This hands-on workshop is a practical, end-to-end walkthrough of the AR-15 platform, focused on reliability, maintainability, and functional setup. The goal is not just to own an AR-15, but to understand it well enough to keep it running, diagnose issues, and configure it to your intended use.

We begin by covering the core components of the AR-15 system and how they work together. This includes the upper and lower receiver groups, bolt carrier group, gas system, buffer system, and fire control components. Emphasis is placed on what actually matters for reliability, common failure points, and parts that benefit most from inspection or upgrade.

From there, we move into a full breakdown of the rifle. Attendees will disassemble their AR-15 to an appropriate maintenance level, identify wear surfaces, and learn proper cleaning techniques for the barrel, chamber, bolt carrier group, and gas-related components. We will discuss cleaning intervals, lubrication points, and product selection—what is necessary versus what is marketing hype.

Once maintenance fundamentals are established, the workshop transitions into setup and configuration. Topics include:

• Barrel length and twist considerations
• Gas system tuning and buffer selection
• Trigger options and tradeoffs
• Stock, grip, and ergonomics for fit and control
• Sling mounting and basic rifle handling considerations

The final portion focuses on accessories and external setup, with a practical discussion of optic and weapon light selection. We cover red dots vs. LPVOs, mounting considerations, zeroing concepts, and realistic expectations for civilian and defensive use. Weapon lights are discussed from a functional standpoint—placement, activation, output, and durability—rather than brand hype.

Throughout the workshop, we encourage questions, discussion, and hands-on interaction. Attendees are welcome to bring their own rifles, parts, accessories, and questions. This is a collaborative, learning-focused environment intended to build confidence and competence with the AR-15 platform.

Purchasing an AR-15 is the easy part. Understanding how it works, how to maintain it, and how to configure it effectively is what turns it into a dependable and accurate tool.

Course Instructor

Rob Sheppard is the firearms manager and resident armorer/gunsmith at TruPrep.  Among his Armorer certifications are Colt M16/AR15, Semper Paratus Arms AR, Sons Of Liberty Gun Works AR, SIG Sauer, Heckler & Koch, Remington, Smith & Wesson, and Beretta.  He works on a wide array of firearms and systems not covered on that list.   Shep is also the owner and chief instructor of Precision Applications, LLC, a full-line firearms and tactics training company.   A former United States Marine and SWAT Sniper for the Marietta Police Department, Shep also served as a Federal Air Marshal.  While serving in these capacities, he was an Instructor for Firearms and Tactics.  Shep is currently a reserve Police Captain.   With instructor certifications in a wide range of firearms, Use of Force, Team/Individual Tactics, and Less Lethal, Shep brings unparalleled expertise to TruPrep and is highly respected in his field.