Understanding the AR15’s Hammer
The hammer in a firearm is a striking mechanism, a precisely engineered part whose function is pivotal in the firing process. Its purpose is to deliver a forceful impact to the firing pin, initiating the ignition of the cartridge. Think of it as the crucial intermediary that translates the trigger pull into the action that propels the bullet down the barrel.
Different hammer designs exist, each suited to a specific firearm or application. From the simple single-action hammers found in some revolvers to the more complex designs used in semi-automatic rifles, the shape, weight, and mechanism of the hammer are all carefully considered by manufacturers. The type of hammer in the AR15 rifle is integral to its operation, specifically dictating the type of firing the weapon is capable of.
The standard AR15 hammer is a forged or cast steel component. Its design typically includes a body, a sear engagement surface, and a hammer face. The body provides the mass necessary for generating the impact force. The sear engagement surface interfaces with the sear, a small part that holds the hammer back until the trigger is pulled. Finally, the hammer face strikes the firing pin with considerable force. This striking force is what causes the primer of the cartridge to ignite, thus starting the chain reaction that ultimately launches the bullet.
This standard hammer is responsible for enabling the AR15’s ability to fire in semi-automatic mode, meaning that each pull of the trigger fires a single shot. The interactions between the hammer, trigger, sear, and other internal parts of the AR15 must be properly timed and coordinated to create this controlled and predictable firing sequence. The standard hammer design, when paired with the rest of the rifle’s parts, can’t facilitate a fully automatic firing mode without additional specialized components, such as an auto sear.
Full Auto Mechanism in AR15s
The term “full auto” in the context of firearms describes the capability of a firearm to fire continuously as long as the trigger is depressed and ammunition is available. The rifle will fire at its cyclic rate, which means that as soon as one round is fired, the mechanism cycles to reload and fire the next round without user input.
The core of full-auto operation in an AR15 goes beyond just the hammer; a set of distinct components is required to achieve this function. A key component is the auto sear. The auto sear interacts with the bolt carrier group in a way that allows it to release the hammer automatically after each round is fired, thus facilitating sustained automatic fire. The disconnector, a part that plays an important role in semi-automatic firearms, is often disabled or removed in full-auto AR15s. The disconnector is designed to interrupt the hammer’s engagement with the firing pin after each shot in semi-automatic rifles, preventing the hammer from falling again until the trigger is released and pulled once more.
The specific design of the AR15 full auto hammer differentiates it from its semi-automatic counterpart. The full auto hammer is often manufactured with slight design modifications, or may contain additional material to interface with components like the auto sear. These modifications allow the hammer to be released by the auto sear in order to facilitate continuous firing as long as the trigger remains depressed and the ammunition supply continues. The hammer’s function is thus modified to allow it to reset and strike the firing pin again and again, without the user having to manually release the trigger between each shot. The timing and coordination of these actions are crucial. The hammer must be released at the correct point in the cycle of operation for reliable and safe automatic firing.
Historical Overview
The genesis of the AR15 is rooted in the needs of military warfare. The rifle was developed by ArmaLite in the late 1950s. Eugene Stoner, the lead designer, envisioned a lightweight, modular, and efficient rifle that could chamber the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge. The AR15’s early development focused on achieving this core design goal.
The evolution of the AR15 included both semi-automatic and automatic variants. The early AR15 designs, including the prototype model, were created with the possibility of full-auto operation in mind. When the AR15 was adopted by the US military, its capability was extended to include the full-auto firing mode.
Colt, a major manufacturer of firearms, played an important role in the commercialization and popularization of the AR15 platform. Colt purchased the rights to manufacture the AR15 from ArmaLite, and it was Colt that brought the AR15 to the civilian market. Early production AR15s included both semi-automatic and full-automatic models. The full-auto versions were primarily destined for military and law enforcement use. Over time, and with evolving legal and regulatory considerations, full auto AR15 production for civilian use was heavily restricted.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
The legal landscape surrounding the AR15 full auto hammer and similar components is complex and highly regulated in the United States. At the heart of this regulation is the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934, which was enacted in response to the rising rates of gang violence during prohibition and the advent of fully automatic firearms. The NFA imposed strict controls on the manufacture, transfer, and possession of certain firearms, including machine guns, which is the legal term for a firearm that can fire more than one shot automatically without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.
The legality of owning a full-auto AR15 in the US is a complex matter. Federally, fully automatic firearms are regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). In order to legally own a full-auto AR15, an individual must meet a number of requirements, including proper registration with the ATF, rigorous background checks, and the payment of a federal tax. These firearms are typically registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record (NFRTR).
One key point is that, due to legal changes, there’s a distinction between “pre-ban” and “post-ban” firearms. Generally, only full-auto AR15s manufactured before a specific date (often before 1986) are transferable to civilians. The supply of legally transferable full-auto AR15s is therefore limited. The rarity and strict regulations contribute to significant expense, as well as limited availability.
Individual states also have their own sets of laws and regulations, which may be even more restrictive than federal law. States may prohibit the ownership of full-auto firearms entirely, or they may impose additional restrictions on their purchase, possession, or transfer. Understanding both federal and state laws is essential before considering any action related to full-auto AR15s. Violating these laws can lead to serious consequences, including significant fines and imprisonment. Unlawful possession or modification of firearms is a serious crime, and the potential for legal repercussions should be weighed heavily.
Modification and Conversions (Disclaimer Required)
WARNING: The following information is for informational purposes only. Illegally modifying a firearm is a serious federal offense with severe penalties. Attempting to convert a semi-automatic AR15 to full-auto without proper licensing and knowledge is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited.
If one is permitted by federal and local law to acquire an AR15 full auto, they are generally required to go through the legal procedures. Legal paths typically involve having an existing weapon that has been legally registered. This usually involves a formal registration and transfer process, including background checks and payment of taxes.
Safety Considerations
Regardless of the firearm’s mode of operation, safety is the paramount concern for all gun owners. With a higher rate of fire than semi-automatic rifles, full-auto firearms require specialized handling techniques and greater vigilance. The potential for accidental discharge and the need for constant awareness are significantly increased.
The increased rate of fire in full-auto AR15s demands a heightened level of training and experience. Users must have a deep understanding of firearm safety principles, along with the appropriate skills necessary to control the weapon effectively. Handling any firearm, especially a full-auto weapon, without proper training and familiarity is a recipe for disaster.
Conclusion
The AR15 full auto hammer is a pivotal component in the broader operation of a firearm. Its function is essential for enabling automatic fire, and understanding its role is critical for anyone interested in the AR15 platform. The legal and regulatory aspects surrounding full-auto firearms are extensive, and any individual who is interested in owning or operating these types of firearms must understand the existing federal and state laws. Responsible gun ownership, including thorough training, safe handling practices, and strict adherence to all applicable laws, are of utmost importance.
It is crucial for anyone considering dealing with any firearms components to be knowledgeable about all existing laws and regulations. The law is strict, and the consequences of ignoring these regulations could be severe. By learning about the various components, potential owners can make informed decisions.
Important Note: *This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified legal professional for information and direction.*
