The AR-15, often mistaken for an assault rifle, actually stands for “ArmaLite Rifle,” after its original designer, ArmaLite, back in the 1950s. Later on, Colt bought the rights and started mass-producing it in the early 1960s. It’s a semi-automatic rifle, which means it fires one round each time you squeeze the trigger, unlike those fully-automatic machine guns you see in the movies.
The AR-15 is chambered in .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO, with the latter being more common. It’s got a detachable box magazine that usually holds 30 rounds, but there are other sizes available depending on your preferences.
Now, it’s a lightweight, versatile piece of machinery, made mostly from aluminum alloys and synthetic materials. It’s got a gas-operated, rotating bolt system, and direct impingement, which makes it reliable and easy to maintain.
One of the reasons the AR-15 is so popular is because it’s highly customizable. You can swap out parts like the stock, grip, and handguard to make it fit your needs. And, with a little practice, you can become a real dead-eye shot with this rifle.
But remember, owning an AR-15, or any firearm for that matter, comes with great responsibility. You need to follow the laws in your area, and always practice proper gun safety. Keep it locked up when you’re not using it, and never point it at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
So, there you have it, my friend. The AR-15 is a remarkable piece of engineering, and with the right knowledge and respect, it can be a reliable tool in the right hands. Now, go on and be careful out there.
If you want to know more about the AR-15, check out article on ‘what is an AR-15?‘
