The humble firing pin spring in your AR-15 might seem insignificant, but this small component plays a crucial role in the reliable function of your firearm. A malfunctioning firing pin spring can lead to misfires, light primer strikes, or even complete failure to fire, potentially compromising your safety and the effectiveness of your rifle. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the AR-15 firing pin spring, exploring its function, common problems, and the process of replacement.
Understanding the AR-15 Firing Pin Spring's Role
The firing pin spring is a small, powerful spring located within the bolt carrier group (BCG) of your AR-15. Its primary function is to provide the necessary force to drive the firing pin forward with sufficient energy to reliably ignite the primer in a cartridge. This seemingly simple action is critical for the entire firing sequence. Without adequate spring tension, the firing pin may not strike the primer hard enough, resulting in a light primer strike or a complete failure to fire.
Key Aspects of the Spring's Function:
- Consistent Force: The spring must provide consistent and reliable force every time the trigger is pulled. Inconsistency can lead to unreliable ignition.
- Proper Spring Rate: The spring rate (the force required to compress the spring a certain distance) is crucial. Too weak a spring, and you'll have light primer strikes; too strong, and you risk damaging the firing pin or other components.
- Durability: The spring needs to withstand the repetitive stress of firing cycles without losing its tension or breaking.
Identifying Problems with Your AR-15 Firing Pin Spring
Several signs can indicate a problem with your firing pin spring. Paying attention to these symptoms can prevent potentially dangerous malfunctions.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Firing Pin Spring:
- Light Primer Strikes: This is perhaps the most common symptom. You'll see indentations on the primer cap, but they'll be shallow and insufficient to ignite the primer.
- Misfires: The primer may not ignite at all, resulting in a complete failure to fire.
- Failure to Fire Consistently: Intermittent misfires or light primer strikes indicate a problem with the spring's consistency or strength.
- Visible Damage: Inspect the spring for signs of wear, such as cracks, bends, or deformation.
Replacing Your AR-15 Firing Pin Spring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing a worn or broken firing pin spring is a relatively straightforward process, but requires careful attention to detail. Always prioritize safety and follow all appropriate firearm safety procedures. This guide provides a general overview; refer to your firearm's manual for specific instructions.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any aspect of this process. Improper handling of firearms can be extremely dangerous.
Tools Required:
- Punches (appropriate sizes for your BCG)
- A roll pin punch
- A new AR-15 firing pin spring
Steps:
- Disassemble the BCG: Carefully remove the bolt carrier group from your rifle. Refer to your firearm's manual for detailed disassembly instructions.
- Remove the Firing Pin: Remove the firing pin from the bolt. The method may vary depending on your specific BCG.
- Replace the Spring: Carefully install the new firing pin spring, ensuring it's properly seated.
- Reassemble the BCG: Reassemble the bolt carrier group, ensuring all components are properly aligned and seated.
- Reassemble Your Rifle: Once the BCG is reassembled, put your rifle back together.
- Test Fire: After reassembly, test fire your rifle at a safe shooting range, following all safety protocols.
Conclusion
The AR-15 firing pin spring is a critical component that often gets overlooked. Regular inspection and timely replacement can prevent malfunctions and ensure the reliable operation of your firearm. Understanding the signs of a failing spring and following proper replacement procedures are essential for responsible gun ownership. Always prioritize safety and seek professional assistance if needed.
