How to Properly Shoot an AR-15 for Beginners

23rd Jun 2021

Picture of a man shooting an Ar-15

If you're a first-time gun owner or brand-new to the AR platform, you may be learning how to shoot an AR for the first time. An article cannot take the place of in-person training from a qualified instructor. However, we hope to guide you in the right direction and provide you with some safety tips for shooting your AR-platform rifle or pistol.

Shooting An AR-15: Rules for Safe Gun Handling

If this is your first time shooting an AR-15, following the four basic rules of safe gun handling can help you ensure a fun, safe day on the range. Practicing safe gun handling is a must anytime you pick up a firearm — whether you're an AR-15 beginner or an experienced shooter.

Picture of an x-ray of an AR-15

Before firing your AR-15, know these rules:

  • Always treat the AR-15 as if it's loaded — no exceptions.
  • Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times, and never aim at something you don't intend to shoot.
  • Until you are ready to fire, keep your finger well away from the trigger.
  • Always be aware of your target and what is behind it.

How To Shoot an AR-15: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's look at how to shoot the AR-15 as a beginner.

Loading

  1. Visually confirm that the chamber and magazine well are empty and that the fire/safe selector is set to “safe.”
  2. With the bolt closed or fully forward, firmly insert a loaded magazine until you feel it engage.
  3. Strike the bottom of the magazine to ensure it's locked in, then give it a gentle tug to confirm.
  4. Pull the charging handle fully back toward you. The bolt moving back will force the dust cover open.
  5. Release the charging handle. The bolt will travel forward under spring pressure, stripping a round from the magazine and chambering it.

Firing

Picture of man shooting a rifle

  1. As an AR-15 beginner, always keep the gun on “safe” and your finger away from the trigger until you're ready to shoot.
  2. When you're on target, flip the fire/safe selector straight up to "fire". Take a deep breath, exhale halfway, and give the trigger a steady squeeze.
  3. Whenever you come off the gun and stop shooting, return the firearm to the safe.

Unloading An AR-15 For Beginners

  1. Once the magazine is empty, the bolt should lock to the rear. The simplest way to make sure the bolt is locked back is to rotate the AR-15 so you can get a good view of the ejection port.
  2. Confirm that the bolt is locked back on an empty magazine. Now, press the magazine release so that it drops free.
  3. If you want to keep shooting, press the bolt release after inserting a new magazine. The bolt will move forward and chamber a round.
  4. If you're done for the day, ensure that the firearm is set to “safe” and store it securely.

Improve Your AR-15 Basics and Equipment with Wing Tactical

Picture of an AR-15

Even as a beginner, the AR-15 is based on an incredibly versatile platform that the military has used for many years. When you're ready to build or upgrade your AR, get your parts with lightning-fast shipping from Wing Tactical. For more guides on how to shoot an AR-15 and firearm care, be sure to check out our blog.

Contact Wing Tactical with questions, or check out our vast inventory of top-quality AR-15 parts and accessories to optimize your firearms for the best possible shooting experience. 

Additional Shooting Tips: