The Allure of Rimfire: Why Convert Your AR-15?
Shooting is a pastime enjoyed by millions, but it can sometimes be a costly endeavor. Centerfire ammunition, especially for popular calibers like .223/5.56, can quickly drain a budget. Enter the .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) cartridge. This diminutive round offers an unmatched combination of affordability and accessibility. A box of .22LR ammunition can cost a fraction of what you’d pay for centerfire rounds, making it a perfect choice for high-volume shooting. This lower cost allows you to spend more time at the range honing your skills without breaking the bank.
Beyond the financial benefits, the .22LR conversion is an excellent tool for refining your shooting skills. The .22LR cartridge produces significantly less recoil than centerfire rounds. This allows shooters of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans, to focus on fundamental shooting techniques like stance, grip, sight alignment, trigger control, and breathing without the distraction of heavy recoil. The reduced recoil also allows for quicker follow-up shots and more effective practice sessions.
The AR-15 platform is known for its ergonomics and familiarity. Converting it to .22LR allows you to train with the same platform you use for centerfire shooting, making the transition seamless. You can practice transitions, malfunction drills, and other tactical exercises using the .22LR setup, saving money on ammunition and reducing wear and tear on your primary rifle.
Furthermore, the AR-15 .22LR conversion opens up a world of recreational possibilities. Plinking at tin cans, shooting paper targets, and even small game hunting become enjoyable and accessible experiences with the .22LR. It’s a great way to get started in shooting or to introduce friends and family to the sport in a safe, cost-effective manner.
The adaptability of the AR-15 platform is another significant advantage. After the conversion, your AR-15 isn’t just a .22LR rifle. You can easily switch back to your original centerfire configuration whenever you desire, giving you the best of both worlds. This dual-purpose functionality makes the AR-15 .22LR conversion a smart investment for any AR-15 owner.
Exploring the Conversion Kit Landscape
The market offers various ways to convert your AR-15 to .22LR, each with its pros and cons. Understanding these options is key to choosing the best fit for your needs and budget.
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Conversion Kits
One option is the bolt carrier group (BCG) conversion kit. These kits replace the entire bolt carrier group with a dedicated .22LR version. This usually entails a bolt designed for the .22LR round and sometimes modified firing pins or extractors. The advantage of a BCG conversion kit is often superior reliability. Since the entire cycling mechanism is built specifically for the .22LR, you typically experience fewer malfunctions. Furthermore, some of these kits feature enhanced accuracy. On the downside, BCG conversion kits are generally the most expensive conversion option, potentially impacting the cost savings that .22LR provides.
Drop-In Conversion Kits (Bolt Only)
A more budget-friendly approach involves a drop-in conversion kit. These kits typically replace only the bolt within your existing bolt carrier group. The principle remains the same; you’re replacing the bolt head with one that functions with the .22LR cartridge. The primary benefit is cost. Drop-in kits are the cheapest way to convert an AR-15 to .22LR. However, the reliability can be less consistent compared to the full BCG option. Malfunctions, like failure to feed, failure to eject, or light primer strikes, can occur more frequently. These issues often stem from the interaction between the .22LR bolt and the original bolt carrier group, but are often resolved with proper maintenance and experimentation with different ammunition types.
Dedicated .22LR Upper Receivers
Finally, there is the dedicated .22LR upper receiver. This is the most comprehensive option, offering the highest level of performance. A dedicated upper receiver is a complete upper assembly, including the barrel, handguard, and upper receiver, all specifically designed for the .22LR. This offers the most reliable and often the most accurate performance. The upper is designed for the .22LR. In this method, you swap your entire upper receiver assembly for a dedicated .22LR upper. The cost is the greatest in this option, being the most expensive conversion method. However, you get a fully functional, purpose-built .22LR rifle that’s ready to go out of the box. It can provide a better overall shooting experience.
When selecting a conversion kit, be mindful of magazine compatibility. The .22LR conversion kits utilize magazines. Make sure you have enough magazines to maintain your shooting rhythm. These magazines are designed to feed the .22LR ammunition reliably into the chamber. Black Dog Machine, CMMG, and other manufacturers offer reliable .22LR magazines. Choose the right magazine that works with your AR-15.
Navigating the Installation Process
Converting your AR-15 to .22LR is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and follow safety protocols. Always prioritize firearm safety above all else.
Before beginning any work, ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine, open the action, and visually and physically inspect the chamber to confirm that it’s empty. Double-check the chamber to be sure. It’s a good practice to point the muzzle in a safe direction throughout the entire process.
The installation steps vary slightly depending on the type of conversion kit you choose, but the general procedure is similar:
For a BCG Conversion Kit
1. Disassemble the AR-15’s upper receiver from the lower receiver.
2. Remove the original bolt carrier group from the upper receiver.
3. Install the new .22LR bolt carrier group.
4. Reassemble the upper receiver to the lower receiver.
5. Insert the .22LR magazine and test the function.
For a Drop-In Conversion Kit
1. Disassemble the AR-15’s upper receiver from the lower receiver.
2. Remove the original bolt carrier group from the upper receiver.
3. Remove the original bolt from the bolt carrier.
4. Replace the bolt with the .22LR bolt.
5. Reinstall the modified bolt carrier group into the upper receiver.
6. Reassemble the upper receiver to the lower receiver.
7. Insert the .22LR magazine and test the function.
For a Dedicated .22LR Upper Receiver
1. Disassemble the AR-15’s upper receiver from the lower receiver (remove the two takedown pins).
2. Remove the old upper.
3. Install the .22LR upper receiver onto the lower receiver.
4. Insert the .22LR magazine and test the function.
Key Tips for Trouble-Free Operation
Even with the best conversion kit, issues can arise. Here are some common troubleshooting steps and considerations to ensure a smooth shooting experience:
One of the most frequent problems is reliability. The conversion kit may not cycle the action properly, resulting in a failure to feed, failure to eject, or a light primer strike. Start by ensuring the firearm is clean and properly lubricated. Sometimes, the cartridge may get stuck.
The type of ammunition you choose can have a significant impact on reliability. Not all .22LR ammunition is created equal. Experiment with various brands and bullet types to find what works best for your rifle and conversion kit. High-velocity ammunition is often recommended for improved cycling. Stick with well-known and reliable brands.
Cleaning and maintenance are critical. The .22LR cartridge is inherently dirtier than many centerfire rounds, leading to carbon buildup and residue. Regularly clean the conversion kit components, including the bolt, chamber, and barrel. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Don’t forget to clean your magazines as well.
Accuracy is another factor to consider. The .22LR conversion kit can impact accuracy. However, the quality of the barrel will make the most impact. To improve accuracy, make sure the barrel is clean, use quality ammunition, and practice good shooting fundamentals.
Legal Considerations
Before undertaking any conversion, it’s essential to be aware of any local, state, or federal laws and regulations that may apply. These laws can vary and may pertain to the type of conversion kit you can use, magazine capacity, or the overall configuration of your firearm. Always adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, and consult with local authorities if you have any doubts or questions.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Rimfire Journey
The AR-15 .22LR conversion is a valuable upgrade for any AR-15 owner. It unlocks a world of affordable fun, training opportunities, and recreational shooting possibilities. By understanding the various conversion kit options, mastering the installation process, and addressing potential troubleshooting issues, you can seamlessly transform your AR-15 into a reliable and enjoyable rimfire platform. The ease of use and low cost of .22LR ammunition make it a perfect platform for practice, fun, and introduction to shooting. Remember to prioritize safety, practice responsible gun ownership, and enjoy the unique experience that the AR-15 .22LR conversion offers.
As you prepare for your first range trip with your converted AR-15, embrace the fun, and remember that shooting is a skill that grows with practice and dedication.
