AR-15 FAQ

Question: What does AR15 stand for?

Answer: It stands for ArmaLite Model 15. The AR15 is a popular semi-automatic rifle manufactured by the following companies: Colt, Ambush, Olympic Arms, American Spirit Arms, Rock River Arms, and ArmaLite Inc. The AR 15 usually has a pistol grip (although this was considered an optional accessory until 2004), and a wide variety of customizable options.

Question: I understand M-16s and AR 15s are pretty similar. Are there different directions for cleaning AR15s and M-16s?

Answer: No, the cleaning, reassembly, and takedown for both rifles are the same. The M-16 is derived from the AR 15, and it is a popular rifle that is used by the US Military.

Question: Is it legal in the United States to own or purchase an AR15 with a pistol grip, a flash suppressor, bayonet lugs, and / or collapsible stocks?

Answer: Yes, as of 2004, it is legal in most states. You should check with your state to make sure, however, as there are still a few states that prohibit purchasing an AR 15 with these features. From 1994 to 2004, the sale of AR 15s with these accessory features was restricted to military personnel and law enforcement personnel only. The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 made it illegal to purchase an AR 15 with these features, although it was considered legal to own a gun with these features that you had bought before the law was passed. Since the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 has expired, most states in the US allow you to purchase a AR 15 rifle with flash suppressors, collapsible stocks, a pistol grip, and bayonet lugs.

Question: Can I use military 5.56 x 45 mm. ammunition made for M-16 in my non-military-issued AR-15?

Answer: Not recommended because there have been so many cases in which the military ammunition jams in the non-military AR-15. This is due to a slight difference between a M-16 and an AR-15. The AR-15 has a slightly tighter throat area than the military issued M-16, causing a difference in the chamber pressure and thus causing the malfunction. If you have used military ammunition in an AR15 and the gun has jammed on you, it can be difficult to fix. In order to correct the problem, it is necessary to take apart the rifle and taking out the jammed primer.