Smyth Busters: Should I Store My AR-15 with the Hammer Down?
This video from Brownells Gun Techs Steve and Caleb debunks the myth that storing an AR-15 with the hammer released (forward/down) is necessary to prevent hammer spring wear. They explain that springs wear out from usage cycles, not static compression. While military procedures like dry-firing an M16/M4 into a clearing barrel are for safety, they don't relate to spring longevity. The technicians clarify that both hammer-forward and hammer-cocked storage methods are acceptable, with Steve admitting to using both. The core takeaway is that the fear of hammer spring degradation from storing the rifle cocked is unfounded.






