The Science Behind the Shot Understanding Ballistics A fundamental grasp of ballistics is essential for understanding the AR-15’s effective range. When a bullet leaves the muzzle, it’s subjected to a number of forces and influences that affect its trajectory. A bullet’s **trajectory** isn’t a straight line. Gravity relentlessly pulls the bullet downwards, causing it to … Read more
Enhanced Control and Stability A Solid Foundation One of the primary reasons shooters consider adding a foregrip is the potential for improved control and stability. Think about it: when you grip the rifle, your hands are crucial points of contact. A properly designed foregrip can provide a more secure and ergonomic hold, helping you manage … Read more
Introduction The AR-15 platform has become a cornerstone of American firearm culture, celebrated for its modularity, versatility, and the satisfaction of building your own. From the first-time builder to the seasoned gunsmith, the process of assembling an AR-15 is an incredibly rewarding experience. A fundamental component in this build is the upper receiver, and making … Read more
Why Lubrication Matters At its core, an AR-15 operates through a complex dance of moving parts. The bolt carrier group, the heart of the system, cycles repeatedly, extracting spent casings, loading new rounds, and preparing for the next shot. This rapid, high-pressure process generates significant friction, heat, and wear on the metal components. Without adequate … Read more
Understanding Recoil and Its Impact The Physics of Recoil and Muzzle Rise At the heart of understanding the need for a muzzle brake is understanding the physics of recoil. When a firearm is discharged, the rapid expansion of gases created by the burning propellant pushes the bullet down the barrel. Simultaneously, according to Newton’s Third … Read more
The Legacy of Spikes Tactical and the AR-15’s Modular Nature Introduction to the Company Spikes Tactical, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the firearms industry, has cultivated a strong reputation. They are known for their commitment to producing high-quality AR-15 components, including barrels, bolt carrier groups, and of course, lower receivers. Their dedication … Read more
Unveiling the Ballistics Basics: What Makes Barrel Length Matter? Muzzle Velocity At the heart of understanding barrel length lies a grasp of ballistics, the science that governs projectile motion. The 5.56 round, known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, is heavily influenced by the length of the barrel through which it travels. The primary … Read more
Introduction The AR-15. A name synonymous with the modern sporting rifle, and a platform that has captured the imagination of firearm enthusiasts across the globe. Its modular design, customizable nature, and widespread availability of parts have made it a favorite among shooters and builders alike. Central to the functionality of this iconic rifle is the … Read more
Understanding the Core Components Choosing the right components is the foundation of crafting the best AR-15 build. Every part plays a critical role in the overall performance and reliability of the rifle. Let’s explore these essential elements and the considerations involved in selecting them. The Barrel: The Heart of Accuracy The upper receiver is arguably … Read more
Deciphering Ammunition Fundamentals Caliber Conundrums: .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO One of the first things to consider is the caliber. While often used interchangeably, it is crucial to understand the differences between .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO rounds. .223 Remington: Primarily designed for civilian rifles, the .223 Remington cartridge typically operates at lower pressures than … Read more
