Patent ID: 12196517

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present disclosure may be described with respect to specific applications or industries, those skilled in the art will recognize the broader applicability of the disclosure.

Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize the terms such as “a”, “an”, “the”, “at least one”, and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the items is present. A plurality of such items may be present unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, unless otherwise indicated expressly or clearly in view of the context, including the appended claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” whether or not “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicates that the stated numerical value allows some slight imprecision (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. In addition, a disclosure of a range is to be understood as specifically disclosing all values and further divided ranges within the range.

The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. Orders of steps, processes, and operations may be altered when possible, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used in this specification, the term “or” includes any one and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term “any of” is understood to include any possible combination of referenced items, including “any one of” the referenced items. The term “any of” is understood to include any possible combination of referenced claims of the appended claims, including “any one of” the referenced claims.

Features shown in one figure may be combined with, substituted for, or modified by, features shown in any of the figures. Unless stated otherwise, no features, elements, or limitations are mutually exclusive of any other features, elements, or limitations. Furthermore, no features, elements, or limitations are absolutely required for operation. Any specific configurations shown in the figures are illustrative only and the specific configurations shown are not limiting of the claims or the description.

For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as “above”, “below”, “upward”, “downward”, “top”, “bottom”, etc., may be used descriptively relative to the figures, without representing limitations on the scope of the invention, as defined by the claims. Any numerical designations, such as “first” or “second” are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any way.

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose upper assembly components for Armalite (AR) style rifles or other similarly designed firearms including an upper receiver, a repositioned charging handle assembly comprising charging handles, charging handle plates, charging rod, and a railed handguard for receipt of the repositioned charging handle assembly. It is contemplated that the components described herein related to the upper assembly, including the upper receiver, repositioned charging handle components and railed handguard, may be formed of the same materials, different materials, or a combination thereof. The upper assembly components may be formed of metallic materials, alloys, polymeric materials, glasses, composites, and the like or combinations thereof. For example, the metallic materials may be selected from aluminum, steel, carbon steel, stainless steel, zinc, magnesium, copper, iron, and the like or combinations thereof. The alloys may be selected from aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy, and the like or combinations thereof. The polymeric materials may be selected from thermoset polymers (such as epoxy, resin, polyurethane, silicone, and the like or combinations thereof), thermoplastic polymers (such as polyamide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and the like or combinations thereof), and the like or combinations thereof. The glasses may be selected from fiberglass, carbon fiber, aramid fiber, and the like or combinations thereof.

Furthermore, the upper assembly components may be formed by injection molding, extrusion, pultrusion, die casting, milling, drilling, soldering, stamping, machining, or otherwise manufactured using common methods known to individuals skilled in the relevant art. The upper assembly components may also be subject to other processing steps such as power coating, sand blasting, plating, staining, painting, anodizing, polishing, or otherwise finished and/or treated using common methods known to individuals skilled in the relevant art. The above examples are not intended to be limiting in any matter, as it will be understood that the materials and/or methods used to form the upper assembly components may vary based on the type and intended application or operation of the firearm on which such components are installed.

In a general sense, the charging handle assembly of the present disclosure is designed such that it is repositioned to a location, within the handguard, in front of the bolt carrier group of a firearm. More specifically, the repositioned charging handle assembly operates in a non-reciprocating fashion. When the user transitions the charging handle assembly from a first position to a second position, i.e., pulls the charging handle to a first or rearward direction within the elongated receiving slot, the charging rod pushes the front end of the bolt carrier group in the first direction thereby compressing the spring, such that the spring launches the bolt carrier group into a charged position thereby charging the firearm.

The charging handle does not move between the first and second positions with the bolt carrier group, the non-reciprocating charging handle allows the user to keep their hand on the handguard while charging the firearm, which can improve accuracy and control. In addition, the forward placement of the charging handle assembly on the handguard of the upper assembly enables the user to check the chamber and charge or recharge the firearm without lowering the same from his or her shoulder. Furthermore, displacement of the charging handle to a position in front of the bolt carrier group distances the charging handle from user-installed accessories such as optics. As such, the user is easily able to actuate the charging handle with one of his or her left or right hand while the firearm is shouldered and without impediment of accessories.

More particularly, referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like components,FIGS.1and9Agenerally show a firearm10,100in an exemplary embodiment, including selected components thereof, such as an upper receiver portion12, lower receiver portion32, a buttstock40, barrel16, barrel nut18, handguard20, and charging handle assembly22,122. Although the repositioned charging handle assembly22,122and railed handguard20are illustrated in the figures as part of an AR-15 style rifle, it should be appreciated that the repositioned charging handle assembly22,122and corresponding railed handguard20of the present disclosure may be applicable to a variety of types of similarly designed firearms to the AR-15 platform without departing from the nature of the present disclosure. For example, the firearm10,100may be of the AR-15/M16 platform of firearms, which may include the AR-10, AR-15, M16, M16A1, M16A2, M16A3, M16A4, CAR-15, M4, M4A1, and the like.

Turning first to an exemplary upper receiver portion12, the upper receiver portion12as shown in the firearm10,100ofFIGS.1and9A, and inFIGS.7and8alone, may include an upper receiver body14. The upper receiver body14may be coupled to the lower receiver portion32and the buttstock40. Moreover, the upper receiver portion12may be operatively coupled to a barrel16via a barrel nut18(FIG.1). A portion of the length of the barrel16may be housed within the railed handguard20of the present disclosure, as shown inFIGS.7and8, in the assembled firearm100ofFIG.9A. The barrel16extends from the upper receiver body14through the handguard bore21aof the tubular handguard body21.

More specifically, the railed handguard20comprises a tubular handguard body21extending from a first end42ato a second end42band defining a longitudinal length L of the handguard. The tubular handguard body21further defines an elongated handguard bore21athat extends between the first end42aand the second end42b. The handguard further defines a charging rod slot21bextending substantially parallel along the longitudinal length L of the railed handguard20and an elongated receiving slot58a,58bhaving a top engagement portion60and a bottom engagement portion61.

The upper assembly may also include a charging system71comprising a bolt carrier group72having a front end72aand a rear end72b, a spring73, a buffer74, a charging rod23, and a charging handle assembly22,122.

The buffer74is disposed between the bolt carrier group72and the spring73and the bolt carrier group rear end72b, such that the bolt carrier group rear end72bis operatively engaged with the buffer74. The charging rod23is disposed in the handguard bore21and engaged with the front end of the bolt carrier group72.

The charging handle assembly22,122is thereby coupled to the charging rod23and engaged with the elongated receiving slot58a,58b. The charging handle assembly22,122generally comprises at least one charging handle24,25;124,125and at least one charging handle plate26a,26b;126a,126bdisposed between and operatively coupled to the at least one charging handle24,25;124,125and the charging rod23.

As such, the charging handle assembly22,122is disposed in front of the bolt carrier group72via the railed handguard20. In this way, the charging handle assembly22,122and the charging rod23are movable between a first position A and a second position B, such that when the charging handle assembly22,122is moved in a first (rearward) direction99within the elongated receiving slot58a,58bthe charging rod23pushes the front end of the bolt carrier group72in the first direction99thereby compressing the spring73such that the spring73launches the bolt carrier group72into a charged position thereby charging the firearm10,100.

A mud plug17may be inserted into the upper receiver body14at the open end portion thereof to prevent mud, dirt, and other debris from entering and impacting the firearm10,100.

The firearm10,100further includes a lower assembly32coupled to the upper assembly, as shown inFIGS.1and9A. The lower assembly32includes lower receiver33, pistol grip34, trigger mechanism36, magazine slot38for receiving a magazine, buttstock40, and all other conventional internal and/or external components that are a part of a standard lower assemblies of an AR style or similarly designed firearm not specifically mentioned herein but nonetheless required for operation and therefore considered a part of the lower assembly32of the present disclosure.

More specifically, as shown inFIG.9A, the lower receiver33is coupled to pistol grip34, for gripping by the user, which extends downwardly along the lower receiver33and houses the trigger mechanism36, which ultimately initiates the firing of the firearm10,100. The magazine slot38, receives a magazine which can be loaded with a plurality of rounds, and may detachably mount to the lower receiver33. The buttstock40is coupled to and extends rearwardly from the lower receiver33of the firearm10,100via the receiver extension41, also known as the buffer tube (FIG.1). The buttstock40is used to support the firearm10,100against a shoulder of the user.

As such, it is understood that all of the components of the upper assembly and lower assembly32are operationally assembled together to produce a functional firearm100. Furthermore, it is understood that not all of the components described herein must be present at all times. Said another way, the design of the firearm10,100may deviate to exclude certain components not necessary for the intended function or application of the firearm and/or include additional components, for example, mounting elements such as laser sights, lights, optics, slings, and the like.

Now referring generally toFIGS.2A-2F, the railed handguard20of the present disclosure is illustrated in more detail. The railed handguard20may function to protect the user's hand from heat generated by the firearm10,100, allow the attachment of accessories such as scopes, lights, and the like, and/or support the repositioned charging handle assembly22,122of the present disclosure. More specifically, as shown inFIG.2A, the railed handguard20may comprise a tubular handguard body21extending from a first end42ato a second end42b. The tubular body21of the railed handguard20may further comprise a top surface44(FIG.2B), a bottom surface46(FIG.2C), and two side surfaces48,50(FIG.2D), disposed between the top and bottom surfaces44,46. The top surface44may be substantially parallel to the bottom surface46along the entire longitudinal length L of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20. Each of the top surface44, bottom surface46, and side surfaces48,50extend from the first end42ato the second end42bof the tubular body21of the railed handguard20, along the entire longitudinal length L thereof.

The tubular handguard body21defines an elongated tubular bore21atherein that likewise extends from the first end42ato the second end42b. The handguard20further defines a charging rod slot21bdisposed proximate to a top surface of the handguard20and extends from the first end42aof the handguard to the second end42bof the handguard20.

The elongated tubular bore21ais configured to receive the barrel16and the charging rod slot21bis configured to slidably receive the charging rod23. The charging rod slot21band the handguard bore21acollectively define an inner surface of the handguard20.

In one exemplary embodiment, the tubular handguard body21may have a substantially octagonal shape (i.e., having eight sides) as further shown inFIGS.2E,2Fand inFIG.9B, which depicts a cross section of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20taken along line9B-9B ofFIG.9A. It will be understood that the cross-sectional profile is not limited by the exemplary embodiments discussed herein and may therefore be circular, oval, square, rectangular or any other geometrical configuration suitable in view of the present teachings.

Still referring toFIGS.2A-2D, the tubular body21of the railed handguard20may also include a plurality of apertures54,56. The plurality of apertures54,56may function to reduce the amount of material used in the railed handguard20, and therefore reduce the overall weight of the firearm10,100. Weight reduction may be beneficial for users who require a lighter firearm for mobility or case of use. The plurality of apertures54,56may also function to improve heat dissipation and provide ventilation by allowing air to enter and circulate around the barrel16to facilitate barrel cooling. Heat dissipation will, in turn, keep the railed handguard20cooler and more comfortable for the user to handle. Alone or in combination with the above, the plurality of apertures54,56may also provide an overall design aesthetic to the railed handguard20and/or the firearm10,100. The plurality of apertures54,56may be of any geometric shape including, but not limited to, a circle, oval, triangle, rectangle, ellipse, square, rhombus, diamond, polygonal. L-shaped, slotted, elongated and/or any combination thereof or the like. The plurality of apertures54,56may comprise a row of repeating patterns and/or geometric shapes. The plurality of apertures54,56may be of various sizes, substantially identical in size, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the number of apertures and placement may vary depending on the overall length of the railed handguard20; for example, longer handguards20may require more apertures54,56placed at locations spaced along the length of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20to aid in overall weight reduction of the firearm10,100, improved heat dissipation, and/or improved handling.

Turning now to the top surface44of the tubular body21, as shown in more detail inFIG.2B, the top surface44may include a rail system52comprising a plurality of substantially parallel and evenly spaced, squared-off ribs52aand valleys52bthat run along the entire longitudinal length L of the tubular body21of the handguard20. The ribs52aand valleys52bof the rail system52may be integrally formed into the handguard20. For example, the ribs52aand valleys52bof the rail system52may be machined into the top surface44of the tubular body21of the handguard20during manufacturing of the same, thereby creating an integrated mounting interface. Typical rail systems comprising ribs52aand valleys52bare known in the industry as Picatinny rails or Weaver rails and provide a standardized system of slots and ribs that allow for secure and easy mounting of various user-installed accessories, such as scopes, lasers, foregrips, and the like.

Still referring to the top surface44, as further shown in the front and rear views of the railed handguard20inFIGS.2E and2Frespectively, and in the cross-sectional view of the upper receiver inFIG.9B, the top surface44of the tubular body21has a T-shaped profile, transverse to the longitudinal length L of the railed handguard20. The T-shaped profile of the top surface44of the tubular body21may contain the charging rod slot21bextending longitudinally from the first end42ato the second end42bof the tubular body21. The charging rod slot21bhouses the charging rod23, explained in more detail herein below.

The bottom surface46of the tubular body21, as shown inFIG.2C, the bottom surface46may include a plurality of apertures54(bottom plurality of apertures). The plurality of apertures54may be spatially disposed along the length of the bottom surface46of the tubular body21between the first end42aand the second end42b. While the plurality of apertures54inFIG.2Care shown as having an elongated rectangular shape, it is understood that the plurality of apertures54may have any geometric shape as described herein above.

Referring now to the side surfaces48,50of the tubular body21, namely a first side surface (left-side surface)48and second side surface (right side surface)50comprise a first side portion48a.50a, a second side portion48b,50b, and a third side portion48c,50c(FIG.2D; left side surface48shown). Each of the first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-care positioned between the top surface44and bottom surface46and extend longitudinally from the first end42ato the second end42bof the tubular body21. The first side portion48a,50aand the third side portion48c,50care angled with respect to the second side portion48b,50b. As such, the top surface44, bottom surface46, and side surfaces48,50comprising first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-cmeet together at angled abutments to form a substantially octagonal shape.

At least one of the first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-cof the side surfaces48,50may include a plurality of apertures56(side plurality of apertures). The plurality of apertures56may be spatially disposed along the longitudinal length L of the tubular body21between the first end42aand the second end42bof the first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-c. The plurality of apertures56may be positioned at the opposing ends42a,42bof the first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-c. The plurality of apertures56may be positioned at or near the midpoint region of one or more of the first, second, and third side portions48a-c,50a-c. One or more apertures of the plurality of apertures56may extend from one side portion48a-c,50a-cto another side portion48a-c,50a-c, spanning over adjacent portions48a-c,50a-cof the side surfaces48,50. For example, an aperture56may extend from the first side portion48a,50ato the second side portion48b,50band/or from the second side portion48b,50bto the third side portion48c,50c.

Furthermore, the left side surface48of the tubular body21, the right side surface50of the tubular body21, or both may comprise elongating receiving slots58a,58b. This allows the user of the firearm to position the charging handles24,25;124,125on either or both sides of the handguard20depending on if the user is left or right-handed. Each of the elongating receiving slots58a,58bmay function to slidably receive a projection of the charging handles24,25;124,125that extend therethrough. More specifically, the left-sided charging handle24,124extends through the left-side elongated receiving slot58afrom an interior of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20to an exterior of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20. The right-sided charging handle25,125extends through the right-sided elongated receiving slot58bfrom an interior of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20to an exterior of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20. The elongated receiving slots58a,58bmay be defined by the first side portion48a,50aof the tubular body21. The elongating receiving slots58a,58bmay extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal length L of the handguard20. The elongating receiving slots58a,58bextend between the first end42aand the second end42bof the handguard20, but do not extend along the entire longitudinal length L of the tubular body21of the railed handguard20.

The elongated receiving slots58a,58bmay further define a top engagement portion60, a bottom engagement portion61, and a takedown portion59. The takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slots58a,58bmay function to allow the charging handles24,25;124,125to be loaded and unloaded from the handguard20when the bolt carrier group is in a withdrawn position, explained in more detailed herein below. While the elongated receiving slots58a,58binFIGS.2A,2B, and2Dare shown as an elongated L-shaped slot, it is understood that the elongated receiving slots58a,58bmay have any geometric shape suitable to provide a proper fit for the charging handles24,25;124,125of the charging handle assembly22,122of the present disclosure.

As shown inFIGS.1and3A, the charging system71may comprise a bolt carrier group72having a front end72aand a rear end72b, a spring73, a buffer74, a charging rod23, and a charging handle assembly22,122. The buffer74is disposed between the bolt carrier group72and the spring73and the bolt carrier group rear end72b, such that the bolt carrier group rear end72bis operatively engaged with the buffer74. The charging rod23is disposed in the handguard bore21and engaged with the front end of the bolt carrier group72.

The charging handle assembly22,122is thereby coupled to the charging rod23and engaged with the elongated receiving slot58a,58b. The charging handle assembly22,122generally comprises at least one charging handle24,25;124,125and at least one charging handle plate26a,26b;126a,126bdisposed between and operatively coupled to the at least one charging handle24,25;124,125and the charging rod23.

Referring specifically to the components of the charging handle assembly22,122in more detail, a first embodiment of the charging handle assembly22with charging handles24,25is shown inFIGS.3A-3B,4A-4E, and5, and a second embodiment of the charging handle assembly122with charging handles124,125is shown inFIGS.6A-6B and10. Common features between the first and second exemplary embodiments are identified with common terms and reference numerals throughout. Features of the first and second embodiment that are structurally different but perform at least some common functions are referenced with common terms; the reference numerals of the second exemplary embodiment are increased by 100. It should be appreciated that these two embodiments are exemplary and, as such, the charging handles and associated components may be one of several other embodiments not particularly described herein without departing from the nature of the present disclosure.

As shown generally inFIGS.3A-3B,4A-4E,5, and6A-6B, both charging handle assemblies22,122comprise a pair of charging handles, left-sided charging handle24,124and right-sided charging handle25,125. Each of the left-sided charging handles24,124and right-sided charging handles25,125include a base portion24a,25a;124a,125aand a lever portion24b,25b;124b,125boperatively connected to the base portion24a,25a;124a,125a. The lever portion24b,25b;124b,125bextends in an outward direction from the base portion24a,25a;124a,125ain a substantially L-shaped configuration, and has an exterior side face24c,25c;124c,125c. The base portion further defines an interior side face24d,25d;124d,125dwith a plate attachment region27,127protruding at an angled abutment therefrom and integrally formed thereon.

The plate attachment region27,127may aid in the attachment of the charging handles24,25to the charging plates26a,26band/or aid in the slidable engagement of the charging handles24,25;124,125to the elongated receiving slot42machined within the handguard body21, described in more detail herein below. In one example, the base portion24a,25a;125a,125aand lever portion24b,25b;124b,125bare integrally connected, e.g., formed of a single unitary piece.

As such, the charging handles24,25;124,125may be non-pivoting, e.g., the charging handles24,25;124,125do not independently rotate or pivot during operation. As such, the non-pivoting design simplifies the number of component parts, which reduces overall weight of the firearm and minimizes the risk of malfunction during operation. Furthermore, it is envisioned that the charging handles24,25;124,125of the present disclosure are ambidextrous. A user may operate the firearm10,100in a left or right handed capacity, by pulling rearwardly on the left-sided charging handle lever24b,124bor by pulling rearwardly on the right-sided charging handle lever25b,125b, respectively or may engage both handles simultaneously.

Turning more specifically to the first exemplary embodiment of the charging handle assembly22with charging handles24,25, the charging handle assembly22may further comprise charging handle plates26a,26b(corresponding to a left-sided plate and a right-sided plate, respectfully) as shown inFIGS.3A-3B,4A-4E, and5. The charging handle plates26a,26bmay be secured to the plate attachment region27of the charging handles24,25, as described in the assembly steps herein below. As shown inFIG.5, each of the left-sided and right-sided plates26a,26bmay be substantially Z-shaped and, as such, correspond in shape to the plate attachment region27of the left-sided and right-sided charging handles24,25. More specifically, as illustrated inFIGS.3A and3B, the plate attachment region27is located on the interior side face24d,25dof the base portion24a,25aof charging handles24,25and has a front receiving face27aand a bottom receiving face27b. The front receiving face27aand bottom receiving face27bmeet at an angled abutment, with complementary geometry to the plate26a,26b. The front receiving face27afurther includes a plurality of securement apertures30. The plurality of securement apertures30are utilized for securement of the plates26a,26bto the plate attachment regions27of the charging handles24,25. The plurality of securement apertures30may be spatially arranged upon the front receiving face27aof the plate attachment regions27. Alternatively, the plurality of securement apertures30may be located at opposing ends of the front receiving face27aof the plate attachment regions27.

The charging handle plates26a,26bmay further comprise a first portion28a, a second portion28b, and a third portion28c. As shown inFIGS.4A-4Egenerally, and more specifically inFIG.4D, the first portion28aof the charging handle plate26a,26band the second portion28bof the charging handle plate26a,26bmay meet at an angled abutment. In one example, the inner angle θ1of the first portion28ato the second portion28bmay be substantially perpendicular. Furthermore, the second portion28bof the plate26a,26bextends from the first portion28aof the plate26a,26bto a third portion28cof the plate26a,26b. In one example, the second portion28bcreates an obtuse angle θ2with respect to the third portion28c, which is opposite the angle θ1of the first portion28aand second portion28b.

In addition, the first portion28aof the plates26a,26bmay further define a first portion interior surface29aand a first portion exterior surface29b. The second portion28bof the plates26a,26bmay further define a second portion interior surface31aand a second portion exterior surface31b. A plurality of securement apertures62may extend through an entirety of a thickness of the plate26a,26b. The plurality of securement apertures62may be operative for the securement of the plate26a,26bto the plate attachment region27of the charging handle24,25. The plurality of securement apertures62may be spatially arranged along the length of the first portion28aof the plate26a,26b. Alternatively, the plurality of securement apertures62may be located at opposing ends of the first portion28aof the plate26a,26b. It is contemplated that the location of the securement apertures62of the plate26a,26bcorrespond in location to the securement apertures30on the front receiving face27aof the plate attachment region27of the charging handles24,25such that the securement apertures30,62align during assembly, enabling the same to be securely fastening together via a plurality of attachment features70(FIGS.3A and3B) received therethrough.

FIGS.4A-4Eshow the assembly of the plates26a,26bto the plate attachment regions27of the charging handles24,25. During assembly, the first portion interior surface29aof the first portion28aof the plate26a,26bengages the front receiving face27aof the plate attachment region27such that the plurality of securement apertures62on the first portion28aof the plate26a,26balign with the plurality of securement apertures30on the front receiving face27aof the plate attachment region27. Furthermore, the second portion interior face31aof the second portion28bof the of the plate26a,26bengages the bottom receiving face27bof the plate attachment region27of the charging handle24,25. As such, the third portion28cmay be substantially parallel with the base portion24a,25aof the charging handle24,25. Once engaged, a top track65is defined between the interior side face24d,25dof the base portion24a,25aof the handle24,25and the first portion28aof the plate26a,26b, and a bottom track66is defined between the interior side face24d,25dof the base portion24a,25aof the handle24,25and the second portion28bof the plate26a,26b.

The top track65of the charging handle assembly abuts and slidably engages the top engagement portion60of the elongated receiving slot58a,58band the bottom track66of the charging handle assembly abuts and slidably engages a bottom engagement portion61of the elongated receiving slot58a,58b, such that the charging plate26a,26bis disposed in and engages the charging rod cavity63a.63bto operatively couple the charging handle assembly and the charging rod23.

As illustrated inFIGS.3A,3B, and4B, securement of the plate26a,26bto the plate attachment region27of the charging handle24,25may further comprise insertion of the plurality of attachment features70through the plurality of apertures30,62. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the corresponding apertures30,62may be threaded or otherwise adapted to receive the corresponding attachment features70in a secure manner. While attachment features70are depicted inFIGS.3A,3B and4Bas screws, it will be appreciated that other suitable means may be utilized as necessary to achieve the desired result within view of the present teachings. Lastly, it is contemplated that suitable attachment features70may be formed of any suitable material including, but not limited to, a metallic material.

As a result of the steps described herein above and as illustrated inFIGS.4A-4E, each of the left-sided and right-sided plates26a,26bare secured to the plate attachment regions27of the respective left-sided and right-sided charging handles24,25in a two-piece construction.

Next, as illustrated in more detail inFIGS.6A and6B, a second example embodiment of the charging handle assembly122with charging handles124,125is shown. In this second example embodiment, the charging handle plates126a,126b(corresponding to a left-sided plate and a right-sided plate, respectfully) are integrally formed with the plate attachment region127of the charging handles124,125. Said another way, the plate126a,126band plate attachment region127are formed as a single, unitary structure. As such, it is envisioned that the charging handle124,125, charging handle attachment region127, and charging handle plate126a,126bare formed of the same material. This single, one-piece construction simplifies the number of component parts necessary, which aids in overall cost and weight reduction of the resultant firearm10,100.

More specifically, the charging handle plates126a,126bin this second embodiment may be substantially j-shaped, each comprising a first portion128aand a second portion128b, each extending along the horizontal length of the plate attachment region127. The first portion128adefines a top track165between the interior side face124d,125dof the handle124,125and the first portion128a. The second portion128bdefines a bottom track166between the interior side face124d,125dof the handle124,125and the second portion128b.

The charging rod23.FIGS.1,3A, and10illustrate an exemplary charging rod23of the present disclosure. The charging rod23may be located in a position above the barrel16and housed within the charging rod slot21bof the tubular body21of the railed handguard20.

The charging rod23may comprise a body23ghaving a first end23aand a second end23b. The body23gmay further define an elongated through-slot63that extends from the first end23ato the second end23b. The charging rod body23gfurther defines a top portion23c, a bottom portion23d, a left-side portion23e, and a right-side portion23f. The bottom portion23dfurther defines the elongated through-slot63cut within the bottom portion23d, which may extend all the way through the first end23aof the charging rod23, such that the first end23aof the charging rod23is open in configuration. The elongated through-slot63may terminate short of the second end23bof the charging rod23such that the second end23bof the charging rod23is closed in configuration.

The charging rod23is operatively coupled to the charging handles24,25;124,125via the charging handle plate26a,26b;126a,126b. As such, the body23gmay define a charging rod cavity63a.63bcloser to the first end23aof the charging rod than to the second end23bof the changing rod. The charging rod cavity63a.63bextends in an upward direction from the bottom portion23dof the charging rod23towards the top portion23cof the charging rod23and are configured in shape to receive the corresponding left or right-sided plate26a,26b;126a,126bof the charging handle assembly22,122during assembly thereof. Said another way, the charging rod cavity63a.63bis configured to receive the charging handle plate26a,26b;126a,126b.

Lastly.FIGS.7,8.9A and9B generally show the charging handle assembly22of the present disclosure including charging handles24,25;124,125, and charging handle plates26a,26b;126a;126b, with charging rod23, in its assembled state and housed within the corresponding railed handguard20of the present disclosure. More specifically.FIGS.7and8show the assembled charging handle assembly22,122as attached to an exemplary upper receiver body14and housed within the corresponding railed handguard20.FIGS.9A and9B.FIG.9Ashow the repositioned charging handle assembly22,122in accordance with the present disclosure on an exemplary assembled firearm100and housed within the corresponding railed handguard20.FIG.9Bshows a cross-sectional view of the exemplary assembled firearm100taken along line B-B inFIG.9A.

More particularly, as shown inFIGS.9B and10, components of the charging handle assembly22,122and charging rod23of the present disclosure are housed within the tubular handguard body21of the railed handguard20. As detailed inFIG.11, at step101, during assembly of the firearm10,100in accordance with the present method, the charging rod23is first inserted into the charging rod slot21bof the handguard bore21a(first end23aof charging rod23inserted first). More particularly, the charging rod23is inserted into a charging rod slot21bdefined by the elongated handguard bore21a, such that the first end23aof the charging rod body23gis slidably received by the charging rod slot21bdefined by the handguard20at the first end of the handguard42a.

Next, at step102, the charging handle assembly22,122is inserted into the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slot58a,58bsuch that the top track65of the charging handle assembly slidably engages the top engagement portion60of the elongated receiving slot58a,58band the bottom track66of the charging handle assembly slidably engages a bottom engagement portion61of the elongated receiving slot58a,58b. More particularly, the charging handles24,25;124,125, with charging handle plates26a,26b;126a,126battached or integrally formed thereon as described herein above, are inserted into the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slots58a,58bon the tubular handguard body21of the handguard20from an exterior of the handguard body21to an interior of the handguard body21, engaging the charging rod23and handguard body21. More specifically, the left-sided charging handle24,124extends through the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slot58aand the right-sided charging handle25,125extends through the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slot58b.

Furthermore, when the charging handles24,25;124,125, with charging handle plates26a,26b;126a,126b, are inserted into the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slot58a,58b, the charging handles24,25;124,125are slidably supported by the handguard body21. More specifically, as shown inFIG.10(with components of the second exemplary embodiment), the top track65,165of the charging handle24,25;124,125and plate26a,26b;126a,126bassembly abuts and slidably engages the top portion of the elongated receiving slot58a,58band the bottom track66,166of the charging handle24,25;124,125and plate assembly26a,26b;126a,126babuts and slidably engages the bottom portion of the elongated receiving slot58a,58b.

As such, at step103, the charging handle plate26a,26b;126a,126bof the charging handle assembly22,122is aligned with the charging rod cavity63a.63bof the charging rod23, such that the first portion of the charging handle plate engages the charging rod cavity63a.63b. More specifically, when the charging handle plates26a,26b;126a,126bare aligned with and engage the charging rod23, the left-sided through-slot cavity63aof the charging rod23is configured to receive a top portion of the first portion28a,128aof the left plate26a,126aand the right-sided through-slot cavity63bof the charging rod23is adapted to receive a top portion of the first portion28a,128aof the right plate26b,126b. Said another way, the charging handles24,25;124,125and plates26a,26b;126a,126bfit within the respective through-slot cavities63a.63bof the charging rod23.

Then, at step104, the charging handle assembly22,122, slidably supported by the handguard body21and engaged with the charging rod23, is slid along the length of the elongated receiving slot58a,58btoward the second end42bof the handguard20, in a direction away from the takedown portion59of the elongated receiving slot58a,58bto allow for insertion of the bolt carrier group72.

Lastly, at step105, the bolt carrier group72is inserted into the rear of the upper receiver14such that the second end23bcharging rod23engages the front end72aof the bolt carrier group72. When the charging handle assembly22,122and charging rod23are transitioned between a first position A (i.e., an uncharged position) and a second position B (i.e., a charged position), the charging rod23pushes the front end of the bolt carrier group72in the first direction99thereby compressing a spring73, such that the spring73launches the bolt carrier group72into a charged position thereby charging the firearm10,100.

In the manner described above, the charging handle assembly and corresponding handguard for receipt of the repositioned charging handle of the present teachings allows for allows for the ambidextrous, forward, non-reciprocating charging of the firearm.

The detailed description and the drawings or figures are supportive and descriptive of the present teachings, but the scope of the present teachings is defined solely by the claims. While some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the present teachings have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist for practicing the present teachings defined in the appended claims.

While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the embodiments. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other embodiment unless specifically restricted. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are expressly stated in such claims.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

10,100Firearm12Upper Receiver Portion (of Firearm10,100)14Upper Receiver Body15Scope16Barrel17Mud Plug18Barrel Nut20Railed Handguard21Tubular Handguard Body21aHandguard Bore21bCharging Rod Slot (of Handguard Bore21a)22,122Charging Handle Assembly23Charging Rod23aFirst End (of Charging Rod23)23bSecond End (of Charging Rod23)23cTop Portion (of Charging Rod23)23dBottom Portion (of Charging Rod23)23eLeft-Side Portion (of Charging Rod23)23fRight-Side Portion (of Charging Rod23)23gBody (of Charging Rod23)24,124Charging Handle (Left Side)24a,124aBase Portion24b,124bLever Portion24c,124cExterior Side Face (of Lever Portion24b)24d,124dInterior Side Face (of Base Portion24a)25,125Charging Handle (Right Side)25a,125aBase Portion25b,125bLever Portion25cExterior Side Face (of Lever Portion25b)25dInterior Side Face (of Base Portion25a)26a,126aCharging Handle Plate (Left Side)26b,126bCharging Handle Plate (Right Side)27,127Charging Handle Plate Attachment Region27aFront Receiving Face (of Plate Attachment Region27,127)27bBottom Receiving Face (of Plate Attachment Region27,127)28a,128aFirst Portion28b,128bSecond Portion28cThird Portion29aFirst Portion Interior Surface (of First Portion28a,128a)29bFirst Portion Exterior Surface (of First Portion28a,128a)30Plurality of Securement Apertures31aSecond Portion Interior Surface (of Second Portion28b,128b)31bSecond Portion Exterior Surface (of Second Portion28b,128b)31b32Lower Receiver Portion (of Firearm10,100)33Lower Receiver34Pistol Grip36Trigger Mechanism38Magazine Slot40Buttstock41Receiver Extension42aFirst End (of Handguard20)42bSecond End (of Handguard20)44Top Surface (of Handguard20)46Bottom Surface (of Handguard20)48Left Side Surface (of Handguard20)48aFirst Side Portion (of Left Side Surface48)48bSecond Side Portion (of Left Side Surface48)48cThird Side Portion (of Left Side Surface48)50Right Side Surface (of Handguard20)50aFirst Side Portion (of Right Side Surface50)50bSecond Side Portion (of Right Side Surface50)50cThird Side Portion (of Right Side Surface50)52Rail System52aRibs (of Rail System52)52bValleys (of Rail System52)54Plurality of Apertures56Plurality of Apertures58aElongated Receiving Slot (of Handguard20)58bElongated Receiving Slot (of Handguard20)59Takedown Portion (of Elongated Receiving Slot58a,58b)60Top Engagement Portion (of Elongated Receiving Slot58a,58b)61Bottom Engagement Portion (of Elongated Receiving Slot58a,58b)62Plurality of Securement Apertures63Elongated Through-Slot of Charging Rod63aCharging Rod Cavity (Left-Side)63bCharging Rod Cavity (Right-Side)65,165Top Track66,166Bottom Track70Attachment Features71Charging System72Bolt Carrier Group72aBolt Carrier Group Front End72bBolt Carrier Group Rear End73Spring74Buffer99First DirectionA First Position (Uncharged Position)B Second Position (Charged Position)L Longitudinal Length of Handguard