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This guide walks through the complete field strip of an AR 15 and AR 10. Every step is covered — from verifying the chamber to removing the BCG and buffer — so you can clean, inspect, and keep your rifle running right.
Drop the magazine and confirm the chamber is clear
Push the takedown pin to separate the receivers
Remove the BCG and charging handle
Optional: Remove buffer and spring for deeper inspection
Same process works for most AR-10 platforms
The AR platform is known for reliability and modularity — but like any tool, it needs maintenance. This guide walks you through a full field strip of both the AR-15 and AR-10, including buffer removal, safety tips, and visual inspection points. If you’re troubleshooting or just keeping your rifle clean, this is the no-guesswork breakdown.
🔗 For malfunctions, check the full AR-15 Troubleshooting Guide
Soft towel or mat
Nylon cleaning brush
Flashlight for chamber and BCG inspection
Place the safety on SAFE
Pull the charging handle to the rear
Lock the bolt open with the bolt catch
Confirm the chamber is clear
Push the rear takedown pin left to right
Pivot the upper open like a shotgun
(Optional) Push the front pivot pin to fully separate receivers
Pull charging handle rearward
Remove the bolt carrier group (BCG)
Slide out the charging handle
Press the buffer retainer
Pull out the buffer and spring
💡 Most cleaning and inspections can be done at this stage. Full disassembly (e.g., bolt or gas system) requires tools.
BCG – Carbon around bolt tail, extractor, gas rings
Firing Pin – Look for peening or drag marks
Buffer/Spring – Corrosion or bent buffer face
Chamber/Extension – Fouling or burrs with flashlight
Bolt Lugs – Wear, cracks, or peening
Always point the muzzle in a safe direction
Double-check the chamber is empty
Control the buffer spring during removal
Support upper/lower with a mat or towel
Use a flashlight to inspect internals
Step 1: Reinstall the Buffer and Spring (If Removed)
Insert the action spring into the buffer tube
Push the buffer in behind it until the retainer clicks into place
Step 2: Insert the Charging Handle
Align the charging handle’s tabs with the receiver cutouts
Slide it partway in until it catches
Step 3: Reinsert the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
Pull the bolt forward in the carrier
Align the BCG and insert it into the upper receiver while guiding the charging handle
Push both in until fully seated
Step 4: Rejoin the Upper and Lower Receivers
Align the pivot pin and close the receivers
Push in the takedown pin until it locks
Step 5: Function Check
Rack the charging handle
Put the safety on and pull the trigger (it should not fire)
Put the safety off and pull the trigger (it should click)
Rack again and reset the hammer—ensure proper operation
The process is the same. AR-10s are larger and may have stiffer springs or different bolt geometry.
Yes. Hands only. No tools needed.
No. Only if cleaning the tube or inspecting wear.
After each range trip or exposure to dust, dirt, or water.
Check for obstruction. Tap lightly. Never force it.
This isn’t just cleaning — it’s confidence.
Field stripping your AR shows you how the rifle works. It helps catch problems before they matter. Whether prepping for patrol, training, or home defense, this step keeps your rifle reliable.
This all started with weird behavior—a burst fire that wasn’t supposed to happen and an occasional dead trigger. The first step was the simplest: field strip and inspect. And that’s when it was obvious. The disconnector was worn out. Swapped it, tested it, ran it again. Smooth. Back to reliable. Just a reminder—sometimes the fix isn’t complicated. You just have to break it down, look close, and rebuild right.Jason Schaller
🔗 Need to diagnose an issue? Hit the AR Troubleshooting Guide
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Original Content by The Rogue Banshee / My Rogue Solutions LLC.
Credit: Jason Schaller
Email: jschaller@trb.fyi
About the Author: Jason Schaller is a former FFL holder and founder of Eagle Eye Shooters Supply in Helena, MT, where he provided professional gunsmithing services and guided customers on all aspects of firearms ownership. Today, he teaches DIY gunsmithing at The Rogue Banshee and serves as a Chief Instructor at Freedom Crew University. With over a decade of hands-on professional experience with firearms and nearly 30 years in IT, Jason also holds top cybersecurity certifications including CISSP, CISA, and CRISC. When he’s not geeking out, he’s helping others build self-reliance, critical thinking, and firearms proficiency through real-world content.
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