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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.
TL;DR – How To Field Strip an AR-15 or AR-10
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.
After each range trip or exposure to dust, dirt, or water.
What if my BCG won’t come out?
Check for obstruction. Tap lightly. Never force it.
Why Field Stripping Matters for ARs
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
Covers field stripping, upper teardown, lower teardown, lower assembly, and full upper builds—everything needed to break down and rebuild your rifle the right way.
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Credits:
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.
Disclaimers:
Content Use & Compliance
The videos, articles, and images shared by The Rogue Banshee feature gear, tools, and products for informational and entertainment purposes only. All activities follow local, state, and federal laws where they were conducted in. All activities are conducted safely under professional supervision in approved locations.
Affiliate Disclaimer
Some links are affiliate-based. No extra cost to you—but they help support the work.
Firearm Safety Notice
I promote safe and responsible firearm ownership. All activities are conducted in a controlled, professional environment.
