I learned something new (to me) about the AR

[AOTAC]

So, for my first post here I thought I would share a story that embarrassed me a bit, having owned AR's as long as I have. Just when I thought I knew all there was to know aside from the newly manufactured stuff, I was humbled. Isn't life grand that way?

I never knew that if the gas tube overheated to melting, the rifle could still be operated as a bolt action using the charging handle.

Maybe everyone knew that and I'm just the village idiot(I'll take it), but perhaps it'll be a learning opportunity for someone else.
Since we're at it, have you discovered something about the AR that you should've known about?

[bamashooter]

Likely some AR owners users know this but more likely the vast majority of AR owners do well to fire the sob (imo).

[The Dumb Gun Collector]

I don't think I knew that either but it does make sense.

[okie]

It never crossed my mind, but yea I guess it would. You might have some nasty burns on your hand though.

[TomMcC]

Not a critique of the OP, but every video I've seen where the M4/AR was shot to failure it was the barrel that let go before the gas tube. Maybe I've just not seen enough video of these kinds of things.

[C-grunt]

Not a critique of the OP, but every video I've seen where the M4/AR was shot to failure it was the barrel that let go before the gas tube. Maybe I've just not seen enough video of these kinds of things.

Ive definitely seen the gas tube rupture during destructive testing videos. I cant remember if it was Colt's video or one done by IV8888 though.

[C-grunt]

Here is the Colt test I was talking about. I cant find the original video. The gas tube ruptures around 4:25 in the video and he shoots several rounds bolt action style after.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kzfm4pYhIyY

[C-grunt]

MrGunsNGear did a melt down and the gas tube ruptured at 1075ish rounds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WD0W4ry0LY

[Tanner]

Had no idea that was possible

[Stickman]

If more people dry fired, this would be more instinctive...

Malfunction clearances are the same way, and believe me, I should be doing more of both. The only reason I'm here (alive) is because of malfunction clearance training and drills.