How to Make an AR-15 Full Auto: A Comprehensive Guide
Transforming your semi-automatic AR-15 into a fully automatic firearm can be an exciting project, but it’s important to understand the legal implications and technical requirements involved. Before you begin, ensure that you are legally allowed to modify your firearm and that you have the necessary skills and tools to do so safely. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Understanding the Legalities
Before you start, it’s crucial to be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding full-auto firearms. In the United States, full-auto firearms are heavily regulated, and it’s illegal to convert a semi-auto firearm into a full-auto without proper authorization. This means you’ll need to obtain a Type 76 transferable machine gun (TMG) license from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) and comply with all the necessary paperwork and fees.
Additionally, you must ensure that the conversion process is done by a licensed firearms manufacturer or dealer. This is not a project for the faint-hearted or those without the proper knowledge and experience.
Tools and Materials Needed
Here’s a list of the tools and materials you’ll need for the conversion process:
| Tool/Item | Description |
|---|---|
| AR-15 Lower Receiver | The lower receiver is the part of the firearm that houses the trigger mechanism and is the part that requires the ATF license. |
| Full-Auto Fire Control Group | This includes the hammer, sear, disconnector, and spring. These parts are designed to allow the firearm to fire continuously when the trigger is pulled. |
| Full-Auto Seating Die | This tool is used to seat the full-auto fire control group into the lower receiver. |
| AR-15 Upper Receiver | The upper receiver is the part of the firearm that houses the barrel and is not subject to the same regulations as the lower receiver. |
| Full-Auto Bolt Carrier Group | This is the part of the firearm that cycles the rounds and is designed to work with the full-auto fire control group. |
| AR-15 Magazine | Ensure that you have a magazine compatible with your firearm. |
| Gunsmithing Tools | These include a screwdriver set, punches, and a torque wrench. |
Step-by-Step Conversion Process
Follow these steps to convert your AR-15 into a full-auto firearm:
- Remove the existing fire control group from the lower receiver.
- Install the full-auto fire control group into the lower receiver using the full-auto seating die.
- Install the full-auto bolt carrier group into the upper receiver.
- Install the upper receiver onto the lower receiver.
- Install the magazine and ensure that the firearm is properly assembled.
- Test the firearm to ensure that it operates correctly and safely.
Important Safety Precautions
When working on a firearm, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some important safety precautions to follow:
- Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Ensure that the firearm is unloaded before beginning the conversion process.
- Use eye and ear protection when testing the firearm.
- Seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any part of the conversion process.
Conclusion
Converting your AR-15 into a full-auto firearm is a complex and legally sensitive process. It requires a thorough understanding of the laws and regulations, as well as the proper tools and skills. If you’re not confident in your ability to perform the conversion safely and legally, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Always prioritize safety and legality when working with firearms.
