Safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm

Abstract

The present invention discloses a safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm, methods and kits thereof. In an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement comprises a safety-plug releasably insertable into a firing chamber of the portable firearm; a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of the portable firearm for mounting therewithin; and a link interconnecting the safety plug and the plate-shaped cover. The plate-shaped cover has outer and internal surfaces; configured by means of shape and size that when the cover is mounted within the ejection port, the outer surface looks out of the portable firearm while the internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with the bolt or bolt carrier group; the plate-shaped cover on the internal surface thereof has at least one arresting member being conformal with the ejection port frictionally securing the plate-shaped cover within the ejection port.

Description

[0001] SAFETY PLUG ARRANGEMENT SECURABLE WITHIN A PORTABLE FIREARM

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] [1] The present invention relates to firearms, especially to safety plug arrangement or a kit thereof, securable within a portable firearm. More particularly, the invention pertains to safety plugs insertable into a firing chamber of firearms.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] [2] The firearm has to be maintained and carried by a user in the following conditions (states) of readiness to fire according to actual operational situations, regulations and standing orders relating to alert status or a specific location, such as a military base, civilian area, combat area, training area, fighting position or shooting gallery, and the exercise to be performed, such as waiting, preparing for shooting, or shooting:

[0006] [3] Condition 4: Chamber empty, no magazine in the gun, hammer down (if applicable), safety on (if applicable);

[0007] [4] Condition 3: Chamber empty, full magazine in place, hammer down (if applicable), safety on (if applicable);

[0008] [5] Condition 2: A round chambered, full magazine in place, hammer down (if applicable), safety on (if applicable),

[0009] [6] Condition 1 : A round chambered, full magazine in place, hammer cocked, safety on. Also referred to as "cocked and locked"; and

[0010] [7] Condition 0: A round chambered, full magazine in place, hammer cocked, safety off.

[0011] [8] Condition 4 refers to the safest condition of the firearm while condition 0 refers to the highest readiness “ready to fire"; The risk of accidental or negligent discharge in Condition 0 is maximal.

[0012] [9] Conditions 3, 2, 1 and 0 usually are applicable when a user is in an operational area or on the target range or live shooting training area, required to maintain a certain amount of readiness to shoot. In these conditions, accidental (non-intentional) firing is of hazard because of a human factor or technical malfunction. Prevention of such accidents is the purpose of the present invention.

[0013]

[0010] US5097613 discloses a safety plug for the firing chamber of a weapon to provide a visual indication that the weapon firing chamber is free of live ammunition. The safety plug includes a cylindrical body having a diameter which is less than the weapon chamber bore. This body is rounded in the preferred embodiment at its forward end portion and fabricated from a non-abrasive material. A tab extends outwardly from the body such that it is visible when the firing chamber is closed to indicate a safe weapon. .A buton is carried by the rear end portion of the body. This button is preferably fabricated from a hardened material and can be readily engaged by the metal extractor of a conventional weapon for ejecting the plug in a normal weapon operation. The plug can be used with a semi-automatic weapon in which the magazine is, or is not, inserted.

[0014]

[0011] US9927196B2 discloses a chamber safety device which is configured to be inserted into one or more openings of a weapon, such as the loading / ej ection port(s) or barrel of a shotgun, rifle or handgun. When the chamber safety device is inserted into one or more opening(s), the weapon is not capable of firing and / or being loaded with ammunition due to the fact that no bullet or shell can be inserted into the firing chamber and / or the weapon firing mechanism cannot come in contact with a bullet or shell located in the firing chamber. At least a portion of the chamber safety device is designed to extend outwardly from the breach of the weapon and is colored in a high visibility color such that those nearby can visually detect the presence of the chamber safety7device inserted in a weapon.

[0015]

[0012] In combat conditions and operational areas, the firearm having a safety plug inserted into a fire chamber has to be prepared for firing as quickly as possible. It should be emphasized that the known safety plugs do not protect the space between the fire chamber and the bolt from dust, debris, water, and other unwanted elements. Thus, there is a long-felt and unmet need for providing a safety plug that when mounted onto the firearm covers the fire chamber-bolt space and prevents penetration of unwanted elements into it while maintaining the operator’s capability to prepare the firearm for shooting quickly and instinctively. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016]

[0013] It is hence one object of the invention to disclose a safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm. The aforesaid safety plug arrangement comprises (a) a safety plug releasably insertable into a firing chamber of the portable firearm; (b) a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of the portable firearm for mounting therewithin; and (c) a link interconnecting the safety plug and the plate-shaped cover.

[0017]

[0014] The plate-shaped cover has external and internal surfaces. When the cover is mounted within the ejection port, the external surface looks out of the portable firearm while the internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with the bolt or bolt carrier group. The plate-shaped cover on the internal surface thereof has at least one arresting member being conformal with the ejection port frictionally and / or mechanically securing the plate-shaped cover within the ejection port.

[0018]

[0015] Another object of the invention is to disclose the arresting member comprising at least two oppositely arranged flexible cam pawls releasably securable within the ejection port.

[0019]

[0016] A further object of the invention is to disclose the portable firearm selected from the group consisting of a semi-automatic pistol, a machine pistol, an assault rifle, a battle rifle, a machine gun, a bolt action rifle, and any combination thereof, such as M16 / AR15 / M4 type, ArmaLite AR- 18, AR10 / SR25 type, AK-47, AK-74, HK416, HK G36, HK MP5 / MP7 / UMP, FN SCAR, Steyr AUG, FN F2000, SIG MCX / Spear, SIGMPX, SIG 55X series, Beretta ARX, CZ Bren series, CZ Scorpion, IWI Tavor, IWI Gahl / ACE, Malyuk, Vektor CR-21, FAMAS, SA80, and B&T APC / SPC series.

[0020]

[0017] A further object of the invention is to disclose a method of releasably mounting a safety plug arrangement within a portable firearm: (a) providing the portable firearm having a firing chamber being free of a cartridge; (b) providing the safety plug arrangement; (c) opening the ejection port by pulling back a charging handle of the portable firearm which takes back the bolt or bolt carrier group of the portable firearm; (d) inserting the safety plug into the fire chamber; (e) releasing the charging handle of the portable firearm; (f) mounting the plate-shaped cover within the ejection port by frictionally securing therewithin; and (g) ejecting the safety plug arrangement from the portable firearm by pulling back a charging handle of the portable firearm which takes back the bolt or bolt carrier group of the portable firearm as needed.

[0018] A further object of the invention is to disclose the step of mounting the plate-shaped cover within the ejection port comprising flexibly deforming at least two oppositely arranged cam pawls.

[0021]

[0019] A further object of the invention is to disclose a firearm comprising or otherwise in connection with a safety plug arrangement as defined herein.

[0022]

[0020] A further object of the invention is to disclose a safety plug kit comprising a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of the portable firearm for mounting therewithin. The safety plug kit further comprising outer and internal surfaces configured by means of shape and size that when the cover is mounted within the ejection port, the outer surface looks out of the portable firearm while the internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with the bolt or bolt carrier group. The plate-shaped cover on the internal surface thereof has at least one arresting member being conformal with the ejection port frictionally securing the plate-shaped cover within the ejection port.

[0023]

[0021] A further object of the invention is to disclose a safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm, the safety plug arrangement comprising: (a) a safety-plug releasably insertable into a firing chamber of the portable firearm; (b) a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of the portable firearm for mounting therewithin; a link interconnecting the safety plug and the plate-shaped cover.

[0024]

[0022] The plate-shaped cover has outer and inner surfaces configured by means of shape and size such that when the cover is mounted within the ejection port. The outer surface looks out of the portable firearm while the internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with the bolt or bolt carrier group in a closed (firing) position of the bolt or bolt carrier group and configured for ejecting the safety plug arrangement from the ejection port by moving the bolt or bolt carrier group in an open (charging) position. The plate-shaped cover has foremost and aftermost portions. The foremost portion when the plate-shaped cover is mounted into the ejection port is adjacent to the firing chamber while the aftermost portion adjoins a deflector.

[0025]

[0023] The safety-plug has a side projection. The foremost portion at internal side thereof comprises a recess configured for receiving the side projection of the safety-plug such that the projection of safety-plug inserted into the firearm is secured within the recess. The internal side of the aftermost portion comprises a ledge which when inserted into the ejection port is configured for securing the aftermost portion within the ejection port.

[0024] A further object of the invention is to disclose a method of releasably mounting a safety plug arrangement within a portable firearm, comprising steps of: (a) providing the portable firearm having a firing chamber being free of a cartridge; (b) providing the safety plug arrangement; (c) opening the ejection port by pulling back a charging handle of the portable firearm which takes back the bolt or bolt carrier group of the portable firearm; (d) inserting the safety plug into the fire chamber; (e) releasing the charging handle of the portable firearm such the side projection of the safety-plug is inserted into the recess of the foremost portion of the plate-shaped cover and the ledge is secured within the ejection port; (f) ejecting the safety plug arrangement from the portable firearm by pulling back a charging handle of the portable firearm which takes back the bolt or bolt carrier group of the portable firearm as needed.

[0026]

[0025] A further object of the invention is to disclose a loaded chamber indicator (LCI) providing, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a bullet is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a bullet into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; the LCI comprising an elongated chamber’s insert, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector; and an ejection port shutter having an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm.

[0027]

[0026] A further object of the invention is to disclose an ejection port shutter for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI), the LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; the ejection port shutter comprises an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm; the ejection port shutter is connectable with an elongated chamber’s insert, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector.

[0028]

[0027] A further object of the invention is to disclose an elongated chamber’s insert for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI), the LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; the an elongated chamber’s insert comprises a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector; the an elongated chamber’s insert is connectable with an ejection port shutter having an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm.

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030]

[0028] In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a plurality of embodiments is adapted to now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0031]

[0029] Fig. 1 is an exemplary outer perspective view of a safety plug arrangement mounted within an Ml 6 assault rifle;

[0032]

[0030] Fig. 2 is a general perspective view of a safety plug arrangement;

[0033]

[0031] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a safety plug arrangement in the course of mounting / dismounting thereof (a firearm environment not shown);

[0034]

[0032] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a safety plug arrangement mounted in a firearm (a firearm environment not shown);

[0035]

[0033] Fig. 5 is an exemplary perspective view of a safety plug arrangement in the course of mounting / dismounting into a firearm;

[0036]

[0034] Fig. 6 is an exemplary perspective view of a mounted safety plug arrangement in the Ml 6 assault rifle;

[0035] Fig. 7 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a plate-shaped cover secured within an ejection port by elastically deformable cam pawls;

[0037]

[0036] Fig. 8 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a safety plug arrangement mounted in a firearm;

[0038]

[0037] Fig. 9 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a safety plug arrangement in the course of mounting / dismounting into a firearm;

[0039]

[0038] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates a rear view of a firearm, showing a loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) with two interconnectable members: an elongated chamber's insert (210) and an ejection port shutter (220);

[0040]

[0039] Fig. 11 depicts a cross-sectional view from the rear and right side of LCI 200, highlighting the engaged two-member system 200, where the ejection port shutter connector (215) with a T-shaped tip (211) fits snugly within the chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM, 222);

[0041]

[0040] Fig. 12 shows a cross section of the rear view of LCI 200, detailing an engagement where the T- shape head (221) of the chamber’s insert (210) is affixed within teeth (222a-b) of the inner surface, demonstrating upper, middle, and lower portions (221a, 213, 221b) of the ejection port shutter;

[0042]

[0041] Fig. 13 illustrates a cross-section top view and left view of LCI 200, with a focus on the elongated chamber’s insert (210), a plug-like end (213), and a firing bolt’s teeth acceptor (219), alongside the bolt (25) within the bolt carrier (23);

[0043]

[0042] Fig. 14 shows a top and right-side view of LCI 200, depicting port 202 to be shut off by cover 220, ejection port shutter connector 215 and bolt carrier 25;

[0044]

[0043] Fig. 15 illustrates LCI 200, when cover 220 is shut off, replacing the ejection port cover 203 of the firearm

[0045]

[0044] Fig. 16 depicts the top view of a cross-section of LCI 200, showcasing elements such as the firing chamber (201), plug-like end (213), firing bolt’s teeth acceptor (219), bolt (25), bolt carrier (23), and cable connecting member (217); and

[0046]

[0045] Fig. 17 illustrates a top and right-side view of LCI 200, with the ejection port shutter (220) affixed on the port (202, presented before also as port 30) to indicate a cartridge is not chambered, thus ensuring safe operation by preventing accidental bullet insertion and temporary closure of the ejection port.

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] The following description is provided, to enable any person skilled in art to make use of the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, are adapted to remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide a safety plug arrangement and a method of releasably mounting the safety plug arrangement within a portable firearm.

[0048]

[0047] According to the present invention, the safety plug arrangement is geometrically designed to be insertable into an un-loaded firearm (un-chambered), and comprises a plate-shaped cover, a safety plug per se, and a linkage interconnecting the plate-shaped cover and safety plug. A side of the plate-shaped cover facing the bolt carrier group has a relief that is geometrically conformal with its relief in the closed position. In the mounted position, the safety plug and the plate-shaped cover are inserted into a firing chamber and an ejection port, respectively. The safety plug arrangement cannot be mounted onto the firearm if a cartridge is in the firing chamber, thus, the visible position of the safety plug arrangement within the ejection port testifies that the firearm is safely unchambered.

[0049]

[0048] It is impossible to load a cartridge into the fire chamber without moving the bolt carrier group backwards by pulling it with the charging handle or by another means. In this case, displacement of the bolt carrier group relative to the plate-like cover pushes the safety plug arrangement from the firearm (described in detail below).

[0050]

[0049] Thus, mounting the safety plug arrangement with the firearm blocks loading the cartridge into the fire chamber and prevents penetration of the undesirable elements into the space between the bolt carrier group and the fire chamber and eventually into the fire chamber, bolt or bolt carrier internals. Any contamination of the firing chamber or other internal parts of the firearm can result in a firearm malfunction such as a misfire.

[0051]

[0050] Reference is now made to Fig. 1 presenting an exemplary outer perspective view of safety plug arrangement 10 mounted within ejection port 30 of a rifle, herein provided in a non-limiting example, an Ml 6 assault rifle. Numerals 29 and 33 refer to a brass deflector and a door of ejection port 30 which is shown in the open position.

[0052]

[0051] Reference is now made to Fig. 2, showing safety plug arrangement 10 comprising safety plug 17 insertable into a fire chamber (not shown), plate-shaped cover 13 mountable within an ejection port (not shown), and link 15 interconnecting safety plug 17 and plate-shaped cover 13 to each other. Plate-shaped cover 13 has outer and internal surfaces 11 and 12, respectively. When safety plug arrangement 10 is mounted within the rifle, internal surface 12 faces bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 (Fig. 6). Internal surface 12 is provided with flexible cam pawls 19a and 19b, which are designed for releasably securing plate-shaped cover 13 within ejection port 30, as shown in Fig. 1. Numeral 21 refers to a rib having a profile being conformal with bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25, numeral 31 refers to a rim of a safety plug conformal with bolt 25 and extractor 32, imitating a rim of a cartridge.

[0053]

[0052] Reference is now made to Figs. 3 to 6 presenting safety plug arrangement 10 in the course of mounting into / removing out of the Ml 6 assault rifle (Figs. 3 and 5), and safety plug arrangement 10 mounted within the Ml 6 assault rifle (Figs. 4 and 6). In Figs. 3 and 4, the rifle environment is not shown. Referring to the procedure of mounting safety plug arrangement 10 within the rifle, a user opens ejection port 30 by pulling back a charging handle (not shown) of the rifle, which takes back bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25. After that, safety plug 17 is inserted into fire chamber 27. After releasing the charging handle and returning bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 to the original position, safety plug 17 is connected by rim 31 to bolt 25 and extractor 32, plate-shaped cover 13 is mounted into ejection port 30 by pressing on outer side 11 of plate-shaped cover 13 (Fig. 5).

[0054]

[0053] Reference is now made again to Fig. 6 showing safety plug arrangement 10 in a mounted position. As described before, safety plug 17 is inserted into firing chamber 27. Rim 31 is engaged with extractor 32. Internal surface 12 is arranged in a conformal manner with bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25. Specifically, ledge 21a is inserted into depression 24 on the surface of bolt carrier 23, while ledge 21b is between forepart 26 of bolt carrier 23 and bolt lug 25a. When the user needs to start firing, the charging handle is pulled back, bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 are moved back, and safety plug arrangement 10 is ejected from the rifle. Safety plug 17 is extracted from the chamber by bolt 25 and extractor 32, mimicking a cartridge case is ejected from firing chamber 27. Bolt lug 25a and bolt lug 25a when pass by ledges 21b and 21, respectively, press on them and eject plateshaped cover 13 from ejection port 30. Thus, safety plug arrangement 10, including safety plug 17 and plate-shaped cover 13 interconnected by link 15, is ejected from the firearm. If a magazine case is connected to the firearm, bolt 25 strips a cartridge from the magazine upon its return, and pushes it into fire chamber 27, such that the firearm is ready for firing.

[0054] Reference is now made to Fig. 7 presenting a cross-sectional view of plate-shaped cover 13 secured within ejection port 30 by elastically deformable cam pawls 19a / 19b. According to one embodiment of the present invention, internal surface 12 of plate-shaped cover 13 adjoins ejection port 30 while elastically deformable cam pawls 19a / 19b are inserted into ejection port 30. Deformed when plate-shaped cover 13 is inserted into ejection port 30, elastically deformable cam pawls 19a / 19b are secured within an ejection port by elastically deformed cam pawls, which are extended beyond the perimeter of ejection port 30.

[0055]

[0055] Reference is now made to Fig. 8 presenting an exemplary cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment 100 of a safety plug arrangement mounted in a firearm. Safety plug 130 is inserted into firing chamber 27. Safety plug 130 is provided with side projection 135. Numeral 101 refers to a cover mounted into the ejection port. Plate-shaped cover 101 has outer and inner surfaces 103 and 107, respectively. Plate-shaped cover 101 has foremost and aftermost portions 110 and 120, respectively. When plate-shaped cover 101 is mounted into the ejection port, foremost portion 110 is adjacent to firing chamber 27 while aftermost portion 120 adjoins a brass deflector 29. Safety plug 130 and cover 101 are interconnected by link 105. Inner surface 107 at foremost portion 110 has recess 115 configured for receiving side projection 135 and securing side projection 135 within recess 115. Aftermost portion 120 has ledge 125 configured for securing within the ejection port 30. Therefore, foremost and aftermost portions 110 and 120 of plate-shaped cover 101 are secured on the firearm (partially shown).

[0056]

[0056] Reference is now made to Fig. 9 presenting an exemplary cross-sectional view of safety plug arrangement 100 in the course of mounting / dismounting into the firearm. After opening ejection port 30 by pulling back a charging handle (not shown) of the rifle, which takes back bolt 25, safety plug 130 is partially inserted into fire chamber 27 and plate-shaped cover 101 is placed within ejection port 30 such that ledge 125 at its aftermost portion 120 snagged on ejection port 30. When the user loses the charging handle, bolt 25 pushes safety plug 130 into fire chamber 27 such that side projection 135 of safety plug 130 is inserted into recess 115 in foremost portion 110. Thus, safety plug 130 takes the place of the rifle cartridge within firing chamber 27 while plate-shaped cover 101 is secured within ejection port 30. To dismount safety plug arrangement 100 from the rifle, the user pulls the charging handle back. In this case, safety plug 130 is pulled out from firing chamber 27, side projection 135 sliding along ledge 117 pushes out foremost portion 110 of plate- shaped cover 101 out of ejection port 30 while aftermost portion 120 is pushed out by ledge 26 of bolt carrier.

[0057]

[0057] Reference is now made to figures 10 to 17, illustrating in a non-limiting manner a loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) and modules thereof according to one or several embodiments of the present invention. The LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber (201) whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port (202). The ejection port shutter 220 comprises an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member 217, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM, 222) and a ledge 21a, configured to be inserted into depression 24 on the surface of bolt carrier 23 when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 are moved back, and LCI 200 is ejected from the firearm;. The ejection port shutter 220 is connectable with an elongated chamber’s insert 210, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor 219 and (b) an ejection port shutter connector 215.

[0058]

[0058] According to another embodiment of the invention, an ejection port shutter 220 for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) is disclosed. The LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber (201) whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port (202). The ejection port shutter 220 comprises an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member 217, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM, 222) and a ledge 21a, configured to be inserted into depression 24 on the surface of bolt carrier 23 when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 are moved back, and LCI 200 is ejected from the firearm. The ejection port shutter 220 is connectable with an elongated chamber’s insert 210, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor 219 and (b) an ejection port shutter connector 215.

[0059]

[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, an elongated chamber’s insert 210 for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) is disclosed. The LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber (201) whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port (202), An elongated chamber’s insert 210 comprises a plug-like end, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor 219 and (b) an ejection port shutter connector 215. The elongated chamber’s insert 210 is connectable with an ejection port shutter 220 having an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member 217, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM 222) and a ledge 21a, configured to be inserted into depression 24 on the surface of bolt carrier 23 when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier 23 and bolt 25 are moved back, and LCI 200 is ejected from the firearm.

[0060]

[0060] Reference is made again to figures 10 to 17, illustrating in a non-limiting manner several embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 10 depicts a rear view of a firearm, a view facing the barrel of a firearm. Loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) is presented with its two interconnectable members: an elongated chamber’s insert 210 and an ejection port shutter 220. Fig. 11 depicts a cross section of a rear and right-side view of the same, showing the engaged two-members. In this example, the ejection port shutter connector 215 has T-shaped tip 211, configured to snugly fit teeth at chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM, 222) within the inner surface 221 of the ejection port shutter 220. Fig. 12 illustrates a cross section of a rear view of the same; specifically showing an engagement where, e.g., T-shape head 221 of chamber’s insert 210 is affixed within teeth 222a-b of the inner surface having upper (left-), middle and lower (right-) portions 221a, 213, 221b, respectively, of the ejection port shutter. Fig. 13 illustrates a cross section of a top view and left view of the same. Firearm’s chamber (201) is at the front (left-) side of the illustration. An elongated chamber’s insert 210, e.g., a plastic (or e.g., polymeric, composite material, metalware) member of rounded cross section, having a plug-like end 213, releasably insertable via the firing chamber, and an opposite end 214, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor 219 and (b) an ejection port shutter connector 215. Also presented in the rear (on the right) bolt 241 within bolt carrier 240 Fig. 14 shows a top and right-side view of the same, depicting port 202 to be shut off by cover 220, ejection port shutter connector 215 and bolt carrier 25. Fig. 15 illustrates the same, when cover 220 is shut off, replacing the ejection port cover 203 of the firearm. Fig. 16 depicts the top view of a cross section of a firearm. In this example firing chamber 201, plug-like end 213. firing bolt’s teeth acceptor 219 interconnected (218) with plug 213, accepting firing bolt’s extractor teeth 241, bolt 25 and bolt carrier 23, depression 24 on the surface of bolt carrier 23, ledge 21b, a safety-plug to cover interconnecting cable 216, cable connecting member 217 are shown. Fig. 17 illustrates a top and right-side view of the same. An ejection port shutter 220 is affixed on the port 202, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber (201) whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily to pushed 260 by user to shut off firearm’s ejection port (202), when pushed, cover 220 is secured to its place by interconnecting the ejection port shutter connector 215, until bolt carrier 23 pull backed by the user, just before firing. Hence, the hereto disclosed loaded chamber indicator (LCI, 200) ensures that when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a bullet is not loaded within the firearm’s chamber (201) whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into the chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port (202).

[0061]

[0061] The foregoing description of the embodiments of the present invention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise embodiments disclosed. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in this art. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm, said safety plug arrangement comprising: a. a safety-plug releasably insertable into a firing chamber of said portable firearm; b. a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of said portable firearm for mounting therewithin; c. a link interconnecting said safety plug and said plate-shaped cover; said plate-shaped cover has outer and internal surfaces configured by means of shape and size that when said cover is mounted within said ejection port, said outer surface looks out of said portable firearm while said internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with said bolt or bolt carrier group in a closed position of said bolt or bolt carrier group and configured for ejecting said safety plug arrangement from said ejection port; said plate-shaped cover on said internal surface thereof has at least one arresting member being conformal with said ejection port frictionally securing said plate-shaped cover within said ejection port.

2. The safety plug arrangement according to claim 1 , wherein said arresting member comprises at least two oppositely arranged flexible cam pawls releasably securable within said ejection port.

3. The safety plug arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said portable firearm is selected from the group consisting of: a semi-automatic pistol, a machine pistol, an assault rifle, a battle rifle, a machine gun, a bolt action rifle, and any combination thereof.

4. A method of releasably mounting a safety plug arrangement within a portable firearm, comprising steps of: a. providing said portable firearm having a firing chamber being free of a cartridge; b. providing said safety plug arrangement of claim 1 ; c. opening said ejection port by pulling back a charging handle of said portable firearm which takes back said bolt or bolt carrier group of said portable firearm; d. inserting said safety plug into said fire chamber; e. releasing said charging handle of said portable firearm; f. mounting said plate-shaped cover within said ejection port by frictionally securing therewithin; andg. ejecting said safety plug arrangement from said portable firearm by pulling back a charging handle of said portable firearm which takes back said bolt or bolt carrier group of said portable firearm as needed.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein said step of mounting said plate-shaped cover within said ejection port comprises flexibly deforming at least two oppositely arranged cam pawls.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein said portable firearm is selected from the group consisting of: a semi-automatic pistol, a machine pistol, an assault rifle, a battle rifle, a machine gun, a bolt action rifle, and any combination thereof.

7. A firearm comprising or otherwise in connection with a safety plug arrangement as defined in claim 1 or any of its dependent claims.

8. A safety-plug kit comprising a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of a portable firearm for mounting therewithin, further comprising outer and internal surfaces configured by means of shape and size that when said cover is mounted within said ejection port, said outer surface looks out of said portable firearm while said internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with said bolt or bolt carrier group; said plate-shaped cover on said internal surface thereof has at least one arresting member being conformal with said ejection port frictionally securing said plate-shaped cover within said ejection port.

9. A safety plug arrangement securable within a portable firearm, said safety plug arrangement comprising: a. a safety-plug releasably insertable into a firing chamber of said portable firearm; b. a plate-shaped cover having a perimeter thereof conformal with an ejection port of said portable firearm for mounting therewithin; a link interconnecting said safety plug and said plate-shaped cover; said plate-shaped cover has outer and inner surfaces configured by means of shape and size such that when said cover is mounted within said ejection port, said outer surface looks out of said portable firearm while said internal surface faces a bolt or bolt carrier group and has a surface profile conformal with said bolt or bolt carrier group in a closed (firing) position of said bolt or bolt carrier group and configured for ejecting said safety plug arrangement from said ejection port by moving said bolt or bolt carriergroup in an open (charging) position; said plate-shaped cover has foremost and aftermost portions; said foremost portion when said plate-shaped cover is mounted into said ejection port is adjacent to said firing chamber while said aftermost portion adjoins a deflector; said safety-plug has a side projection; said foremost portion at internal side thereof comprises a recess configured for receiving said side projection of said safety-plug such that said projection of safety-plug inserted into said firearm is secured within said recess; said internal side of said aftermost portion comprises a ledge which when inserted into said ejection port is configured for securing said aftermost portion within said ejection port.

10. The safety plug arrangement according to claim 9, wherein said portable firearm is selected from the group consisting of: a semi-automatic pistol, a machine pistol, an assault rifle, a battle rifle, a machine gun, a bolt action rifle, and any combination thereof.

11. A method of releasably mounting a safety plug arrangement within a portable firearm, comprising steps of: a. providing said portable firearm having a firing chamber being free of a cartridge; b. providing said safety plug arrangement of claim 9; c. opening said ejection port by pulling back a charging handle of said portable firearm which takes back said bolt or bolt carrier group of said portable firearm; d. inserting said safety plug into said fire chamber; e. releasing said charging handle of said portable firearm such said side projection of said safety-plug is inserted into said recess of said foremost portion of said plate-shaped cover and said ledge is secured within said ejection port; and f. ejecting said safety plug arrangement from said portable firearm by pulling back a charging handle of said portable firearm which takes back said bolt or bolt carrier group of said portable firearm as needed.

12. Loaded chamber indicator (LCI) providing, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within said firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into said chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; said LCI comprising anelongated chamber’s insert, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via said firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector; and an ejection port shutter having an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm.

13. An ejection port shutter for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI), said LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within said firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into said chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; said ejection port shutter comprises an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm; said ejection port shutter is connectable with an elongated chamber’s insert, having a plug-like end, releasably insertable via said firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector.

14. An elongated chamber’s insert for a loaded chamber indicator (LCI), said LCI provides, when releasably plugged within a firing chamber, a visual indication that a cartridge is not loaded within said firearm’s chamber whilst physically blocking intentionally or accidentally insertion of such a cartridge into said chamber; and temporarily shutting off firearm’s ejection port; said an elongated chamber’s insert comprises a plug-like end, releasably insertable via said firing chamber, and an opposite end, having both (a) firing bolt’s teeth acceptor and (b) an ejection port shutter connector; said an elongated chamber’s insert is connectable with an ejection port shutter having an external surface, optionally having a cable connecting member, and an internal surface having chamber’s insert connecting module (CICM) and a ledge, configured to be inserted into depression on the surface of bolt carrier when LCI is plugged within a firing chamber; when firing is sought, bolt carrier and bolt are moved back, and LCI is ejected from the firearm.Y1

Images