In the complex world of firearms, efficient use and maintenance of your tools is essential. In this particular guide, presented to you by Brownells, Inc., emphasis is placed on the correct disassembly and cleaning of your AR-15 bolt with optimal usage of the Brownells AR-15 Ejector Removal Tool; a unique solution we’ve developed for gun enthusiasts, providing a third hand in safely and effectively removing that ejector from the bolt.
This indepth demonstration initiates with disassembling the rifle to access the bolt, ensuring the rifle is unloaded and visually checked. Several elements like the firing pin, bolt cam pin and the extractor will be dealt with in the process, where a small eighth inch punch is expectedly a handy tool. The extractor spring certainly needs meticulous tracking. Once the extractor is removed, we will direct you to the actual procedure involving the ejector removal tool. It’s a step-by-step guide that will eventually lead to cleaning the ejector tube, followed by a comprehensive reassembly.
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Understanding the Brownells Ejector Removal Tool
In firearm maintenance, the use of special tools is often necessary to safely and efficiently disassemble, clean and reassemble your gun. Among the plethora of tools available, today we will focus on a unique and highly useful tool called the Brownells Ejector Removal Tool, specifically designed for the M16 and AR-15 platforms.
About Brownells Ejector Removal Tool
Manufactured by Brownells, a renowned name in the firearm maintenance tools sector, the Ejector Removal Tool was developed with precision and convenience in mind. This tool is like an additional hand that allows you to safely and effectively remove the ejector from your AR-15 or M16 bolt. The convenience of this tool lies in its design that protects the crucial components from potential damage during the removal process.
Features of the Ejector Removal Tool
The Ejector Removal Tool has a unique design that provides a secure position to place the bolt and perform the ejector removal operation. It provides direct access to the ejector retainer pin, facilitating its easy removal. This tool has an built-in ejector retainer device that gradually depresses the ejector and the spring, removing pressure from the retainer pin.
Benefits of Using the Ejector Removal Tool
The key benefits of using the Brownells Ejector Removal Tool are rooted in its efficiency and safety. Not only does it expedite the removal process, but it also ensures that all parts, specifically the ejector, retainer pin, and spring, are protected from accidental damage during their removal. This tool proves especially useful for beginners unfamiliar with the complexity of the bolt structure, as well as seasoned firearm users aiming for a smoother, quicker disassembly process.
Precautions Before Start
Before embarking on the disassembly process, it is imperative to ensure safety measures.
Ensuring the Rifle is Unloaded
It is crucial to confirm the rifle is unloaded before starting. You need to conduct a visual and physical check to ensure the chamber and magazine are clear of any rounds.
Steps for Safe Disassembly
To safely start disassembling the rifle, segregate the two halves of the rifle. Then, retract your charging handle to access the bolt carrier assembly and the bolt.
Disassembling the Rifle
With safety ensured, you can begin the disassembly process to access the bolt, which houses the ejector.
Getting to the Bolt Carrier Assembly
After separating the two halves of the rifle and pulling back the charging handle, you will gain access to the bolt carrier assembly and the bolt. At this stage, it’s essential to carefully remove them.
Removing the Firing Pin
The removal of the firing pin comes next. Simply take a small eighth-inch punch and push it to the side to drop the firing pin out.
Depressing the Bolt Rearward
Depressing the bolt rearward gives you access to the bolt cam pin, which can then be removed by slightly turning it.
Removing the Bolt Cam Pin
Once the bolt is depressed rearward, you can remove the bolt cam pin by turning it slightly. This action grants you access to the bolt separate from the bolt carrier.
Taking out the Bolt from the Bolt Carrier
After removing the bolt cam pin, the bolt can now be removed from the bolt carrier, revealing the extractor.
How to Remove the Extractor
Removing the extractor from the bolt requires care and precision.
How to Use a Punch to Retain the Extractor
While holding your extractor still, you will need to apply slight pressure with your thumb to depress the extractor. Simultaneously, use your punch to remove the extractor retaining pin.
Completely Removing the Extractor from the Bolt
Once the retaining pin is pushed to the side, you can remove the extractor from the bolt completely. In doing so, remember to keep a tab of the extractor spring and set it aside safely.
Keeping Track of the Extractor Spring
Extractor springs are small and can easily be misplaced. Ensure careful handling during the disassembly process, placing the springs in a safe area for later reassembly.
Getting to the Ejector with the Tool
With the extractor safely removed, the next step involves using the Ejector Removal Tool to withdraw the ejector.
Placing the Bolt into the Ejector Removal Tool
Place the bolt into the designated slot of the ejector removal tool. This position allows for easy access to the ejector retainer pin.
Accessing and Punching Down the Ejector Retainer Pin
With the bolt fitted into the tool, you can now punch the ejector retainer pin down into the retaining hole of the tool, transferring pressure from the pin to the body of the tool.
Slowly Screwing in the Ejector Retainer Device
Next, start gently screwing in the ejector retainer device. This process enables the ejector and the spring to have pressure released from the retaining pin, allowing for its easy removal.
Extracting the Ejector Retainer Pin
With the pressure off, it is time to extract the ejector retainer pin. Use a punch and a light hammer to gently tap on the pin, then slowly back out the screw from the tool.
Removing the Ejector and the Spring
With all retaining pins removed, you can remove the ejector and the spring from the bolt. If the spring doesn’t come out from simply tapping the bolt, use a punch to grab it and pull it out.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Ejector
Ejector maintenance involves both a visual inspection for wear or damage and cleaning.
Inspecting the Ejector for Replacement
Visually inspect the ejector. If any wear, damage or irregularities are found, it may be time for a replacement. It’s important to note that proper maintenance can prolong the life of your ejector.
Cleaning the Inside Ejector Tube
To ensure effective functioning, it is critical to clean the inside of the ejector tube that houses the ejector and its spring. Dust or grit accumulated over time can cause hindrance in its functioning.
Checking for Any Grit or Hindrance in the Ejector Tube
While cleaning the ejector tube, make it a point to carefully check for and remove any grit, dirt or blockages. These could adversely affect the performance of the ejector.
Reassembling the Bolt
Once the cleaning and inspection phase is over, it’s time to refit the components back into the bolt.
Starting with Reassembling the Ejector Spring
Begin the reassembly with the ejector spring. Make sure it fits into place correctly within the bolt body.
Next, Reassembling the Ejector
Following the ejector spring, the next component to reassemble is the ejector itself. While positioning the ejector, ensure proper alignment with the ejector pin retainer.
Aligning the Ejector Pin Retainer and the Ejector Slot
The ejector slot and pin retainer must be aligned correctly to prevent any damage during the reassembly. Test this alignment by inserting your punch into the ejector pin retaining hole. If the punch goes in without resistance, the position is correct.
Tightening the Screw to Depress the Ejector Back into the Bolt Body
With alignment confirmed, you can place the bolt back into the fixture of the tool, and tighten the screw. This action depresses the ejector and its spring back into the bolt body. Ensure that the ejector is seated correctly and in line with the retaining pin hole.
Reinstalling the Ejector Retaining Pin
The next step is to reinstall the retaining pin.
Using a Small Pair of Needlenose to Hold the Retainer Pin
To reinstall the ejector retaining pin, you may find it useful to hold it with a small pair of needlenose. This step improves precision and prevents any accidental slips.
Slowly Pounding the Retaining Pin Until it’s Flush with the Outer Bolt Body
Once the pin is in place, you can slowly pound it until it’s flush with the outer surface of the bolt body. This is a crucial step and may require patience and precision to avoid any forced damage.
Releasing the Tension on the Ejector
With the pin correctly in place, it’s now time to release the tension on the ejector. This process is typically done by removing your bolt from the Ejector Removal Tool.
Testing the Ejector for Any Resistance or Blockages
The final step before reassembling the entire rifle is to test the ejector for any resistance or blockages. Using your punch, push into the ejector. Any resistance beyond the spring tension may require another cleaning session or potentially replacement parts.
Completing the Reassembly of the Rifle
Now, we approach the final stages of this rifle maintenance journey, which involves putting it back together and ensuring it works properly.
Reassembling the Extractor and its Spring Assembly
Begin by reassembling the extractor and its spring assembly. Push them back into the bolt body.
Positioning the Extractor off to the Right Side of the Firearm
While engaging the extractor back into the bolt body, ensure it points to the right side of the firearm. This orientation is critical as it allows you to reinsert the bolt cam pin with ease.
Reinstalling the Bolt Cam Pin and the Firing Pin
With the extractor in place on the right side, you can then reinstall your bolt cam pin. Also, reinsert the firing pin and its retaining pin.
Ensuring the Movement of the Bolt through the Carrier
Before proceeding, it is important to ensure your bolt moves through the carrier without difficulty. Pull the bolt to the forward position, readying it for reassembly.
Final Checks and Conclusion
Concluding a successful maintenance session involves a final check to ensure proper assembly and functionality.
Reassembling the Two Halves of the Rifle
Pull back your charging handle slightly to the rear, align your carrier and carrier key, enabling you to put the halves back together.
Checking the Free Movement of the Bolt and the Carrier within the Action
And finally, perform a check on the operation and movement of the bolt carrier group to ensure all components are working together seamlessly and smoothly.
Final Thoughts on the Brownells Ejector Tool
The Brownells Ejector Removal Tool is a significant addition to any gun maintenance set, offering increased efficiency, effectiveness and safety. Remember that regular cleaning and maintenance employing the right tool will prolong the life of your firearm and keep it functioning reliably.
With practice and proficiency, you can handle even the most complex procedures safely and efficiently. Happy and safe shooting!
