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The forward assist on a firearm is a button found commonly on AR-15 rifle derivatives, such as the M16 rifle, and is usually located near the bolt closure. When hit, it pushes the bolt carrier forward, ensuring that the bolt is locked.
Do you need forward assist?
The forward assist is not a necessary part of an AR-platform rifle, carbine, or pistol. The only logical conclusion is that all ARs should be side-charging, and we could stop having this argument all together, leaving the forward assist in the gun history bin where it belongs.
Why does the AR-15/M16/M4 have a forward assist?
The AR-15/M16/M4 Series has a forward assist because it has a different sort of charging handle than most other semiautomatic and automatic weapons. It’s toward the rear, behind the bolt, when the bolt is forward, and in most other cases, the charging handle is close to the front of the bolt. Now let’s look at an AR 15/M16/M4 type charging handle.
What happens if the Chamber of an AR-15 is fouled?
In the event the chamber is fouled you hit the forward assist which pushes the bolt forward into firing position. Some new ARs do not have this feature anymore as proper maintenance and cleaner ammunition has resulted in it seldom being used. It is called the “Forward Assist”, and it is designed to totally and hopelessly jam your weapon!!
How do I install the trigger and disconnector on my gun?
Insert the trigger and disconnector into the lower receiver. Press down on the top of the disconnector to align the pin holes. Gently tap the trigger pin into the receiver from the left side. The end of the pin without small grooves should go in first.
How do you attach a disconnector to a hammer spring?
Install the hammer spring onto the hammer. Insert the disconnector onto the trigger. Make sure the disconnector spring rides in the notch on the disconnector. Insert the trigger and disconnector into the lower receiver.