10 Common Causes Of Ar15 Failure To Eject

When it comes to AR-15 rifles, one of the most frustrating issues a shooter can face is a failure to eject. This malfunction can disrupt shooting sessions and impact your overall experience with the rifle. Understanding the common causes of AR-15 failure to eject is key to troubleshooting and enhancing your shooting performance. In this article, we'll explore these causes, tips for effective use, common mistakes to avoid, and troubleshooting techniques, along with a helpful FAQ section.

Understanding Failure to Eject

A failure to eject occurs when a spent cartridge case does not properly leave the chamber after the bolt moves to the rear. Instead, it can either jam in the chamber or fail to be ejected entirely. This issue is often linked to several factors that can vary depending on the rifle's design, ammunition type, and maintenance.

Common Causes of Failure to Eject

Let’s dive into the top ten reasons why your AR-15 may experience a failure to eject:

1. Dirty Chamber
   A dirty or fouled chamber can prevent the cartridge case from sliding out smoothly. Regular cleaning can help avoid this.

2. Weak Extractor Spring
   If the extractor spring is weak or damaged, it may fail to hold onto the spent cartridge case firmly enough for a proper ejection.

3. Broken Extractor
   A broken extractor can lead to failure in grabbing the cartridge case. Inspect your extractor for any visible signs of wear or damage.

4. Improper Buffer Tube Length
   Using the wrong buffer tube length can lead to cycling issues, affecting ejection. Ensure you’re using a buffer tube suited to your AR-15 configuration.

5. Incorrect Gas System Length
   If your gas system is not properly matched to your rifle's configuration (such as rifle-length, mid-length, or carbine-length), it can cause cycling problems.

6. Faulty Ammunition
   Low-quality ammunition, inconsistent powder charges, or improperly sized cases can result in failures to eject. Always use reliable, high-quality ammo.

7. Over-lubrication
   Surprisingly, too much lubricant can attract dirt and grime, leading to a gummed-up action. Maintain a proper balance in lubrication.

8. Bolt Carrier Group Issues
   Any problems in the bolt carrier group can hinder proper cycling. Ensure your BCG is clean, and the parts are functioning properly.

9. Improperly Positioned Ejector
   If the ejector is misaligned, it will not properly engage the spent cartridge, leading to failures. Check the positioning of the ejector.

10. Failure of the Magazines
    A magazine that doesn't feed properly can lead to ejection issues. Make sure your magazines are clean, functional, and suited for your rifle.

Helpful Tips and Techniques for Smooth Operation

To minimize the chances of experiencing failure to eject with your AR-15, consider these helpful tips:

• Routine Maintenance: Regularly clean your rifle, especially the chamber and bolt carrier group, to ensure smooth operation. Aim for a cleaning schedule every 300-500 rounds or as needed.

• Use Quality Components: Invest in high-quality parts such as extractors, springs, and magazines. These components play a crucial role in the overall function of your rifle.

• Test Different Ammunition: Sometimes, simply switching brands or types of ammunition can solve ejection problems. Conduct thorough testing to find what works best for your rifle.

• Check Headspace: If you suspect more serious issues, consider checking the headspace of your rifle, especially if you’ve recently had any custom work done.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When troubleshooting AR-15 failure to eject, avoid these common mistakes:

• Ignoring Cleaning: Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to a variety of issues, including ejection failures.

• Overlooking Upgrades: Failing to upgrade older components can lead to malfunctioning. If parts wear out, replace them.

• Not Testing Before a Big Day: If you have a big day of shooting planned, don't forget to test your rifle thoroughly beforehand. This helps identify any issues that could arise during the event.

• Forgetting about Lubrication: While over-lubrication is a concern, under-lubrication is just as bad. Use the correct amount to maintain optimal function.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you do encounter a failure to eject, here’s a step-by-step troubleshooting process:

1. Clear the Malfunction: Remove the magazine, lock the bolt back, and clear any stuck cartridge cases.

2. Inspect the Ejector: Remove the bolt carrier group and inspect the ejector for wear and positioning.

3. Check the Extractor: Ensure that the extractor is in good shape, and replace the spring if it feels weak.

4. Clean Thoroughly: Run a cleaning kit through the chamber and the bolt carrier group to remove any fouling.

5. Test with Different Ammo: Fire a few rounds of different ammunition to identify if it’s an ammo-related issue.

6. Seek Professional Help: If all else fails, consult a gunsmith for deeper analysis.

<table> <tr> <th>Common Cause</th> <th>Description</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Dirty Chamber</td> <td>A fouled chamber can prevent smooth cycling.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Weak Extractor Spring</td> <td>A weak spring may not grip the cartridge effectively.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Broken Extractor</td> <td>A damaged extractor won't grip the spent case.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Improper Buffer Tube Length</td> <td>Using the wrong buffer can affect cycling.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Incorrect Gas System Length</td> <td>Mismatched gas systems can lead to cycling problems.</td> </tr> </table>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if my AR-15 fails to eject?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Clear the malfunction, inspect the bolt carrier and ejector, and ensure your rifle is clean and lubricated.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can using cheap ammo cause ejection failures?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, low-quality ammunition can lead to inconsistent ejection. Always opt for reliable brands.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How often should I clean my AR-15?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>It’s a good practice to clean your AR-15 every 300-500 rounds, or more frequently if you shoot in dirty conditions.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What signs indicate a failing extractor?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>If spent cases are not being ejected at all or if the cases appear to be scratched, your extractor may need replacement.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Regular maintenance and understanding the reasons behind failure to eject are vital for every AR-15 owner. By identifying potential issues and proactively addressing them, you can greatly enhance your shooting experience.

Key Takeaways

To recap, the common causes of AR-15 failure to eject can range from dirty chambers and weak extractors to improper lubrication and faulty ammunition. Remember to maintain your rifle regularly, use quality parts, and test different ammo when needed. This knowledge empowers you to keep your AR-15 running smoothly and reliably.

Now, it’s time for you to take action! Practice what you've learned, explore other tutorials, and continue to enhance your skills with your AR-15.

<p class="pro-note">🔧Pro Tip: Regularly inspect your extractor and ejector to prevent failures before they happen!</p>