How To Change Dust Cover Ar 15?
How to Change a Dust Cover on an AR-15
The AR-15 is a popular rifle for both civilian and military use. It is a reliable and accurate weapon, but it is also a complex one. One of the most common maintenance tasks for an AR-15 is changing the dust cover. The dust cover is a small flap that protects the bolt from dirt and debris. It is located on the rear of the receiver, just above the ejection port.
Changing the dust cover is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the correct steps to avoid damaging the rifle. In this article, we will walk you through the process of changing a dust cover on an AR-15.
We will provide you with step-by-step instructions, as well as tips and advice to help you complete the task safely and efficiently. So, if you are ready to learn how to change a dust cover on an AR-15, read on!
Step | Instructions | Image |
---|---|---|
1 | Ensure the rifle is unloaded and safe to work on. | |
2 | Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the dust cover open. | |
3 | Remove the old dust cover. | |
4 | Install the new dust cover. | |
5 | Close the dust cover. |
The dust cover on an AR-15 rifle is a small, hinged cover that protects the bolt carrier group from dirt and debris. It is also a convenient place to store spare ammunition. While the dust cover is not essential for the function of the rifle, it can help to keep the internal components clean and free of damage.
If your AR-15 dust cover is damaged or missing, you can easily replace it with a new one. This guide will show you how to change the dust cover on an AR-15 rifle.
Tools and Materials
- AR-15 rifle
- AR-15 dust cover
- AR-15 takedown/pivot pin tool
- AR-15 front sight adjustment tool
- AR-15 rear sight adjustment tool
- AR-15 cleaning rod
- AR-15 oil
- AR-15 grease
Safety Precautions
- Always wear eye protection when working on your AR-15 rifle.
- Make sure the rifle is unloaded and the safety is engaged before you begin.
- Do not use excessive force when removing or installing the dust cover.
Step 1: Remove the dust cover
1. With the rifle pointed in a safe direction, use the takedown/pivot pin tool to push out the rear takedown pin.
2. Move the bolt carrier group to the rear of the receiver.
3. Use the takedown/pivot pin tool to push out the front takedown pin.
4. Remove the bolt carrier group from the receiver.
5. Grasp the dust cover and pull it up and off of the receiver.
Step 2: Install the new dust cover
1. Align the new dust cover with the receiver.
2. Press down on the dust cover until it snaps into place.
3. Reinstall the bolt carrier group into the receiver.
4. Insert the front takedown pin and secure it with the takedown/pivot pin tool.
5. Insert the rear takedown pin and secure it with the takedown/pivot pin tool.
Step 3: Test the dust cover
1. Point the rifle in a safe direction and pull the trigger.
2. The dust cover should open and close as the bolt carrier group cycles.
Changing the dust cover on an AR-15 rifle is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can keep your rifle in good working order and protect the internal components from dirt and debris.
Here are some additional tips for changing the dust cover on an AR-15 rifle:
- If the dust cover is stuck, you can try using a small amount of oil to lubricate the hinge.
- Be careful not to damage the dust cover when removing or installing it.
- Make sure the dust cover is properly aligned before you install it.
- Test the dust cover to make sure it is working properly.
Tools Needed
To change the dust cover on an AR-15, you will need the following tools:
- AR-15 armorer’s wrench
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Needlenose pliers
Step 1: Remove the Forward Assist
The forward assist is a small lever located on the right side of the AR-15 receiver. It is used to manually assist in chambering a round in the rifle. To remove the forward assist, follow these steps:
1. Use the flathead screwdriver to pry the forward assist roll pin out of the receiver.
2. Use the needlenose pliers to remove the forward assist from the receiver.
Step 2: Remove the Dust Cover
The dust cover is a small metal cover that protects the bolt carrier group from dirt and debris. To remove the dust cover, follow these steps:
1. Use the armorer’s wrench to loosen the two screws that hold the dust cover in place.
2. Carefully lift the dust cover up and off of the receiver.
Step 3: Install the New Dust Cover
To install the new dust cover, follow these steps:
1. Align the new dust cover with the receiver and carefully lower it into place.
2. Use the armorer’s wrench to tighten the two screws that hold the dust cover in place.
Step 4: Reinstall the Forward Assist
To reinstall the forward assist, follow these steps:
1. Insert the forward assist into the receiver.
2. Use the needlenose pliers to install the forward assist roll pin.
Changing the dust cover on an AR-15 is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your rifle is properly protected from dirt and debris.
How do I change the dust cover on my AR-15?
1. Remove the rear sight. To do this, you will need to first remove the two screws that hold it in place. Once the screws are removed, you can simply lift the rear sight off of the rifle.
2. Remove the dust cover. The dust cover is a small, rectangular piece of metal that is located at the rear of the receiver. To remove it, you will need to use a small flathead screwdriver to pry it up from the receiver.
3. Install the new dust cover. Once the old dust cover is removed, you can simply install the new one by snapping it into place.
4. Reinstall the rear sight. Once the new dust cover is installed, you can reinstall the rear sight by reversing the steps you took to remove it.
What tools do I need to change the dust cover on my AR-15?
You will need the following tools to change the dust cover on your AR-15:
- A small flathead screwdriver
- A set of AR-15 cleaning tools
How long does it take to change the dust cover on my AR-15?
It should take you about 5 minutes to change the dust cover on your AR-15.
What is the difference between a fixed dust cover and a hinged dust cover?
A fixed dust cover is a solid piece of metal that is permanently attached to the receiver. A hinged dust cover is a metal flap that is attached to the receiver by a hinge. Hinged dust covers are typically easier to open and close, but they can also be more prone to damage.
Which type of dust cover is better?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the best type of dust cover for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Fixed dust covers are typically more durable, while hinged dust covers are typically easier to use.
Can I change the dust cover on my AR-15 without removing the rear sight?
It is possible to change the dust cover on your AR-15 without removing the rear sight, but it is more difficult and requires more tools. If you are not comfortable working on your rifle, it is best to have a qualified gunsmith do the work for you.
Changing the dust cover on an AR-15 is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can ensure that your rifle is properly protected from dirt and debris.
Here are the key takeaways from this guide:
- The dust cover is a critical part of the AR-15 that helps to protect the bolt carrier group from dirt and debris.
- The dust cover can be removed by pressing down on the release button and rotating the cover counterclockwise.
- The dust cover can be reinstalled by aligning the two tabs on the cover with the corresponding slots on the receiver and rotating the cover clockwise until it snaps into place.
- It is important to make sure that the dust cover is properly installed to ensure that the rifle is properly protected.