Benefits of Side Charging ARs (Briefly mentioned to provide context)
Side charging ARs aim to improve ergonomics, particularly for shooters who favor specific shooting styles or have physical limitations. The placement of the charging handle on the side, often on the left side of the receiver, is intended to provide a more natural and efficient way to operate the action. It allows users to charge the weapon without removing their firing hand from the grip, a potential advantage during dynamic shooting scenarios. Furthermore, some users find side charging handles more intuitive, particularly those with limited dexterity or who struggle with the standard AR-15 charging handle. The side charging handle can be easier to manipulate with the support hand, especially when working with optics or other accessories that might partially obstruct the standard charging handle.
Increased Complexity
The most immediate side charging AR problem is the inherent increase in mechanical complexity. The standard AR-15 is lauded for its relatively simple design, built around proven mechanics and tolerances. A side charging AR, by its nature, adds more moving parts to the equation. This might involve linkages, levers, or proprietary bolt carrier group designs, each presenting potential failure points. More complex mechanisms often mean more opportunities for things to go wrong, impacting the overall reliability of the weapon. This is especially true if the manufacturer cuts corners on quality control or materials, leading to increased wear and tear.
Bolt Carrier Design and Potential Issues
The heart of any AR-15 is the bolt carrier group, and the design of this vital component is where many of the side charging AR problems originate. A side charging system often requires a modified bolt carrier group. The specific implementation varies, but it frequently involves a channel or slot cut into the side of the carrier to accommodate the charging handle mechanism.
Problems with this design can manifest in several ways. One common concern is carrier tilt or binding. If the bolt carrier group doesn’t travel smoothly within the receiver, the weapon can experience malfunctions, such as failure to feed or extract. This is often a result of a poorly designed or manufactured bolt carrier, and can be exacerbated by the increased stresses associated with side charging. Moreover, the long-term durability of the modified bolt carrier becomes a concern. The added stress on certain components of the bolt carrier can increase the rate of wear, requiring more frequent parts replacement or maintenance.
Gas System Concerns
The gas system is another area where side charging AR problems may arise. The standard AR-15 relies on a precisely tuned gas system to cycle reliably. Modifications to accommodate the side charging mechanism can potentially impact the gas system’s performance. Altering the gas tube alignment, modifying the gas block, or affecting the flow of gases can introduce cycling issues. This might lead to short stroking (failure to fully cycle the bolt), over-gassing (excessive recoil and wear), or unpredictable ejection patterns. Proper tuning of the gas system is therefore crucial, and any deviation from established standards can compromise the weapon’s reliability. Unfortunately, diagnosing gas-related problems in a side charging AR can be more challenging compared to standard AR-15s.
Charging Handle Placement and Potential for Obstruction
The strategic placement of the side charging handle is vital to its functionality and usability. Its proximity to other components, like optics, iron sights, or even the shooter’s hand, can cause operational difficulties. A poorly positioned handle can interfere with the installation of optics, restricting the range of choices or requiring specialized mounting solutions. It could also potentially be snagged on clothing, equipment, or other external objects, leading to unintended malfunctions. Furthermore, in certain shooting positions, the charging handle could even contact the shooter’s hand or arm, causing discomfort or impeding proper handling. Therefore, a well-considered design that places the charging handle in a position that minimizes these potential obstructions is a must to avoid side charging AR problems related to accessibility.
Compatibility Issues
One of the significant drawbacks of side charging ARs is reduced compatibility with the vast array of standard AR-15 parts and accessories. Since the design deviates from the established norms, certain components, like bolt carrier groups, uppers, and sometimes even the lower receiver, may require specific parts tailored to the side charging design. Finding replacement parts, especially in emergency situations, can be significantly more challenging. This can be a particularly troubling consideration for those relying on their firearm for self-defense or professional use. Furthermore, the ability to easily swap out parts and customize the weapon is limited, which is one of the primary draws of the standard AR-15 platform. The reduced flexibility means you are constrained by the manufacturer’s chosen design and may require specialized expertise for repair and maintenance. This constraint should be factored into the overall cost and user experience of a side charging AR.
Manufacturing Quality
The success of a side charging AR hinges on the precision of its manufacturing. The tolerances must be very tight, and the materials must be of high quality, to ensure that all the moving parts work together harmoniously and reliably. A poorly made side charging AR, characterized by substandard materials, improper machining, or inadequate quality control, is far more likely to experience malfunctions. This could manifest in many ways, from the bolt carrier binding up to the charging handle breaking off under stress. Therefore, the quality of the manufacturer plays a critical role in mitigating side charging AR problems. Always choose manufacturers with established reputations for quality and reliability.
Ejection Pattern Concerns
The ejection pattern of a firearm is how spent casings leave the weapon. In the standard AR-15, the ejection port’s placement has been carefully engineered to ensure a consistent ejection pattern. The design of a side charging system may inadvertently affect the ejection process, leading to more erratic or inconsistent ejection patterns. If the spent casings are ejected with a pattern that varies too widely, they could potentially interfere with the shooter, the optics, or other equipment. Moreover, an irregular ejection pattern can be a sign of other underlying problems, such as gas system issues, carrier binding, or inadequate extraction.
Mitigating the Problems
Even with the potential for side charging AR problems, responsible gun owners can take steps to mitigate those risks.
Choose Quality Components and Manufacturers: Prioritize manufacturers with a proven track record for producing high-quality AR-15 components. Look for brands that use quality materials and rigorous quality control measures. Investing in a well-built side charging AR from a reputable manufacturer can significantly improve reliability and longevity.
Proper Maintenance and Cleaning: Meticulous maintenance is even more crucial for side charging ARs than for standard AR-15s. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of all the moving parts can help prevent malfunctions. Pay close attention to the bolt carrier group and charging handle mechanism, and address any wear or damage promptly.
Careful Selection of Accessories and Optics: When choosing accessories, make sure they are compatible with the side charging design and do not interfere with the operation of the charging handle. Consider the height and placement of optics and other attachments, ensuring they allow for easy manipulation of the charging handle and do not obstruct the ejection of spent casings.
Testing and Reliability Checks: Before relying on a side charging AR for self-defense or professional use, it is essential to thoroughly test it. Fire a range of ammunition types to verify consistent function and identify any potential problems. Conduct malfunction drills and other training exercises to familiarize yourself with the weapon’s operation and any potential quirks.
Consideration of specific use case/requirements: It’s crucial to consider the intended use of your AR before opting for a side charging model. Do you have a particular shooting style or need that necessitates the design? If not, and if you aren’t a purist of this style of gun, it might be better to stick to the original design. If you have physical limitations or other conditions where the side charging feature is important, then a side charging AR might be suitable.
Comparing to Traditional AR-15s
The standard AR-15, with its familiar charging handle, offers a proven track record of reliability and widespread availability. Its design has been refined over decades, with a vast ecosystem of parts and accessories readily accessible. The ease of repair and customization are additional strengths. For many shooters, the standard AR-15 charging handle provides a quick, efficient, and readily accessible way to operate the action, and is easy to use even when wearing gloves or in low-light conditions. The simplicity of the design translates to greater reliability and easier maintenance. The trade-offs, therefore, need careful consideration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, side charging AR problems exist. While the side charging design offers some potential benefits for specific users, such as enhanced ergonomics, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges it presents. The increased complexity, potential for compatibility issues, and reliance on quality manufacturing are among the key considerations. The traditional AR-15, with its time-tested design and widespread support, remains a very reliable and adaptable option. Before opting for a side charging AR, carefully assess your needs, research available models, and prioritize quality components. Thorough testing and diligent maintenance are essential for ensuring reliable performance. If you are new to the AR platform, you might find the standard design to be more user friendly. Ultimately, the best AR-15 is the one that fits your needs and is the most dependable for you.
