Firearm barrel mounting system

Abstract

A firearm includes a barrel assembly include a barrel having a connection portion and a breech portion. The breech portion of the barrel is positioned in a barrel carrier opening defined through a barrel carrier. A barrel carrier bracket, a barrel washer, and a barrel nut are positioned on the connection portion of the barrel, distal of the barrel carrier. As the barrel nut is forced proximally along the barrel, the barrel carrier bracket is also forced proximally along the barrel. This forces at least a portion of the barrel carrier to move toward the receiver of the firearm along a direction transverse with respect to the barrel axis.

Description

[0001] #2289479 006037-001217

[0002] 1

[0003] FIREARM BARREL MOUNTING SYSTEM

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention pertains generally to firearms and, in particular aspects, to systems for securing a barrel in a firearm. The barrel mounting systems disclosed herein secure a barrel to a receiver of a firearm. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the stability of the connection of the barrel to the firearm can affect the accuracy of a firearm and the feel for the user firing the firearm. Accordingly, there is a desire for new and improved designs.#2289479 006037-001217

[0006] 2

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] A firearm may comprise a receiver, a barrel, a barrel carrier, and a barrel carrier bracket. The receiver may support the barrel carrier and the barrel carrier bracket, and the barrel carrier may support the barrel. The barrel may define a barrel axis and the barrel carrier bracket may be configured to force at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards the receiver along a direction transverse to the barrel axis.

[0009] A barrel nut may be configured to force the barrel against the barrel carrier along at least the direction of the barrel axis. In some instances, the barrel nut tensions a portion of the barrel when forcing the barrel against the barrel carrier. The barrel carrier bracket may have a portion positioned between the barrel nut and the barrel carrier. The barrel nut may force the barrel carrier bracket towards the barrel carrier. In some examples, the barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier are rotationally fixed relative to one another. The barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier may also each be rotationally fixed relative to the receiver.

[0010] In some examples, the barrel carrier bracket may have a ramped portion in contact with a ramped portion of the barrel carrier. When the barrel nut is tightened, the barrel carrier bracket may be forced towards the barrel carrier and the ramped portion of the barrel carrier bracket may move along the ramped portion of the barrel carrier.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the barrel nut may have a threaded portion configured to engage a threaded portion of the barrel. The barrel may have a flange and at least a portion of the barrel carrier may be positioned between the barrel nut and the flange of the barrel. In some embodiments, the barrel carrier bracket is free of contact with the barrel.

[0012] A method may comprise connecting a barrel of a firearm to a barrel carrier of the firearm, where the barrel defines a barrel axis. In some examples, connecting said barrel to said barrel carrier comprises inserting a breech portion of said barrel into a barrel carrier opening of said barrel carrier. A barrel carrier bracket may be positioned around at least a portion of said barrel. The barrel carrier bracket may be forced proximally along said barrel axis. The barrel carrier bracket may force at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards the receiver along a direction transverse to the barrel axis as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis. In some examples, the barrel carrier may move at least partially into a cutout section defined in said receiver.

[0013] In certain embodiments, a barrel nut may be positioned around at least a portion of said barrel, and the barrel nut may be positioned distally of said barrel carrier bracket. The#2289479 006037-001217

[0014] 3

[0015] barrel nut may be forced proximally along said barrel axis which may cause the barrel carrier bracket to be forced proximally along said barrel axis.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the barrel nut may be forced proximally along said barrel axis by rotating said barrel nut about said barrel axis. In certain embodiments, said barrel carrier may include an angled barrel carrier surface; and said barrel carrier bracket may include an angled barrel carrier bracket surface. The angled barrel carrier bracket surface may contact and slide along said angled barrel carrier surface as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

[0017] In another example, a firearm may comprise a receiver including a receiver cutout section. A barrel may include a muzzle portion and a breech portion and may define a barrel axis. A barrel carrier may include a barrel carrier body having an angled barrel carrier surface. A barrel carrier opening may be defined in said barrel carrier body and configured to receive said breech portion of said barrel. A barrel carrier bracket may include an angled barrel carrier bracket surface, and said barrel carrier bracket may be positioned distal of said barrel carrier. In some embodiments, a barrel nut positioned at least partially around said barrel, wherein said barrel nut is distal of said barrel carrier bracket. Additionally, a barrel washer may be positioned at least partially around said barrel, distal of said barrel carrier bracket and proximal of said barrel nut.

[0018] The angled barrel carrier bracket surface may be configured to contact said angled barrel carrier surface when said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis. Contact between said angled barrel carrier bracket surface and said angled barrel carrier surface may be configured to force at least a portion of said barrel carrier into said receiver cutout section.

[0019] In some embodiments, said barrel carrier body may include a first barrel carrier side surface and a first side recess entrance defined in said first barrel carrier side surface. The angled barrel carrier surface may form a first recess entrance surface that defines a boundary of said first side recess entrance.

[0020] In some embodiments, the barrel carrier bracket may include a barrel carrier bracket tab extending from said barrel carrier bracket. The angled barrel carrier bracket surface may form a surface of said barrel carrier bracket tab.

[0021] Further forms, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from a detailed description and drawings provided herewith.#2289479 006037-001217

[0022] 4

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a right side view of a firearm.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a left side view of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a left side perspective view of a bolt and recoil assembly of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a left side view of a barrel assembly of the firearm of FIG. 1 without a barrel carrier.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a barrel carrier bracket of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a barrel washer of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a barrel nut of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the barrel assembly of FIG. 4.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a barrel carrier of the firearm of FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 10 is a left side view of the barrel assembly of FIG. 4 with the barrel carrier of FIG. 9 and in a first configuration.

[0033] FIG. 11 is a left side view of the barrel assembly of FIG. 4 with the barrel carrier of FIG. 9 and in a second configuration.

[0034] FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the barrel assembly of FIG. 4 with the barrel carrier of FIG. 9 in an untightened configuration.

[0035] FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the barrel assembly of FIG. 4 with the barrel carrier of FIG. 9 in a tightened configuration.

[0036] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of coupling a barrel assembly to a barrel carrier.#2289479 006037-001217

[0037] 5

[0038] DESCRIPTION OF THE SELECTED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. One embodiment of the invention is shown in great detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not relevant to the present invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.

[0040] Directional terms, such as forward, rearward, top, bottom, etc., are used in this description with reference to the specific embodiment shown and used for purposes of clarity. It should be recognized that these terms are not meant to be limiting. For the purposes of this description, the term “forward” refers to the direction moving toward the muzzle end of the barrel, where a bullet exits upon being fired. The term “rearward” refers to a direction moving toward the end of the firearm opposite of the muzzle end (e.g., towards the buttstock).

[0041] A right side view of an exemplary firearm 20 is shown in FIG. 1. The firearm 20 includes an upper receiver 25 and a lower receiver 30. A stock 45 extends rearwardly from the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30. The lower receiver 30 may include or have attached thereto a grip 32 and / or a trigger guard 35 that partially blocks access to a trigger mechanism 40. The lower receiver 30 also defines a magazine well 50 for receiving a magazine 52. A barrel assembly 55 is partially positioned within and extends forward of the upper receiver 25.

[0042] The firearm 20 includes a bolt release assembly 210. A bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly 210 is positioned on the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the bolt release lever spans between the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30. However, in other embodiments, the position of the bolt release assembly 210 may vary. For example, the bolt release assembly 210 may be completely contained within the lower receiver 30.

[0043] The firearm 20 also includes a magazine catch lever assembly 110 for retaining the magazine 52 within the magazine well 50. As shown, a press button of the magazine catch#2289479 006037-001217

[0044] 6

[0045] lever assembly 110 is accessible from the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the press button is located on the lower receiver 30, near the trigger guard 35 and below the bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly 210. In other embodiments, the magazine catch lever assembly 110 may be accessible from other suitable locations on the right side of the firearm 20.

[0046] A left side view of the firearm 20 is illustrated in FIG. 2. A bolt release lever of the bolt release assembly 210 is also accessible on the left side of the firearm 20, allowing the bolt release assembly 210 to be operated from either the left side or the right side of the firearm 20. In the embodiment shown, the bolt release lever on the left side of the firearm 20 spans between the upper receiver 25 and the lower receiver 30.

[0047] A magazine catch lever of the magazine catch lever assembly 110 is also accessible from the left side of the firearm 20, allowing the magazine catch lever assembly 110 to be operated from either the left side or the right side. In the embodiment shown, magazine catch lever is located within the lower receiver 30, forward of the trigger guard 35.

[0048] An exemplary bolt assembly 115 of the firearm 20 is illustrated in FIG. 3. The bolt assembly 115 includes a bolt 120, a bolt lock 140, a locking roller assembly 150, and a barrel carrier 160. The locking roller assembly 150 is positioned between the bolt 120 and the barrel carrier 160. A recoil spring assembly 180 extends rearwardly from the bolt 120. The recoil spring assembly 180 includes a recoil rod 182 and a recoil spring 185 positioned around the recoil rod 182. A recoil buffer 188 is positioned at the rearward end of the recoil rod 182.

[0049] The barrel assembly 55 is shown in more detail in FIG. 4. The barrel assembly 55 includes a barrel 56 that has a muzzle portion 58, a medial portion 59 proximal of the muzzle portion 58, a connection portion 60 proximal of the medial portion 59, and a breech portion 62 with a breech end 63 that is proximal of the connection portion 60. The muzzle portion 58 of the barrel 56 connects to a muzzle attachment 66. In the embodiment shown, the muzzle attachment 66 is threadedly connected to the muzzle portion 58 of the barrel 56. In the embodiment shown, the muzzle portion 58 of the barrel 56 has a diameter that is less than a diameter of the medial portion 59 of the barrel 56. The diameter of the medial portion 59 is less than a diameter of the connection portion 60 of the barrel 56. The diameter of the connection portion 60 is less than a diameter of the breech portion 62 of the barrel 56.

[0050] A barrel carrier bracket 70 is positioned around the barrel 56, adjacent to and proximal of the breech portion 62 of the barrel 56. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the#2289479 006037-001217

[0051] 7

[0052] barrel carrier bracket 70 has a rectangular shape and includes a pair of bracket tabs 72 that extend from a rear surface of the barrel carrier bracket 70. Each of the bracket tabs 72 includes an angled bracket tab surface 73. The barrel carrier bracket opening 71 is sized to receive the medial portion of the barrel 56 and can be circular.

[0053] A barrel washer 74 is positioned around the barrel 56 and is positioned distally of the barrel carrier bracket 70. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the barrel washer 74 is circular and includes a circular barrel washer opening 75 that is sized to receive the medial portion 59 of the barrel 56. In the embodiment shown, the barrel washer opening 75 is sized to receive the medial portion 59 of the barrel 56.

[0054] A barrel nut 80 is positioned around the barrel 56 and positioned distally of the barrel washer 74 and the barrel carrier bracket 70. As shown in FIG. 7, the barrel nut 80 includes a barrel nut opening 81 and a plurality of barrel nut recesses 82 around the perimeter of the barrel nut 80 that allow a tool to be coupled to the barrel nut 80 for tightening. In the embodiment shown, the barrel nut opening 81 is circular and is sized to receive the medial portion 59 of the barrel 56. Additionally, in the embodiment shown, the barrel nut 80 includes a total of four barrel nut recesses 82 evenly spaced around the perimeter of the barrel nut 80. In other embodiments, there may be more or fewer barrel nut recesses 82 to match a desired tool to be used for tightening the barrel nut 80. Additionally, in other embodiments, the spacing of the barrel nut recesses 82 may be modified to match a desired tool.

[0055] A cross-sectional view of the barrel assembly 55 is shown in FIG. 8. The barrel carrier bracket 70, the barrel washer 74, and the barrel nut 80 are positioned around the connection portion 60 of the barrel 56. The barrel nut opening 81 has a diameter that is substantially similar to the diameter of the connection portion 60. The barrel carrier bracket opening 71 has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the connection portion 60. The larger diameter of the barrel carrier bracket opening 71 provides a looser fit around the connection portion 60 for the barrel carrier bracket 70 when compared to the barrel nut 80. Therefore, the barrel 56 is able to move vertically within the barrel carrier bracket opening 71.

[0056] The barrel carrier 160 (e.g., barrel trunnion) is shown in more detail in FIG. 9. The barrel carrier 160 includes a barrel carrier body 161. In the embodiment shown the barrel carrier body 161 includes a pair of barrel carrier shelves 165 that extend from a barrel carrier top surface 162. Each shelf 165 defines a bevel 166 that forms a trough- shaped recess in the shelf 165. The bevel 166 includes a sloped surface 168 on the shelf 165. A barrel carrier#2289479 006037-001217

[0057] 8

[0058] opening 171 is defined through the barrel carrier body 161 and configured to receive the barrel of the firearm 20.

[0059] The barrel carrier body 161 also includes a pair of barrel carrier side surfaces 163 that each include a barrel carrier side recess 175. The barrel carrier side recess 175 extends through a portion of the side surface 163. The barrel carrier side recess 175 includes a side recess entrance 176 defined through the side surface 163. In the embodiment shown, the side recess entrance 176 is smaller than the barrel carrier side recess 175 so that the opening defined by the side recess entrance 176 expands into the barrel carrier side recess 175. The side surface 163 includes an angled recess entrance surface 178 that, in the embodiments shown, defines a top boundary of the side recess entrance 176.

[0060] FIGS. 10-11 show the barrel assembly 55 coupled to the barrel carrier 160 and in an untightened configuration. The breech portion of the barrel 56 is positioned within the barrel carrier opening 171 of the barrel carrier 160. The barrel carrier bracket 70, the barrel washer 74, and the barrel nut 80 are positioned on the connection portion 60 of the barrel 56, distal of the barrel carrier 160. A portion of the bracket tab 72 of the barrel carrier bracket 70 is positioned at least partially within the side recess entrance 176 of the barrel carrier 160, so that a portion of the angled bracket tab surface 73 is adjacent to the angled recess entrance surface 178 of the barrel carrier 160.

[0061] In order to put the barrel assembly 55 in a tightened configuration with respect to the barrel carrier 160 (shown in FIGS. 12-13), the barrel nut 80 is forced proximally along the barrel 56 towards the barrel carrier. In the embodiment shown, the barrel nut 80 is forced proximally along the barrel 56 by rotation of the barrel nut 80. For example, a tightening tool may have an end that fits within the barrel nut recesses 82 of the barrel nut 80 and rotation of the tightening tool may allow for rotation of the barrel nut 80. The proximal forcing of the barrel nut 80 causes the barrel washer 74 and the barrel carrier bracket 70 to also be forced proximally along the barrel 56.

[0062] As the barrel carrier bracket 70 is forced proximally along barrel 56, the bracket tabs 72 move further within the respective side recess entrances 176 of the barrel carrier 160. The angled bracket tab surface 73 of each bracket tab 72 interacts with the angled recess entrance surface 178 of the respective side recess entrance 176 to force the barrel carrier 160 and the barrel carrier bracket 70 in opposite directions along a vertical axis within the upper receiver 25 as the barrel carrier bracket 70 is forced proximally along the barrel.#2289479 006037-001217

[0063] 9

[0064] As shown in FIG. 13, the upper receiver 25 includes an upper receiver cutout section 26 aligned with the barrel carrier 160. When the barrel assembly 55 is in the untightened configuration with respect to the barrel carrier 160, as shown in FIG. 11, the barrel carrier 160 is not positioned within the upper receiver cutout section 26, but is positioned below the upper receiver cutout section 26. When the barrel assembly 55 is moved to the tightened configuration with respect to the barrel carrier 160, the barrel carrier 160 is forced upward into the upper receiver cutout section 26, as shown in FIG. 13.

[0065] Positioning the barrel carrier 160 in the upper receiver cutout section 26 of the upper receiver 25 is advantageous in preventing forward and / or rearward movement of the barrel carrier 160 during operation of the firearm. This results in less movement of the barrel 56 while firing increasing accuracy.

[0066] A method of coupling a barrel assembly to a barrel carrier is described in flowchart 300, shown in FIG. 14. In a first stage 305, the breech portion 62 of the barrel 56 is inserted into the barrel carrier opening 171 of the barrel carrier 160. In some embodiments, the barrel carrier 160 may be positioned within the upper receiver 25 when the breech portion 62 of the barrel 56 is inserted into the barrel carrier opening 171.

[0067] In a second stage 310, the barrel carrier bracket 70 is positioned around the barrel 56, for example, at the connection portion 60 of the barrel 56. The barrel carrier bracket 70 is positioned adjacent to and distal of the barrel carrier 160. The barrel carrier bracket tabs 72 of the barrel carrier bracket 70 are positioned at least partially within respective side recess entrances 176 defined in the barrel carrier 160.

[0068] In a third stage 315, the barrel nut 80 is positioned around the barrel 56 so that the barrel nut 80 is distal of the barrel carrier bracket 70. In some embodiments, the barrel carrier bracket may already be positioned within the upper receiver 25 before the barrel nut 80 is positioned around the barrel 56. The barrel nut 80 may also be positioned at the connection portion 60 of the barrel 56. In some embodiments, the barrel washer 74 may also be positioned around the barrel 56 between the barrel carrier bracket 70 and the barrel nut 80.

[0069] It should be recognized that in other embodiments, the second stage 310 and the third stage 315 may be performed before the first stage 305. For example, in some embodiments, barrel carrier bracket 70 may be positioned around the barrel 56 followed by the barrel nut 80 being positioned around the barrel 56 and then the breech portion 62 of the barrel 56 may be inserted into the barrel carrier opening 171.#2289479 006037-001217

[0070] 10

[0071] In a fourth stage 320, the barrel nut 80 is moved proximally along the barrel 56. In some embodiments, proximal movement of the barrel nut 80 is achieved by rotation of the barrel nut 80 with respect to the barrel 56. The proximal movement of the barrel nut 80 causes proximal movement of the barrel carrier bracket 70 along the barrel 56. As the barrel carrier bracket 70 moves proximally along the barrel 56, the barrel carrier bracket tabs 72 move further within the respective side recess entrances 176 of the barrel carrier 160. As the barrel carrier bracket tabs 72 move proximally with respect to the side recess entrances 176, the angled bracket tab surfaces 73 of the barrel carrier bracket tabs 72 contact and bear upon the respective angled recess entrance surfaces 178 of the barrel carrier 160, pushing the barrel carrier 160 upward. The barrel carrier 160 is positioned within the upper receiver 25, and moves vertically, into the upper receiver cutout section 26, securing the barrel carrier 160 within the upper receiver 25.

[0072] The term “angled surface” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, any portion of the surface of a component that is positioned obliquely with respect to an adjacent portion of the surface of that component.

[0073] The term “barrel” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a tube including a hollow interior from which a projectile of a firearm is expelled upon the introduction of rapidly expanding, high-pressure gases within the hollow interior. In some instances, the barrel is made of a rigid high-strength metal that is capable of withstanding the high pressure, but other materials of suitable strength, such as composite materials may be used. An exterior of the barrel may be smooth or fluted. The hollow interior of the barrel may be smooth or rifled.

[0074] The term “barrel axis” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the barrel and through the geometric center of the barrel.

[0075] The term “barrel carrier” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a structure mounted to the receiver that receives the barrel and acts as mounting point within the receiver for the barrel.

[0076] The term “barrel carrier bracket” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a component fit entirely around or partially around the barrel that is adjacent to the barrel carrier and interacts with the barrel carrier when the barrel is secured within the receiver.

[0077] The term “barrel nut” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, a component that is movable along the barrel axis and used to apply tension on a barrel positioned within a receiver.#2289479 006037-001217

[0078] 11

[0079] The term “receiver” as used herein includes but is not limited to serialized housings for firearms.

[0080] The following numbered clauses set out specific embodiments that may be useful in understanding the present invention:

[0081] 1. A firearm, comprising:

[0082] a receiver, a barrel, a barrel carrier, and a barrel carrier bracket;

[0083] wherein the receiver supports the barrel carrier and the barrel carrier bracket; wherein the barrel carrier supports the barrel;

[0084] wherein the barrel defines a barrel axis; and

[0085] wherein the barrel carrier bracket is configured to force at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards the receiver along a direction transverse to the barrel axis.

[0086] 2. The firearm of clause 1, further comprising:

[0087] a barrel nut configured to force the barrel against the barrel carrier along at least the direction of the barrel axis.

[0088] 3. The firearm of clause 2, wherein the barrel carrier bracket has a portion positioned between the barrel nut and the barrel carrier.

[0089] 4. The firearm of any one of clauses 2-3, wherein the barrel nut forces the barrel carrier bracket towards the barrel carrier.

[0090] 5. The firearm of clause 4, wherein the barrel carrier bracket has a ramped portion in contact with a ramped portion of the barrel carrier; and

[0091] wherein when the barrel nut is tightened the barrel carrier bracket is forced towards the barrel carrier and the ramped portion of the barrel carrier bracket moves along the ramped portion of the barrel carrier.

[0092] 6. The firearm of clause 5, wherein the barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier are rotationally fixed relative to one another.

[0093] 7. The firearm of clause 6, wherein the barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier are each rotationally fixed relative to the receiver.

[0094] 8. The firearm of any one of clauses 2-7, wherein the barrel nut tensions a portion of the barrel when forcing the barrel against the barrel carrier.

[0095] 9. The firearm of clause 8, wherein the barrel nut has a threaded portion configured to engage a threaded portion of the barrel; and

[0096] wherein the barrel has a flange and at least a portion of the barrel carrier is positioned between the barrel nut and the flange of the barrel.#2289479 006037-001217

[0097] 12

[0098] 10. The firearm of any preceding clause, wherein the barrel carrier bracket is free of contact with the barrel.

[0099] 11. A method comprising :

[0100] connecting a barrel of a firearm to a barrel carrier of the firearm, wherein said barrel defines a barrel axis;

[0101] positioning a barrel carrier bracket around at least a portion of said barrel; forcing said barrel carrier bracket proximally along said barrel axis; and

[0102] wherein said barrel carrier bracket forces at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards a receiver of the firearm, along a direction transverse to the barrel axis as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

[0103] 12. The method of clause 11, further comprising:

[0104] positioning a barrel nut around at least a portion of said barrel, wherein said barrel nut is positioned distally of said barrel carrier bracket.

[0105] 13. The method of clause 12, further comprising:

[0106] forcing said barrel nut proximally along said barrel axis, causing said forcing of said barrel carrier bracket proximally along said barrel axis.

[0107] 14. The method of clause 13, wherein said barrel nut is forced proximally along said barrel axis by rotating said barrel nut about said barrel axis.

[0108] 15. The method of clause 14, wherein said barrel nut tensions a portion of said barrel as the barrel nut is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

[0109] 16. The method of any one of clauses 11-15,

[0110] wherein said barrel carrier includes an angled barrel carrier surface; and

[0111] wherein said barrel carrier bracket includes an angled barrel carrier bracket surface.

[0112] 17. The method of clause 16, wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface contacts and slides along said angled barrel carrier surface as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

[0113] 18. The method of any one of clauses 11-17, wherein said connecting said barrel to said barrel carrier comprises inserting a breech portion of said barrel into a barrel carrier opening of said barrel carrier.

[0114] 19. The method of any one of clauses 11-18, wherein said barrel carrier bracket and said barrel carrier are rotationally fixed relative to one another.

[0115] 20. The method of any one of clauses 11-19, wherein said barrel carrier moves toward said receiver at least partially into a cutout section defined in said receiver.#2289479 006037-001217

[0116] 13

[0117] 21. A firearm comprising :

[0118] a receiver including a receiver cutout section;

[0119] a barrel including a muzzle portion and a breech portion and defining a barrel axis; a barrel carrier including a barrel carrier body having an angled barrel carrier surface, wherein a barrel carrier opening is defined in said barrel carrier body and configured to receive said breech portion of said barrel;

[0120] a barrel carrier bracket including an angled barrel carrier bracket surface, wherein said barrel carrier bracket is positioned distal of said barrel carrier, and wherein said barrel carrier bracket is supported by said receiver;

[0121] wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface is configured to contact said angled barrel carrier surface when said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis; and

[0122] wherein contact between said angled barrel carrier bracket surface and said angled barrel carrier surface is configured to force at least a portion of said barrel carrier into said receiver cutout section.

[0123] 22. The firearm of clause 21, wherein said barrel carrier body includes a first barrel carrier side surface and a first side recess entrance defined in said first barrel carrier side surface, and wherein said angled barrel carrier surface forms a first recess entrance surface that defines a boundary of said first side recess entrance.

[0124] 23. The firearm of any one of clauses 21-22, wherein said barrel carrier bracket is positioned at least partially around said barrel.

[0125] 24. The firearm of any one of clauses 21-23, wherein said barrel carrier bracket includes a barrel carrier bracket tab extending from said barrel carrier bracket.

[0126] 25. The firearm of clause 24, wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface forms a surface of said barrel carrier bracket tab.

[0127] 26. The firearm of any one of clauses 21-25, further comprising:

[0128] a barrel nut positioned at least partially around said barrel, wherein said barrel nut is distal of said barrel carrier bracket.

[0129] 27. The firearm of clause 26, further comprising:

[0130] a barrel washer positioned at least partially around said barrel; and

[0131] wherein said barrel washer is distal of said barrel carrier bracket and proximal of said barrel nut.#2289479 006037-001217

[0132] 14

[0133] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions defined by following claims are desired to be protected. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein.

Claims

#2289479 006037-00121715CLAIMS1. A firearm, comprising:a receiver, a barrel, a barrel carrier, and a barrel carrier bracket;wherein the receiver supports the barrel carrier and the barrel carrier bracket; wherein the barrel carrier supports the barrel;wherein the barrel defines a barrel axis; andwherein the barrel carrier bracket is configured to force at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards the receiver along a direction transverse to the barrel axis.

2. The firearm of claim 1, further comprising:a barrel nut configured to force the barrel against the barrel carrier along at least the direction of the barrel axis.

3. The firearm of claim 2, wherein the barrel carrier bracket has a portion positioned between the barrel nut and the barrel carrier.

4. The firearm of claim 2, wherein the barrel nut forces the barrel carrier bracket towards the barrel carrier.

5. The firearm of claim 4, wherein the barrel carrier bracket has a ramped portion in contact with a ramped portion of the barrel carrier; andwherein when the barrel nut is tightened the barrel carrier bracket is forced towards the barrel carrier and the ramped portion of the barrel carrier bracket moves along the ramped portion of the barrel carrier.

6. The firearm of claim 5, wherein the barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier are rotationally fixed relative to one another.

7. The firearm of claim 6, wherein the barrel carrier bracket and the barrel carrier are each rotationally fixed relative to the receiver.#2289479 006037-001217168. The firearm of claim 2, wherein the barrel nut tensions a portion of the barrel when forcing the barrel against the barrel carrier.

9. The firearm of claim 8, wherein the barrel nut has a threaded portion configured to engage a threaded portion of the barrel; andwherein the barrel has a flange and at least a portion of the barrel carrier is positioned between the barrel nut and the flange of the barrel.

10. The firearm of claim 1, wherein the barrel carrier bracket is free of contact with the barrel.

11. A method comprising :connecting a barrel of a firearm to a barrel carrier of the firearm, wherein said barrel defines a barrel axis;positioning a barrel carrier bracket around at least a portion of said barrel; forcing said barrel carrier bracket proximally along said barrel axis; andwherein said barrel carrier bracket forces at least a portion of the barrel carrier towards a receiver of the firearm, along a direction transverse to the barrel axis as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:positioning a barrel nut around at least a portion of said barrel, wherein said barrel nut is positioned distally of said barrel carrier bracket.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising:forcing said barrel nut proximally along said barrel axis, causing said forcing of said barrel carrier bracket proximally along said barrel axis.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein said barrel nut is forced proximally along said barrel axis by rotating said barrel nut about said barrel axis.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein said barrel nut tensions a portion of said barrel as the barrel nut is forced proximally along said barrel axis.#2289479 006037-0012171716. The method of claim 11,wherein said barrel carrier includes an angled barrel carrier surface; and wherein said barrel carrier bracket includes an angled barrel carrier bracket surface.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface contacts and slides along said angled barrel carrier surface as said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein said connecting said barrel to said barrel carrier comprises inserting a breech portion of said barrel into a barrel carrier opening of said barrel carrier.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein said barrel carrier bracket and said barrel carrier are rotationally fixed relative to one another.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein said barrel carrier moves toward said receiver at least partially into a cutout section defined in said receiver.

21. A firearm comprising :a receiver including a receiver cutout section;a barrel including a muzzle portion and a breech portion and defining a barrel axis; a barrel carrier including a barrel carrier body having an angled barrel carrier surface, wherein a barrel carrier opening is defined in said barrel carrier body and configured to receive said breech portion of said barrel;a barrel carrier bracket including an angled barrel carrier bracket surface, wherein said barrel carrier bracket is positioned distal of said barrel carrier, and wherein said barrel carrier bracket is supported by said receiver;wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface is configured to contact said angled barrel carrier surface when said barrel carrier bracket is forced proximally along said barrel axis; and#2289479 006037-00121718wherein contact between said angled barrel carrier bracket surface and said angled barrel carrier surface is configured to force at least a portion of said barrel carrier into said receiver cutout section.

22. The firearm of claim 21, wherein said barrel carrier body includes a first barrel carrier side surface and a first side recess entrance defined in said first barrel carrier side surface, and wherein said angled barrel carrier surface forms a first recess entrance surface that defines a boundary of said first side recess entrance.

23. The firearm of claim 21, wherein said barrel carrier bracket is positioned at least partially around said barrel.

24. The firearm of claim 21, wherein said barrel carrier bracket includes a barrel carrier bracket tab extending from said barrel carrier bracket.

25. The firearm of claim 24, wherein said angled barrel carrier bracket surface forms a surface of said barrel carrier bracket tab.

26. The firearm of claim 21, further comprising:a barrel nut positioned at least partially around said barrel, wherein said barrel nut is distal of said barrel carrier bracket.

27. The firearm of claim 26, further comprising:a barrel washer positioned at least partially around said barrel; andwherein said barrel washer is distal of said barrel carrier bracket and proximal of said barrel nut.

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