Are you considering the purchase of a semi-automatic weapon? Have you given any thought to rifles belonging to the AR platform? Numerous people purchase AR-10s and AR-15s every day. Join the club! What's that? You're not sure how to use an AR-15? We encourage you to take a gun course, as well as receive instruction on the use of specific firearms. Going to the shooting range regularly is not only recommended but can be a source of fun, either alone or with a friend.

Let's take a quick look at how to use an AR-15 and some reasons why people prefer this firearm over others.

Clearing

Before you load a rifle, you should clear it. First, take the magazine out/off and set it aside.

Check for a round in the chamber by opening the bolt.

• Safely eject the round if there is one in the chamber (pull the charging handle up).
• Lock the bolt open. One way to do this is by inserting a magazine that's empty. When the charging handle is pulled back, the bolt catch will be activated by the empty mag, and it will automatically lock open.
• Engage safety.

Once your AR-15 has been cleared, you can put it away, clean it, or load it.

Loading

Before you can fire your AR-15, you have to load it. First, you load the magazine.

• Against a flat, hard surface, brace the bottom of the magazine. Make sure you know which way the bullets should be inserted.
• Load the rounds into the magazine. In a staggered pattern, they will sit on top of each other. One round will sit on the right side of the mag; the next round will sit on the left side of the magazine, and so on.
• Your mag should be close to full capacity, but maybe just a couple of rounds under.
• Into the mag well, insert the magazine until it clicks. To make sure it's firmly seated, give it a little tug.
• To close the bolt, press the top portion of the bolt catch and chamber a round.
• You will be able to press the trigger once you disengage the safety. For now, however, leave it on.

Firing

The type of shooting you’re doing will determine your grip and stance. With your feet shoulder-width apart, establish an athletic posture. Put your weight forward and bend your knees slightly.

• As high as you can get it on the pistol grip, place your firing hand. Your index finger should be up and straight, well away from the trigger. Don't leave your elbow sticking out; have it pointed at the ground. On the edge of your pectoral muscle, off your shoulder, mount the stock. You will be extending the gun outward.
• With your support hand, grab the hand guard.
• So that it's pointed at the ground, pivot the gun downward while the stock is still on your shoulder. This position is your default position – or low-ready position.
• Bring the gun up to eye level when it's time to shoot. Firmly against the stock, plant your cheek. Rather than moving your face to the gun, move the gun to your face. Do not lean your head to the side.
• Line up the sights with your target. You might have to close one eye, especially if you're a beginner. It's even easier with a red dot, however. Crosshairs in a scope help, as well.
• Disengage safety once your gun is pointed at the target. With even, steady pressure, press the trigger.

Why Choose an AR-15?

What makes an AR-15 so unique? Why, when there are so many firearms on the market, do more and more people choose this type? Here are the most popular reasons:

• They're great for people who love to tinker with their firearms.
• They're perfect for use on a ranch or the farm.
• Both female shooters and beginners can use this weapon without fearing difficult operation or major kickback. For teaching youngsters the ins and outs of firearms, the AR-15 is a perfect choice.
• If you shoot competitively, this is an excellent firearm to have in your arsenal. If you want to have some fun – either alone or with a friend – you can go target shooting with your AR-15.
• As their chosen weapon of self-defense, many prefer the AR-15.
• Notoriety – The NRA has bestowed the title of "America's Rifle" to the AR-15.

Purchase Your Next AR-15 from TacOp Shop

When it comes to AR firearms, TacOp Shop has many to choose from. We also carry clips, magazines, scopes, tactical kits, and more.

Got questions? Would you like to place an order? Please contact us at 801-980-4862 or email us at info@tacopshop.com.

You can also use our convenient online form to open lines of communication if you need more information. Fill out the form, send it in, and we will reach out to you.