built my first ar today, have a couple questions

[bloodsport]

hello everyone, i just got my rifle put together today. i bought a spikes tactical complete upper and a spikes stripped lower, which i built the way i wanted. i have a few questions, ive been trying to google this and have got a few different answers.
does the hammer need to be cocked or uncocked to remove/install the lower from the upper?
is it okay to dryfire with the upper installed on the lower? (just wondering because how else would the upper be separated from the lower uncocked)
sorry for the dumb questions but i want to make sure im not doing something wrong. ive been doing alot of research on ar15's and was hoping i wouldn't have to ask such a question. i apologize once again
anything else you would like to add go right ahead, im trying to learn all i can. thanks!

[scotty8]

It's generally easier to remove the upper with the hammer cocked. Just make sure not to release the hammer with the upper removed as the falling hammer can damage the front of the lower receiver.

Welcome to the AR club. Remember, these are military-style weapons and so are not particularly delicate. No need to get careless, but it's not your Grandmother's china either. Clean them from time to time and keep the bolt lubed and they will shoot for a good long time.

[bloodsport]

thanks for answering my question scotty8..appreciate it

[WantBigBoom]

Scotty hit most of it, but I like details, so I'll answer again.

Originally Posted by bloodsport

does the hammer need to be cocked or uncocked to remove/install the lower from the upper?

Doesn't matter for removal. The bolt carrier needs to be completely seated for removal and installation, otherwise the tail will catch in the buffer tube. For reassembly, hammer cocked is a little easier, but it won't make your rifle a POS if you don't cock it to pin the upper.

is it okay to dryfire with the upper installed on the lower? (just wondering because how else would the upper be separated from the lower uncocked)

For standard mil-spec parts, totally fine. The only times to watch out for and NOT dry fire are if any of the parts you purchased came with a specific warning against dry firing, or when the upper is removed. You can still function check the trigger with the upper removed, just catch the hammer with the palm of your hand, or get a hammer block that installs in the mag well. Repeated, uncontrolled dry firing on a bare lower can cause damage.

sorry for the dumb questions but i want to make sure im not doing something wrong. ive been doing alot of research on ar15's and was hoping i wouldn't have to ask such a question. i apologize once again
anything else you would like to add go right ahead, im trying to learn all i can. thanks!

Everybody starts somewhere.