How to Field-Strip an AR-15

In this video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, you'll learn how to disassemble and reassemble your modern sporting rifle.

posted on July 20, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Whether you call it an AR-15, a modern sporting rifle or a black rifle, this style of rifle is America's runaway favorite! The modern sporting rifle is versatile, accurate and fun to shoot ... but its inner workings are more complex than Grandma's old bolt-action. In this video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, instructor Ken Scott shows you the basics of field-stripping your AR-15.

Field-stripping is really nothing more than disassembling, cleaning and reassembling your gun. Knowing how to do it will not only make it easy for you to keep your black rifle in terrific working order, it will also give you more confidence in your rifle and your ability to use it effectively. As Scott says, "there's a lot going on here," but with this video and your friend the owner's manual, we know you've got this. 

Want to read up on how to do the same thing for your semi-automatic handgun? Check out this previous installment of GUNSMARTS here!

Latest

Deering Ccw In Winter Istock 2184011916
Deering Ccw In Winter Istock 2184011916

How the Seasons Affect Your Concealed Carry

Your CCW system might change with the seasons in two primary ways.

New Gear 2026: Concealed Carry, Holsters and Self-Defense

Take a peek at a few of the newly discovered, newly released, and possible future products we came across at the 2026 SHOT Show.

New Guns 2026: Benelli 828U SuperSport A.I. Over-Under Shotgun

The new platform has delivered tighter shot strings and patterns with up to 50 percent deeper penetration and increased velocity compared to conventional shotgun barrels.

5 External Factors That Affect a Firearm’s Performance

Even the best rifle and scope combination is no match for Mother Nature. Here are ways to deal with each challenge.

Game Wardens: Facts Vs. Fiction

What can—and can't—a game warden do as part of his or her official duties? The author, who is married to a retired career Texas game warden, tells all she knows.

Top Firearm Picks from SHOT Show 2026

A few trends among the thousands of exhibits stood out at SHOT Show 2026, including the abundance of new suppressors and suppressor-ready firearms; budget guns that don't skimp on features; and new modular firearms.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.