Foregrip assembly with deployable bipod and associated method for using the same
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Applications(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure US20260235377A1-D00000_ABST
Abstract
Description
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0001] This application includes material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the United States Patent and Trademark Office files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0003] Not applicable.REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING
[0004] Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention emerges from the intersection of firearm accessories and mechanical engineering, specifically addressing the need for enhanced stability and control in both mobile and stationary shooting scenarios. At its core, this invention represents a novel integration of two traditionally separate firearm accessories-the vertical foregrip and the deployable bipod-into a single, cohesive system that enhances the shooter's capability to rapidly transition between different shooting positions while maintaining optimal control of their firearm.2. Background
[0006] In modern shooting applications, both foregrips and bipods have established themselves as essential tools for enhancing shooting performance. Vertical foregrips, which attach to the forward portion of a firearm, provide enhanced control and maneuverability during dynamic shooting scenarios. These devices offer a natural, ergonomic gripping surface that allows shooters to better manage recoil and make quick target transitions while maintaining a stable firing platform.
[0007] Bipods serve a complementary but distinct purpose, providing stable support for precision shooting applications from supported positions. Traditional bipod systems typically mount to the forward portion of the firearm and feature deployable legs that extend to create a stable shooting platform. This stability is particularly crucial for long-range shooting, hunting, and tactical operations where precision is paramount.
[0008] However, current implementations present several significant operational challenges that impact shooter effectiveness. The primary limitation lies in deployment methodology-most systems require the shooter to break their firing grip and compromise their sight picture to manually deploy the bipod legs. This creates a critical gap in readiness when transitioning from mobile to supported shooting positions. Furthermore, many systems require two-handed manipulation to adjust leg height or position, forcing shooters to completely disengage from a ready firing position to make tactical adjustments.
[0009] The physical configuration of existing systems also presents challenges. Traditional designs often require users to choose between mounting a foregrip or a bipod, as simultaneous mounting of both accessories adds excessive weight and bulk while compromising the handling characteristics of the firearm. When both capabilities are needed, shooters must either accept compromised ergonomics or deal with cumbersome transitions between separate accessories.
[0010] Attempts to address these limitations through integrated designs have often resulted in compromised functionality of one or both components. Existing combination devices typically sacrifice ergonomic grip angles to accommodate bipod mechanisms, or require complex deployment sequences that negate the quick-reaction benefits of having both capabilities. Additionally, current integrated solutions often lack the robustness needed for tactical applications, with deployment mechanisms that can become unreliable under field conditions.
[0011] These challenges highlight the need for an innovative solution that maintains the full functionality of both a foregrip and bipod while enabling rapid, single-handed transitions between roles. The ideal solution would preserve shooting grip and sight picture during deployment, while providing a stable and reliable platform for precision shooting.
[0012] These and other objects of the present invention will become apparent in light of the present specification, claims, and drawings.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0014] The present invention provides a foregrip assembly with an integrated deployable bipod that enables rapid transition between mobile and supported shooting positions while maintaining firing grip and sight picture. This assembly seamlessly combines a vertical foregrip with deployable bipod legs, allowing shooters to maintain complete control of their firearm throughout the deployment process.
[0015] In its primary embodiment, the foregrip assembly comprises an ergonomically designed handle member that moves along a linear path to control bipod deployment. The handle member includes textured gripping surfaces and is sized to accommodate various hand sizes while maintaining optimal control. The assembly incorporates standardized mounting interfaces compatible with common firearm accessory rails, ensuring broad compatibility across multiple firearm platforms.
[0016] The bipod deployment mechanism converts the linear motion of the handle into synchronized deployment of both bipod legs through a direct mechanical linkage. This single-handed operation allows the shooter to deploy the bipod while maintaining sight picture and firing grip. The bipod legs provide stable ground contact when deployed while maintaining a streamlined profile in their stowed position.
[0017] The foregrip assembly incorporates a positive locking mechanism that automatically engages when the handle reaches either its fully forward or fully rearward position. This locking system provides secure retention in both configurations while allowing for rapid transitions through an ergonomically positioned release mechanism.
[0018] Multiple compression springs work in concert throughout the assembly to provide controlled deployment forces and maintain proper tension on all moving components. These springs are carefully tuned to provide optimal resistance during deployment while assisting in the retraction process. The spring system also helps dampen deployment forces, ensuring smooth operation while preventing unwanted shock loads that could affect accuracy.
[0019] The foregrip assembly's design prioritizes reliability and durability through the use of high-strength materials and precision manufacturing processes. All pivoting joints incorporate sealed bearings or bushings to ensure smooth operation while minimizing maintenance requirements. The entire assembly is designed to withstand the rigors of tactical and competitive use while maintaining precise alignment of all components.
[0020] This integrated foregrip and bipod assembly represents a significant advancement in firearm accessory design, offering several key advantages over existing solutions, namely: (1) single-handed deployment preserving firing grip and sight picture; (2) rapid transition between mobile and supported shooting positions; (3) maintained functionality of both foregrip and bipod components; (4) simple, reliable operation under field conditions; (5) ergonomic handle design optimized for both control and comfort; and (6) positive locking system preventing unwanted movement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Certain embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by the accompanying figures. It will be understood that the figures are not necessarily to scale and that details not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may be omitted.
[0022] It will be further understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
[0023] The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein:
[0024] FIG. 1 of the drawings is an exploded perspective view of a foregrip assembly of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 of the drawings is a perspective view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position;
[0026] FIG. 3 of the drawings is a perspective view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position;
[0027] FIG. 4 of the drawings is a top view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position;
[0028] FIG. 5 of the drawings is a top view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position;
[0029] FIG. 6 of the drawings is a bottom view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position;
[0030] FIG. 7 of the drawings is a bottom view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position;
[0031] FIG. 8 of the drawings is a side view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position;
[0032] FIG. 9 of the drawings is a side view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position;
[0033] FIG. 10 of the drawings is a front view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position;
[0034] FIG. 11 of the drawings is a front view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position;
[0035] FIG. 12 of the drawings is a rear view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a retracted position; and
[0036] FIG. 13 of the drawings is a rear view of the foregrip assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a deployed position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms and applications, there are shown in the drawings and described herein in detail several specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
[0038] It will be understood that like or analogous elements and / or components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of one or more embodiments of the invention, and some of the components may have been distorted from their actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.
[0039] Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1-13, the foregrip assembly (100) with deployable bipod provides an integrated system for both handheld control and deployed stability of a firearm. The assembly comprises several major subsystems that work together to enable rapid transition between mobile and supported shooting positions: a handle assembly, a mounting system, a deployment mechanism, and a bipod leg system.
[0040] The handle member (10) forms the primary user interface of the assembly. It features an ergonomically contoured grip portion designed to comfortably fit an operator's hand while providing secure control of the firearm. The handle member includes an integrated mounting interface that connects to the sliding mechanism via handle connector (11) and houses the thumb release cutout for actuating the locking system.
[0041] The left and right slide rails (12, 14) provide the primary guide structure for the assembly. These precision-machined rails create parallel tracks that ensure smooth, controlled linear motion of the handle member between its forward and rearward positions. The rails are rigidly mounted to the back plate (16), which serves as the structural foundation of the assembly.
[0042] The front and rear mounting members (18, 20) securely attach the assembly to the host firearm. These components interface with standard M-Lok or other accessory rails through reinforced mounting points that prevent any shifting or movement during use. The mounting system ensures the assembly remains firmly fixed in its mounted position during both mobile and deployed operations.
[0043] The left and right bipod legs (22, 24) provide ground support when deployed. Each leg is precision-engineered with a tubular structure that offers optimal strength-to-weight ratio. The legs pivot smoothly from their stowed position parallel to the firearm into their deployed ground-engaging position (See FIGS. 2-13). Each leg terminates in a foot pad (26, 28) designed to provide stable contact across various terrain types.
[0044] The mechanical linkage system comprises left and right linkage arms / socket connectors (30, 32) that translate the linear motion of the handle into the rotational deployment of the bipod legs. These arms connect to left and right connecting rods (34, 36) which ensure synchronized movement of the bipod legs. The L-shaped slidable ball joint (38) provides the pivotal connection point between the handle member and the linkage system.
[0045] Spring components play an important role in controlling deployment forces and maintaining tension. Left and right compression springs (40, 42) provide resistance during deployment while assisting retraction. These springs work in conjunction with their respective spring connecting disks (44, 46) and connector rods (48, 50) to ensure smooth, controlled movement throughout the deployment range.
[0046] The joint system utilizes left and right ball flanges (52, 54) that interface with front and rear socket connectors (56, 58, 30, 32) to create smooth, precise pivot points. The handle connector (60) provides the mechanical interface between the handle member and the sliding mechanism.
[0047] Mounting hardware includes the front and rear brackets (62, 64) which work with the rail mounting interface and M-Lok or other rail adapters to secure the assembly to the host firearm. This mounting system is designed to maintain zero while providing the structural integrity needed for both foregrip and bipod applications.
[0048] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a thumb release / slide button (66) that operates through a lock spring to engage and disengage a detent pin from lock engagement surfaces and / or connector (11) from L-shaped slidable ball joint (38). This positive locking system secures the handle member in both its forward and rearward positions while allowing quick transitions when needed.
[0049] Assembly fasteners (68) include various precisely specified screws, pins, clips, and washers that secure all components while allowing appropriate movement where needed. All fasteners are preferably corrosion-resistant and incorporate thread-locking compounds where specified to ensure long-term reliability. It should be understood that while components are described individually herein, multiple discrete components may be consolidated into singular or monolithic pieces where manufacturing methods and material properties permit, thereby potentially reducing part count and assembly complexity while maintaining the described functionality.
[0050] In operation, the user maintains their grip on the handle member (10) while pulling rearward to deploy the bipod legs (22, 24). The mechanical advantage provided by the linkage arms (30, 32) and connecting rods (34, 36) allows for easy deployment with minimal force required. The locking mechanism automatically engages to secure the handle in the deployed position. To retract the bipod legs, the user pushes the handle forward, causing the mechanical linkages to pivot the legs upward and inward to their stored position parallel to the slide rails.
[0051] The entire assembly is engineered to provide seamless transition between its foregrip and bipod roles while maintaining the structural integrity needed for tactical operations. Each component's design, material selection, and manufacturing specifications contribute to a system that delivers reliable performance across a wide range of operational conditions.
[0052] In particular embodiments, the L-shaped slidable ball joint (38) incorporates a unique dual-axis rotation capability that allows for self-alignment during deployment. This feature includes a spherical bearing surface housed within a specially configured socket that permits rotation about both vertical and horizontal axes while maintaining precise linear motion along the slide rails. The bearing surface may be coated with a low-friction material such as PTFE or incorporate roller elements to ensure smooth operation under load.
[0053] The mechanical linkage system may additionally include an over-center locking feature in the deployed position. Specifically, the linkage arms and connecting rods are dimensioned and arranged such that when fully deployed, the pivot points align to create a mechanical lock that resists forces tending to collapse the bipod legs. This geometric arrangement provides additional stability without relying solely on the primary locking mechanism.
[0054] In one embodiment, the spring connecting disks (44, 46) may incorporate a progressive resistance profile through the use of variable-pitch spiral grooves that engage with their respective connector rods. This configuration provides increasing spring tension as the bipod legs deploy, helping to dampen deployment forces while ensuring positive retention in both stowed and deployed positions. The spiral grooves may be precision-machined with varying depth and pitch to fine-tune the deployment forces throughout the range of motion.
[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, the locking mechanism preferably includes a multi-stage engagement system where a detent pin interfaces with a series of graduated lock engagement surfaces. These surfaces may be configured with ramped profiles that provide tactile feedback during deployment while preventing unintended movement under recoil. The lock engagement surfaces can be hardened through heat treatment or surface coating to ensure long-term durability.
[0056] In some embodiments, the handle member (10) may incorporate an adjustable grip angle mechanism comprising a pivoting grip section that can be locked at various angles relative to the sliding mechanism. This feature includes a toothed interface ring with multiple predetermined positions and a spring-loaded locking pin, allowing users to optimize grip angle based on individual preference or shooting position. The adjustable grip mechanism may additionally include interchangeable grip panels of various sizes and textures to accommodate different hand sizes and environmental conditions.
[0057] Alternative embodiments may feature an integrated tensioning system that allows users to adjust the deployment force characteristics without disassembly. This system comprises an externally accessible adjustment dial connected to a cam mechanism that modifies spring preload. The cam interfaces with a floating spring seat that maintains proper spring alignment throughout the adjustment range. This feature enables users to customize deployment force based on operational requirements while maintaining reliable function across temperature extremes and extended use.
[0058] Further embodiments may incorporate a quick-detach leg system that enables rapid exchange of different leg configurations. This system utilizes spring-loaded retaining pins that engage with indexed mounting points on the leg housings, allowing tool-free exchange while maintaining precise alignment. The interchangeable legs may include various lengths, foot designs, and materials optimized for specific environments or mission requirements. This modularity extends to the ability to operate the system with a single leg when space constraints or operational needs dictate, with the unused leg mounting point securely capped.
[0059] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the invention and the invention is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0060] While certain embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be understood that changes and modifications can be made therein in accordance with ordinary skill in the art without departing from the technology in its broader aspects as defined in the following claims.
[0061] The embodiments, illustratively described herein may suitably be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations, not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, the terms “comprising,”“including,”“containing,” etcetera shall be read expansively and without limitation. Additionally, the terms and expressions employed herein have been used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the claimed technology. Additionally, the phrase “consisting essentially of” will be understood to include those elements specifically recited and those additional elements that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed technology. The phrase “consisting of” excludes any element not specified.
[0062] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and compositions within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can of course vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.
[0063] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
[0064] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, particularly in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etcetera. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etcetera. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,”“at least,”“greater than,”“less than,” and the like, include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member.
[0065] All publications, patent applications, issued patents, and other documents referred to in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent application, issued patent, or other document was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety. Definitions that are contained in text incorporated by reference are excluded to the extent that they contradict definitions in this disclosure.
[0066] Other embodiments are set forth in the following claims.
Claims
1. A foregrip assembly comprising:a mounting interface adapted for attachment to a firearm;a handle member;a pair of parallel rails supporting said handle member for movement between a first position and a second position;at least one support leg;a linkage mechanism connecting said handle member to said support leg. said linkage mechanism comprising at least one mechanical linkage arm pivotally connected between said handle member and said support leg;a ball joint connecting said mechanical linkage arm to said support leg, wherein said ball joint is spring-loaded;wherein movement of said handle member from said first position to said second position causes said linkage mechanism to move said support leg from a stowed position to a deployed position; andwherein movement of said handle member from said second position to said first position causes said linkage mechanism to return said support leg from said deployed position to said stowed position.
2. (canceled)3. The foregrip assembly according to claim 1, wherein said at least one support leg comprises a pair of bipod legs.
4. The foregrip assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism for securing said handle member in at least one of said first position and said second position.5-7. (canceled)8. A firearm stabilization system, comprising:a mounting base adapted for attachment to a firearm, said mounting base comprising parallel guide rails;a handle assembly slidably coupled to said mounting base, said handle assembly comprising an L-shaped slidable joint interfacing with said mounting base;first and second support legs;first and second mechanical linkages operatively connecting said handle assembly to said first and second support legs respectively;at least one biasing member associated with at least one of said support legs;first and second spring-loaded joints connecting said first and second mechanical linkages to said first and second support legs respectively;wherein sliding movement of said handle assembly causes synchronized deployment of said first and second support legs through said mechanical linkages; andwherein reverse sliding movement of said handle assembly causes synchronized retraction of said first and second support legs through said mechanical linkages.9-11. (canceled)12. The system according to claim 8, further comprising a positive locking mechanism for securing said handle assembly in at least one predetermined position.
13. The system according to claim 8, wherein said biasing member comprises a compression spring.
14. The system according to claim 8, wherein each support leg comprises a ground-engaging foot portion.
15. A method of deploying a firearm support system, comprising the steps of:providing a handle member slidably mounted to a firearm;mechanically coupling said handle member to at least two support legs through a linkage system;moving said handle member from a forward position toward a rearward position along parallel guide rails;automatically deploying said support legs from a stowed configuration to a ground-engaging configuration in response to said moving of said handle member;maintaining spring tension on said support legs during deployment through spring-loaded ball joints; andautomatically retracting said support legs to said stowed configuration in response to movement of said handle member from said rearward position to said forward position.
16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising the step of automatically locking said handle member in said rearward position when said support legs reach said ground-engaging configuration.17-18. (canceled)19. The method according to claim 15, further comprising the step of releasing a locking mechanism to allow movement of said handle member from said rearward position to said forward position.
20. (canceled)21. The foregrip assembly according to claim 1, further comprising left and right compression springs working in conjunction with spring connecting disks and connector rods to provide controlled deployment forces and maintain tension on said handle member throughout a range of motion between said first position and said second position.
22. A foregrip assembly, comprising:a mounting interface adapted for attachment to a firearm;a handle member;a pair of parallel rails supporting said handle member for movement between a first position and a second position;at least one support leg;a linkage mechanism connecting said handle member to said support leg, said linkage mechanism comprising at least one mechanical linkage arm pivotally connected between said handle member and said support leg;wherein movement of said handle member from said first position to said second position causes said linkage mechanism to move said support leg from a stowed position to a deployed position; andwherein movement of said handle member from said second position to said first position causes said linkage mechanism to return said support leg from said deployed position to said stowed position.