Patent ID: 6861598
Filing Date: 2005-03-01
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A power tool comprising: a housing having a handle portion for gripping by a hand of a user during operation of the tool, the housing having first and second openings therein; a motor at least partially contained in the housing for powering the tool; a switch at least partially mounted in the housing for actuating the motor; and an ambidextrous safety latch at least partially mounted in the housing adjacent the switch for selectively controlling actuation of the switch, wherein the latch is movable between a first position, where the latch prevents activation of the switch, and a second position, where the latch permits activation of the switch, wherein the larch is biased to the first position, wherein a first portion of the latch extends outwardly through the first opening, wherein a second portion of the larch extends outwardly through the second opening, and wherein a user of the tool can move the latch from the first position to the second position while gripping the handle portion by pressing on either of the first and second portions.