For those new to the use of an AR 15, the function of the AR 15 gas block can sometimes be a bit of a mystery. Located to the front of the barrel, this device is used to capture or divert some of the gas that is produced when the bullet is fired.
A good way to think of it is as a diverter. It will allow some of the gas produced from the actual powder of the bullet to be redirected through the gas block and down the gas tube. This can be a significant amount of gas that is recycled or harnessed to create the ability to quickly fire the next round.
Then, this powerful burst of gas goes through what is known as the gas key and works to propel the bolt back. This extra push helps the bolt actually to pull the already fired, spent casing out of the breech of the gun.
However, that isn’t all this harnessed power is used for. At the same time, the buffer spring will engage because of the force of the bolt moving backwards, and this causes the bolt to then drive forward, pulling the next cartridge from the magazine into the chamber, so the weapon is ready to fire.
Maintenance Free
A well-designed AR 15 gas block is really a maintenance-free component of the gun. The burst of gas itself keeps the component free from debris, and unless the gun is put through extreme types of use or storage conditions, there really should be no need to clean or remove the component.
In some situations, an older style of gas block can be replaced with a new one if so desired. Remember, without a gas block in place on the weapon discharging the weapon will allow that explosion of gas and unburnt powder to shoot out of the top of the barrel. The weapon, without the extra support from the gas to move the bolt, will also cease to function as a semiautomatic weapon.
If you do wish to change out a AR 15 gas block look for a low profile type of design that will work with your current gas tubes. This will be important as you don’t want to have to change out everything, which can become a complicated process and procedure unless you are very familiar with working on the AR 15s.
