Firearm Retainer Arms for Holster Trigger Guard

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing firearm holsters often have complex retention devices that hinder quick removal of the firearm, particularly in leather holsters where straps or covers interfere with the process.

Innovation Solution

A firearm retention mechanism comprising two arms with retention elements and trigger stops, connected by a resilient member, which automatically engages and disengages with the firearm's trigger guard when inserted or removed, allowing for quick and secure retention without the need for additional operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If push-button retention devices are used, then the firearm is securely retained in the holster, but the device complexity increases and quick removal is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirearm retention securityVSAvoidretention device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retention mechanism is divided into two separate arms (first arm and second arm) that can independently engage and disengage from the trigger guard. Each arm has its own retention element and trigger stop, allowing the system to be segmented into simpler components rather than a single complex locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retention mechanism automatically engages when the firearm is inserted into the holster and automatically disengages when the firearm is removed. The resilient member provides automatic resetting of the arms without requiring user intervention, making the system self-servicing rather than requiring manual operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If push-button retention devices are used, then the firearm is securely retained in the holster, but the removal speed decreases due to additional operation required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirearm retention securityVSAvoidfirearm removal speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The retention mechanism automatically disengages upon removal of the firearm without requiring the user to press a button or perform any additional operation. The arms are passively actuated by the movement of the trigger guard, enabling quick removal while maintaining secure retention during normal carry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient member is pre-loaded to automatically reset the arms to their engaged position after each cycle. This preliminary preparation ensures that the retention mechanism is always ready to engage immediately when the firearm is reinserted, maintaining both speed and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If straps or covers are used in leather holsters, then the firearm is retained securely, but the removal process is interfered with and slowed down

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirearm retention securityVSAvoidfirearm removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The retention function is extracted from the holster body itself (separate from straps or covers) and implemented through dedicated arms that engage directly with the trigger guard. This separation eliminates the interference caused by straps or covers while maintaining secure retention through the specialized arm mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The arms automatically adjust their position based on the presence or absence of the firearm, providing retention when needed and clearing the path for removal without requiring manual manipulation of straps or covers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If complex retention devices with moving parts are used, then secure retention is achieved, but the device complexity and potential failure points increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirearm retention securityVSAvoidnumber of moving parts
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism is segmented into two independent arms with simple, identical structures. Each arm has only essential components (retention element, trigger stop, mounting aperture), reducing the complexity of individual parts while achieving secure retention through their combined action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient member serves multiple functions: providing the retaining force, enabling automatic resetting, and absorbing wear. This self-servicing mechanism reduces the need for additional moving parts that would require maintenance or adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables quick and secure retention and release of the firearm, reducing complexity and interference, and can be adjusted for varying trigger guard sizes, ensuring effective retention across different holster materials.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient member between the first and said second arms, thereby joining said arms in a position that the retention elements face one another and the first and second trigger stops are aligned with one another

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11686553B2Firearm retainer for holsters
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 TURNING POINT DISTRIBUTION LLC
  • US11686553B2 patent drawing
  • US11686553B2 patent drawing
  • US11686553B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A firearm retention mechanism is provided for a holster. The device comprises first and second arms that each have a first end and a second end, outwardly extending retention elements and trigger guard stops, and a fastener which connects the first and second arms so that they define an open top, with the retention elements and trigger guard stops facing one another, the trigger guard stops located below the retention elements. The arms are connected to sides of the holster with the open top facing upwardly to receive a trigger guard of the firearm, which is then pressed between the retention elements.