Does Dropping an AR Rifle Induce a Malfunction?

Does Dropping an AR Rifle Induce a Malfunction?

Ever wondered if dropping your AR rifle could mess up its performance? Let’s dive into this concern and see what’s really at play.

The Magazine’s Role in AR Functionality

Your AR’s magazine is crucial. It’s not just a container for ammo; it ensures each round feeds smoothly into the chamber. A damaged or faulty magazine can lead to:

• Failure to Feed (FTF): When a round doesn’t load into the chamber properly.
• Failure to Eject (FTE): When a spent casing isn’t expelled correctly.
• Double Feeds: Two rounds attempting to enter the chamber simultaneously.

These issues often trace back to magazine problems.

Impact of Dropping Your AR Rifle

Accidents happen. Dropping your rifle, especially onto a hard surface, can affect the magazine’s feed lips—the part that holds rounds in place. If these get bent or damaged, you might face feeding issues. However, not all magazines react the same way.

Magazine Durability Matters

Different magazines offer varying levels of durability. Here’s a quick rundown:

• USGI Aluminum Magazines: Prone to feed lip deformation when dropped.
• Polymer Magazines (e.g., Magpul PMAGs): Generally more resilient, but can still crack under severe impact.
• Steel Magazines: Durable but can bend upon hard impact.

In tests, some polymer magazines like the PMAGs showed minor cracks after drops but maintained functionality.

Real-World Testing Insights

Practical tests reveal that while some magazines can withstand drops without immediate malfunctions, repeated impacts increase the risk of issues. For instance, certain magazines lost rounds upon impact, which is unacceptable in critical situations.

Personal Experience

I’ve been shooting with various magazines for nearly a decade. In my experience, using quality magazines and maintaining them properly has prevented malfunctions, even when the rifle faced rough handling.

Preventive Measures

To keep your AR running smoothly:

• Regular Inspections: Check your magazines for signs of wear or damage.
• Proper Maintenance: Clean and lubricate your rifle and magazines regularly.
• Quality Magazines: Invest in reputable brands known for durability.

By taking these steps, you can minimize the chances of malfunctions, even if your rifle takes a tumble.

In conclusion, while dropping your AR rifle isn’t ideal, it’s not necessarily a death sentence for its functionality. Paying attention to your magazine’s condition and choosing durable options can make all the difference.