[lonyaeger]

Is the forward release on the AR kinda like the human appendix?

While I realize that the forward release serves a function (unlike the appendix), much of the research I've done tells me NEVER to use it and that it's kind of a superfluous part of the rifle left over from the battlefield, where it was used to help seat cartridges that might jam a little because of fouling built up from LOTS of usage.

Do any of you ever use this feature on your ARs?

[crockett007]

Originally Posted by lonyaeger

Is the forward release on the AR kinda like the human appendix?

While I realize that the forward release serves a function (unlike the appendix), much of the research I've done tells me NEVER to use it and that it's kind of a superfluous part of the rifle left over from the battlefield, where it was used to help seat cartridges that might jam a little because of fouling built up from LOTS of usage.

Do any of you ever use this feature on your ARs?

I think you are referring to the forward assist. "Never use it"? It's one of those things that you don't use unless you need it. Odds are, depending on how you use your rifle, you won't need to, but, it has the potential to save your life in a FTRTB situation, caused by fouling, ammunition, or mechanical failure.

I haven't used the forward assist since I left the Army, where by the way, it was used quite a bit. There are several AR's on the market that are "slick sides". i.e. - no FA and no dust cover. I have one, but It's not a combat weapon, just used for small game and target work. My M4 Carbine has an FA, and, I'm glad it's there "just in case".

cheers

[Gatekeeper]

You can single load a round, slowly ride the charging handle forward as far as it will go, then push the FA to get the bolt to seat in battery.
Its a little bit quieter than just dropping the bolt. Can be useful for hunting or where you need to keep noise to a minimum.



This is all in theory because I'm not allowed to hunt with semi-auto's in PA

[lonyaeger]

Originally Posted by crockett007

I think you are referring to the forward assist. "Never use it"? It's one of those things that you don't use unless you need it. Odds are, depending on how you use your rifle, you won't need to, but, it has the potential to save your life in a FTRTB situation, caused by fouling, ammunition, or mechanical failure.

I haven't used the forward assist since I left the Army, where by the way, it was used quite a bit. There are several AR's on the market that are "slick sides". i.e. - no FA and no dust cover. I have one, but It's not a combat weapon, just used for small game and target work. My M4 Carbine has an FA, and, I'm glad it's there "just in case".

cheers

Of course, I meant "Forward Assist." Thanks for your response!

[afi1]

It's not a bad habit to start tapping every time you throw in a new mag. That's how we're trained, and it's come in handy a few times already. I'm also left handed, so I hit it with my non firing hand. I can do just about everything better left handed on a basic AR except for work the selector switch, that takes adjusting my grip a little and hitting it with my thumb.

[DarinCraft]

The only time I needed it I was glad I had it. I had an obstruction keeping the bolt from going to battery, so I used the forward assist to seat the bolt so I could take it apart.