Will an AR "loosen-up" over time?

[Hokkmike]

When Righteousbarbarian put up the thread about cheap AR's I though it was talking about mine. (it wasn't)

I have an AR built with Army parts on an Essential Arms pre-ban receiver. It is a good looking piece and reminds of the weapon I used in the USAF in the 70's.

It likes a LOT of lubrication and is finicky about ammo.

My questions is, will it loosen up and improve in reliability over time as the parts wear and "break-in", so to speak?

What do you think?

 

[taliv]

if by "finicky about ammo", you mean, "won't function with crappy ammo" reliably, then no. i would not expect the situation to improve over time.

some parts will wear more than others, but I haven't noticed a change in reliability based on round count. I replace the springs and some bolt parts occasionally, but that doesn't sound like what you're talking about.

All ARs like a LOT of lube.

If you are using a respectable amount of lube and quality ammo, and it's still not reliable, then take it to a good gunsmith.

 

[jpwilly]

AR's like good mags and FMJ's they should function fine otherwise. The only feeding issues I've had with my M4 have been due some cheap mags (PROMAG) and on occasion HP ammo will jam on the feed ramp. Good USGI mags and FMJ or SP ammo should feed 99.99% in a clean lubed rifle.

All new firearms should function better once broken in. Basically rough machine marks and tight tolorances do smooth out / loosen up and the firearm will function with less friction. Just like a new engine in a car. Be sure to change the oil more often during break in!

 

[TX1911fan]

I use cheap ammo (Wolf) in HP and haven't had any problem in over 1000 rounds. I clean it religiously after every session. It's an RRA with chrome lined barrel. I keep it lubed, but not dripping.

 

[erict]

Mags have been my #1 reliability issue as well. When using good quality mags the reliability of my AR's multiplys x10.

 

[kaizer]

If it is a feeding issue check your magazine and see what your feed ramp situation looks like.

 

[Frog48]

When I first got my Bushmaster, the first 2-3 times I took it to the range, I'd have to tap the forward assist occasionally to get a round to chamber.

Nowadays, it doesnt happen anymore. I figure that after tearing it down and reassembling it for cleaning, along with more and more shooting, it has smoothed itself out.

 

[Euclidean]

They do "feel" differently, smoother, easier, and somewhat "looser", after they've been used some, but I don't know if it's because I'm more skilled with manipulating the rifle's controls or because it "breaks in".

 

[Frog48]

but I don't know if it's because I'm more skilled with manipulating the rifle's controls or because it "breaks in".

Good point, everything feels smoother and easier as you gain proficiency.