how to dryfire ar15

2 min read 19-01-2025

Dry firing, the practice of manipulating your AR-15's action without live ammunition, is a crucial element of marksmanship training. It allows you to develop muscle memory, refine your trigger control, and practice malfunctions drills without expending ammunition or incurring range fees. However, improper dry firing can damage your firearm. This guide details the safe and effective ways to dry fire your AR-15.

Essential Safety Precautions for Dry Firing

Always prioritize safety. Before even considering dry firing, ensure you understand and follow these critical steps:

Treat every firearm as if it were loaded: This is the fundamental rule of firearm safety. Never assume your rifle is unloaded.
Positive Identification: Visually and physically check your firearm to confirm it's completely unloaded. Open the ejection port and bolt catch. Inspect the chamber thoroughly.
Point the firearm in a safe direction: Always point your rifle downrange at a safe backstop, even during dry firing.
Keep your finger off the trigger: Until you're ready to fire (even a dry fire), keep your finger straight and off the trigger.
Use a snap cap: A snap cap mimics the weight and dimensions of a live round, protecting the firing pin from damage. This is crucial and should never be omitted.

How to Dry Fire Your AR-15 with a Snap Cap

Install a Snap Cap: Insert the snap cap into the chamber just like a live round.
Charge the Weapon: Cycle the charging handle fully to the rear and release. This will chamber the snap cap.
Assume Shooting Position: Adopt your normal shooting stance and grip.
Focus on Trigger Control: Slowly and smoothly press the trigger, concentrating on a clean and consistent break.
Reset the Trigger: Release the trigger fully, allowing it to reset.
Repeat: Practice this process repeatedly, paying close attention to your trigger control and stance.

Benefits of Dry Firing

Regular dry firing offers significant advantages:

Improves Trigger Control: Dry firing allows you to isolate and perfect your trigger pull without the distraction of recoil.
Develops Muscle Memory: Repetitive practice builds muscle memory, leading to faster and more accurate shots.
Enhances Precision: Dry firing helps refine your sight alignment and trigger control, enhancing accuracy.
Cost-Effective Practice: It's a budget-friendly way to improve your shooting skills without constantly buying ammunition.

Addressing Potential Issues

Damaged Firing Pin: Failure to use a snap cap can damage your firing pin over time. This is the most common problem associated with improper dry firing.
Bolt Lock Issues: While not common, some AR-15s may exhibit slight bolt lock issues after prolonged dry firing. It's still crucial to use a snap cap.

Beyond Basic Dry Fire: Advanced Drills

Dry firing isn't limited to basic trigger work. You can incorporate advanced drills, such as:

Malfunction Drills: Practice clearing malfunctions (like stovepipes or double feeds) without live rounds.
Transition Drills: Practice moving between targets while maintaining proper trigger control.
Speed Drills: Gradually increase your pace, but always maintaining safety and control.

Remember to consult your AR-15's owner's manual for any specific dry-firing recommendations.

Conclusion

Dry firing your AR-15 is a valuable training tool when done correctly. By following these safety guidelines and utilizing a snap cap, you can safely improve your shooting skills and become a more proficient shooter. Always remember that safety is paramount. Never compromise safety for expediency. Consistent practice, combined with safe techniques, will yield significant improvements in your shooting abilities. Remember to always check your firearm and treat it as loaded.