The AR-15 style rifle is a seriously powerful and amazing
machine. It is designed to pop off dozens of rounds per minute, and can fire
even more if it is modified. Those last few words reveal perhaps the most
astounding aspect of the AR-15: it is also highly customizable. The rifle’s
design is versatile enough that it can accommodate many different kinds of
add-ons and upgrades. These can imbue it with even more power, range and ease
of use.
With this customization comes complication. Novice users
need to be careful if they have never fine-tuned their rifles before, or they
risk turning their marvelous shooting machines into dysfunctional duds. On the
bright side, you can do something about it with the tight equipment and
know-how. Here is some information on how to resolve common problems with AR-15
upgrade.
Common Problems with AR-15 Rifle Upgrade
When new AR-15 owners discover the rifle’s potential for
customization, they get as excited as a kid in a candy store. However, swapping
out different components may be a bit trickier than it looks. If you plan to
modify your gun, you should at least learn how to do it right — or you might
end up with a major downgrade instead. Here are some of the common problems you
might encounter if you try to upgrade your AR-15.
Getting Parts of the Wrong Sizes
Experienced rifle owners are always looking at
specifications. These details may seem small, but they can make a world of
difference. Unfortunately, this is something that many people only learn
through experience. Too many overeager gun owners shell out a hefty amount of
cash for a high-end upgrade part — only to discover during the attempted
installation process that it is too big or too small or just plain incompatible.
When looking at upgrades, make sure to first look at the
specifications for your rifle, then at the specifications for the upgrades.
This could mean anything from the threading of a muzzle to the diameters of
hammer pins. It may sound a bit tedious and take more time, but it can save you
a real headache in the long run.
Issues with Swapping Handguard Rails
Sometimes, the problem is not with finding the right size
but with finding something that is even compatible with your model. For
example, among the first adjustments that many people make to AR-1s is with the
handguard rail. Rifle manufacturers include a standard handguard rail with
their rifles because they allow people to hold the gun from the front, for
better balance, without having to touch the hot barrel. These might work well
enough but, some still prefer switching them for more comfortable or versatile
options.
You can find plenty of handguard rail assembly systems out
there. However, these systems can come in many shapes and sizes and lengths,
and not all of them will work with your rifle. Some can be used for multiple
distinct models while others are more specific and exclusive to one company or
type. You need to evaluate all the choices carefully before making a purchase.
See if the screws and base rails would even work with your rifle of choice.
Advantages of Ejection Port Cover
Although we detailed a few of the more common problems with
AR-15 upgrades, we only mentioned them so rifle fans can know what they are
getting into. We still encourage people to give them a whirl anyway because
they can be highly beneficial. An example of a great upgrade is the ejection
port cover for AR-15s. Here is some information on what makes it so great.
Keeps Dust from Settling Inside the Barrel
The ejection port is an open hole on the gun that allows
bullet cases to escape after they split from the action. You definitely need
that hole if you plan to fire your weapon, but it cannot simply be left open when
you are not using the gun. Otherwise, that leaves an opening for dust and other
particle matter to settle. Too much of that natter will cause your gun to stop
working properly.
If you don’t like the idea of the mighty AR-15 being
rendered a hunk of junk, you need to make sure that it is protected from the
elements. When you are not using your own AR-15 style rifle, make sure that its
election port is secured from dust with an ejection port cover.
Keep the Elements Out of the Gun
When you are actively firing your rifle, you should leave
the ejection port open so the bullet cases and gases have a way to get out of
the gun. However, this does not mean you should leave the cover at home. You
may want to keep it covered while you are out and about, and while you are
simply holding or toting your rifle.
This especially goes for when you are hauling the AR-15
through environments where mud and dirt and other gunk can get all over the
gun. Hunting, for example, can be quite dirty, especially if you are planning
to camp. The great outdoors is not great for keeping guns clean. The least you
can do is to keep the port cover handy for situations like that.
Get Your Own Ejection Port Cover Today
Hopefully, you now know a little more about the most common
problems that people experience with AR-15 upgrades, as well as a few methods
for resolving those issues. This should make being an AR-15 owner easier than
ever before as you move forward and gain more experience with your rifle.
If you are interested in getting a cover for your rifle’s
own ejection port, you can find some at MySouthernTactical.com. We offer a few
different port covers for a wide range of AR models, all made from standard
steel and packed with a full install kit. They each come in different designs,
from patriotic flags to cool patterns and even some silly memes. Buy something
from our inventory today and keep your gun protected.