The AR15A4 Firing Pin – Colt OEM, SKU 160304002 is a factory replacement bolt component designed for standard AR-15, AR-15/M4, and M16 rifle platforms. Sold under Colt manufacturer number SP62294 and Brownells catalog number 160304002, this firing pin is engineered to original specifications to provide reliable ignition, consistent primer strikes, and long-term durability in semi-automatic and select-fire rifles built on the AR-15 family pattern. Brownells UK+1
Platform Compatibility and Model Coverage
The Colt AR15A4 firing pin is specified for a broad range of AR-pattern rifles, especially Colt factory models. Brownells UK lists compatibility with multiple .223/5.56 Colt AR-15 configurations, including: Brownells UK
AR-15 Accurized HBAR, .223
AR-15 Government Carbine, .223
AR-15 Match Target, .223
AR-15 Match Target Competition HBAR, .223
AR-15 Match Target Competition HBAR II, .223
AR-15 Match Target HBAR, .223
AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine, .223
In addition, the attributes identify the firing pin as fitting general AR-15, AR-15/M4, and M16 platforms, making it suitable as a universal replacement part for many Colt-pattern 5.56/.223 rifles that use a standard AR-15 bolt carrier group. Brownells UK+2Brownells UK+2
OEM Construction and Materials
This component is a factory Colt firing pin, produced as an OEM part rather than an aftermarket substitute. Product descriptions emphasize that Colt AR-15 firing pins are built from high-quality steel and manufactured to strict military-style specifications to deliver consistent fit and reliable performance under typical service and training conditions. MidwayUSA+2Brownells UK+2
Key construction characteristics:
Material: Hardened steel, precision machined
Finish: Protective metal finish suitable for use in standard AR-15/M4/M16 bolt carrier groups
Manufacture: Made in USA, as noted in Brownells UK item details Brownells UK
The use of hardened steel and tight tolerances supports proper alignment in the bolt carrier group and helps resist deformation or pitting in high-round-count rifles.
Design, Dimensions, and Functional Role
As with other AR-15 firing pins, the AR15A4 firing pin 160304002 is designed to work as a critical part of the bolt carrier group’s ignition system. When the hammer strikes the rear of the firing pin, the tip passes through the bolt face and impacts the primer of the cartridge, igniting the round.
Functional and design notes:
Standard AR-15 pattern geometry for use with AR-15, AR-15/M4, and M16 bolt assemblies Brownells UK+2Brownells+2
Correct overall length and shoulder dimensions to maintain safe firing pin protrusion through the bolt face when used with in-spec bolts
Compatible with .223 Remington / 5.56x45mm NATO rifles built on the AR-15 platform
Because firing pin protrusion and alignment are critical to safe ignition, using an OEM, correctly dimensioned pin is important for both reliability and safety.
Weight, Packaging, and Identification
Distributors list a shipping or delivery weight of approximately 0.009 kg (about 0.02 lb) for a single Colt AR15A4 firing pin, reflecting its compact size and steel construction. Brownells UK+2friscoguns.com+2
Common catalog identifiers:
Product name: Colt AR15A4 Firing Pin
Brownells # / SKU: 160304002 Brownells
Manufacturer part number (Mfr. No.): SP62294, labeled as “PIN, FIRING” Brownells UK
Brand: Colt
Platform: AR-15, AR-15/M4, M16 Brownells UK+1
These identifiers help ensure correct part matching when ordering or cross-referencing in parts diagrams and schematics.
Use Cases: Replacement, Maintenance, and Builds
The AR15A4 firing pin is typically used in three main scenarios:
Direct Replacement for Worn or Damaged Pins
Over time, high round counts, hard primers, or improper cleaning can lead to tip erosion, peening, or surface wear. Replacing the original firing pin with a factory Colt AR15A4 pin restores the bolt carrier group to original-spec ignition characteristics. Brownells UK+2blackstoneshooting.com+2
Spare Parts Inventory for AR-15 Owners and Armorers
Because the firing pin is a small but critical component, many shooters and professional armorers keep at least one spare on hand for training, match use, or duty rifles. The broad compatibility with AR-15/M4/M16 platforms makes this OEM Colt pin a practical standard spare. Brownells UK+2Brownells UK+2
Completing or Servicing Bolt Carrier Groups
In all cases, proper installation and function testing (ensuring safe firing pin protrusion and reliable primer ignition with the firearm unloaded) are recommended, and any work beyond routine field stripping should be performed or inspected by a qualified gunsmith or armorer.
Distinction from Firing Pin Retaining Pins
It is important to distinguish the AR15A4 firing pin (SKU 160304002) from the closely related AR15A4 firing pin retaining pin (often listed as part number 160304001). The firing pin itself is the long, slender striker component, while the retaining pin is a separate part that secures the firing pin within the bolt carrier. friscoguns.com+1
When servicing an AR-15 bolt carrier group, both parts may be inspected and replaced as needed, but they are not interchangeable and should be ordered under their respective part numbers.
Summary for Catalog and SEO
For product pages, online catalogs, and technical listings, the Colt AR15A4 Firing Pin 160304002 can be accurately described as:
Factory Colt OEM AR-15/M4/M16 firing pin
Compatible with numerous Colt AR-15 models including Accurized HBAR, Government Carbine, Match Target series, and AR-15A3 Tactical Carbine Brownells UK
Made in the USA and precision engineered for reliable primer ignition and long service life Brownells UK+2Brownells UK+2
This positions the part as a dependable, factory-spec solution for maintaining, repairing, or building Colt-pattern AR-15 rifles where OEM reliability and compatibility are priorities.
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