Maintenance Tool
AR-15 Maintenance Schedule: Round Count Based Guide
Enter your estimated round count below and get a personalized, color coded maintenance checklist. Items are organized by urgency and sourced from military TM 9-1005-319-10 and major manufacturer service recommendations.
Every Range Session (After Each Use)
Source: TM 9-1005-319-10, Operator PMCS
- Clean bore with solvent and patches
- Wipe down BCG, remove carbon buildup
- Lubricate BCG, charging handle, cam pin
- Inspect for visible damage or unusual wear
- Function check: safety, trigger, bolt catch
Every 500 Rounds
Source: TM 9-1005-319-10, Unit PMCS
- Deep clean: remove handguard, clean gas tube area
- Inspect extractor spring and O-ring
- Inspect ejector spring
- Check gas key staking (try to wiggle with fingers)
- Check castle nut staking
- Inspect muzzle device for baffle strikes or loosening
Every 2,000 Rounds
Source: TM 9-1005-319-10 and Colt armorer guidance
- Replace extractor spring and O-ringFind BCG parts
- Replace ejector spring
- Inspect bolt for cracks (lugs, cam pin hole)
- Check headspace with go/no-go gauges
- Inspect barrel crown for damage
- Inspect feed ramps for excessive wear
Every 5,000 Rounds
Source: Colt and BCM armorer recommendations
- Replace bolt gas ringsShop BCG parts
- Replace buffer springShop buffer parts
- Inspect barrel for throat erosion
- Replace extractorShop extractor parts
- Deep inspect bolt lugs with magnification
Every 10,000 Rounds
Source: Colt service life guidance
- Replace bolt assemblyShop bolts and BCGs
- Consider barrel replacement depending on accuracy standards
- Replace bufferShop buffers
Every 20,000+ Rounds
Source: Manufacturer service life limits (BCM, Daniel Defense)
- Barrel replacement recommended for precision useShop barrels
- Full bolt carrier group replacementShop BCGs
- Inspect receiver for wear at pivot pin holes
These are recommended intervals based on published military maintenance schedules and manufacturer guidelines. Your specific maintenance needs may vary based on ammunition, environment, and use conditions. When in doubt, consult a qualified armorer or gunsmith.
How This Tool Works
Green: You're good
No action needed yet. You are well within the recommended interval for this category of work.
Yellow: Inspect soon
You are approaching the service interval (80% or higher). Plan your next maintenance session and order any parts you will need.
Red: Service now
You are at or past the recommended interval. Stop the clock and complete these items before your next extended range session.
Replacement parts and wear items
Bolts, extractors, springs, and gas rings are the most common wear items on an AR-15. Shop replacements in the builder with live compatibility checks and retailer price comparison.
Sources and Further Reading
- TM 9-1005-319-10:U.S. Army Operator's Manual for M16/M4 series rifles. Public domain. Operator and unit level preventive maintenance checks and services.
- Colt Armorer Course: Service life and replacement guidance for bolt assemblies, springs, and barrels.
- BCM and Daniel Defense service bulletins: Commercial barrel and BCG service life recommendations.
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