Assault Rifles and the AR15

  In this article I would like to take a look at the differences between an assault rifle and a semi-auto rifle as it is applied to the M16 and AR15 weapons systems. They look very similar on the outside, in fact many of the parts are interchangeable. However, if you look very close you will see some differences.

  The M16 Assault Rifle

  The M16 has an extra pin in the lower receiver that is part of the fire control group. The fire control group is the trigger, disconnector, auto sear, hammer, and safety selector. The M16 can fire a single shot, burst, or full auto depending on the parts used and the position of the selector. The M16 is an assault weapon due to the fact it can fire more than one shot with a single pull of the trigger.

  The AR15 Semi-Automatic Rifle

  This is important to remember and why the AR15 is not an assault weapon. The AR15 can only fire a single shot with each pull of the trigger, making it a semi-auto rifle. It does not have an auto sear. The safety selector only has two positions, safe and fire. Most parts can be purchased without any special licenses. However, if you need to purchase a receiver or a complete AR15 online, you will need to have it sent to a Firearms Dealer that has a valid Federal Firearms License.

Complete AR15 Lower Receiver

  Any of the parts of a firearm that have a serial number need to be sent to an FFL Dealer before they can be transferred to you. Be sure to check all your local laws before purchasing any firearms or parts.

  So, please remember to be safe and as always, keep it down range.