In field-stripping, after clearing the rifle and removing the magazine, what is the next step?

In field-stripping, after clearing the rifle and removing the magazine, what is the next step?

• A. Remove the bolt carrier group.
• B. Separate major components (upper and lower receiver or rail system as applicable).
• C. Disassemble as allowed by design.
• D. Reassemble the rifle.

Answer: (B)

After you clear the rifle and remove the magazine, the next step in field-stripping is to separate the major components—the upper and lower receivers (or rail system as applicable). Splitting the rifle at this point gives you access to the action and internal parts for cleaning while keeping the firearm in a controlled, partially disassembled state. This separation is the standard first action because it exposes the internal parts safely and sets up access to the bolt carrier group and charging handle for further cleaning. Removing the bolt carrier group or disassembling further comes after this step, and reassembling is done only after maintenance is completed.

After you clear the rifle and remove the magazine, the next step in field-stripping is to separate the major components—the upper and lower receivers (or rail system as applicable). Splitting the rifle at this point gives you access to the action and internal parts for cleaning while keeping the firearm in a controlled, partially disassembled state. This separation is the standard first action because it exposes the internal parts safely and sets up access to the bolt carrier group and charging handle for further cleaning. Removing the bolt carrier group or disassembling further comes after this step, and reassembling is done only after maintenance is completed.