Introduction: The Importance of a Tight AR-15 Fit
The AR-15 platform is renowned for its modularity and adaptability, making it a favorite among firearm enthusiasts, law enforcement, and military personnel. However, this modular design can sometimes lead to a common issue: looseness between the upper and lower receivers. This play, while often considered negligible by some, can affect accuracy and the overall feel of the rifle. That’s where the Accu-Wedge comes in. This small, inexpensive polymer wedge is designed to eliminate receiver play, resulting in a tighter, more consistent shooting experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of adjusting an Accu-Wedge on your AR-15, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Understanding the AR-15 Receiver Play
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s crucial to understand why receiver play occurs and its potential impact on your AR-15’s performance. The AR-15 consists of two primary components: the upper receiver, which houses the bolt carrier group and barrel, and the lower receiver, which contains the trigger mechanism and magazine well. These two receivers are connected by takedown and pivot pins. Manufacturing tolerances, wear and tear, and variations in receiver dimensions can create gaps between these parts.
This looseness, or receiver play, can manifest in several ways:
- Audible Rattling: A noticeable rattling sound when the rifle is shaken.
- Movement: Visible movement between the upper and lower receivers.
- Inconsistent Accuracy: Changes in point of impact due to the shifting of the upper receiver.
While minor receiver play might not significantly impact short-range shooting, it can become a more prominent issue at longer distances. Furthermore, the constant movement can contribute to increased wear on the takedown pins and receiver surfaces.
What is an Accu-Wedge?
The Accu-Wedge is a simple yet effective solution to address receiver play in AR-15 rifles. It’s a small, tapered wedge made of durable polymer or rubber that is inserted into the lower receiver, behind the rear takedown pin lug. When properly installed, the Accu-Wedge applies upward pressure on the upper receiver, effectively tightening the fit and eliminating any unwanted movement.
Benefits of Using an Accu-Wedge:
- Improved Accuracy: By stabilizing the upper receiver, the Accu-Wedge can contribute to more consistent shot placement, particularly at longer ranges.
- Reduced Vibration: Eliminating receiver play reduces vibration during firing, leading to a smoother shooting experience.
- Decreased Wear: A tighter fit minimizes wear on the takedown pins and receiver surfaces, potentially extending the lifespan of your AR-15.
- Enhanced Confidence: A solid, well-fitted rifle inspires confidence and provides a more enjoyable shooting experience.
Choosing the Right Accu-Wedge
While the basic design of the Accu-Wedge is relatively consistent, there are some variations to consider:
- Material: Accu-Wedges are typically made from either polymer or rubber. Polymer wedges tend to be more durable and offer a firmer fit, while rubber wedges provide a slightly softer feel and may absorb more vibration.
- Size: Accu-Wedges are available in different sizes to accommodate varying degrees of receiver play. Some manufacturers offer adjustable wedges that can be trimmed to achieve the perfect fit.
- Brand: Several reputable manufacturers produce Accu-Wedges, including Brownells, DPMS, and UTG. Choose a brand known for quality and reliability.
Before purchasing an Accu-Wedge, it’s helpful to assess the amount of play in your AR-15. This will help you determine the appropriate size and type of wedge to use.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin the Accu-Wedge adjustment process, gather the following tools and materials:
- Accu-Wedge: Choose the appropriate size and type for your AR-15.
- Small Hammer or Mallet: For gently tapping the Accu-Wedge into place.
- Punch or Dowel: To help seat the Accu-Wedge properly.
- Knife or Scissors: For trimming the Accu-Wedge if necessary.
- Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
- Cleaning Supplies: To clean the receiver area before installation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting an Accu-Wedge
Follow these steps to properly adjust an Accu-Wedge on your AR-15:
- Ensure the Rifle is Unloaded and Safe: This is the most important step. Remove the magazine, clear the chamber, and visually inspect the rifle to ensure it is unloaded.
- Disassemble the AR-15: Separate the upper and lower receivers by pushing out the takedown pin.
- Clean the Receiver Area: Thoroughly clean the area in the lower receiver where the Accu-Wedge will be installed. This will ensure a clean and secure fit.
- Insert the Accu-Wedge: Place the Accu-Wedge into the lower receiver, behind the rear takedown pin lug. The tapered end of the wedge should be facing upwards.
- Reassemble the AR-15: Carefully reassemble the upper and lower receivers, ensuring the takedown pin is fully seated. You may need to apply slight pressure to the upper receiver to align the pin holes.
- Check for Fit: Check the fit between the upper and lower receivers. There should be minimal to no movement. If the receivers are still loose, proceed to the next step.
- Adjust the Accu-Wedge (If Necessary): If the receivers are still loose, you may need to trim the Accu-Wedge. Remove the wedge and carefully trim a small amount from the top (tapered) end using a knife or scissors. Reinstall the wedge and check the fit again. Repeat this process until the desired tightness is achieved.
- Fine-Tuning: If the receivers are too tight, making it difficult to seat the takedown pin, you can lightly sand or file the Accu-Wedge to reduce its thickness. Be careful not to remove too much material.
- Final Check: Once you have achieved the desired fit, perform a final check to ensure the takedown pin can be easily inserted and removed.
- Function Test: After the Accu-Wedge is properly installed, perform a function test to ensure the rifle cycles correctly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the Accu-Wedge is a relatively simple device, you may encounter some issues during the adjustment process:
- Accu-Wedge is Too Thick: If the takedown pin is difficult to seat, the Accu-Wedge may be too thick. Remove the wedge and lightly sand or file it down until the pin can be easily inserted.
- Accu-Wedge is Too Thin: If the receivers are still loose after installing the Accu-Wedge, it may be too thin. You may need to try a thicker wedge or add a small shim to the existing wedge.
- Accu-Wedge Keeps Falling Out: If the Accu-Wedge keeps falling out of the lower receiver, it may not be properly seated. Ensure the area is clean and the wedge is fully inserted. You can also use a small amount of adhesive to secure the wedge in place, but this is generally not necessary.
- Difficulty Disassembling the Rifle: If the Accu-Wedge makes it difficult to disassemble the rifle, it may be too tight. Remove the wedge and lightly sand or file it down until the rifle can be easily disassembled.
Alternative Solutions to Receiver Play
While the Accu-Wedge is a popular and affordable solution, there are other options available to address receiver play in AR-15 rifles:
- Bedding Compounds: Bedding compounds, similar to those used in rifle stocks, can be applied to the receiver to create a tighter fit. This is a more permanent solution and requires some skill to apply properly.
- Adjustable Tension Screws: Some aftermarket lower receivers feature adjustable tension screws that allow you to fine-tune the fit between the upper and lower receivers.
- Oversized Takedown Pins: Oversized takedown pins can provide a tighter fit and reduce movement between the receivers.
- Custom-Fit Receivers: Purchasing matched upper and lower receiver sets that are manufactured to tight tolerances can minimize receiver play from the start.
Maintaining Your AR-15 After Accu-Wedge Installation
After installing an Accu-Wedge, it’s important to continue to properly maintain your AR-15. This includes:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your AR-15 after each shooting session to remove dirt, carbon buildup, and other debris.
- Lubrication: Properly lubricate the moving parts of your AR-15 to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect your AR-15 for any signs of wear or damage.
- Accu-Wedge Inspection: Periodically check the Accu-Wedge for wear and tear. Replace it if it becomes damaged or worn.
Conclusion: Achieving a Tighter, More Accurate AR-15
Adjusting an Accu-Wedge is a simple and effective way to eliminate receiver play in your AR-15, resulting in a tighter, more accurate, and more enjoyable shooting experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install and adjust an Accu-Wedge to achieve the perfect fit for your rifle. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified gunsmith if you have any questions or concerns. With a properly adjusted Accu-Wedge, you can enhance the performance and longevity of your AR-15, ensuring years of reliable service.
The AR-15 platform’s modularity is a double-edged sword. While it allows for customization and adaptation, it also introduces the potential for looseness between the upper and lower receivers. This play, if left unaddressed, can negatively impact accuracy and the overall feel of the rifle. The Accu-Wedge offers a simple, cost-effective solution to this problem.
By understanding the causes and effects of receiver play, and by carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently adjust an Accu-Wedge to achieve a tighter, more consistent fit. This, in turn, will lead to improved accuracy, reduced vibration, and enhanced confidence in your AR-15.
Don’t underestimate the impact of a small, inexpensive accessory like the Accu-Wedge. It can make a significant difference in the performance and overall enjoyment of your AR-15. So, take the time to properly adjust your Accu-Wedge and experience the benefits of a tighter, more accurate rifle.
Remember, safety is paramount. Always ensure your rifle is unloaded and safe before performing any maintenance or adjustments. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consult with a qualified gunsmith.
Investing a little time and effort in adjusting your Accu-Wedge can pay dividends in terms of improved accuracy, reduced wear, and enhanced shooting experience. So, take the plunge and discover the difference a properly adjusted Accu-Wedge can make.
