Ambidextrous bolt release

Abstract

A firearm includes a lower receiver including a first sidewall and a second sidewall. A bolt release assembly includes a bolt release and a bolt release post attached to and extending rearwardly from the bolt release. The bolt release assembly also includes a first bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly extending through the first sidewall which includes a first lever button and a first lever arm extending through the first sidewall, and a second bolt release lever including a second lever button and a second lever arm extending through the second sidewall. The bolt release is configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration. The bolt release is raised with respect to the lower receiver when configured in the engaged configuration compared to the disengaged configuration.

Description

[0001] AMBIDEXTROUS BOLT RELEASE

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention pertains generally to firearms and, in particular aspects, to an ambidextrous bolt release for a firearm.

[0004] A bolt release is designed to release or to unlock the bolt of a firearm, allowing the bolt to move forward into the battery position from a rearward, locked-open position. It may be advantageous to allow the bolt release to be operated from either the left side or the right side of the firearm. There remains, however, a desire for new and improved designs.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] A bolt release assembly may comprise a bolt release and a bolt release post may be attached to and extend rearwardly from the bolt release. A first bolt release lever may include a first lever top button and a first lever bottom button and may include a first lever arm. The first lever arm may have a first lever forked end. The first lever forked end may at least partially surround the bolt release post, and in some instances, the first lever arm may be in contact with the bolt release post. A first pivot connection opening may be defined in the first lever arm, and a first pivot wire may be inserted in the first pivot connection opening.

[0007] A first biasing member may be in contact with the first lever arm. The first biasing member may be in contact with the first lever bottom button, and the first biasing member may be configured to apply an outward force on the first lever bottom button.

[0008] A second bolt release lever may include a second lever top button and a second lever bottom button and may include a second lever arm. The second lever army may have a second lever forked end, and the second lever forked end may at least partially surround the bolt release post. In some instances, the second lever arm may be in contact with the bolt release post. A second pivot connection opening may be defined in the second lever arm, and a second pivot wire may be inserted in the second pivot connection opening.

[0009] A second biasing member may be in contact with the second lever arm. The second biasing member is in contact with the second lever bottom button, and the second biasing member is configured to apply an outward force on the second lever bottom button.

[0010] The bolt release may be configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration. The bolt release may be raised with respect to the first bolt release lever and the second bolt release lever when positioned in the engaged configuration compared to the disengaged configuration. The first biasing member may be configured to bias the first lever anh so that the bolt release is configured into the disengaged configuration. The second biasing member may be configured to bias the second lever arm so that the bolt release is configured into the disengaged configuration.

[0011] The bolt release may be configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the first lever top button. The bolt release may be configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the second lever top button. The bolt release may be configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the first lever bottom button. The bolt release may be configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the second lever top button.

[0012] A firearm may include a lower receiver including a first sidewall and a second sidewall and defining a lower receiver recess within the lower receiver. A first bolt release opening may be defined through the first sidewall, and a second bolt release opening may be defined through the second sidewall. The first lever arm may extend through the first bolt release opening and into the lower receiver recess. The second lever arm may extend through the second bolt release opening and into the lower receiver recess.

[0013] The first lever arm may be pivotable about a first pivot point located within the lower receiver recess. The first pivot point may be positioned at the first pivot wire inserted in the first pivot connection opening. The second lever arm may be pivotable about a second pivot point located within the lower receiver recess. The second pivot point may be positioned at the second pivot wire inserted! in the second pivot connection opening. Advantageously, the first and second bolt release levers of the present disclosure can be identical and, therefore, reduce the number of unique parts necessary for ambidextrous operation of the bolt release assembly. This also provides for left and right bolt release levers being interchangeable on a given firearm, without affecting operation of the firearm.

[0014] Additionally, as the bolt release assembly of the present disclosure is symmetrical about a vertical axis extending through the lower and upper receivers, operation of the first bolt release lever will feel identical to a user to the operation of the second bolt release lever, and vice versa. More specifically, the force necessary to operate each bolt release lever will be the same.

[0015] Similarly, the range of motion necessary to operate each bolt release lever will be the same. And, the bolt release levers may be positioned at the same location on each side of the firearm. Also advantageously, as the first and second bolt release levers are independently coupled to the bolt release via the bolt release post, the bolt release assembly is still operable even should one of the first and second bolt release levers be removed from the firearm.

[0016] Accordingly, the present design has the benefit that an operator may selectively remove either the first or second bolt release lever, depending on whether they wish to configure the firearm for only right-handed or left-handed operation, and the bolt release assembly will still be operable.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a right side view of a firearm.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a left side view of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of a lower receiver of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of a lower receiver of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a bolt release assembly of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a bolt release of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the bolt release of FIG. 6 with a bolt release post coupled to the bolt release.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5.

[0027] FIG 10 is a perspective view of the left bolt release opening of the lower receiver of FIG. 3.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the right bolt release opening of the lower receiver of FIG. 4.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5 positioned within the lower receiver.

[0030] FIG. 13 is a rear view of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5 positioned in an engaged configuration.

[0031] FIG- 14 is a rear view of the bolt release assembly of FIG. 5 positioned in a disengaged configuration. DESCRIPTION OF THE SELECTED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. One embodiment of the invention is shown in great detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not relevant to the present invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.

[0033] Directional terms, such as forward, rearward, top, bottom, etc., are used in this description with reference to the specific embodiment shown and used for purposes of clarity. It should be recognized that these terms are not meant to be limiting. For the purposes of this description, the term “forward” refers to the direction moving toward the front end of the barrel,;where a bullet exits upon being fired. The term “rearward” refers to a direction moving toward J the grip end of the firearm.

[0034] A right side view of a firearm 20 is shown in FIG. 1. The firearm 20 includes an upper receiver 25 and a lower receiver 30. A stock 45 extends rearwardly from the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30. The lower receiver 30 includes a grip 32 and a trigger guard 35 that protects a trigger mechanism 40. The lower receiver 30 also defines a magazine well 50 for receiving a magazine 52. A barrel 55 is partially positioned within and extends forward of the upper receiver 25. The firearm 20 includes a bolt release assembly 210. A bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly 210 is positioned on the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the bolt release lever spans between the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30. However, in other embodiments, the position of the bolt release assembly 210 may vary. For example, the bolt release assembly 210 may be completely contained within the lower receiver 30.

[0035] The firearm 20 also includes a magazine catch lever assembly 110 for retaining the magazine 52 within the magazine well 50. As shown, a press button of the magazine catch lever assembly 110 is accessible from the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the press button is located on the lower receiver 30, near the trigger guard 35 and below the bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly 210. In other embodiments, the magazine catch lever i assembly 110 may be accessible from other suitable locations on the right side of the firearm 20.

[0036] A left side view of the firearm 20 is illustrated in FIG. 2. A bolt release lever of the bolt ; release assembly 210 is also accessible on the left side of the firearm 20, allowing the bolt release assembly 210 to be operated from either the left side or the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the bolt release lever on the left side of the firearm 20 spans between: the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30.

[0037] A magazine catch lever of the magazine catch lever assembly 110 is also accessible from the left side of the firearm 20, allowing the magazine catch lever assembly 110 to be operated from either the left side or the right side. In the embodiment shown, magazine catch lever is located within the lower receiver 30, forward of the trigger guard 35.

[0038] A left side perspective view of the lower receiver 30 is shown in FIG. 3. The lower receiver 30 includes a frame 31 that has a left sidewall 33 and a right sidewall 34. A magazine lever opening 80 is defined through the left sidewall 33 of the lower receiver 30 and allows access to the magazine catch lever assembly 110. A left bolt release opening 41 is defined through the left sidewall 33 and allows a user to engage or disengage a bolt release from the left side of the firearm 20. A left bolt release seat 42 is recessed into the left sidewall 33 and is positioned adj acent the left bolt release opening 41.

[0039] The magazine well 50 is defined between the left sidewall 33 and the right sidewall 34 of the lower receiver 30. Additionally, a lower receiver recess 90 is defined inside the frame 31 between the left sidewall 33 and the right sidewall 34, rearward of the magazine well. A bolt release recess 95 is also defined inside the frame 31 and is forward of and in communication with the lower receiver recess 90. Located at least partially within the bolt release recess 95 and? the lower receiver recess 90 is the bolt release assembly 210 (see FIG. 5) that may be operated to hold a bolt of the firearm 20 in a rearward position. A wall 92 may partially and / or completely separate the magazine well 50 and the lower receiver recess 90 in the lower receiver 30. The wall 92 may include raised sections 94 that extend above a top surface of the wall 92.

[0040] A right side perspective view of the lower receiver 30 is shown in FIG. 4. A press button opening 39 for the magazine catch lever assembly 110 is defined through the right sidewall 34 of the lower receiver 30. A right bolt release opening 43 is defined through the right sidewall 34 and allows a user to engage or disengage the bolt release from the right side of the firearm 20. A right bolt release seat 44 is recessed into the right sidewall 34 adjacent to the right bolt release opening 43.

[0041] The bolt release assembly 210 is illustrated in FIG. 5. The bolt release assembly 210 include a bolt release 215 and bolt release post 225. The bolt release assembly 210 also includes a first bolt release lever 230 and a second bolt release lever 250 that are in mechanical communication with the bolt release post 225. A first pivot wire 276 is coupled to the first bolt release lever 230, and a second pivot wire 278 is coupled to the second bolt release lever 250.

[0042] A first biasing member, such as first biasing spring 286, extends from the first bolt release lever 230. A second biasing member, such as second biasing spring 288, extends from the second bolt release lever 250. Although the first biasing member and the second biasing member are shown as springs in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, in other embodiments, the first and second biasing member may have different suitable structures for biasing the first bolt release lever 230 and the second bolt release lever 250 into a desired position.

[0043] FIG. 6 shows a rear perspective view of the bolt release 215. The bolt release 215 includes a bolt release body 216 and a bolt release head 218 that extends from an end of the bolt release body 216. In the embodiment shown, the bolt release head extends perpendicularly with respect to the bolt release body 216. Additionally, the bolt release body 216 has a length that is greater than a length of the bolt release head 218.

[0044] A release post opening 220 is defined through the bolt release body 216. The release post opening 220 is sized to receive the bolt release post 225. Additional openings 221 may be defined through the bolt release body 216 adjacent the bolt release post opening 220. These additional openings 221 may reduce the weight of the bolt release 215 and / or to slidably attach the bolt release 215 to the lower receiver.

[0045] In FIG. 7, the bolt release post 225 is shown inserted into the release post opening 220 of the bolt release 215. The bolt release post 225 extends substantially perpendicular with respect to the bolt release body 216. The bolt release post 225 extends in a direction opposite of the direction in which the bolt release head 218 extends from the bolt release body 216. In other embodiments, the bolt release post 225 may be integral to the bolt release body 216 rather than being attachable to the bolt release body 216.

[0046] The first bolt release lever 230 is shown in more detail in FIG. 8. The first bolt release lever 230 includes a first lever top button 232 and a first lever bottom button 234. In some embodiments, an outer surface of the first lever top button 232 and / or the first lever bottom button 234 may have a textured surface to allow a user to easily locate and operate the first lever top button 232 and / or the first lever bottom button 234. In the embodiment shown, the first lever top button 232 has a length along a vertical direction that is greater than the length of the first lever bottom button 234. In other embodiments, the first lever top button 232 and the first lever bottom button 234 may be the same size or the first lever bottom button 234 may be bigger than the first lever top button 232.

[0047] A first lever spring seat 237 is defined on the first bolt release lever 230 on an inner surface of the first lever bottom button 234. The first lever spring seat 237 is configured to receive and end of the biasing spring 286. In the embodiment shown, the first lever spring seat 237 is circular in shape to correspond to the shape of the first biasing spring 286. However, in other embodiments, the first lever spring seat 237 may have any suitable shape to receive the first biasing spring.

[0048] The first bolt release lever 230 also includes a first lever arm 235. The lever arm 235 defines a first pivot connection opening 236 that extends through the first lever arm 235. The first lever arm 235 also include a first lever forked end 238 at the end of the first lever arm 235 opposite the first lever top button 232 and the first lever bottom button 234. The first lever forked end 238 defines a first lever forked opening 239 at the first lever forked end 238. The second bolt release lever 250 is illustrated in FIG. 9. The second bolt release lever 250 may mirror and / or be the same as the first bolt release lever 230. The second bolt release lever 250 includes a second lever top button 252 and a second lever bottom button 254. In some embodiments, an outer surface of the second lever top button 252 and the second lever bottom button 254 may have a textured surface to allow a user to easily locate and operate the second lever top button 252 and / or the second lever bottom button 254. In the embodiment shown, the second lever top button 252 has a length along a vertical direction that is greater than the length of the second lever bottom button 254. In other embodiments, the second lever top button 252 and the second lever bottom button 254 may be the same size or the second lever bottom button

[0049] 254 may be bigger than the second lever top button 252.

[0050] A second spring seat 257 is defined on the second bolt release lever 250 on an inner surface of the second lever bottom button 254. The second spring seat 257 is configured to receive the second biasing spring 288. In the embodiment shown, the second spring seat 257 is circular in shape to correspond to the shape of the second biasing spring 288. However, in other; embodiments, the second spring seat 257 may have any suitable shape to receive the second biasing spring.

[0051] The second bolt release lever 250 also includes a second lever arm 255. The lever arm

[0052] 255 defines a second pivot connection opening 256 that extends through the second lever arm 255. The second lever arm 255 also include a second lever forked end 258 at the end of the second lever arm 255 opposite the second lever top button 252 and the second lever bottom button 254. The second lever forked end 258 defines a second lever forked opening 259 at the second lever forked end 258. FIG. 10 shows a closer view of the left bolt release opening 41 defined through the left sidewall 33. The left bolt release seat 42 is adjacent the left bolt release opening 41 and is recessed with respect to the left sidewall 33. A left lower receiver spring seat 47 is accessible through the left bolt release opening 41 and is configured to receive an opposite end of the first i biasing spring 286 as the end that is received by the first lever spring seat 237.

[0053] FIG. 11 shows a closer view of the right bolt release opening 43 defined through the right sidewall 34. The right bolt release seat 44 is adjacent the right bolt release opening 43 and is recessed with respect to the right sidewall 34. A right lower receiver spring seat 48 is accessible through the right bolt release opening 43 and is configured to receive an opposite end of the second biasing spring 288 as the end that is received by the second lever spring seat 257.

[0054] FIG. 12 illustrates the bolt release assembly 210 positioned within the lower receiver 30. The bolt release assembly is positioned within the bolt release recess 95 of the lower receiver, rearward of the magazine well 50. In the embodiment shown, the head 218 of the bolt release 215 is positioned between the raised sections 94 of the wall 92 of the lower receiver 30.

[0055] The first lever arm 235 of the first bolt release lever 230 extends through the left bolt release opening 41 of the lower receiver 30, so that the first lever arm 235 is at least partially positioned within the lower receiver recess 90. The first lever top button 232 and the first lever bottom button 234 are exterior to the left sidewall 33 of the lower receiver 30, and the first lever bottom button 234 is supported at the left bolt release seat 42. The first pivot wire 276 (not visible in FIG. 12) is positioned within the lower receiver recess 90 and extends into and / or through the first pivot connection opening 236 in the first lever arm 235.

[0056] The second lever arm 255 of the second bolt release lever 250 extends through the right bolt release opening 43 of the lower receiver 30, so that the second lever arm 255 is at least partially positioned within the lower receiver recess 90. The second lever top button 252 and the second lever bottom button 254 are exterior to the right sidewall 34 of the lower receiver 30, and the second lever bottom button 254 is supported at the right bolt release seat 44. The second pivot wire 278 is positioned within the lower receiver recess 90 and extends into and / or through the second pivot connection opening 256 in the second lever arm 255.

[0057] FIG. 13 shows a rear perspective view of the bolt release assembly 210 in an engaged configuration within the lower receiver 30. In the engaged configuration, the head 218 of the bolt release 215 is positioned above the raised portions 94 of the wall 92 of the lower receiver 30. In this position, the bolt release 215 is capable of engaging the bolt of the firearm 20 so as to retain the bolt in a rearward position and / or resist the bolt from moving forwardly past the bolt release 215.

[0058] In one example, the bolt release assembly 210 is configured to the engaged configuration by applying an inward force, toward the lower receiver 30, on one or both of the first lever bottom button 234 and / or the second lever bottom button 254. The inward force on the first lever bottom button 234 and / or on the second lever bottom button 254 pushes against the bias of the first biasing spring 286 and / or the second biasing spring 288, respectfully. When the first lever bottom button 234 is forced inward, the first bolt release lever 230 pivots about the first pivot wire 276 so that the first lever arm 235 moves upward with respect to the lower receiver 30. In doing so, the first lever forked end 238 acts on the bolt release post 225 to move the bolt release post 225 and the bolt release 215 upward with respect to the lower receiver 30 into the engaged position. When the second lever bottom button 254 is forced inward, the second bolt release lever 250 pivots about the second pivot wire 278 so that the second lever arm 255 moves upward with respect to the lower receiver 30. Again, in doing so, the second lever forked end 258 acts on the bolt release post 225 to move the bolt release post 225 and the bolt release 215 upward with respect to the lower receiver 30 into the engaged position.

[0059] In another example, the bolt release assembly 210 is configured to the engaged configuration by a follower and / or spring of a magazine inserted into the magazine well of the lower receiver contacting the head 218 of the bolt release 215 and lifting the bolt release 215 to the engaged configuration. When the bolt release 215 moves upward with respect to the lower receiver 30, the bolt release post 225 moves upwards as well and lifts the first lever forked end 238 and the second lever forked end 258 which, in turn, rotates the first bolt release lever 230 and the second bolt release lever 250 in a direction that the first lever top button 232 and the second lever top button 252 each move outward. In some arrangements, the first bolt release lever 230 and the second bolt release lever 250 rotate until the first lever bottom button 234 engages the left bolt release seat 42 and / or the second lever bottom button 254 engages the right bolt release seat 44. Alternatively, the bolt release assembly can be configured to the engaged configuration by moving the first lever top button 232 and / or the second lever top button 252 outward (e.g., away) from the lower receiver 30.

[0060] FIG. 14 shows a rear perspective view of the bolt release assembly 210 in a disengaged configuration within the lower receiver 30. In this position, the bolt release 215 allows the bolt of the firearm 20 to move forwardly past the bolt release 215. The bolt release assembly 210 is biased into this position by the first biasing spring 286 and the second biasing spring 288. Preferably, in the disengaged configuration, a top surface of the bolt release 215 is positioned even with or below a top surface of the raised walls and / or the raised sections 94 of the lower receiver 30. In one example, the bolt release assembly 210 is configured from the engaged configuration to the disengaged configuration by applying an inward force, toward the lower receiver 30, on one or both of the first lever top button 232 and / or the second lever top button 252. When the first lever top button 232 is forced inward, the first bolt release lever 230 pivots about the first pivot wire 276 so that the first lever arm 235 moves downward with respect to the lower receiver 30. The first lever forked end 238 acts on the bolt release post 225 to move the bolt release post 225 and the bolt release 215 downward with respect to the lower receiver 30 into the disengaged position. When the second lever top button 252 is forced inward, the second bolt release lever 250 pivots about the second pivot wire 278 so that the second lever arm 255 moves downward with respect to the lower receiver 30. The second lever forked end 258 acts on the bolt release post 225 to move the bolt release post 225 and the bolt release 215 downward with respect to the lower receiver 0.

[0061] In another example, the bolt release assembly 210 is configured to the disengaged configuration by applying an outward force, away from the lower receiver 0, on one of or both of the first lever bottom button 234 and / or the second lever bottom button 254. In some embodiments, the first lever bottom button 234 and the second lever bottom button 254 are pushed away from the lower receiver 30 by the first biasing spring 286 and the second biasing spring 288, respectively. This can occur, for example, upon a user manually retracting the bolt (e.g., by use of charging handles) after an empty magazine has been removed from the magazine well of the lower receiver and a new, loaded magazine inserted in to the magazine well.

[0062] Advantageously, the first and second bolt release levers of the present disclosure can be identical and, therefore, reduce the number of unique parts necessary for ambidextrous operation of the bolt release assembly. This also provides for left and right bolt release levers being interchangeable on a given firearm, without affecting operation of the firearm.

[0063] Additionally, as the bolt release assembly of the present disclosure is symmetrical about a vertical axis extending through the lower and upper receivers, operation of the first bolt release lever will feel identical to a user to the operation of the second bolt release lever, and vice versa. More specifically, the force necessary to operate each bolt release lever will be the same. Similarly, the range of motion necessary to operate each bolt release lever will be the same. And, the bolt release levers may be positioned at the same location on each side of the firearm.

[0064] Also advantageously, as the first and second bolt release levers are independently coupled to the bolt release 215 via the bolt release post 225, the bolt release assembly 210 is still operable even should one of the first and second bolt release levers be removed from the firearm. Accordingly, the present design has the benefit that an operator may selectively remove either the first or second bolt release lever, depending on whether they wish to configure the firearm for only right-handed or left-handed operation, and the bolt release assembly will still be operable.

[0065] The following numbered clauses set out specific embodiments that may be useful in understanding the present invention:

[0066] 1. A bolt release assembly comprising: a bolt release; a bolt release post attached to and extending rearwardly from said bolt release; a first bolt release lever including a first lever top button and a first lever bottom button and including a first lever arm; a second bolt release lever including a second lever top button and a second lever bottom button and including a second lever arm; wherein said first lever arm is in contact with said bolt release post, and wherein said second lever arm is in contact with said bolt release post; and wherein said bolt release is configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration, wherein said bolt release is raised with respect to said first bolt release lever and said second bolt release lever when positioned in said engaged configuration compared to said disengaged configuration.

[0067] 2. The bolt release assembly of clause 1 , wherein said first lever arm has a first lever forked end, and wherein said first lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

[0068] 3. The bolt release assembly of any preceding clause, wherein said second lever arm has a second lever forked end, and wherein said second lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

[0069] 4. The bolt release assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising: a first biasing member in contact with said first lever arm; and wherein said first biasing member is configured to bias said first lever arm so that said bolt release is configured into said disengaged configuration.

[0070] 5. The bolt release assembly of clause 4, wherein said first biasing member is in contact with said first lever bottom button, and wherein said first biasing member is configured to apply an outward force on said first lever bottom button.

[0071] 6. The bolt release assembly of clause 4, further comprising: a second biasing member in contact with said second lever arm; and wherein said second biasing member is configured to bias said second lever arm so that said bolt release is configured into said disengaged configuration. 7. The bolt release assembly of clause 6, wherein said second biasing member is in contact with said second lever bottom button, and wherein said second biasing member is configured to apply an outward force on said second lever bottom button.

[0072] 8. The bolt release assembly of any preceding clause, wherein a first pivot connection opening is defined in said first lever arm, and wherein a first pivot wire is inserted in said first pivot connection opening.

[0073] 9. The bolt release assembly of clause 8, wherein a second pivot connection opening is defined in said second lever arm, and wherein a second pivot wire is inserted in said second pivot connection opening.

[0074] 10. The bolt release assembly of any preceding clause, wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said first lever top button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said second lever top button.

[0075] 11. The bolt release assembly of any preceding clause, wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said first lever bottom button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the second lever top button.

[0076] 12. A firearm comprising: a lower receiver including a first sidewall and a second sidewall and defining a lower receiver recess within said lower receiver, wherein a first bolt release opening is defined through said first sidewall, and wherein a second bolt release opening is defined through said second sidewall; a bolt release assembly comprising: a bolt release; a bolt release post attached to and extending rearwardly from said bolt release; a first bolt release lever including a first lever button and a first lever arm extending from said first lever button; a second bolt release lever including a second lever button and a second lever arm extending from said second lever button; and wherein said first lever arm and said second lever arm are each in contact with said bolt release post; wherein said first lever arm extends through said first bolt release opening and into said lower receiver recess, and wherein said second lever arm extends through said second bolt release opening and into said lower receiver recess; and wherein said bolt release is configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration, wherein said bolt release is raised with respect to said lower receiver when configured in said engaged configuration compared to said disengaged configuration.

[0077] 13. The firearm of clause 12, wherein said first lever arm has a first lever forked end, and wherein said first lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

[0078] 14. The firearm of clause 13, wherein said second lever arm has a second lever forked end, and wherein said second lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

[0079] 15. The firearm of any one of clauses 12-14, wherein said first lever arm is pivotable about a first pivot point located within said lower receiver recess.

[0080] 16. The firearm of clause 15, wherein a first pivot connection opening is defined in said first lever arm, wherein a first pivot wire is inserted in said first pivot connection opening, and wherein said first pivot point is at said first pivot wire. 17. The firearm of any one of clauses 15-16, wherein said second lever arm is pivotable about a second pivot point located within said lower receiver recess.

[0081] 18. The firearm of clause 17, wherein a second pivot connection opening is defined in said second lever arm, wherein a second pivot wire is inserted in said second pivot connection opening, and wherein said second pivot point is at said second pivot wire.

[0082] 19. The firearm of any one of clauses 12-18, wherein said first lever arm includes a first lever top button, wherein said second lever arm includes a second lever top button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to move into said disengaged configuration when a force directed toward said lower receiver is applied on said first lever top button or said second lever top button.

[0083] 20. The firearm of clause 19, wherein said first lever arm includes a first lever bottom button, wherein said second lever arm includes a second lever bottom button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to move into said engaged configuration when a force directed toward said lower receiver is applied on said first lever bottom button or said second lever bottom button.

[0084] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions defined by following claims are desired to be protected. For example, the forked ends 238 and / or 258 may define open or closed openings 239, 259. Additionally, while the two separate biasing springs 286, 288 have been illustrated as biasing the bolt release assembly 210 towards the disengaged configuration, a single spring could be used (e.g., spanning between the first and second bolt release levers 230, 250 and / or biasing the bolt release 215 and / or bolt release post

[0085] 225 away from the bolt of the firearm (e.g., downward relative to the lower receiver 30).

[0086] All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A bolt release assembly comprising: a bolt release; a bolt release post attached to and extending rearwardly from said bolt release; a first bolt release lever including a first lever top button and a first lever bottom button and including a first lever arm; a second bolt release lever including a second lever top button and a second lever bottom button and including a second lever arm; wherein said first lever arm is in contact with said bolt release post, and wherein said second lever arm is in contact with said bolt release post; and wherein said bolt release is configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration, wherein said bolt release is raised with respect to said first bolt release lever and said second bolt release lever when positioned in said engaged configuration compared to said disengaged configuration.

2. The bolt release assembly of claim 1 , wherein said first lever arm has a first lever forked end, and wherein said first lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

3. The bolt release assembly of claim 2, wherein said second lever arm has a second lever forked end, and wherein said second lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

4. The bolt release assembly of claim 1, further comprising:a first biasing member in contact with said first lever arm; and wherein said first biasing member is configured to bias said first lever arm so that said bolt release is configured into said disengaged configuration.

5. The bolt release assembly of claim 4, wherein said first biasing member is in contact with said first lever bottom button, and wherein said first biasing member is configured to apply an outward force on said first lever bottom button.

6. The bolt release assembly of claim 4, further comprising: a second biasing member in contact with said second lever arm; and wherein said second biasing member is configured to bias said second lever arm so that said bolt release is configured into said disengaged configuration.

7. The bolt release assembly of claim 6, wherein said second biasing member is in contact with said second lever bottom button, and wherein said second biasing member is configured to apply an outward force on said second lever bottom button.

8. The bolt release assembly of claim 1, wherein a first pivot connection opening is defined in said first lever arm, and wherein a first pivot wire is inserted in said first pivot connection opening.

9. The bolt release assembly of claim 8, wherein a second pivot connection opening is defined in said second lever arm, and wherein a second pivot wire is inserted in said second pivot connection opening.

10. The bolt release assembly of claim 1, wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said first lever top button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the disengaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said second lever top button.

11. The bolt release assembly of claim 1, wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on said first lever bottom button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to be moved to the engaged configuration when an inward force is applied on the second lever top button.

12. A firearm comprising: a lower receiver including a first sidewall and a second sidewall and defining a lower receiver recess within said lower receiver, wherein a first bolt release opening is defined through said first sidewall, and wherein a second bolt release opening is defined through said second sidewall; a bolt release assembly comprising: a bolt release; a bolt release post attached to and extending rearwardly from said bolt release;a first bolt release lever including a first lever button and a first lever arm extending from said first lever button; a second bolt release lever including a second lever button and a second lever arm extending from said second lever button; and wherein said first lever arm and said second lever arm are each in contact with said bolt release post; wherein said first lever arm extends through said first bolt release opening and into said lower receiver recess, and wherein said second lever arm extends through said second bolt release opening and into said lower receiver recess; and wherein said bolt release is configurable in an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration, wherein said bolt release is raised with respect to said lower receiver when configured in said engaged configuration compared to said disengaged configuration.

13. The firearm of claim 12, wherein said first lever arm has a first lever forked end, and wherein said first lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

14. The firearm of claim 13, wherein said second lever arm has a second lever forked end, and wherein said second lever forked end at least partially surrounds said bolt release post.

15. The firearm of claim 12, wherein said first lever arm is pivotable about a first pivot point located within said lower receiver recess.

16. The firearm of claim 15, wherein a first pivot connection opening is defined in said first lever arm, wherein a first pivot wire is inserted in said first pivot connection opening, and wherein said first pivot point is at said first pivot wire.

17. The firearm of claim 15, wherein said second lever arm is pivotable about a second pivot; point located within said lower receiver recess.

18. The firearm of claim 17, wherein a second pivot connection opening is defined in said second lever arm, wherein a second pivot wire is inserted in said second pivot connection opening, and wherein said second pivot point is at said second pivot wire.

19. The firearm of claim 12, wherein said first lever arm includes a first lever top button, wherein said second lever arm includes a second lever top button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to move into said disengaged configuration when a force directed toward said lower receiver is applied on said first lever top button or said second lever top button.

20. The firearm of claim 19, wherein said first lever arm includes a first lever bottom button, wherein said second lever arm includes a second lever bottom button, and wherein said bolt release is configured to move into said engaged configuration when a force directed toward said lower receiver is applied on said first lever bottom button or said second lever bottom buton.

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