Most ARs use direct impingement, which pipes gas straight back to the bolt carrier. A piston AR uses a rod to push the carrier instead.
- Pros: runs cleaner and cooler inside, good with suppressors
- Cons: heavier, costs more, and parts are less standard
- Direct impingement is lighter and very accurate
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Shop AR15 gear
- AR-15 rifles at Ammunition Depot
- .223 / 5.56 ammo at Ammunition Depot
- Red dot sights at OpticsPlanet
- Gun slings at OpticsPlanet
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