Quick Tip: How to Quickly Assess an AR-15

In this Brownells Quick Tip, Caleb shares how to perform a fast and effective visual inspection of an AR-15—perfect for when you’re at a gun show, local shop, or private sale and want to make sure the rifle is built properly before you commit. Without disassembling the firearm, Caleb shows you how to check for assembly quality, common red flags, and key external components that could signal potential issues.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction
0:11 - Why a quick AR-15 assessment matters
0:33 - External inspection: mag catch, castle nut, buffer tube alignment
1:59 - Grip and takedown pin checks
3:50 - Upper receiver and handguard alignment
5:01 - Gas tube orientation and gas block checks
6:26 - Muzzle device and crush washer alignment
7:08 - Selector, mag release, spring tests
8:13 - Internal bonus checks: trigger, buffer retainer, bolt carrier group
10:12 - Gas key staking and visual BCG inspection
11:29 - Gas tube protrusion and feed ramp alignment