The AR15 Firing Pin Made a Bold First Impression
The AR15 Firing Pin is a seemingly simple, yet absolutely vital component in the AR-15 platform. It’s the unsung hero that ignites the primer and sets off the chain reaction that sends rounds downrange. As someone with over a decade of experience in the tactical gear and firearms arena, I’ve seen firing pins fail, and I’ve learned that not all firing pins are created equal. This AR15 Firing Pin, boasting a stainless steel (SS) construction, promises reliability and durability, qualities I’m always seeking in my gear.
What led me to this particular AR15 Firing Pin was a combination of factors. Firstly, I was looking to upgrade the firing pin in my go-to AR-15 build. Secondly, I needed a dependable backup firing pin for my range bag because Murphy’s Law is a constant companion when firearms are involved.
Unboxing the AR15 Firing Pin wasn’t exactly a dramatic event, given its size. However, the first impression was one of solid, clean craftsmanship. The stainless steel appeared well-machined and free of any visible imperfections, a stark contrast to some of the cheaper, imported pins I’ve encountered.
When choosing an AR15 Firing Pin, I considered offerings from other manufacturers known for quality AR components, such as Brownells and CMMG. I chose this AR15 Firing Pin primarily due to its advertised material and cost-effectiveness. Brownells is great, but a bit pricier for a pin.
My initial thought was optimistic, but cautiously so. A firing pin might appear simple, but its performance hinges on precise dimensions and heat treatment. Only real-world testing would reveal if this AR15 Firing Pin could deliver on its promise of reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting AR15 Firing Pin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the AR15 Firing Pin came during a carbine course at a local shooting range. The course involved a high volume of fire under relatively demanding conditions. I swapped out my existing firing pin with the new stainless steel AR15 Firing Pin prior to the start of the course.
During the carbine course, the weather was dry and dusty. The AR15 Firing Pin performed flawlessly throughout the entire day. There were no light strikes or failures to fire, even with a variety of ammunition types.
The AR15 Firing Pin was drop-in ready with no gunsmithing required. It was a straightforward swap in the bolt carrier group. No adjustments or modifications were needed.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The AR15 Firing Pin proved to be reliable and consistent, instilling confidence in its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds fired, the AR15 Firing Pin continues to perform admirably. It’s been subjected to varying weather conditions, from hot summer days at the range to colder, damp outings in the fall. It still holds up.
There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear on the AR15 Firing Pin. A quick visual inspection after each range session shows no cracks, chips, or excessive deformation. The stainless steel construction appears to be holding its own against the constant impact.
Cleaning and maintaining the AR15 Firing Pin is simple. A quick wipe-down with a cloth and occasional application of a light coat of oil keeps it running smoothly. The stainless steel resists corrosion, making maintenance even easier.
Previously, I’ve experienced firing pin failures with cheaper, mil-spec replacements. This AR15 Firing Pin has vastly outperformed those previous experiences. Its reliability inspires much more confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of AR15 Firing Pin
Specifications
- Color: Stainless Steel (SS). This inherently offers better corrosion resistance than a standard parkerized steel pin.
- Material: Stainless Steel. This is crucial as it resists corrosion and wear, extending the pin’s lifespan, especially under heavy use.
- Compatibility: Designed for standard AR-15 bolt carrier groups. This ensures it’s a drop-in replacement for most AR-15 builds.
These specifications matter because the firing pin is directly responsible for igniting the primer of the cartridge. A quality firing pin like this one made of stainless steel ensures consistent and reliable ignition, reducing the risk of malfunctions.
Performance & Functionality
The AR15 Firing Pin excels in its primary function: reliably striking the primer and initiating the firing sequence. It does so consistently, contributing to the overall reliability of the AR-15 platform.
The strength of this AR15 Firing Pin lies in its consistent performance and durable construction. A potential area for improvement could be a slightly tighter tolerance to minimize any potential for slam fires in certain AR-15 builds, although this hasn’t been an issue in my testing.
The AR15 Firing Pin meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s a reliable, cost-effective component that adds peace of mind to my AR-15 setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The AR15 Firing Pin is a simple cylindrical design, adhering to the standard AR-15 firing pin dimensions. The stainless steel construction gives it a robust feel, and its smooth finish contributes to its reliability within the bolt carrier.
The AR15 Firing Pin is user-friendly. There is no learning curve because it is a standard drop-in replacement part.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the AR15 Firing Pin should last for thousands of rounds with proper maintenance. It’s designed to withstand the repetitive impact and high temperatures associated with AR-15 operation.
The AR15 Firing Pin is extremely easy to maintain and repair. Simply clean it regularly and replace it when signs of wear become apparent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AR15 Firing Pin itself doesn’t have accessories, but it integrates seamlessly with any standard AR-15 bolt carrier group. There are no customization options for the firing pin itself.
The AR15 Firing Pin is compatible with aftermarket bolt carrier groups and enhanced AR-15 components. Because it adheres to mil-spec dimensions it will work with other brand’s AR-15 parts.
Pros and Cons of AR15 Firing Pin
Pros
- Stainless steel construction for enhanced corrosion resistance and durability.
- Consistent and reliable ignition, minimizing the risk of malfunctions.
- Direct drop-in replacement for most AR-15 bolt carrier groups.
- Cost-effective upgrade compared to mil-spec firing pins.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
Cons
- Stainless steel can be softer than some tool steels, potentially leading to faster wear in extremely high-volume shooting scenarios.
- Simple design lacks advanced features found in some premium firing pins (e.g., enhanced coatings).
Who Should Buy AR15 Firing Pin?
Perfect for: AR-15 owners looking for a reliable, cost-effective upgrade to their existing firing pin. Gun owners who desire the added corrosion resistance of stainless steel.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking ultimate, match-grade performance and are willing to pay a premium for specialized firing pins with advanced coatings or lighter materials.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None are strictly required, but a spare firing pin retaining pin is always a good idea to have on hand when performing maintenance or replacements.
Conclusion on AR15 Firing Pin
Overall, the AR15 Firing Pin offers a solid value proposition. Its stainless steel construction and reliable performance make it a worthwhile upgrade or replacement part for any AR-15 owner.
The price of $12.99 is more than justified given its quality and durability. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve the reliability of your AR-15.
I would personally recommend the AR15 Firing Pin to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable firing pin. It’s a no-nonsense component that performs its job admirably. Upgrade your AR-15’s reliability today – you won’t regret it.