One
Go
here and learn the nomenclature of the parts. Use of the correct nomenclature will prevent us from asking non productive questions. Charts can be found at these links.
photos.ar15.com/ImageGallery/Attachments/DownloadAttach.asp?iImageUnq=16143photos.ar15.com/ImageGallery/Attachments/DownloadAttach.asp?iImageUnq=16185photos.ar15.com/ImageGallery/Attachments/DownloadAttach.asp?iImageUnq=16917photos.ar15.com/ImageGallery/Attachments/DownloadAttach.asp?iImageUnq=19408Two
Read the
Troubleshooting Checklist announcement at the top of this Forum and check your rifle against it. Read the
FAQ.
Three
Read
the TM and understand it. Many problems with FrankenARs are related to improper assembly. Modifying correct parts, or using non standard parts, is ALWAYS a last resort here. We try to fix the problem not the symptom.
Four
If you are not using USGI mags and USGI ammo, we will tell you to try them and get back to us. Only post if you are certain the problem is not with your
magazines or
ammunition. Information on both is available in their fora.
Five
If your rifle has a warranty and you have no background in ARs we're probably going to tell you to send it back. That is the only way the replicators will learn to do it right. Do yourself a favor and use that "customer service" and "life time warranty" you paid extra for. See Rule Nine.
Six
Post a
complete description of the rifle, the ammo, and the malfunction. Brand names are helpful and pictures are a plus.
Seven
This forum is not the place for "Who makes the best AR?" questions. If you’re looking for an arguement go over to EdSr's
place and run with the big dogs.
Eight
The further your rifle gets from the base design the more problems you're going to have. The more modifications you make to your rifle the more problems you are going to have.
Nine
To avoid problems with ARs buy one, as directly as possible, from either Colt , RRA, or Bushmaster. Due to the amount of bad parts out there and the myriad possible combinations, building your first one from the ground up is a bad plan.
Ten
You are solely responsible for modifications made to your rifle. I, AR15.com, AR15.com's operators, and AR15.com’s members share no liability, implied or otherwise, in your actions. It's your rifle, your money, your life, and, ultimately, your decision. Free advice is worth exactly what you pay for it.
DISCLAIMER ANYONE TAKING ADVICE AND/OR INSTRUCTION ON THE MODIFICATION OF ANY FIREARM FROM THIS SITE DOES SO WITH THE EXPRESS KNOWLEDGE THAT SUCH ADVICE/INSTRUCTION IS NOT GUARANTEED AND COULD LEAD TO THE USER'S INJURY OR DEATH. PLEASE DO NOT MODIFY YOUR WEAPON BASED SOLELY ON WHAT YOU READ ON THIS SITE; ALWAYS CONSULT A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH BEFORE MAKING MODIFICATIONS.