Understanding the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15
Overview of the AM-15
The AR-15 platform. It’s more than just a rifle; it’s a blank canvas for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its modular design offers unparalleled opportunities for customization, allowing you to tailor your firearm to your specific needs, preferences, and shooting style. If you own an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15, you’re already off to a solid start, as it’s a reliable, affordable, and widely respected platform. But the journey doesn’t end there. The world of *Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Accessories* is vast and brimming with options to improve performance, enhance accuracy, optimize ergonomics, and personalize the look of your rifle.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide, exploring some of the best and most relevant accessories to elevate your Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 to its full potential. Prepare to dive into the world of upgrades, where every component contributes to a more satisfying and effective shooting experience.
Features of the AM-15
Before we plunge into the myriad accessories available, a quick overview of the foundation is essential. The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 is a direct impingement, gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle based on the iconic AR-15 design. Built with a commitment to quality and value, the AM-15 provides a dependable base for your shooting endeavors. It typically utilizes mil-spec components, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of aftermarket parts.
The AM-15’s popularity is rooted in its simplicity, reliability, and the sheer ease with which it can be modified. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning your journey, the AM-15 offers a versatile and adaptable platform. You’ll find it available in various configurations, most notably as a carbine or rifle. The inherent modularity of the AR-15 design allows for rapid changes, enabling shooters to customize their rifles for different applications, from home defense to target practice, and even hunting in applicable jurisdictions.
The beauty of the AM-15 is its adherence to the AR-15 standard. This widespread compatibility is a significant advantage. Knowing that your accessories will likely integrate seamlessly takes a great deal of the guesswork out of the customization process, allowing you to concentrate on the features that matter most to you. However, always verify compatibility before making a purchase, especially with non-mil-spec components.
Essential Accessories for the AM-15
Let’s now move on to the heart of this guide: the accessories that can transform your AM-15 into a customized machine.
Enhancing Your View: Optics and Sights
A good optic can dramatically impact your shooting experience. The AM-15 is easily adaptable to various sighting systems, opening up a world of possibilities.
Red Dot Sights
Red dot sights are the gold standard for speed and situational awareness in close to medium-range engagements. Their intuitive nature allows for rapid target acquisition, making them invaluable for home defense, tactical situations, and even quick target shooting at the range. When choosing a red dot, consider factors such as battery life, reticle size, and durability. Look for options that offer multiple brightness settings to accommodate various lighting conditions.
Scopes
For extending your range and increasing precision, a scope is a must-have. Scopes magnify the target, making it easier to identify and engage at longer distances. The best scope for your AM-15 depends on your intended use. For target shooting and varmint hunting, higher magnifications are common. For general-purpose shooting or hunting in closer quarters, a lower-power variable optic (LPVO) might be a better choice. Consider scopes with features like illuminated reticles for low-light conditions and adjustable turrets for precise adjustments to windage and elevation.
Iron Sights
Even with a high-quality optic, it’s always wise to have a reliable backup. Iron sights serve as a fail-safe, ensuring you can still engage targets if your optic fails. Many shooters favor a set of “flip-up” sights that can be deployed quickly in an emergency. Consider sights that are made from robust materials and that are easy to align.
Grip and Control: Handguards and Rail Systems
The handguard plays a crucial role in the handling, accuracy, and overall aesthetics of your AM-15. It provides a place to mount accessories such as lights, lasers, and vertical grips, and it also significantly affects your grip and feel of the rifle.
Upgrading the Handguard
A factory handguard may suffice, but upgrading can unlock many benefits.
Types of Handguards
Free-float handguards are preferred by many shooters because they do not touch the barrel, thereby allowing the barrel to vibrate freely and potentially improving accuracy. These handguards typically attach directly to the upper receiver.
Drop-in handguards are often easier to install and offer a cost-effective way to customize your rifle. They replace the original handguard but do not require removing the front sight post or barrel nut.
M-LOK and Picatinny rail systems are the two most common methods for mounting accessories. Picatinny rails offer a standardized platform for attaching a wide array of accessories, but they can be bulky. M-LOK offers a more streamlined profile and is lighter. Consider your accessory preferences when deciding between these.
Handguard Recommendation
Look for handguards made from high-quality materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum. Consider the length of the handguard in relation to your barrel length. The type of rail system will determine what accessories you can mount.
Enhanced Operation: Charging Handles
The charging handle might seem like a small component, but a quality one can enhance the ergonomics and functionality of your AM-15.
Reasons to Upgrade Charging Handles
A larger or ambidextrous charging handle can make it easier to manipulate the bolt carrier, particularly in stressful situations.
Charging Handle Recommendation
Look for charging handles with an extended latch for easier operation with gloves or under stress. Ambidextrous charging handles are ideal for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to manipulate the handle with either hand.
Firing Line Perfection: Triggers
The trigger is the crucial link between the shooter and the firing mechanism. An upgraded trigger can provide a smoother, more consistent pull, leading to increased accuracy.
Benefits of an Upgraded Trigger
A crisp and clean trigger pull can significantly reduce shot groups.
Trigger Types
Single-stage triggers offer a consistent pull weight, ideal for speed and close-range shooting. Two-stage triggers have a pre-travel stage before the break, allowing for greater control and precision.
Trigger Recommendations
Explore trigger options from reputable brands. Look for triggers with adjustable pull weights or pre-travel to fine-tune them to your specific shooting style.
Stability and Comfort: Stocks and Braces
The stock or brace contributes greatly to the overall comfort and stability of the rifle.
Role of the Stock
A well-designed stock ensures a comfortable cheek weld and promotes proper sight alignment.
Stock Types
Adjustable stocks allow you to customize the length of pull for a perfect fit. Fixed stocks provide maximum stability and are often preferred for long-range shooting. Minimalist stocks prioritize weight reduction and a streamlined profile.
Stock Recommendations
Choose a stock that fits your build and shooting style. Consider features like adjustable cheek rests and butt pads for enhanced comfort.
Pistol Braces: If you are using your AM-15 as a pistol configuration, a brace provides stability and control. Ensure the brace meets all relevant legal requirements in your area.
Holding the Line: Grips
The grip is another critical contact point, affecting control and comfort.
Importance of Grip Ergonomics
A comfortable and ergonomic grip allows for a more secure hold and reduced hand fatigue.
Grip Types
Ergonomic grips are designed to fit the hand and provide a secure and comfortable hold. Vertical foregrips provide a place for the forward hand, enhancing control and stability.
Grip Recommendations
Look for grips with textured surfaces to provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Experiment with different grip styles to find the one that feels best for you.
Feed Your Fire: Magazines
Reliable magazines are essential for a smooth and uninterrupted shooting experience.
Magazine Recommendations
Stick with well-regarded magazine brands, such as Magpul. Ensure that the magazines are compatible with your AM-15 and meet all legal requirements in your area regarding capacity.
Accessories for Enhanced Performance
Let’s move now to accessories that boost performance.
Controlling the Exit: Muzzle Devices
The muzzle device affects the rifle’s behavior.
Flash Hiders
Reduce muzzle flash, which can be particularly beneficial in low-light situations.
Compensators and Muzzle Brakes
Compensators and muzzle brakes can reduce recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Suppressors (if legally permitted)
Suppressors significantly reduce the sound of the shot. Consult your local laws regarding these.
Inside the Machine: Bolt Carrier Groups (BCGs)
The BCG is the heart of the rifle’s operating system.
Benefits of an Upgraded BCG
An upgraded BCG can enhance reliability and ensure smoother operation.
BCG Materials
Look for BCGs made from durable materials, like nitride or nickel boron, for increased wear resistance and easier cleaning.
BCG Recommendations
Choose a BCG from a reputable manufacturer that is known for its reliability.
Accessories for Aesthetics and Customization
Now for accessories that allow you to customize the look of your AM-15:
Cerakote/Painting
Cerakote or other coatings protect your firearm and let you customize it.
Rail Covers
Rail covers make your rifle more comfortable to hold.
Safety Considerations
When customizing your AM-15, safety is paramount. Always prioritize safe gun-handling practices.
Important Reminder
Never point the gun at anything you are not willing to destroy. Always keep the firearm unloaded until you intend to shoot. Store firearms and ammunition securely.
Legal Requirements
Be familiar with all the laws regarding firearm ownership and accessories in your area.
Purchasing Considerations
Choosing the right accessories requires careful consideration.
Budgeting
Set a budget before you begin shopping.
Researching and Comparing
Read reviews from other shooters to gauge quality and performance.
Where to Buy
Purchase accessories from reputable online retailers, local gun stores, or directly from manufacturers.
The journey of customizing your *Anderson Manufacturing AM-15* is a continuous learning process. Explore different accessories to find what works best for you. Have fun!
