Is it easy to change the grip on an AR

[ShootAndHunt]

I like my Bushmaster, but there are still a few things I want to upgrade. The first of them is the handgrip. I just don't fall for the straight A2 grip, it is just not natural to put my hand around it. I'd like to buy a better grip, possible the First Samco Tactical. The problem is that I never changed a grip on AR-15. I looked into the A2 grip and there is a screw. Is it simple just to unscrew it, take the grip off, then screw the new grip on? or there are more complicated process such as remove the hammer and sear involved? I also want to know that what kind of tool I need to take that grip screw off? It seems pretty odd to me, not like any screws I saw before.

What kind of grip do you guys upgrade on your AR?

Thanks,

 

[CleverNickname]

Just get a long screwdriver. The detent and spring for the selector are held in by the grip, and will come out when you remove the pistol grip. They're easy to put back in. Don't worry, changing the grip is really easy.

 

[dmftoy1]

On both of my AR's the grip is held in by an allen screw. If you've got a set of standard (I think) allen wrench's you should be in good shape. I think the safety detent/spring are held in by the grip, so make sure you watch out for them.

It'll probably take you 5 minutes if you go REALLY slow.

Have a good one,
Dave

 

[Chipperman]

Most standard allen wrenches are too short to reach. I bought a long set to change my AR grip and safety.

 

[artherd]

Are there any QD grips for the AR?

 

[yorec]

Yep it's really that easy...

Dont' know of any QD grips for the AR - why would you want such a thing anyway?

My favorite grip to go to is the Hogue rubber grip with finger grooves. But there are so many different designs and gimicks out there you'll have to decide on your own. Half the fun is the shopping anyhow!

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

As others noted, it is pretty easy. Loosen the screw and then remove the grip. The firing selector detent and spring will come out on the top right side of the grip. Keep an eye on those parts as they are small and easy to lose and without them your safety will no longer work.

When you've got the new grip ready, place the safety detent in first and then the spring (there is usually a small hole in top of the grip that the spring seats into) and the place the new grip on the lower receiver and reattach it with the screw.

I recommend using blue loctite on the screw that holds the grip as it will eventually work loose if you shoot it long enough. It may take a long while but it will happen between riding around in the trunk and lots of firing.

 

[ShootAndHunt]

Thanks guys! I will go ahead and change the grip. It is very helpful to know that the saftey detent and spring will come out, now I could keep an eye on them.

 

[Rockstar]

Ah, yorec, I did know him well. I like the Hogue grip, too. Don't have any use at all for their free-float tube, though.