FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to firearms and firearm accessories. Specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a charging handle for firearms.

BACKGROUND

A charging handle is a device on a firearm which serves multiple functions. The charging handle can be used to manually cycle the action, eject a cartridge or spent casing from the firing chamber of a firearm, resolve interruptions to the supply of ammunition to the firing chamber (e.g., a stoppage, double feed, stovepipe, or misfire), verify that the chamber is clear of any obstructions, and load a round into the chamber from an ammunition magazine. The charging handle also moves components of the fire control group to the ready position in preparation for firing a chambered round.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to a charging handle for firearms. In accordance with some embodiments, a charging handle assembly includes a body extending along a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. A handle is connected to the proximal end portion of the body and is translatable along the body between a first position and a second position. A latch is connected to the handle or the body and is operable between a latched position and an unlatched position. Moving the handle from the first position to the second position moves the latch from the latched position to the unlatched position. A spring biases the handle and latch towards the latched position, and upon release of the handle, the latch can return to the latched position. The handle functions as the actuator for the latch, and therefore enables ambidextrous operation of the charging handle.

The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been selected principally for readability and instructional purposes and not to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter.

