a weak hammer spring, a firing pin channel obstructed by debris, or a primer that doesn’t seat correctly. Replace the hammer spring with a fresh one, clean the firing pin channel meticulously, and test your rifle with different ammunition types to see if a brand change corrects the problem.
Accuracy and Consistency: Hitting Your Target
Beyond reliability, accuracy is a crucial factor for most shooters. The Ruger AR-556, like all rifles, can experience issues that impact its ability to consistently group shots on target.
Grouping Difficulties: Achieving Consistency
Inconsistent grouping can be a frustration for many shooters. The cause of poor groupings is often a loose barrel nut. This nut holds the barrel to the upper receiver, and a loose nut can allow the barrel to move during firing, affecting accuracy. Tighten the barrel nut to the correct specification, or, consider using a barrel wrench. The barrel itself can impact accuracy, and a lower quality barrel may exhibit less accuracy. Another aspect to consider is the ammunition. Different types of ammunition will behave differently through a rifle. Experimenting with various ammo types and brands can reveal what your rifle likes best.
Point of Impact Drift: Maintaining Zero
Zero shift, or a change in the point of impact, can occur, which may be caused by issues with the optic or the rifle itself. Ensuring the optic is mounted securely to the rail can make a significant difference. Check for loose screws, and use appropriate mounting hardware. Loose handguards can also contribute to this issue; tightening the handguard screws can help stabilize the rifle’s forend. Another consideration is heat buildup in the barrel. Extended periods of firing can cause the barrel to heat up, and expand. This can shift the point of impact. Allow the barrel to cool down between strings of fire.
Components and Wear: Keeping Things in Good Order
Like any mechanical system, the Ruger AR-556’s components wear over time. Recognizing potential wear points and addressing them proactively can prevent malfunctions.
Spring Concerns: Maintaining Cycling Power
The buffer spring provides the force to push the bolt carrier group forward and chamber the next round. Over time, buffer springs can weaken or break, causing cycling problems. Inspect the buffer spring regularly, and replace it if it shows signs of fatigue or damage. Ensure that the buffer and spring combination is appropriate for your rifle.
Bolt Carrier Group Wear: The Heart of the Action
The bolt carrier group, or BCG, is the heart of the AR-15’s action, and is subject to significant stress. Inspect the BCG regularly for wear, especially in areas like the bolt lugs, the firing pin, and the gas rings. Lubricate the BCG properly to reduce friction and wear.
Gas System Issues: The Engine’s Health
The gas tube directs gas from the barrel to the bolt carrier group, cycling the action. Ensure the gas tube isn’t clogged and doesn’t leak. Inspect it for damage, and replace it if needed.
Other Problems: Things to Consider
While less common, other issues can arise with your Ruger AR-556.
Trigger Troubles: Improving the Feel
Many shooters find the factory trigger on the Ruger AR-556 to be heavy or gritty. Consider upgrading the trigger to improve the feel and enhance accuracy.
Fit and Finish: Keeping Things Looking Good
Handguards and furniture can sometimes have issues with fit and finish. If you are unsatisfied with your handguard or furniture, consider replacing it with aftermarket parts.
Troubleshooting Strategies: Finding the Root Cause
When encountering any malfunction, a systematic approach is crucial. Begin by ensuring the rifle is unloaded, and the chamber is empty. A thorough cleaning and lubrication is a good first step to take. Then, inspect all components for damage. Using known-good ammunition for testing. Consider having the rifle checked out by a qualified gunsmith if problems persist.
Solutions and Upgrades: Enhancing Performance
Numerous solutions and upgrades can improve your Ruger AR-556’s performance.
Cleaning and Care: The Foundation of Reliability
Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential for preventing malfunctions. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and lubrication, using quality products.
The Power of Upgrades: Enhancing Functionality
Many upgrades can enhance the Ruger AR-556. A trigger upgrade can improve feel and accuracy. A new buffer spring, or BCG can improve function. A new barrel can improve accuracy.
Preventive Measures: Keeping it Running Right
Regular cleaning, lubrication, inspection, and part replacement are vital to the Ruger AR-556’s long-term performance. Proper storage is also important.
Ruger AR-556 Strengths and Weaknesses: An Objective View
The Ruger AR-556 is known for its affordability and reliability, making it an ideal option for shooters. As an entry-level rifle, there may be some room for improvement. However, with responsible ownership, and proper maintenance, the Ruger AR-556 will continue to be a great option for shooters.
Concluding Thoughts
The Ruger AR-556 remains a popular choice for those stepping into the world of AR-15s. By understanding common issues, implementing troubleshooting strategies, and practicing regular maintenance, you can keep your Ruger AR-556 functioning reliably for years to come. This approach ensures both safe and enjoyable shooting experiences.
