How To Disassemble An AR-15 Lower – Step by Step

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Jason Schaller

How To Disassemble An AR-15 Lower – Step by Step

Let’s talk about how to disassemble an AR-15 Lower. Tearing down the AR-15 lower is easier than most think. Whether you’re doing a deep clean, swapping triggers, or inspecting springs—this guide walks you through every pin, detent, and tool needed to get it done without damage or drama.

TL;DR – Disassemble an AR-15 Lower Fast

• Fully disassemble your AR-15 lower receiver with basic tools

• Covers buffer, trigger, selector, stock, bolt catch, and more

• Timestamps match each teardown step from the video

• Great for inspection, upgrades, or Cerakote prep

• Complements our Lower Assembly, Upper Teardown, and Field Strip Guides

Why Disassemble an AR-15 Lower?

Read moreHow to Field Strip an AR 15 or AR 10 – Step-by-Step Breakdown

Taking apart your lower receiver gives you access to everything that makes the gun run—trigger, safety, mag release, and more. Whether you’re doing maintenance, upgrading internals, or swapping stocks, this is where it starts.

What Tools Do You Need to Disassemble an AR-15 Lower?

• Bench vise with lower receiver block

• Roll pin punches (1/16″, 3/32″, 5/64″)

• Small hammer

• Flathead screwdriver or Allen wrench (for grip screw)

• Pick tool or dental hook

• Small brass or plastic punch

• AR-15 stock wrench (for collapsible stocks)

• Optional: Real Avid Armorer’s Master Kit

Step 1 – Remove the AR Upper Receiver

Video Timestamp: 0:02
Push both takedown pins and lift the upper off the lower. Set the upper aside.

Step 2 – Remove the Buffer and Buffer Spring

Read moreAR BOLT CARRIER GROUP (BCG) // bolt carrier group disassembly AND reassembly

Video Timestamp: 1:06
Depress the buffer retainer and pull the buffer and spring out of the tube.

Step 3 – Remove the Magazine Catch

Video Timestamp: 1:42
Depress the mag release button and unscrew the catch from the other side. Catch the spring.

Step 4 – Remove the Pistol Grip and Selector

Video Timestamp: 2:34
Unscrew the grip. Catch the safety detent and spring. Then remove the selector from the side.

Step 5 – Remove the Hammer and Trigger Assembly

Video Timestamp: 4:15
Use a 5/64″ punch to drive out the pins. Remove the hammer, trigger, disconnector, and springs.

Step 6 – Remove the Front Takedown Pin

Video Timestamp: 6:44
Remove the detent and spring (often hidden under the endplate) using a pick. Slide the pin out.

Step 7 – Remove a Collapsible Stock and Buffer Tube

Video Timestamp: 7:58
Unscrew the castle nut, remove the endplate, and back off the buffer tube while catching the buffer retainer.

Step 8 – Remove an A2 Rifle Stock and Buffer Tube

Video Timestamp: 9:40
Unscrew the A2 screw and slide off the stock. Remove the buffer tube while catching the retainer.

Step 9 – Remove the Rear Takedown Pin

Video Timestamp: 11:31
Use a punch to press the detent and slide the pin out from right to left.

Step 10 – Disassemble the Collapsible Stock

Video Timestamp: 12:11
Slide off the stock, then remove the latch and spring if needed. Use caution—parts are under tension.

Step 11 – Remove the Trigger Guard

Video Timestamp: 13:10
Use a 3/32″ punch to drive out the roll pin. Pivot the guard down and remove.

Step 12 – Remove the Bolt Catch

Video Timestamp: 14:29
Use a 3/32″ punch to drive out the roll pin. Watch the spring and plunger behind the catch.

What Should You Inspect During Lower Disassembly?

• Check for bent or worn springs

• Look for burrs or peening on pins

• Inspect buffer and spring for damage

• Check fire control group for wear

• Confirm takedown pin detents move freely

How to Prep for Cleaning or Reassembly

• Lay parts out on a labeled mat or tray

• Group small parts in cups or magnetic trays

• Take reference photos of trigger and selector setups

• Use Q-tips and solvent to clean recesses

• Lightly oil pivot points before reassembly

“The AR-15 lower is a perfect place to learn DIY gunsmithing. You can tear it down, rebuild it, and learn how everything interacts—all without needing a mill or lathe.”
—Jason Schaller

Frequently Asked Questions – AR-15 Lower Disassembly

What tools do I need to disassemble an AR-15 lower?

You’ll need roll pin punches (1/16″, 3/32″, 5/64″), a bench vise with receiver block, a small hammer, screwdriver for the grip, and a stock wrench. A pick tool helps with springs and detents.

Can I remove the trigger without damaging parts?

Yes. Use a 5/64″ punch to tap out the pins. Remove the hammer first, then lift the trigger and disconnector. Watch for spring tension.

How do I get the bolt catch out cleanly?

Use a 3/32″ punch. Drive the pin out left to right, keeping pressure on the catch so the spring and plunger don’t fly.

Is it safe to remove the buffer tube?

Yes, but go slow. When removing the buffer tube, be ready to catch the buffer retainer and spring. They’re under pressure.

What’s the hardest part to remove?

The trigger guard can be tricky. Support the ears and use the right punch to avoid cracking the lower. Don’t force it.

Should I clean everything before reassembly?

Absolutely. Use solvent, brushes, and lint-free cloths. Oil moving parts lightly before putting the lower back together.

Wrap-Up

Disassembling an AR-15 lower might look intimidating, but it’s actually one of the most accessible teardowns you can do. Once broken down, cleaning, inspecting, or upgrading becomes a breeze—and you’ll understand exactly how your rifle works from the inside out.

When you’re ready to rebuild it, check out the Lower Receiver Assembly Guide to get everything back in order the right way.