A safety / decocking control mechanism for firearms

Abstract

The invention relates to a safety and / or decocking control mechanism that is centrally positioned and partially embedded within the firearm frame. This arrangement allows the bolt assembly to pass over the mechanism when opened. The control mechanism is ergonomically mounted, ensuring accessibility for both left-handed and right-handed users. It facilitates four distinct positions when the bolt assembly is in the closed position and two positions when the bolt assembly is in the open position. Notably, the handcocking button has the capability to pivot back and open, causing the handcocking arm to first decompress the hammer springs and then obstruct the trigger. Upon closure of the bolt assembly, the control mechanism automatically redeploys. The open position of the handcocking button enables safe positioning or decocking of the firearm. Overall, this invention eliminates constraints on the bolt assembly passage during opening and closing, positioning the handcocking button within a highly ergonomic area.

Description

A safety / decocking control mechanism for firearmsField of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of firearms and, more particularly, to safety levers positioned centrally within the frame of the firearm, engineered to facilitate ergonomic safety operations.Background of the invention

[0002] Firearms in action are usually loaded with cartridges intended to be ready for immediate shooting, so the alerted user can fire quickly and accurately when needed. However, during the whole operation of firearms, there are only a few moments where the users need to shoot; thus, caution to prevent inadvertent manipulation and subsequent accidental firing is highly required. Furthermore, specific conditions and procedures demand heightened vigilance to avert unintended firings. Consequently, numerous firearms incorporate safety mechanisms, such as safety levers, to mitigate the risk of accidental discharge due to mishandling.

[0003] Numerous firearms feature a safety or decocking lever located on one side of the firearm, enabling users to transition between secure and firing positions or alternative positions. However, placing the safety or decocking lever on one side presents accessibility limitations, favoring exclusively left-handed or right-handed users. Addressing this constraint typically involves the installation of dual levers, positioned on both sides. Nonetheless, this approach falls short of an optimal solution.

[0004] Similarly, many other firearms necessitate multiple simultaneous manipulations to decock or engage the safety position of the firearm. For instance, this may involve slightly pulling the trigger while simultaneously holding the hammer and smoothly shifting it to a decocked position. Such a method not only restricts user responsiveness but is also deemed less than fully secure, demanding a high level of expertise and caution.

[0005] The placement of the safety or decocking lever on the firearm is a compromise between ergonomic considerations and operational functionality. Toplace the safety or decocking lever in a central position, numerous firearms incorporate a safety or decocking lever within the breech or bolt assembly. However, this design choice implies the firing group to be assembled in the bolt. Additionally, difficulties in disassembly and then assembly for cleaning and maintenance or any other reason may arise, potentially leading to operational issues if not adequately addressed.

[0006] From document US 2022 / 299280, it is known to add a two position safety selector located at the rear of the receiver of the firearm. Pushing it either forward, away from the shooter, or rearward, towards the shooter, will engage or disengage the safety. The safety blocks the trigger from moving and does not lock the bolt from moving. The bolt can be opened or closed with the safety selector in either position.

[0007] Document US 2976637 discloses a firearm comprising a receiver, a bolt mounted in the receiver for longitudinal movement and for rotative movement to and from locked position, a striker reciprocably carried by the bolt, a sear member controlling the release of the striker, a trigger member to actuate the sear, a safety lever pivoted to the receiver to engage and prevent movement of one of said members and manually movable to “off’ position, and means to prevent such manual movement of the safety lever until the bolt is rotated to locked position. Said means comprise an opening through the receiver wall, an element movably received in said opening in position to be engaged by a part of the bolt upon its rotation and projecting outwardly therefrom to actuate said safety lever to safety position when the bolt is rotated to unlocked position.

[0008] It is desirable to have a firearm that can be operated conveniently to establish various states, such as safety on, decocking, and safety off. It is desirable that the safety or decocking lever be centrally located within the grip area of the frame of the firearm, ensuring ergonomic access for both left-handed and right-handed users. However, the central placement of the safety or decocking lever within the frame presents a potential challenge: it may obstruct the passage of the breech or bolt assembly when preparing the firearm for the next shot by pulling it back.Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a firearm with a safety and / or decocking lever that is centrally mounted within the frame at a point ergonomic for the user’s hand. This lever is designed to be mobile or moveable, enabling the breech or the bolt assembly to pass over it. Moreover, it automatically returns to its initial position upon closure of the breech or bolt assembly, maintaining accessibility for the user and ensuring the firearm is promptly ready for firing, ensuring continued accessibility for the user and making the firearm ready for firing.

[0010] The present invention is related to a firearm comprising:- a frame defined with a longitudinal axis,- a bolt assembly movably mounted on the frame with a displacement along the longitudinal axis between a closed position and an open position or vice versa, said displacement defining a path,- a trigger pivotally mounted upon the frame,- a hammer pivotally mounted on the frame and able to adopt a cocked state when the hammer is engaged with the trigger and a decocked state when the hammer is disengaged from the trigger;- a safety and / or decocking control mechanism mounted on the frame, said safety and / or decocking control mechanism comprising a handcocking button,characterized in that the handcocking button is pivotally mounted within the frame between a first position corresponding to a firing position ready for firing when the hammer is in the cocked state and a second position corresponding to a safety position preventing the firearm from firing when the hammer is in the cocked state and when the bolt assembly is in the closed position, said handcocking button when in first position being partially positioned in the path of the bolt assembly so as to be able to pivot from the first position to the second position during the displacement of the bolt assembly from the closed position to the open position.

[0011] Preferably, the handcocking button comprises a gripping head positioned outside the frame being used to manipulate the position of said handcocking button.

[0012] Preferably, the firearm comprises:- the trigger pivotally mounted upon the frame by a trigger pin;- the hammer pivotally mounted upon the frame by a hammer pin.- hammer springs acting into the hammer for causing movement of said hammer between the cocked state and the decocked state;- the handcocking button partially enclosed in the frame;- a handcocking arm pivotally mounted upon the frame by means of a handcocking arm pin said handcocking arm being able to compress the hammer springs and deblock the trigger when handcocking button is the first position corresponding to the firing position or able to decompress the hammer springs and block the trigger when handcocking button is the second position corresponding to the safety position;- a handcocking lever pivotally mounted from a first side upon the handcocking arm by a handcocking lever pin and from a second side upon the handcocking button by a handcocking button pin.

[0013] Preferably, the safety and / or decocking control mechanism comprises six positions, wherein when the bolt assembly is in the closed position; - a first position is wherein the handcocking button is in the first position corresponding to the firing position, the hammer is cocked and the hammer springs are compressed;- a second position is wherein the handcocking button is in the first position corresponding to the firing position, the hammer is decocked and the hammer springs are decompressed;- a third position is wherein the handcocking button is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer is cocked, the trigger is blocked by the handcocking arm and the hammer springs are decompressed by said handcocking arm;- a fourth position is wherein the handcocking button is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer is decocked with decompressed hammer springs and the trigger is blocked by the handcocking arm;and when the bolt assembly is in the open position;- a fifth position is wherein the handcocking button is in the second position not corresponding to the safety position, the hammer is held against the bolt assembly; and the hammer springs are compressed;- a sixth position is a position where the handcocking lever is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer is held against the bolt assembly, and the handcocking arm is blocking the trigger and decompressing the hammer springs.

[0014] Preferably, the trigger comprises a first control surface.

[0015] Preferably, the hammer comprises a first hook being able to engage with the first control surface of the trigger so when said trigger is pulled the first hook is disengaged from the first control surface and the hammer is in the decocked state.

[0016] Preferably, the handcocking sear is pivotally mounted upon the frame by a handcocking sear pin comprising an angular stop limiting the pivoting movement of said handcocking sear.

[0017] Preferably, the handcocking sear comprises a handcocking sear spring causing said handcocking sear to be at abutment against the angular stop.

[0018] Preferably, the handcocking arm comprises a second control surface.

[0019] Preferably, handcocking sear comprises a second hook being able to engage with the second control surface and retain the handcocking arm.

[0020] Preferably, the hammer is linked to the handcocking arm by a hammer spring rod.

[0021] Preferably, the hammer springs are mounted on hammer spring rods so that said hammer springs are able to be compressed or decompressed by the hammer and / or the handcocking arm pivoting.

[0022] Preferably, the hammer springs compress when both the hammer is engaged with the trigger and when the handcocking arm is engaged with the handcocking sear.

[0023] Preferably, the hammer springs decompress when the hammer is disengaged with the trigger and / or the handcocking arm is disengaged with thehandcocking sear during the pivoting of the handcocking button from the first position corresponding to the firing position to the second position corresponding to the safety position.

[0024] Preferably, the handcocking arm comprises a hammer spring guide rod support allowing the partial through passage of the hammer spring guide rod when the hammer and / or the handcocking arm pivot.

[0025] Preferably, the trigger comprises a trigger safety set screw being able to be engaged with the handcocking arm so that said trigger is blocked when the handcocking button is in the second position corresponding to the safety position.Brief description of the drawings

[0026] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a firing position with a cocked hammer, presenting the first position.

[0027] Figure 2 is two 3D views representing two sides of the safety and / or decocking mechanism (right view without hammer springs).

[0028] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a firing position with a decocked hammer after firing, presenting the second position.

[0029] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a safety position with a cocked hammer, presenting the third position (without hammer springs).

[0030] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a safety position with a decocked hammer, presenting the fourth position (without hammer springs).

[0031] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm with an open bolt assembly and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a firing position with the hammer abutting against the bolt assembly, presenting the fifth position (without hammer springs).

[0032] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the firearm with an open bolt assembly and a zoom-in of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in a safety position with the hammer abutting against the bolt assembly , presenting the sixth position (without hammer springs).

[0033] Figure 8 is two 3D views of the handcocking button in an safety position (left) and the handcocking button in a firing position (right) with a closed bolt assembly.Detailed description of the invention

[0034] The present invention will be described in greater detail in one or more preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended figures and for which elements or details can be combined. The same principle applies when combining elements from the figures which illustrate the principal component of the current invention.

[0035] The expression “firing position” may refer to a position in which the firearm is primed for shooting. In other words, the “firing position” represents a position or a configuration where the user can fire the cartridge by pulling the trigger. In more detail, the “firing position” is achieved when the trigger is engaged with the hammer, the hammer springs are compressed, and the handcocking button is closed. Hereafter, one refers interchangeably to a closed handcocking button or to handcocking button in a firing position

[0036] The expression “safety position” may refer to a position in which the firearm is prevented from inadvertently, by any way, firing a cartridge. In more detail, the “safety position” refers to a position or a configuration where the handcocking button is open, obstructing the trigger and / or decompressing the hammer springs, thereby ensuring that no inadvertent cocking of the cartridge occurs. Hereafter, one refers to a open handcocking button or to a handcocking button in a safety position.

[0037] The expression “safety and / or decocking control mechanism” may shortly be referred to as “safety control mechanism” or “decocking control mechanism” or simply “control mechanism”. It is understandable that this control mechanism serves multiple functions. Primarily, it may serve to transition thefirearm into a safe mode, facilitate decocking, and prepare the firearm for shooting by transitioning it into a firing mode. The terms “and / or” may be replaced by either “and” or “or”, with none of the terms being exclusive.

[0038] In the present invention, the positioning of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism among the six possible positions does not mandate consecutive or full execution either before or after one or more firearm actions. Furthermore, altering the position of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism after every shot is not obligatory. The user may retain full discretion to select any position based on operational requirements, providing flexibility and adaptability in firearm use.

[0039] Tables 1 and 2 hereafter disclose the six positions with the corresponding figures. For the positions of Table 1, the bolt assembly is closed and for the positions of Table 2, the bolt assembly is opened.Table 1 - Closed bolt assemblyTable 2 - Opened bolt assembly

[0040] Figure 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50 in the topleft corner, showcasing the safety and / or decocking control mechanism positioned in the firing mode, primed for firing. Moreover, Figure 1 provides a zoom-in of this control mechanism. The trigger 16 is pivotally mounted upon the frame 51 by a trigger pin 21 and interacts with the hammer 1. It means that the hammer is cocked. This interaction is ensured by the engagement between thefirst control surface 30, located at the top side of the tigger 16, and the first hook 31 formed by the shape of the hammer 1. Consequently, when the trigger 16 is pulled, the hammer 1 disengages and pivots to hit the firing pin 60.

[0041] Figure 1 illustrates the firearm 50 in its first position, where the bolt assembly 20 is fully enclosed within the frame 51 , and the handcocking button 14 is in the closed position, also called as the firing position. It is imperative for the user to exercise caution whenever the handcocking button 14 is in the closed position, as triggering action of the trigger 16 may result in firing the firearm 50 if it is loaded.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the handcocking button 14 disclosed herein incorporates an externally situated gripping head 61, giving users the ability to manipulate its position and smoothly transition it between safety and firing positions. The gripping head 61 may preferably possess a textured surface and / or be hollow to ensure stable finger positioning and mitigate the risk of slipping during operation. Additionally, either the handcocking button 14 or the gripping head 61 may feature indicator symbols or markings, enhancing visibility and facilitating clear determination of its current state.

[0043] It is important to mention that the handcocking button 14 is centrally positioned on the frame 51 , ensuring accessibility for both right-handed and lefthanded users. Preferably, the handcocking button 14 is positioned ergonomically to accommodate the user’s hand when holding the firearm 50 for shooting. Specifically, when the user’s hand is holding the firearm 50, the thumb can readily access the handcocking button 14, enabling effortless pivoting or tilting between the firing position / closed position and the safety / open position, or vice versa.

[0044] Figure 1 further illustrates a handcocking sear 8 comprising a second hook 40 designed to engage with the second control surface 41 of the handcocking arm 6. The handcocking sear 8 serves to hold and secure the handcocking arm 6 securely in place when it reaches a specific location. In other words, the handcocking sear 8 functions to firmly grip and stabilize the handcocking arm 6 upon its arrival at the designated position, particularly when the handcocking button 14 is pivoted into the close position / firing position.

[0045] In Figure 2, two comprehensive 3D views of the safety and / or decocking mechanism are presented; each one represents a side of the safety and / or decocking mechanism, showcasing the primary components involved in the operation of said mechanism. The handcocking lever 12 is affixed pivotally to the handcocking arm 6 via a handcocking lever pin 13 on one side and to the handcocking button 14 via the handcocking button pin 15 on the other side. Consequently, manipulation of the handcocking button 14 induces a corresponding pivoting motion in both the handcocking lever 12 and the handcocking arm 6.

[0046] Figure 2 illustrates a hammer 1 interconnected to the handcocking arm 6 via two hammer spring rods 4, each positioned on opposite sides and equipped with a handcocking spring 3. Upon engagement, of the first hook 31 of the hammer 1 with the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16, the hammer springs 3 compress, preparing the firearm 50 for firing. Activation of the trigger 16 initiates the firing process, causing disengagement of the first hook 31 of the hammer 1 from the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16. Leveraging the compression forces exerted by the hammer springs 3, the hammer 1 pivots around the hammer pin 2, delivering sufficient energy to strike the firing pin 60, facilitating successful firing.

[0047] Figure 2 further illustrates a hammer spring guide rod support 5 to facilitate the partial passage of the hammer spring guide rod 4 during pivotal movements of the hammer 1 and / or the handcocking arm 6. In more detail, when the hammer 1 engages with the trigger 16, the presence of the hammer spring guide rod support 5 enables the handcocking arm 6 to pivot around the handcocking arm pin 7 as the handcocking button 14 is pulled downward (into the open position). This action decompresses the hammer springs 3, achieving two key outcomes. Firstly, it obstructs the trigger 16, preventing disengagement with the hammer 1. Secondly, in the event of accidental disengagement between the hammer 1 and the trigger 16, the energy released by the hammer 1 may not suffice to activate the firing pin 60, thus averting unintentional firing of the cartridge.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, a single hammer spring rod 4 and / or a single handcocking spring 3, positioned centrally or on one side, may be used.

[0049] Figure 2 provides additional detail on a handcocking sear 8 designed to pivot around the handcocking sear pin 9 and intended to hold the handcocking arm 6 when the firearm 50 is in the firing position. Moreover, a handcocking sear spring 11 is incorporated to position the handcocking sear 8 against the angular stop 10. Consequently, when the handcocking arm 6 disengages from the handcocking sear 8, the handcocking sear spring 11 ensures that the handcocking sear comes into abutment against the angular stop 10.

[0050] A handcocking lever return spring 19 may preferably be integrated into the handcocking arm 6 to facilitate the effortless return of the handcocking lever 12, and consequently the handcocking button 14, to their firing positions (closed position) when manipulated by the user. Additionally, the handcocking lever return spring 19 may also play a role in helping guide the handcocking lever 12 to its safety position (open position), thereby facilitating the handcocking arm 6 to reach its obstructing position against the trigger 16.

[0051] The handcocking lever 12 may engage and move the handcocking arm 6 when pushed forward by the user. In contrast, the stop 18 may not obstruct the backward motion of the handcocking lever 12 as it advances.

[0052] In all the positions described hereafter, except the fifth position, the handcocking lever 12 is held against this stop 18 by the handcocking lever return spring 19.

[0053] Regarding the obstruction of the trigger 16, the handcocking arm 6 may preferably pivot around the handcocking arm pin 7, allowing a portion of its structure to come into contact with the trigger 16. Specifically, it engages with the trigger safety set screw 17, which is partially screwed into the trigger 16, thereby obstructing the trigger’s pivoting motion around the trigger pin 21 sufficiently to prevent disengagement of the hammer 1 when the first hook 31 is engaged with the first control surface 30. It is worth mentioning that the trigger safety set screw 17 is designed to be screwed or unscrewed by the manufacturer to tune the sensitivity of obstruction of the trigger 16. In more detail, when the trigger safetyset screw 17 is unscrewed, or in other terms, embedded into the trigger 16, said trigger 16 may still partially pivot around the trigger pin 21 when pulled, so that this pivoting movement is sufficient to release the hammer 1 but with not providing enough energy that leads to the firing of the cartridge as the hammer springs 3 are decompressed due to the position of the handcocking arm 6. This arrangement may be used when the user needs to decock the firearm 50. However, it may be undesirable as it may still be considered dangerous and unpredictable. Although the risk may be minimized to almost zero by adjusting the strength of the hammer springs 3 or adding other security features, the minimal risk, combined, for example, with the possibility of a fall, may increase the danger and therefore be avoided.

[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention, the firearm 50 may be configured to omit the decocking feature. This may be achieved by adjusting the trigger safety set screw 17, such that it protrudes beyond the plane that interferes with the handcocking arm 6, thereby impeding or substantially restricting the pivotal motion of the trigger 16. Consequently, this restriction ensures that the first hook 31 of the hammer 1 remains engaged with the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16. Such a configuration may be particularly advantageous for making the firearm 50 safe by precluding the possibility of discharge or decocking. In other words, the trigger 16 pivoting movement becomes impossible or very limited in a way that the first hook 31 of the hammer 1 cannot be disengaged from the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16 resulting in making the firearm 50 in safe mode, which prevents shooting without decocking. For this embodiment, a safety position indexing device (e.g., click) may be required.

[0055] Figure 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50 at the upper left, showing the safety and / or decocking control mechanism is in a closed state corresponding to the firing mode, while the hammer 1 is in a decocked state indicative of the second position. The handcocking button 14 is positioned in the firing position, and the hammer 1 is disengaged from the trigger 16, resulting in the decompression of the hammer springs 3. The bolt assembly 20 is closed and inserted into the breech in the second position. In this configuration, the firearm 50 may house a fired cartridge or be devoid of any cartridge, thereby presenting no hazard or threat to the user.

[0056] To engage the hammer 1 with the trigger 16 and make the firearm 50 ready for subsequent shooting, the user may preferably need to manipulate and actuate the bolt assembly 20 by pulling it out, thereby opening the handcocking button 14 and concurrently pivoting back the hammer 1 around the hammer pin 2. This action positions the first hook 31 ready to re-engage again with the first control surface 30. Consequently, upon re-locking the bolt assembly 20, the hammer 1 re-engages with the trigger 16, thus arming the firearm 50 for the next firing sequence. This engagement is contingent upon the safety and / or decocking mechanism being set to the firing mode, specifically when the handcocking button 14 is sealed / closed, resulting in the handcocking sear 8 holding the handcocking arm 6.

[0057] Figure 4 presents, on the upper left, a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50. In this configuration, the safety and / or decocking control mechanism is open, corresponding to the safety position, and the hammer 1 is engaged with the trigger 16, representing the third position. The firearm 50 is securely positioned to prevent inadvertent firing. This safety may be achieved through two mechanisms: the decompression of the hammer springs 3 and / or the obstruction of the trigger 16, by the handcocking arm 6. When the handcocking button 14 is turned to its open position (safety position), it maintains the handcocking lever 12 abutted against the handcocking arm 6. This configuration allows the handcocking arm 6 to pivot from the firing position to the safety position, allowing the hammer springs 3 to decompress. The pivoting back motion of the handcocking arm 6, including the sliding back hammer spring guide rod support 5, facilitates this decompression. Specifically, in the firing position, or when the handcocking button 14 is in the closed position with the hammer 1 engaged with the trigger 16, the hammer springs are compressed along the hammer spring guide rods 4, held at one end by the hammer spring guide rod support 5. However, when the handcocking arm 6 pivots back, the hammer spring guide rod support 5 slides along the hammer spring guide rods 4 facilitating the decompression of the hammer springs 3. Therefore, if the hammer 1 disengages from the trigger 16, it will not possess the necessary energy to strike the firing pin 60, and initiate the firing sequence of the cartridge. Additionally, the backward pivot of the handcocking arm 6 along the handcocking arm pin 7 causes part of its geometryto interfere with the trigger safety set screw 17, forming part of the trigger 16. This interference prevents the trigger from pivoting, or at least from pivoting sufficiently to disengage the hammer 1 from the trigger 16 when said trigger 16 is pulled. In other words, when the handcocking arm 6 is pivoted back to the safety position, it obstructs the trigger safety set screw 17, thereby securing the trigger 16 and ensuring the firearm 50 is protected from any unintentional firing.

[0058] It is worth mentioning that when the handcocking lever 12 is pushed forward by the user, it may engage and move the handcocking arm 6 along with it. Conversely, the stop 18 does not impede the backward movement of the handcocking lever 12 as it traverses the bolt assembly 20.

[0059] To prepare the firearm 50 for shooting the next cartridge, manipulation of the bolt assembly 20 is necessary, for example, by pulling back and then pushing forward the bolt assembly 20 using the bolt handle 80 to allow the pivotally mounted hammer 1 , mounted upon the frame 51 by the hammer pin 2, to pivot back and engage again with the trigger 16. Notably, this action may open the handcocking button 14, but not necessarily its automatic closure. In the present invention, and thanks to the handcocking lever return spring 19, the handcocking button 14 may preferably pivots back to its closed position (firing position) automatically when the bolt assembly 20 is pushed forward to its closed position, so the firearm 50 may be ready for shooting instantly when the trigger 16 is pulled.

[0600] In an alternative embodiment, the handcocking button 14 remains in its open position (safety position) when the bolt assembly 20 is pulled back and pushed forward. This action serves to eject the fired cartridge and insert a fresh cartridge, or to engage the hammer 1 with the trigger 16 and make the firearm 50 ready for firing. In other words, when the bolt assembly 20 is pulled back and pushed forward, the user may need to pivot the handcocking button 14 to its closed position by pushing or pressing its gripping head 61, thereby making the firearm 50 ready for firing another cartridge.

[0061] Figure 4 further illustrates the handcocking sear 8, pivotally mounted on the frame 51 via the handcocking sear pin 9. It remains in abutment against the angular stop 10 due to the handcocking sear spring 11. In more detail, whenthe handcocking arm 6 pivots down to its safety position, the second control surface 41 of the handcocking arm 6 disengages from the second hook 40 of the handcocking sear 8, allowing the handcocking sear to turn to its abutment position against the angular stop 10. Conversely, when the handcocking button 14 pivots back to its firing position (closed position), the safety and / or decocking control mechanism transitions to its safety position, engaging the handcocking sear 8 with the handcocking arm 6. As a result, the handcocking arm 6 may be securely held by the handcocking sear 8. Referring to figures 1 and 3, tilting the handcocking button 14 by the user causes the pivot of the handcocking sear 8 around the handcocking sear pin 9 leading to the disengagement of the handcocking arm 6.

[0062] The handcocking lever 12 is pivotally connected at one end to the handcocking arm 6 via the handcocking lever pin 13, and at the opposite end to the handcocking button 14 via the handcocking button pin 15. The handcocking arm 6 itself is pivotally mounted on the frame 51 by the handcocking arm pin 7. The handcocking button 14 is designed to pivot between an open position, which corresponds to the safety mode, and a closed position, which corresponds to the firing mode, thereby ensuring operational safety and efficacy.

[0063] Figure 5 depicts at the top left a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50 where the safety and / or decocking control mechanism is open, corresponding to the safety position. In this configuration, the hammer 1 is depicted as being disengaged from the trigger 16, representing the fourth position. This specific position may be representative of the decocked position of the firearm 50, which is achieved subsequent to the disconnection of the hammer 1 from the trigger 16. Concurrently, the handcocking button 14 and consequently the handcocking arm 6 are maintained in the open position, which is synonymous with the safety position.

[0064] As delineated above, the engagement of the handcocking button 14 and consequently the handcocking arm 6 in the safety position may result in the decompression of the hammer springs 3. This action simultaneously obstructs the trigger 16, thereby reducing the energy to a level that is inadequate for firing the cartridge upon the impact of the hammer 1 against the firing pin 60. This fourthposition represents the safety and / or decocking control mechanism, which, upon activation, positions the hammer 1 in a decocked state subsequent to the decocking process of the firearm 50. In other words, Figure 5 illustrates the outcome of pulling the trigger 16, and subsequently setting the firearm 50 in a safety position. In this position, the hammer springs are fully decompressed with the hammer in the decocked position and the handcocking button in the safety position.

[0065] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50 in the top left corner, where the bolt assembly 20 is shown in an open position with the handcocking button 14 in the firing position. This figure represents the fifth position. Typically this position succeeds the second position where the hammer is decocked after firing. toBy pulling back the bolt assembly, the hammer 1 pivots back toward the trigger Wand the handcocking button 14 folds down so that the bolt assembly can pass over it. .. In this position, the handcocking sear 8 holds the handcocking arm 6 securely and the hammer springs 3 are compressed. The handcocking lever 12 pivots around the handcocking button pin 15 relative to the handcocking button 14 and it is no longer in contact with its stop 18.

[0066] Since the handcocking button 14 is centrally positioned on the frame 51 , it tilts to allow the bolt assembly 20 to pull back and redeploy automatically when the bolt assembly 20 is closed or pushed back to its closed position. This design ensures that the handcocking button 14 remains accessible to the user for any necessary manipulation.

[0067] In the present invention, the handcocking button 14 is strategically positioned at the center of the firearm frame 51, creating an exceptionally ergonomic arrangement for users during shooting. When gripping the firearm 50, users typically place one hand close to the trigger and the other hand in a distal position near the barrel. Specifically, the index finger is used to manipulate the trigger 16, while the thumb can conveniently access the handcocking button 14. The gripping head 61 of the handcocking button 14 is externally located on the frame 51 , allowing users-whether left-handed or right-handed, to independently manipulate the position of the handcocking button 14. This design ensures optimal usability and comfort for users.

[0068] The present invention features a strategically positioned handcocking button 14, which is both centrally located and partially integrated into the frame 51. Additionally, the safety and / or decocking control mechanism is meticulously mounted on the frame 51. This arrangement allows the bolt assembly 20 to smoothly pass over the safety and / or decocking control mechanism, specifically gliding over the handcocking button 14. The design strikes an optimal balance between ergonomic considerations and the firearm’s operational efficiency, ensuring an unobstructed pathway for the bolt assembly 20. By positioning the safety and / or decocking control mechanism, particularly the handcocking button 14, in a highly ergonomic area, the present invention eliminates any constraints on the bolt assembly 20 during both opening and closing movements.

[0069] In an alternative embodiment, the handcocking button 14 may remain open and may not automatically close when the bolt assembly 20 is pushed back to its closed position. Consequently, the user must manually manipulate the gripping head 61 to tilt back or close the handcocking button 14. This action readies the firearm 50 for firing, allowing it to fire the next cartridge.

[0070] In the fifth position depicted in Figure 6, several critical components of the firearm 50 may experience functional limitations due to obstruction caused by the open bolt assembly 20. Specifically, both the trigger 16 and the hammer 1, along with the safety and / or decocking control mechanism, become unfunctional. The hammer 1 and the handcocking button 14 may become in contact with the bolt assembly 20, preventing them from pivoting back. As a consequence, pulling the trigger 16 may be obstructed by the presence of the hammer 1.

[0071] Figure 7 illustrates the sixth position, as shown in the top left corner, in a cross-sectional view of the firearm 50. In this configuration, the bolt assembly 20 is open, directing the safety and / or decocking control mechanism in the open position, referred to as the safety position. Typically, as further explained below, this position succeeds the third or fourth position where the handcocking button is in the safety position. By pulling back the bolt assembly, the hammer 1 pivots back toward the trigger 16 and the handcocking button 14 does not movebecause there is enough space for the bolt assembly passing over it. The handcocking arm 6 is positioned against the trigger 16, serving as a safety obstruction. The hammer 1 is pivoted toward the trigger 16. Notably, the first hook 31 of the hammer 1 may automatically engage with the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16 once the bolt assembly 20 is pushed forward or closed. However, this engagement may not occur if the hammer 1 is no longer retained by the trigger 16 but is instead pushed downward by the bolt assembly 20, bypassing the first hook 31 of the trigger 16.

[0072] In the third and fourth position, when the handcocking button 14 is open or is in the safety position (as shown in Figures 4 and 5), the handcocking arm 6 obstructs the trigger 16 and decompresses the hammer springs 3. Figure 7 illustrates the firearm 50 in either the third or fourth position, with the bolt assembly 20 subsequently opening. This allows the bolt assembly to pass over the handcocking button 14 when the firearm 50 is already in the safety position. Such actions may be performed for various purposes, including checking the presence of a cartridge in the magazine, removing a cartridge from the magazine, conducting cleaning operations, or addressing other relevant scenarios.

[0073] The firearm 50 may be positioned in the third position, presenting the safety position. In this configuration, the trigger 16 is obstructed, and the hammer springs 3 are decompressed, while the hammer 1 remains engaged with the trigger 16. The bolt assembly 20 can be opened and closed by pulling and pushing back the handle 80 of the bolt assembly 20. Notably, these actions may not alter the status of the handcocking button 14 or the hammer 1, nor do they affect other components associated with the safety and / or decocking control mechanism. The components may include the handcocking arm 6, the handcocking lever 12, and the trigger 16. Specifically, even if the handcocking button 14 is in its open position (safety position) and the handcocking arm 6 is obstructing the trigger 16, manipulating the bolt assembly 20 by pulling and pushing back the handle 80 may not automatically redeploy or close the handcocking button 14. Consequently, the firearm 50 may be charged but remains in its safety position. Therefore, it is imperative for the user to manually close the handcocking button 14 if firing is necessary.

[0074] The firearm 50 may be positioned in the fourth position, presenting the decocking position. This may be achieved by firing the hammer 1 and placing the handcocking button 14 in the open position (safety position), which may be further combined or complemented by the handcocking arm 6 in the obstructing position. When the hammer 1 is fired, meaning that the first hook 31 is disengaged from the first control surface 30, opening and closing the bolt assembly 20 by pulling and pushing back the handle 80 results in the hammer 1 pivoting back toward the trigger 16 and engaging with it once again. However, the handcocking button 14, handcocking lever 12, and handcocking arm 6 may remain in their safety positions and not automatically redeploy or pivot to the firing position. Only if there is manual manipulation of the gripping head 61 to push the handcocking button 14 into the closed position does the firearm 50 transition from its safety position after closing the bolt assembly 20, as depicted in Figure 7. In other words, without manual intervention of the handcocking button 14, the firearm 50 remains in its safety position, and re-decocking the hammer may be the only possible action.

[0075] In the present invention, the arrangement of the handcocking button 14 with the handcocking lever 12 and the handcocking arm 6, supported by the handcocking lever return spring 19, may facilitate the operation of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism. This arrangement may allow for a smooth transition from the close position (firing position) to the open position (safety position) and may ensure the stability of the entire safety and / or decocking control mechanism. Importantly, the system relies on manual manipulation of the handcocking button 14 to return it to the close position (firing position).

[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the handcocking lever return spring 19 may be adjustable, or another spring or system may be incorporated into the safety and / or decocking control mechanism. When the bolt assembly 20 is opened, it comes into contact with and at least partially moves the handcocking button 14 or other components of the safety mechanism. This interaction triggers the handcocking button 14, resulting in the automatic closure of the safety and / or decocking control mechanism into the firing position as soon as the bolt assembly 20 is pushed back to its closed position. Importantly, no additional manipulation of the handcocking button 14 or other components is required to prepare thefirearm 50 for firing. This enhancement improves the responsiveness of the firearm 50 when needed.

[0077] When the firearm 50 is in its safety position, the trigger 16 is blocked. However, if the hammer 1 is fired and positioned forward, meaning it is not already engaged with the trigger 16, it remains possible to engage the hammer 1 with the trigger 16 even when blocked. This is due to the degree of freedom of the hammer 1, allowing it to move backward and enabling the first hook 31 to pass the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16 during loading / cocking. The hole in the hammer 1 is larger in diameter than the hammer pin 2, which act as the pivot pin. Additionally the hammer pin 2 is mounted in an oblong hole in the frame 51. These combined features permit the hammer 1 to move backward and engage its first hook 31 with the first control surface 30 of the trigger 16, which is blocked by the handcocking arm 6 in the safety position.

[0078] Figure 8 shows two 3D views of the handcocking button 14: one in the open position (left) and the other in the close position (right). When the handcocking button 14 tilts back, it pivots to embed further into the frame 51, leaving only a portion exposed, more precisely the gripping head 61 , which is accessible to the user’s hand. The left figure of Figure 8 illustrates the safety position of the firearm 50, where the trigger 16 is obstructed and / or the hammer 1 is cocked. In this configuration, the bolt assembly 20 may pass over the handcocking button 14 without any possible obstruction when manually pulled back or opened for any reason. To enhance safety awareness, a first indicator 62 may preferably be added to the handcocking button 14 and / or the bolt assembly 20. This indicator changes status when the handcocking button 14 transitions, signalling whether the firearm 50 is in a safe position, decocked, or ready to fire. The right figure illustrates the firing position, where the firearm 50 is prepared for firing upon pulling the trigger 16. Additionally, a second indicator 63 alerts the user to the firearm 50 being in a dangerous position, requiring caution. In other words, pulling the bolt assembly 20 pivots the handcocking button 14 from the closed position (firing position) to the open position (safety position), allowing the bolt assembly to pass over it. Preferably, the handcocking button 14 automatically pivots forward to the closed position (firing position) when the bolt assembly 20is pushed forward to its closed position, ensuring the firearm 50 is immediately ready for the next shot, minimizing response time.

[0079] According to the invention, the handcocking button 14 is able to pivot between two positions. A first position corresponds to the firing position where the firearm is ready to fire if the hammer is cocked. A second position corresponds to the safety position where the firearm is prevented from firing because of handcocking arm 6 blocking the trigger 16 as shown in Figure 4. In some circumstances, this second position does not correspond as such to the safety position where the handcocking arm blocks the trigger. This is the case when the handcocking button is pivoted by pulling back the bolt assembly to its open position as represented in Figure 6. Generally speaking the handcocking button is thus able to pivot between a first position and a second position.

Claims

Claims1. A firearm (50) comprising:- a frame (51) defined with a longitudinal axis,- a bolt assembly (20) movably mounted on the frame (51) with a displacement along the longitudinal axis between a closed position and an open position or vice versa, said displacement defining a path,- a trigger (16) pivotally mounted upon the frame (51),- a hammer (1) pivotally mounted on the frame (51) and able to adopt a cocked state when the hammer (1) is engaged with the trigger (16) and a decocked state when the hammer (1) is disengaged from the trigger (16);- a safety and / or decocking control mechanism mounted on the frame (51), said safety and / or decocking control mechanism comprising a handcocking button (14),characterized in that the handcocking button (14) is pivotally mounted within the frame (51) between a first position corresponding to a firing position ready for firing when the hammer (1) is in the cocked state and a second position corresponding to a safety position preventing the firearm (50) from firing when the hammer (1) is in the cocked state and when the bolt assembly (20) is in the closed position, said handcocking button (14) when in first position being partially positioned in the path of the bolt assembly (20) so as to be able to pivot from the first position to the second position during the displacement of the bolt assembly (20) from the closed position to the open position.

2. The firearm (50) according to claim 1 , wherein the handcocking button (14) comprises a gripping head (61) positioned outside the frame (51) being used to manipulate the position of said handcocking button (14).

3. The firearm (50) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:- a trigger pin (21) and the trigger (16) pivotally mounted upon the frame (51) by said trigger pin (21);- a hammer pin (2) and the hammer (1) pivotally mounted upon the frame (51) by said hammer pin (2),- hammer springs (3) acting into the hammer (1) for causing movement of said hammer (1 ) along a trajectory between the cocked state and the decocked state; - the handcocking button (14) partially enclosed in the frame (51);- a handcocking arm pin (7) and a handcocking arm (6) pivotally mounted upon the frame (51) by means of said handcocking arm pin (7), said handcocking arm (6) being able to compress the hammer springs (3) and deblock the trigger (16) when handcocking button (14) is the first position corresponding to the firing position or able to decompress the hammer springs (3) and block the trigger (16) when handcocking button (14) is the second position corresponding to the safety position;- a handcocking lever pin (13), a handcocking button pin (15), and handcocking lever (12) pivotally mounted from a first side upon the handcocking arm (6) by said handcocking lever pin (13) and from a second side upon the handcocking button (14) by said handcocking button pin (15).

4. The firearm (50) according to any of previous claims, wherein the safety and / or decocking control mechanism comprises six positions.

5. The firearm (50) according to claim 4,wherein when the bolt assembly (20) is in the closed position;- a first position is wherein the handcocking button (14) is in the first position corresponding to the firing position, the hammer (1) is in the cocked state and the hammer springs (3) are compressed;- a second position is wherein the handcocking button (14) is in the first position corresponding to the firing position, the hammer (1) is in the decocked state and the hammer springs (3) are decompressed;- a third position is wherein the handcocking button (14) is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer (1) is in the cocked state, the trigger (16) is blocked by the handcocking arm (6) and the hammer springs (3) are decompressed by said handcocking arm (6);- a fourth position is wherein the handcocking button (14) is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer (1) is in the decocked state withdecompressed hammer springs (3) and the trigger (16) is blocked by the handcocking arm (6);and when the bolt assembly (20) is in the open position;- a fifth position is wherein the handcocking button (14) is in the second position not corresponding to the safety position, the hammer (1) is held against the bolt assembly (20); and the hammer springs (3) are compressed;- a sixth position is a position where the handcocking lever (12) is in the second position corresponding to the safety position, the hammer is held against the bolt assembly (20), and the handcocking arm (6) is blocking the trigger (16) and decompressing the hammer springs (3).

6. The firearm (50) according to any of previous claims, wherein the trigger (16) comprises a first control surface (30).

7. The firearm (50) according to claim 6, wherein the hammer (1 ) comprises a first hook (31 ) being able to engage with the first control surface (30) of the trigger (16) so when said trigger (16) is pulled the first hook (31) is disengaged from the first control surface (30) and the hammer (1) is in the decocked state.

8. The firearm (50) according to any of previous claims, wherein it further comprises a handcocking sear pin (9) and a handcocking sear (8) pivotally mounted upon the frame (51) by said handcocking sear pin (9) comprising an angular stop (10) limiting the pivoting movement of said handcocking sear (8).

9. The firearm (50) according to claim 8, wherein the handcocking sear (8) comprises a handcocking sear spring (11) causing said handcocking sear (8) to be at abutment against the angular stop (10).

10. The firearm (50) according to claims 3 to 9, wherein the handcocking arm (6) comprises a second control surface (41).

11. The firearm (50) according to claim 10, wherein the handcocking sear (8) comprises a second hook (40) being able to engage with the second control surface (41) and retain the handcocking arm (6).

12. The firearm (50) according to claims 3 to 11 , wherein it further comprises a hammer spring rod (4), the hammer (1) being linked to the handcocking arm (6) by said hammer spring rod (4).

13. The firearm (50) according to claim 12, wherein the hammer springs (3) are mounted on the hammer spring rod (4) so that said hammer springs (3) are able to be compressed or decompressed by the hammer (1) and / or the handcocking arm (6) pivoting.

14. The firearm (50) according to claim 13, wherein the hammer springs (3) compress when both the hammer (1) is engaged with the trigger (16) and when the handcocking arm (6) is engaged with the handcocking sear (8).

15. The firearm (50) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the hammer springs (3) decompress when the hammer (1) is disengaged with the trigger (16) and / or the handcocking arm (6) is disengaged with the handcocking sear (8) during the pivoting of the handcocking button (14) from the first position corresponding to the firing position to the second position corresponding to the safety position.

16. The firearm (50) according to claims 12 to 15, wherein the handcocking arm (6) comprises a hammer spring guide rod support (5) allowing the partial through passage of the hammer spring rod (4) when the hammer (1) and / or the handcocking arm (6) pivot.

17. The firearm (50) according to claims 3 to 16, wherein the trigger (16) comprises a trigger safety set screw (17) being able to be engaged with the handcocking arm (6) so that said trigger (16) is blocked when the handcocking button (14) is in the second position corresponding to the safety position.

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