Firearm with dual charging handles

Abstract

A firearm with dual charging handles is a rifle having a frame defining an elongated bolt passage, a bolt assembly received within the bolt passage and operable to reciprocate between a forward battery position and a rearward retracted position, a first elongated charging handle having a rear end extending rearward of the rear aperture of the frame, an intermediate portion received in the aperture, and a forward end within the bolt passage and adapted to operably contact the bolt, the frame defining an elongated slot parallel to the bolt passage and communicating therewith, and a second charging handle having a handle portion external of the bolt passage, an intermediate portion extending through the slot, and a contact element adapted to operably contact the bolt. The first charging handle may have a T shape. The second charging handle may include a dust cover overlaying the slot.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to firearms, and more particularly to a firearm having both top-mounted and side-mounted charging handles.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The charging handle is a device on a firearm which, when operated, results in the hammer or striker being cocked or moved to the ready position. It allows the operator to pull the bolt to the rear, facilitating any number of the following:[0003]Ejecting a spent shell casing or unfired cartridge from the chamber.[0004]Loading a round from the magazine or by hand through the chamber.[0005]Clearing a stoppage such as a jam, double feed, stovepipe, or misfire.[0006]Verifying the weapon's chamber is clear of any rounds or other obstructions.[0007]Moving the bolt into battery, acting as a forward assist but not necessarily.[0008]Releasing a bolt locked to the rear, such as would be the case after firing the last round on a firearm equipped with a last-round-hold-open feature.[0009]These devices ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is an improved firearm with dual charging handles. It solves the problems of prior art by incorporating a rifle with a frame, bolt, and bolt carrier assembly that can move between a forward battery position and a rearward retracted position. The frame has an elongated slot that connects with the bolt passage. The first charging handle is a T-shaped handle that extends into the bolt passage and has a contact element that can engage the bolt carrier. The second charging handle has a handle portion that goes through the slot and a contact element that can engage the bolt carrier. The invention provides an improved firearm with dual charging handles that has all the advantages of the prior art.

Problems solved by technology

One issue is the mean time between failures due to metal fatigue.

Another issue is whether the charging handle is sufficiently large for use by someone wearing heavy gloves and protective clothing.

However, a top-mounted charging handle is difficult to operate when actively using optics.

It is also possible to experience uncomfortable contact with a scope or sights while operating a top-mounted charging handle.

The downside is the shooter has to give up his or her hold on the forearm of the rifle to charge.

Images