Patent ID: 12215944

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to a trigger for a firearm with a sear, a sear axis, a trigger lever with a trigger axis, a disconnector with a joint and a hammer rotatable about a hammer axis having a hammer spring. The disclosure also relates to the accommodation of such a trigger in a receiver, whereby a drop-in trigger unit is created which is simply pushed into the weapon, preferably its lower receiver, if it has a lower receiver, whereby the drop-in trigger unit is fixed by the upper receiver. The disclosed trigger can include a fire-control/safety selector as a rotational lever or as a sliding lever. The present disclosure further relates to firearms that contain one or more of these components.

The trigger units, receivers, and firearms of the present disclosure, and their variants, are not limited to use in rifles, carbines, etc., but can, in principle, also be used in certain pistols. The improvements achieved and the effects/advantages of these improvements are stated below. Since such trigger units can be used interchangeably as a module in existing weapons and the weapons themselves only provide the geometric and functional boundaries for their use, the invention primarily relates to a trigger unit and only secondarily to a weapon having such a trigger unit.

The present disclosure provides a trigger unit which enables the firearm to be secured with the fire-control/safety selector able to turn to the “safe” position when the hammer is in the behind or downward position. The present disclosure also provides, with at least one embodiment, a two-stage or three-stage trigger unit with different trigger resistances are provided.

The present disclosure further provides a fire-control/safety selector that is easy to use and, if necessary, easy to replace.

In one aspect of the disclosure, the total number of components of a trigger assembly are kept as low as possible and their arrangement in the receiver of a firearm is made as positionally stable and as easy to replace as possible.

Furthermore, in one variant, the present disclosure provides a trigger unit that is easy to handle, easy to maintain and relatively easy to replace as a modular “drop-in” trigger unit.

The trigger unit of the disclosure comprises a hammer that is rotatably mounted about a hammer axis and can be biased by means of a hammer spring, wherein the hammer spring has a first arm and a second arm, a trigger lever that is rotatably mounted about a trigger axis and which, preferably integrally formed with it, has a trigger that, when viewed in a normal direction, lies below the trigger axis and is moved against a running direction when the trigger unit is actuated, wherein the trigger lever has a trigger rear part that is designed to accommodate at least one disconnector, as well as a sear rotatably mounted about a sear axis and can be biased by means of a sear spring, wherein the hammer axis, the trigger axis and the sear axis are arranged parallel to one another and parallel to a transverse direction. The trigger lever has a recess and the sear is at least partially arranged within the recess of the trigger lever so that the sear axis and the trigger axis coincide, and the sear has a bearing on its upper side for receiving and limiting rotation around a disconnector axis of a disconnector joint formed on the underside of the disconnector. In addition, the bearing is designed to at least partially surround the disconnector joint in the direction of rotation about the disconnector axis.

In other words, the sear and the trigger lever have a common axis of rotation, such that the sear axis and the trigger axis coincide. The sear has a bearing on its upper side for receiving and limiting rotation about a disconnector axis of a disconnector joint formed on the underside of the disconnector, and the bearing for the disconnector joint is at least partially designed to enclose the disconnector axis in the direction of rotation. In this way, the hammer, which is rotatably mounted about the hammer axis and can be biased by means of a hammer spring, is no longer blocked by the trigger when it is in the behind or downward position.

The trigger lever, which is mounted rotatably about the trigger axis, comprises an integral trigger and a trigger rear part that is designed to accommodate the disconnector, or at least one disconnector. The inventive design and arrangement, and the interaction of the sear, disconnector and trigger lever, allow for the adjustment of the fire-control/safety selector when the hammer is in the behind or downward position to the “safe” position, since the rear part of the trigger can be easily deflected in this state. The bearing and the disconnector joint are designed to be substantially complementary to one another in terms of shape and function in order to allow a rotation around the disconnector axis within limits. The assembly can be carried out simply by pushing together laterally, as is explained in more detail in the description of the figures. In the installed condition, this also prevents the components of the trigger unit from being lost.

The subject matter of the present description includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and/or properties disclosed herein. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties, such as those relating to, among other things, differently designed trigger units, in particular a modular “drop-in” trigger unit, a “pull-through” trigger unit, and housing components for receiving these trigger units, as well as the design of fire-control/safety selectors, may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure. For the sake of simplicity and clarity, these aspects are explained in detail using the following description of the figures.

The terms left, right, top, bottom, front and rear always refer to the shooter's view in the firing direction of the firearm when it is held in a ready to fire position. The weapon has, going through the barrel axis and oriented vertically, a weapon center plane, which forms a plane of symmetry.

In the description and the claims, the terms “front,” “rear,” “above,” “below” and so on are used in the generally accepted form and with reference to the object in its usual use position. This means that, for the firearm, the mouth (also referred to as the muzzle) of the barrel is “at the front,” and that the breech is moved “rearward” by the force of explosive gas, etc. Transverse to a direction substantially means a direction of rotation by 90°.

In the figures described below, the barrel direction (e.g. towards the mouth/muzzle of the barrel) is indicated by arrow91, the normal direction upward with arrow93and the transverse direction to the left with arrow92.

InFIG.1, a firearm with barrel1, grip2, magazine3, stock4, handguard7, trigger as part of the trigger unit20, fire-control/safety selector60and receiver11, which comprises an upper receiver part111and a lower receiver part112, is shown schematically and includes the dashed line designating the bore axis5as well as the direction of movement forward with arrow91and normal direction upward with arrow93.

Trigger

FIG.2shows a schematic exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a trigger according to the present disclosure. As shown, the trigger is preferably designed as a trigger unit20(FIG.18) with a trigger housing23. The dashed lines indicate the arrangement of the components for the trigger unit20(FIG.18) for assembly.

The trigger comprises at least one hammer21, a trigger bar264, a trigger rear263, a sear40, and a disconnector30. In a preferred embodiment, which is described below, the trigger according to the present disclosure is arranged in a trigger housing23and is referred to as a trigger unit20(FIG.18). However, it is also possible to arrange the trigger directly in a receiver11(FIG.1) of a firearm, preferably in a lower receiver part112(FIG.1), without a trigger housing23.

As is often the case, the hammer21is rotatably supported by a hammer pin219about the hammer axis212and protrudes partially upward out of the trigger housing23in the normal direction93and, as described further below, is biased by the hammer spring211.

The trigger lever26is rotatably mounted about the trigger axis262, for example by means of a trigger pin269in the trigger housing23, wherein the trigger axis262is arranged behind the hammer axis212when viewed in the barrel direction91to the front.

The mechanical engagement on the hammer21or its hammer cam215(in the prior art often also referred to as a trigger catch on the hammer or hammer catch, see also, for example,FIGS.5A and10A) does not take place directly with the trigger lever26—as known in the prior art—but indirectly, via the separately designed sear40, which has a sear edge44(also called a trigger sear, see also, for example,FIGS.3A and5A). According to the present disclosure, the sear40and the trigger lever26have a common axis of rotation in the installed condition, which is accordingly referred to as both the trigger axis262and the sear axis43.

In addition, the sear40is connected to a disconnector30according to the present disclosure in that the sear40has a bearing42on its upper side for receiving a disconnector joint32formed on the underside of the disconnector30. The bearing42surrounds the disconnector joint32at least partially (preferably to over 180°) in the direction of rotation about the disconnector axis35, which runs in the transverse direction92through the disconnector joint32. In the installed condition, this allows a limited rotation of the disconnector30about the disconnector axis35and, due to the formation of the common sear axis43and trigger axis262, the sear40and the disconnector30can be tilted or rotated within limits, both individually and together. The sear40and the disconnector30are preferably at least partially received by the trigger lever26, which, as shown, is then divided in the form of a recess.

A sear spring41which is essentially U-shaped when viewed from above and approximately L-shaped when viewed from the side is also arranged on both sides of the trigger lever26, each having one or more turns in the kink areas of the “L.” The sear spring41is held in the trigger unit20(FIG.18) by the trigger pin269, which protrudes through the windings. The leg of the sear spring41, which is at the rear in the installed condition, engages the underside of the trigger housing23in the illustrated embodiment; see alsoFIG.5A, for example. This type of spring support can also be achieved by a person skilled in the art in a different manner, for example by means of corresponding support points on the inside of a firearm's lower receiver112(FIG.1). However, according to the present disclosure, the two loose ends of the sear spring41are supported on the sear40on sear spring supports412(FIG.3A) provided on the underside thereof. These points of application are “in front of” the sear axis43. As a result, a sear edge44(FIG.5A) at the front end of the sear40is biased upward, in the direction of the hammer21.

The hammer spring211comprises a first arm2111, a first spiral (screw winding), a central and essentially U-shaped connecting piece, a second spiral, and a second arm2112(seeFIG.4B). The first arm2111and the second arm2112are not designed, as is often the case in the prior art, arranged parallel to one another, but preferably, as shown, at an angle to one another (projected into the weapon's center plane, to which the axis of the spirals are at least approximately normal).

The hammer21is biased in the installed condition by means of the hammer spring211. The hammer spring211is tensioned in the usual way with the central connecting piece of the hammer spring211from below against the hammer21, and the first arm2111can be counter-supported by the trigger pin269, for example. In the embodiment shown, as can be seen from viewingFIG.1together withFIG.5A, a laterally protruding hammer spring support261can be provided on the trigger lever26which acts as an abutment for the first arm2111of the hammer spring211, whereby an abutment of the hammer spring211against the sear spring41can be avoided. This support of the hammer spring211on the hammer spring support261, which is preferred according to the present disclosure, also results in a force transmission which presses the trigger lever26with its trigger rear263downward in the normal direction93. This relationship is advantageous for the design of the trigger unit20(FIG.18) according to the present disclosure, since it transmits a force to be overcome on the trigger lever26and thus noticeably for the shooter on the trigger bar264, which is perceived as the first trigger stage71position (FIGS.7A and7B) (often referred to as the “first stage” in English) and defines the resistance in the idle tension, which will be explained later.

The second arm2112of the hammer spring211, which, as is difficult to see inFIG.2, protrudes obliquely forward, can be supported on a spring seat55, which is formed on the leg54of an auto sear50below the auto sear axis52. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the auto sear50is rotatably mounted around the auto sear axis52in the trigger housing23by means of the auto sear pin56, wherein the auto sear axis52is arranged “in front of” the hammer axis212. The auto sear50comprises a top53protruding upward from the trigger housing23in the normal direction93, an auto sear edge51(see alsoFIG.5B) and a hammer stop57. The spring bias of the hammer spring211pushes the top53of the auto sear50backward; in the installed condition (e.g. in the locked position) this movement is limited by a bolt carrier (not shown), as further explained in the descriptions below (FIG.8B).

As also shown inFIG.2, the trigger lever26can have at least one spur266which protrudes forward in the area of the trigger axis262and is oriented substantially parallel to the barrel direction91and which acts as a drop guard in cooperation with the hammer21. Two spurs266are preferably designed, one on each of the two sides of the trigger lever26, symmetrical to the weapon's center plane. More detailed explanations are described below (see, e.g., details X inFIGS.5A, and10A-10C).

The trigger according to the present disclosure can be designed as a two-stage trigger, or as a three-stage trigger (hereinafter also referred to as a “pull-through trigger”). In the two-stage version, the trigger can assume a rest position70(FIGS.5A and5B) (not actuated), a first trigger stage position71(FIGS.6A and6B) after overcoming the idle tension and a second trigger stage position72(FIGS.7A and7B) after increasing the force on the trigger bar264. In the second trigger stage position72(for example depending on the position of the fire-control/safety selector60), individual shots (single fire) and/or multiple automatic shots (continuous fire) can be released.

Analogous to the two-stage design, the three-stage “pull-through trigger” can also assume a rest position70, a first trigger stage position71and a second trigger stage position72. In addition, the trigger can take a further, third trigger stage position73. The second trigger stage position72allows the firing of individual shots (single fire), the third trigger stage position73is reached after increasing the force on the trigger bar264and allows the automatic firing of multiple shots (continuous fire).

The trigger according to the present disclosure can, as shown, be designed with a fire-control/safety selector60which, in a special embodiment, is arranged normal to the weapon's center plane when in the installed condition. The fire-control/safety selector60allows a desired fire selection position to be selected, with at least two positions—“safe” and “fire”—being possible. Depending on the embodiment of the trigger and the fire-control/safety selector60, the “fire” position can allow, for example, a single shot (“single fire” position) and/or automatic firing of multiple shots (“continuous fire” position).

In special embodiments, at least one further firing position of the fire-control/safety selector60, for example “continuous fire,” is also possible. In the case of military variants in particular, in addition to the “continuous fire” position, a “burst” fire position may also used, whereby the automatic firing of shots is stopped after, for example, three shots. These additional firing positions are usually known to the person skilled in the art and do not require any further explanation here.

In the “safe” position, the fire-control/safety selector60blocks the movement of the trigger lever26and the reaching of the second trigger stage position72. In the position “fire” (which can be a “single fire” position and/or a “continuous fire” position) the fire-control/safety selector60releases the movement of the trigger lever26to reach the second trigger stage position72and—if available—the third trigger stage position73.

The fire-control/safety selector60can be designed as a rotary selector610(FIGS.6-8) or as a sliding selector650(FIGS.14-17) with an analogous function. Details of a preferred embodiment of a rotary selector610with rotary levers (611,612) and locking lever620are shown inFIGS.11-13. A special embodiment of a sliding selector650is shown inFIGS.17A-17C.

At this point it should be pointed out that, within the scope of the present present disclosure, different and even arbitrary combinations of the described two- or three-stage trigger with a rotary selector (610) or sliding selector (650) device with two or three firing positions can be implemented.

To the person skilled in the art it will be clear from the following description and analysis ofFIGS.3to10that further objects according to the present disclosure are achieved with the aid of the one-piece components shown as examples, in particular the trigger lever26, the sear40, the disconnector30and the hammer21. It should already be noted here that multi-part sears40and/or disconnectors30that interact in an analogous manner are also conceivable.

InFIGS.3A and3B, the sear40and the disconnector30are shown in a first embodiment on an enlarged scale. The disconnector30has a disconnector hook31on the upper side, which cooperates with the hammer hook213(FIG.2). At its rear end, the disconnector30can have an optional back end33which, in the embodiment shown, has a smaller extension in the transverse direction92than the central or front section. This enables easier reception/introduction in and/or into the trigger rear263. As shown, the disconnector30can have a type of finger36(FIG.2) in the front section for guiding along the top of the sear40. The guidance and/or also the support on the upper side of the sear40can, however, also take place through an alternative and functionally identical design of the pairing of the bearing42and the disconnector joint32.

The disconnector30has a disconnector joint32on its underside, which has a circular cylindrical section with an axis that runs in the transverse direction92. This serves for the receiving and rotatably mounting on the upper side of the sear40, on which a circular cylindrical recess is formed in a complementary shape, whereby a disconnector axis35is defined in the transverse direction92. Furthermore, a spring recess46for a disconnector spring34is formed on the underside of the disconnector30. This receptacle, which can be better seen in cross section views, for example inFIG.6B, is adapted in diameter and depth to the disconnector spring34in such a way that it is secured to prevent it from slipping out laterally.

In a preferred embodiment, the sear40, as shown enlarged in detail C inFIG.3B, also has a spring recess46which is designed as a depression in the direction of the axis of the disconnector spring34. This spring recess46is formed on the upper side of the rear of the sear40, that is to say facing the disconnector30, and, like the receptacle in the disconnector30, serves to at least partially receive and prevent the loss of the disconnector spring34. In the advantageous development shown, the spring recess46is partially open in at least one transverse direction92, which facilitates assembly, since the disconnector spring34does not have to be compressed to the extent that it can be inserted into the recess or receptacle. A ramp461provided laterally in the area of the opening to the spring recess46provides further assistance during assembly. Due to the rise of the ramp461in the direction of the spring recess46, the disconnector spring34can be inserted more easily from the side (i.e. moved over it).

In all the embodiments described, however, the function of the disconnector spring34is the same in that it biases the disconnector30about the disconnector axis35, i.e. substantially upward in the direction of hammer hook213(FIG.2) (counterclockwise in the illustration ofFIG.3A). The bearing42is designed to be substantially complementary in shape and function to the disconnector joint32, as a result of which, in addition to the receptacle, a partial rotation of the disconnector30within defined rotational limits is made possible. The assembly of the sear40and the disconnector30takes place, because of the contact area exceeding 180° and the connection achieved in this way, by shifting from one side in the transverse direction92, whereby an undesired, independent dismantling or falling apart during operation due to the lateral limitation within the trigger lever26(FIG.2) is avoided.

Looking together atFIGS.4to10andFIGS.15to16, the function and the sequence of movements of the trigger according to the present disclosure, shown in a special embodiment as a modular trigger unit20(FIG.18), are clear to those skilled in the art. As already described above, the different positions of the trigger bar264are referred to as the rest position70, the first trigger stage position71, the second trigger stage position72and, in the case of a pull-through trigger, the third trigger stage position73.

FIG.4Ashows an embodiment of the modular trigger unit20(FIG.18) according to the present disclosure as a plan view from above. The section line A-A shows the section plane for the sections shown inFIGS.6-8.FIG.4Bshows a partially cut-out side view of an embodiment of the modular trigger unit20from the right in the area of the hammer21and auto sear50and can be read in conjunction withFIG.5A(side view from the left). The second arm2112of the hammer spring211, which is supported in the spring seat55of the auto sear50, can be seen very clearly inFIG.4B. In the illustration shown, the hammer21is depicted in the fully upward state, i.e. the hammer21is in its most possible front position. This position is only reached if there is no firing pin present to block the forward movement of the hammer21and stop it prematurely, i.e. usually when the hammer21is removed or if the firing pin is broken, etc.

As shown, a hammer recess217can be formed on the hammer21in a special embodiment, which strikes a hammer stop57of the auto sear50in such a way that the auto sear edge51(FIGS.2and5B) adjacent to the hammer stop57remains untouched and protected. Such a design and the protection of the auto sear edge51in the behind state is advantageous, since mechanical blows of the hammer21on the auto sear edge51would cause the hammer21and/or the auto sear edge51to wear unnecessarily and prematurely. The service life of the auto sear lever50assembly and the hammer21are thus extended by this measure.

InFIG.5Aan embodiment of the trigger is shown in side view (from the left) in the rest position70. In the rest position70, the trigger is not actuated, so the trigger bar264is spring-biased without any external force.

FIG.5Bshows the rest position70in a section along the sectional plane A-A ofFIG.4A. The hammer21is under tension, that is, the hammer spring211(FIG.5B) tries to rotate the hammer21counterclockwise around the hammer axis212(FIG.2), while its first arm2111rests on the hammer spring support261(FIGS.2and5A). In the area of the hammer axis212, the hammer21has at least one hammer cam215on its outer surface, which is held in the rest position by a sear edge44of the sear40(for detailed views of this seeFIG.10A, in connection with the further trigger movement see alsoFIGS.10B and10C). The sear edge44of the disconnector30is biased by the sear spring41(FIGS.2and5A) against the hammer21by engaging the sear spring supports412(FIG.5A). As shown, the trigger lever26is preferably formed integrally, that is to say in one piece, and has a trigger bar264that protrudes substantially downward in the normal direction93. In addition, in a special embodiment, as shown, the trigger lever26can have in its middle section and in the rearward direction (toward91) in the trigger rear263a central receiving opening, continuous in direction93, for receiving the sear40and the disconnector30. As can be seen fromFIG.2, this can be created by the U-shaped design of the trigger lever26in this region.

The spring force of the hammer spring211or its first arm2111(FIGS.2and5A) acts on the hammer spring support261and thereby the trigger rear263is biased downward. The downward movement of the trigger rear263is limited by the lower side of the trigger housing23or, if the lower side of the trigger housing is open, by the lower receiver112(FIG.1).

In order to discharge a shot, the trigger lever26actually has to be moved beyond the first trigger stage position71into the second trigger stage position72. Otherwise a movement of the hammer21is blocked by the sear edge44(in cooperation with the hammer cam215).

In a particular embodiment, at least one spur266(in cooperation with the safety cam216) (FIGS.2and5A) can block the hammer21, as explained below.

As already described with reference toFIG.2, the trigger lever26can have at least one spur266that protrudes forward in the area of the trigger axis262and is oriented substantially parallel to the barrel direction91. Two spurs266, which are each formed on each of the two sides of the trigger lever26, are preferably provided. A step-shaped safety cam216is formed on the hammer21in the area of the hammer axis212and is used to lock the spur266into place.

The spur266of the trigger lever26is, since it lies in front of the trigger axis262in the barrel direction91, biased upward and in the rest position70protrudes into the movement path of the safety cam216of the hammer21. In the rest position70, the spur266does not yet touch the safety catch216and a small gap270(FIGS.10A and10B) remains between them (detail X ofFIG.5A, shown enlarged inFIG.10A). In the event that the firearm is dropped or it experiences some other unforeseen jolt, impact or blow that causes the sear40or its trigger edge44to inadvertently separate from the hammer cam215, the spur266can interact with the safety cam216and help prevent an unintentional upward/forward movement of the hammer21. The corresponding detailed view X is shown enlarged inFIG.10A.FIGS.10B and10Cshow the same section, labeled Y and Z, fromFIGS.6A and7A, correspondingly in the first and second trigger stage positions71and72, respectively.

In this particular embodiment, the intended shot is fired analogously to the sequence described above by overcoming the first or second trigger stage positions71,72, whereby when the first trigger stage position71is reached, the spur266lies outside the path of the safety cam216and the movement of the hammer21is thus released in the upward/forward direction.

The auto sear50is biased by the second arm2112of the hammer spring211, which acts on the spring seat55, that is, the hammer spring211tries (in the illustration ofFIG.5A) to turn the auto sear50clockwise about the sear axis52(in the illustration ofFIG.4B, but in a differently oriented representation counterclockwise). However, the top53of the auto sear50is held in position by the bolt carrier (not shown) directly above it against the spring bias toward the front (and down) so that the edge51of the auto sear50does not protrude into the path of movement of the hammer21or the auto sear hook214. The function of the auto sear50can be clearly seen in conjunction withFIG.8Band is described further below.

The fire-control/safety selector60is held in a selectable position by a locking lever620which is biased by the locking lever spring630acting on the locking lever body625(FIG.2), wherein the locking lever spring630is supported on the trigger housing23(see alsoFIGS.13and17). In other words: the locking lever620serves, among other things, for temporarily fixing the fire-control/safety selector60in a predefined position. The fire-control/safety selector60, depicted as a rotary selector610in the example shown, is in the “safe” position and allows little or no deflection of the trigger lever26.

FIGS.6A and6Bshow the trigger unit in the safe state and in the first trigger stage position71in a side view and a section along the sectional plane A-A fromFIG.4A. The rear part263of the trigger lever26is moved slightly upward about the trigger axis262by only slight pressure on the trigger bar264, and the spurs266are accordingly moved downward (see above functional description). In the particular embodiment explained above, the movement path of the safety cam216can already be released in the first trigger stage position71in order to be able to tension the hammer21in the first trigger stage position71if necessary. The sear edge44of the sear40does not yet release the movement path of the hammer cam215(FIGS.5A and5B) of the hammer21in this position (seeFIG.10B).

The corresponding detailed views M and L ofFIGS.5B and6Bare shown inFIGS.9A and9B, where it can be seen that in the rest position70, the contact surface265of the trigger lever26(on the trigger rear263) is at a small distance from the sear bottom465, in other words, the contact surface265does not touch the sear bottom465. Only by overcoming the idle tension and reaching the first trigger stage position71(FIG.9B) does the contact surface265and the sear bottom465come into contact. Only with further pressure on the trigger lever26beyond the first trigger stage position71does the trigger lever26and the sear40execute a simultaneous, common rotary movement about the common axis43,262(FIGS.2and3A). In other words, the sear40remains immobile from the rest position70until the first trigger stage position71is reached and the sear40does not join in the rotary movement of the trigger lever26until the first trigger stage position71is reached/exceeded.

As shown inFIG.10A, the sear40lies in the path of movement of the hammer21until the first trigger stage position71is reached; the sear edge44blocks the hammer cam215. Only with further pressure on the trigger lever26beyond the first trigger stage position71into the second trigger stage position72does the sear40with the sear edge44release the movement of the hammer21with the hammer cam215(see in comparisonFIG.10C). In the safe position shown inFIGS.6A and6B, however, the fire-control/safety selector60, shown in the variant as a rotary selector610, prevents further movement of the trigger lever26beyond the first trigger stage position71, since the trigger rear263strikes the rotary selector610.

InFIG.7A, the trigger unit20(FIG.18) is shown with fire-control/safety selector60(variant as a rotary selector610) in the single fire position in the second trigger stage position72. The rotary selector610is in the single fire position and allows the trigger lever26to be deflected into the second trigger stage position72. The sear edge44of the sear40releases the path of movement of the hammer21including its hammer cam215(see in comparisonFIG.10C), it thus performs a rotary movement of the hammer21in the hammer upward/forward rotating direction94, indicated by a dashed arrow, under the action of the hammer spring211, and hits, when installed in the weapon, on the firing pin (not shown).

FIG.7Bshows the situation after the shot has been fired, analogous toFIG.7A: After the shot has been fired, the bolt carrier (not shown) moves backward and tensions the hammer21in the process. As is common in the prior art, a disconnector hook31of the disconnector30is designed in such a way that the hammer hook213presses the disconnector hook31with the disconnector30to the rear during tensioning, wherein the disconnector30is rotated slightly about the disconnector axis35(FIG.2). The disconnector spring34(FIGS.2and3A) is (further) compressed and brings the disconnector30back into its original position as soon as the hammer hook213has passed the disconnector hook31. The disconnector30with the disconnector hook31now catches the hammer21, which is biased by the hammer spring211and pushes forward again, on the hammer hook213and prevents further movement of the hammer21.

A detailed view of the area Z ofFIG.7Ais shown inFIG.10C, wherein it also is clearly visible that the safety pin266in the second trigger stage position72releases the movement path of the safety cam216(as already described above).

FIG.8Ashows a particular embodiment of the trigger unit20(FIG.18) in the continuous fire position in the second trigger stage position72. The rotary selector610is set in such a way that the stud613presses the back end33(FIG.3A) of the disconnector30downward so that it lies at least partially within the correspondingly shaped trigger rear263. As a result, the disconnector30is rotated about the disconnector axis35, as a result of which the disconnector hook31is no longer in the path of movement of the hammer21, in particular, of the hammer hook213.

FIG.8Bshows the trigger unit20(FIG.18) in the continuous fire position in the second trigger stage position72, wherein the movement of the hammer21is blocked by the auto sear50until a bolt carrier (not shown) presses the auto sear50at the top53downward when it advances into the locked state. As soon as the shot breaks and the slide is moved backward for automatic reloading, a special shape of the slide, for example in the form of a corresponding notch on the underside of the slide, allows the auto sear50, which is spring-loaded by the second arm2112of the hammer spring211, performs a limited rotational movement about the auto sear axis52(FIG.2). As a result, the auto sear edge51comes back into the path of movement of the hammer21, because its auto sear hook214strikes the auto sear edge51. As a result, the hammer21is prevented from further movement in the hammer upward/forward rotating direction94. The bolt carrier pushes the top53downward again after the reloading process has ended and the breech is already in the locked state. This sequence ensures that, in the case of multiple automatic firing of shots (in continuous fire), the hammer21can only discharge the next shot after the breech has been completely locked.

This aspect of the present disclosure can therefore substantially be summarized as follows:

A trigger unit (20) for a firearm, comprising:

a hammer (21) rotatably mounted about a hammer axis (212) and which can be biased by means of a hammer spring (211), wherein the hammer spring (211) has a first arm (2111) and a second arm (2112),

a trigger lever (26) rotatably mounted about a trigger axis (262) that has, preferably formed integrally with it, a trigger bar (264) which, when viewed in a normal direction (93), lies below the trigger axis (262) and when the trigger unit (20) is actuated by movement of the trigger bar (264) against a barrel direction (91), the trigger lever (26), having a trigger rear (263) which is designed to accommodate at least one disconnector (30)
as well as a sear (40) rotatably mounted about a sear axis (43) that can be biased by means of a sear spring (41), wherein the hammer axis (212), the trigger axis (262) and the sear axis (43) are parallel to one another and are arranged parallel to a transverse direction (92).

It is characterized in that the trigger lever (26) has a recess and the sear (40) is at least partially arranged within the recess,

that the sear axis (43) and the trigger axis (262) coincide,

that the sear (40) has a bearing (42) on its upper side for receiving and limiting rotation about a disconnector axis (35) of a disconnector joint (32) formed on the underside of the disconnector (30), and

that the bearing (42) of the sear (40) is designed to enclose the disconnector joint (32) at least partially in the direction of rotation about the disconnector axis (35).

In one embodiment it is provided that a limiter (660) is arranged in the trigger unit (20) and is rotatably mounted about a locking lever axis (641) parallel to the transverse direction (92) and is biased by a locking lever spring (630).

In a further embodiment with a rest position (70) and three trigger stage positions (71,72,73) for the trigger lever (26), it is provided that in the trigger unit (20) a rocker lever (45) is arranged around a rocker axis (456), when viewed in the barrel direction (91), in front of the trigger axis (262), that the rocker lever (45) has a first end (451) and a second end (452) that in the third trigger stage position (73) the first end (451) of the rocker lever (45) is pressed downward by the sear (40), when viewed in the normal direction (93), and the rocker lever (45) is rotated about the rocker axis (456), and that the second end (452) of the rocker lever (45) protrudes upward in the third trigger stage position (73) and moves the disconnector (30) upward on a finger (36), when viewed in the normal direction (93), and rotates it around the disconnector axis (35).

In a further development, it is provided that the sear (40) has a sear opening (47) arranged in front of the disconnector axis (35) for the second end (452) of the rocker lever (45) to reach through, when viewed in the barrel direction (91).

Another development provides that in the trigger unit (20) an auto sear (50), biased by the hammer spring (211) and rotatably mounted about an auto sear axis (52), when viewed in the barrel direction (91), is arranged in front of the hammer axis (212).

In yet another further development, a spring seat (55) for supporting the second arm (2112) of the hammer spring (211) is formed on the auto sear (50), when viewed in the normal direction (93), below the auto sear axis (52).

In an advantageous further development it is provided that the first arm (2111) of the hammer spring (211) is supported on the hammer spring support (261) of the trigger lever (26), and the second arm (2112) of the hammer spring (211) supported on the spring seat (55) of the auto sear (50).

In yet another further development, it is provided that a hammer spring support (261) for supporting the hammer spring (211) is formed on the trigger lever (26) in the transverse direction (92).

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the disconnector (30), when viewed in the normal direction (93), has a spring recess (46) on its underside for at least partial accommodation of a disconnector spring (34).

In a further development it is provided that the spring recess (46) is at least partially open when viewed laterally in at least one transverse direction (92).

In a further development of this embodiment it is provided that the spring recess (46) has an outwardly sloping ramp (461) when viewed in the transverse direction (92).

Another further development of the basic idea provides that at least one spur (266) extending from the trigger axis (262) in the barrel direction (91) is formed on the trigger lever (26) and a spur (266) is formed on the hammer (21) in the area of the hammer axis (212), and that the spur (266) protrudes in the rest position (70) and when in the first trigger stage position (71), into a movement path of the safety cam (216) of the hammer (21).

Another development provides that a back end (33) is formed on the disconnector (30) and in the second trigger stage position (72) a stud (613) of a rotary selector (610) presses down against the force of a disconnector spring (34).

In one embodiment it is provided that the trigger unit (20) is accommodated in a trigger housing (23) which is preferably designed as a modular drop-in unit.

Finally, the present disclosure includes a firearm which has a trigger unit (20) with the features defined above.

Pull-Through Trigger

As previously described above, the trigger according to the present disclosure can also be designed in three stages as a pull-through trigger. As already explained, with a pull-through trigger, continuous fire can be achieved by pulling the trigger bar264all the way through the second trigger stage position72into a third trigger stage position73, possibly without changing the position of the fire-control/safety selector60. InFIG.14, similar toFIG.2, such a pull-through trigger is shown in a preferred embodiment as a trigger unit20with a trigger housing23as an exploded view.

The pull-through variant comprises, like the two-stage trigger described above with reference toFIGS.2-10, a hammer21, a trigger lever26, a sear40, a disconnector30, an auto sear50, a fire-control/safety selector60and a locking lever620, which are designed analogously in form and function as described above. The pull-through trigger can also be arranged as a trigger unit20in a trigger housing23analogously to the two-stage embodiment already described.

In a modification of the two-stage trigger described above, the illustrated embodiment of a pull-through trigger includes an additional limiter660, which is mounted between the locking lever620and the locking lever spring630so as to be rotatable about the locking lever axis641. Furthermore, the pull-through trigger has a rocker lever45which, in the embodiment shown, is rotatably supported by a dowel pin455about a rocker axis456. The rocker axis456is arranged in front of the trigger axis292when viewed in the barrel direction91. The sear40has a sear opening47through which the rocker lever45partially protrudes and, when viewed in the barrel direction91, in front of it a front end48with an underside formed on the sear40. No back end (compare with33inFIG.3A) is provided on the disconnector30in this embodiment as shown inFIG.14.

The embodiment as a pull-through trigger can be designed with a fire-control/safety selector60, wherein the fire-control/safety selector60can be designed as a rotary selector610or a sliding selector650. The fire-control/safety selector60can preferably have at least two positions (“safe” and “fire”), i.e. with the fire-control/safety selector60in the “fire” position the user of the firearm can fire individual shots (“single fire”) by pulling the trigger bar264to the first trigger stage position72, or fire multiple shots (“continuous fire”) by pulling the trigger bar264through to the third trigger stage position73.

However, a fire-control/safety selector60with, for example, three or more positions is also conceivable (“safe,” “single fire” and “continuous fire,” or also “burst fire”). By selecting the “single fire” position of the fire-control/safety selector60, the trigger bar264cannot be pulled through into the third trigger stage position73and only individual shots can be fired (“single fire”). With the fire-control/safety selector60in the “continuous fire” position, the trigger bar264can be moved to the third trigger stage position73and multiple shots can be automatically fired.

The variant of the pull-through trigger shown has a fire-control/safety selector60that is a sliding selector650with two positions, wherein a rotary selector610can also be used, as described in the following and is shown inFIGS.11to13. The pull-through trigger can also be used on its own. Likewise, a sliding selector650or a rotary selector610can be implemented independently with the trigger variant described above.

On the locking lever620for the sliding selector650, no spike622is required on the locking lever arm621; instead, the locking lever620preferably comprises, as shown, a spring-loaded plunger670, which is arranged laterally in the locking lever620and normal to the barrel axis (in the transverse direction92) and is connected to the locking lever620(for example screwed in, glued, etc.). The spring-loaded plunger670engages in a detent in the trigger housing23or in the receiver11of the firearm and thus holds the locking lever620in position.

InFIGS.15to16an embodiment of a pull-through variant of the trigger unit20according to the present disclosure is shown in section views along the sectional plane A-A (as inFIG.4A) in different trigger stage positions70,71,72,73; and the details of the sliding selector650are shown inFIGS.17A to17C. The function of the individual parts can be seen by looking at them together.

FIG.15Ashows the pull-through trigger with the trigger bar264in the rest position70with the sliding selector650in the “safe” position with the hammer21under tension from the hammer spring211, andFIG.15Bshows the trigger bar264moving towards the first trigger stage position71(cf.FIGS.5A and5B). The trigger lever26cannot be moved any further with the sliding selector650in the “safe” position, since the rear part263of the trigger strikes the sliding selector650. The rocker lever45rotatably mounted around the dowel pin455has a first, front end451, and a second, rear end452, and is substantially V-shaped in this section with an extended central angle, although other variants with the same function, such as U-shaped, or others, are also possible. The second end452of the dowel pin455protrudes obliquely upward into the sear opening47of the sear40and can touch the disconnector30on the finger36.

The limiter660, which is rotatably mounted about the locking lever axis641, is biased by the locking lever spring630supported on the trigger housing23and is pressed counterclockwise against the locking lever620, as shown in the illustration, and is limited thereby in its rotational movement.

In the “fire” position,FIG.16A, a corresponding recess651(cf.FIG.17A) in the fire-control/safety selector60, with a sliding selector650shown in the illustration, allows a further movement of the trigger lever26into the second trigger stage position72. The movement of the trigger lever26is now limited by the contact surface265of the trigger rear263contacting the counter surface664of the projection661formed on the limiter660. As already described above, in the second trigger stage position72the sear40releases the movement of the hammer21, which rotates accordingly in the hammer rotating direction94(seeFIG.7A) about the hammer axis212. Also already described in detail above (seeFIG.7B), the disconnector30catches the hammer21in its backward movement after a shot has been fired.

If the trigger bar264is now “fully pulled through” beyond the second trigger stage position72, as shown inFIG.16B, the third trigger stage position73is reached. In order to reach the third trigger stage position73, additional force has to act on the trigger bar264, since the projection661of the limiter660has to be moved upward from the trigger rear263. This results in additional trigger resistance, since the limiter660can only be rotated against the spring preload from the locking lever spring630(clockwise in the illustration shown) about the locking lever axis641of the locking lever pin640. The shooter will be able to clearly perceive and easily recognize a difference between single fire and continuous fire (fully drawn) while pulling the trigger bar264to the rearward position. Further movement of the trigger lever26can be limited by abutting the trigger rear263, for example on the fire-control/safety selector60or on the trigger housing23. However, it is also possible to limit the further movement of the trigger lever26in another way, for example by abutting the limiter660on the trigger housing23.

The function of the rocker lever45can also be clearly seen inFIG.16B. In the third trigger stage position73, the first, front end451of the rocker lever45is pressed down from the underside of the front end48of the sear40, which is arranged in front of the sear axis43, and the rocker lever45is rotated about the rocker axis456and the dowel pin455. Correspondingly, the second, rear end452of the rocker lever45moves out of the sear opening47and upward beyond the sear40and, during this movement, entrains the finger36of the disconnector30resting on the sear40. This movement causes the disconnector30to rotate about the disconnector axis35so that the disconnector hook31no longer protrudes into the path of movement of the hammer21, whereby continuous fire is possible.

It should be pointed out at this point that in addition to the illustrated embodiment of the rocker lever45and the sear40with opening47for the passage of the second, rear end452of the rocker lever45, other functionally identical shapes can also be used and, for example, the rocker lever and the sear can be side by side, however it is essential that the second, rear end452presses the disconnector30on its finger36upward and away from the sear40when the trigger bar264is pulled through to the rear. Designs are also conceivable in which the sear40is formed integrally with the trigger lever26.

The pull-through trigger according to the present disclosure can, as shown, comprise a fire-control/safety selector60that is designed, for example as a rotary selector610or sliding selector650, as well as an auto sear50which functions as has already been described above (seeFIG.8B). However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and, for example, an auto sear arranged behind the trigger axis (such as known from firearms derived from the traditional AR-15 platform), or other embodiments can easily be designed by those skilled in the art with knowledge of the present disclosure and the envisioned field of application.

Fire-Control/Safety Selector60

As already described above, the fire-control/safety selector60can be designed as a rotary selector610.FIGS.11A and11Bshow a preferred embodiment of a rotary selector610having a first rotary lever611and a second rotary lever612in a perspective view from two angles. To actuate the rotary selector610, one or more actuators6101can be formed on one or both of the rotary levers611,612, which in the installed condition are arranged outside of the trigger housing. For ease of operation, these actuators6101can have, or form haptically optimized (fluted, roughened, etc.), gripping surfaces. Adjacent to the actuators6101, as shown, sealing plates6102can be arranged, which seal the rotary selector610to the outside of the trigger housing23in the installed condition. As shown, a stop nipple618and/or an indicator window619(FIG.13B) for displaying the firing position can be formed on the sealing plate6102.

As is customary in the prior art, the rotary selector610comprises a cam surface617, which preferably has a stud613. The first rotary lever611comprises a cylinder6111with a substantially cylindrical end section6112adjoining it, wherein the end section6112has a smaller outer diameter than the cylinder6111. At least one detent616is formed on the end section6112. Two detents or several detents616(seeFIG.11Ain conjunction withFIG.13A) are preferably arranged on a line in the circumferential direction of the cylinder6111and at least one rib614that is oriented parallel to the cylinder axis. In addition, one or more detents616can be arranged on a connecting piece between the sealing plate6102and the cylinder6111.

In a preferred embodiment, the first rotary lever611can also have further detents616on the cylinder6111adjacent to the cam surface617, which are arranged on a line in the circumferential direction. These further detents616can be arranged, for example, between the cam surface617and the actuator6101. Each of the detents616formed on a line lying in the circumferential direction corresponds to a corresponding fire selection position (with two notches for “safe” and “fire,” or with three notches for “safe,” “fire” and “continuous fire”). These characteristics apply mutatis mutandis to the eventual formation of a “burst fire” position.

The second rotary lever612comprises a hollow cylinder6212with a hollow cylinder axis6213which has at least one selector slot6165running in the circumferential direction and a continuous notch615running parallel to the cylinder axis6213. The inside diameter of the hollow cylinder6212corresponds to the outside diameter of the end section6112, and the outside diameter of the hollow cylinder6212corresponds to the outside diameter of the middle section of the cylinder6111. The end section6112with the rib614is designed to complement the shape of the hollow cylinder6212with the continuous notch615and allows the end section6112to be pushed into the hollow cylinder6212. The continuous notch615receives the rib614and the selector slot6165is arranged above the detents616on the end section6112, whereby the detent616remains accessible from the outside. The detents616and the selector slot6165above appear like a notch with detents616and act accordingly.

In the installed condition, the first and second rotary levers611,612are connected to one another in such a way that they are non-rotatable and a common rotation about the cylinder axis6213through one-sided operation is possible. In the installed condition, the rotary selector610is secured by the engagement of the locking lever620with the locking lever arm621and spike622, whereby the rotary selector610is protected against being pulled apart or unintentionally falling apart—see alsoFIG.13A.

InFIGS.12A and12Ba cross section of an embodiment of a rotary selector610along the line in the section plane A-A (as inFIG.4A) is shown in the viewing direction to the front.FIG.12Ashows a rotary selector610with three positions (three-part cam surface617with stud613for “safe,” “fire” and “continuous fire”).FIG.12Bshows a rotary selector610with two positions (two-part cam surface617for “safe” and “fire”), as it can be implemented, for example, in the pull-through trigger variant described below or for variants that do not allow continuous fire.

FIG.12Cshows a trigger housing23in a side plan view.FIG.12Dshows the trigger housing23in a perspective view. The selector hole237accommodates the fire-control/safety selector60or, in the embodiment shown, the cylinder6111and the hollow cylinder6212of a rotary selector610. In the illustration shown, a selector cam238and an indicator239are also provided. The locking lever recess236serves to receive the locking lever620and the locking lever spring630, which is supported on the trigger housing23, and, in the pull-through trigger described above, to also accommodate a limiter660(FIG.14). In the installed condition, the indicator239is largely covered by the sealing plate6102of the rotary selector610, but the respectively selected firing position of the indicator239remains visible to the user through the indicator window619(FIG.13B). In the installed condition, a stop nipple618(FIG.13B) of the rotary selector610lies in the selector cam238and limits the possible rotational movement of the rotary selector610in the circumferential direction.

FIG.13Ashows a preferred embodiment of the rotary selector610in the installed condition with the locking lever620, wherein the trigger housing23is not shown for better visibility. The locking lever620is mounted rotatably about a locking lever axis641of the locking lever pin640and is biased by the locking lever spring630, wherein the locking lever spring630is supported in the trigger housing23and on the locking lever body625. The locking lever620is thus biased counterclockwise around the locking lever pin640(within the locking lever axis641) acting as the axis of rotation in the direction of the movement arrow inFIG.13A. At least one spike622is formed on the locking lever arm621, which protrudes through the selector slot6165and engages in a detent616of the end section6112. In this way, the two rotary levers611,612can no longer be displaced in the direction of the cylinder axis (not even relative to one another).

In the installed condition, a firing position is selected by turning the rotary selector610. The locking lever620is pressed backward against its spring preload, so that the spike622is pressed out of a detent (recess)616and, upon further rotation, is pressed into the next detent616by the spring force of the locking lever spring630. The spike622protrudes into selector slot6165at all times during this rotary movement, which prevents the two rotary levers611,612from being pulled apart or inadvertently falling apart.

Only by actively pushing the locking lever body625backward can the locking lever arm621with the spike622be turned upward so far that the spike622no longer protrudes into the selector slot6165, whereby the two rotary levers611,612can be pulled apart. This allows the rotary selector610to be dismantled or replaced without tools. It is also possible to easily swap a rotary selector610with three positions for a rotary selector610with two positions (e.g. without the “continuous fire” position). This special version of a rotary selector610with locking lever620may represent an invention of its own.

It is also easily feasible for a person skilled in the art, with knowledge of the present disclosure, to use the inventive rotary selector610(even without connection to the locking lever620) in a slightly modified embodiment trigger systems other than the systems described herein, such as the triggers utilized in firearms based on the traditional AR-15 platform. The spring-loaded pressure pin that is typically arranged in the grip and lower receiver of firearms based on the traditional AR-15 platform would now engage the rotary selector610and secure it in place, instead of the spike622through the selector slot6165in the detent616as detailed above.

Details of the sliding selector650proposed in one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown inFIGS.17A to17C, with the directional arrows indicating the orientation of the view in each case. The sliding selector650has an elongated, approximately cuboid shape with a cross section that is substantially the same over most of the length, and the selector opening273is also correspondingly complementary in shape. In the example shown, the cross section is rectangular, but round, oval, square and other cross sections are also possible. On the two longitudinal ends, push portions655for operating the sliding selector650(displacement in or against the transverse direction92) are formed. At one end, as shown, a top654may be formed which has an enlarged cross section. At least one recess651is formed on the underside of the sliding selector650facing the trigger lever26(clearly visible inFIG.17Aas a view from below), which releases the movement of the trigger lever26into second trigger stage position72and/or the third trigger stage position73with a corresponding position of the sliding selector650. In a further embodiment, the recess651can also be designed in two stages or in multiple stages in order to enable a sliding selector650with three (or more) positions.

At least one pair of parallel and mutually merging grooves652, which serve as detent positions for the locking lever620, is formed on the outer contour of the sliding selector650facing the locking lever620. In the installed condition, the sliding selector650is preferably arranged in its longitudinal direction normal to the barrel direction91in the transverse direction92, whereby the grooves652are formed substantially parallel to the barrel direction91or parallel to the center plane of the weapon. In the installed condition, the sliding selector650can protrude with both ends over the firearm's receiver11or—depending on the position—end flush with the receiver11on one side. In principle, it is also conceivable that one end lies in at least one position within the receiver11.

FIG.17Bshows the sliding selector650in the installed condition with the locking lever620, locking lever spring630and limiter660and without the trigger housing23for better visibility. In the particular embodiment shown, two pairs of grooves652merging into one another are formed on the outer contour of the sliding selector650. In a preferred embodiment, the grooves652are elongated and V-shaped and merge, for example, in a U-shape (or with a rounding or an inclined transition surface) to thus form a continuous, contoured depression in the surface of the sliding selector650. The locking lever620and limiter660are rotatably mounted around the locking lever pin640. The locking lever spring630is supported on the trigger housing23(not shown) and biases the limiter660. The limiter660in turn rests on the locking lever620, whereby the locking lever620is also spring-biased. Correspondingly, a locking lever arm621formed on the locking lever620(two locking lever arms621can be seen in the embodiment shown) is pressed into a groove652and thus holds the sliding selector650in position.

If the sliding selector650is now shifted in the transverse direction92(in the position shown in the direction of the second groove652of the pair of grooves) by pressing on the push portion655, the locking lever arm621is pressed against the spring preload thereby making it possible to shift the sliding selector650from the first firing position to the second firing position. As a result of the spring preload, the locking lever620engages in the second groove652of the pair of grooves after the second firing position has been reached.

Each groove652of a groove pair has a stop653on the side facing the other groove652, so that further displacement of the sliding selector650is limited by the locking lever arm621contacting the stop653(FIG.17B). In this way, the sliding selector650is secured against being pulled apart or inadvertently falling apart.

As shown, a spring-loaded plunger670can be arranged on one side of the locking lever620so that it interacts in a locking position on the inside of the trigger housing23and thus holds the locking lever620in position. The locking lever620will be held in position even if, for example, the trigger is pulled through to the trigger stage position73, because the limiter660is pressed backward against its spring preload and thus already releases a movement of the locking lever620. As a variant, it is also possible to arrange a further spring between the limiter660and the locking lever620.

In addition toFIGS.17A and17B,FIG.17Cshows a cross section of a sliding selector650analogous to the section plane A-A inFIG.4A.

As already described, the fire-control/safety selector60can be exchanged easily and without tools using the locking lever620according to the present disclosure. The locking lever620only has to be pushed back against its spring preload to release the detent616(in the case of a rotary selector610), or the groove252(in the case of a sliding selector650), and thus the fire-control/safety selector60. A rotary selector610with three positions can easily be exchanged for a rotary selector610with two positions and vice versa. Likewise, a sliding selector650with two positions can easily be exchanged for one with three positions (and vice versa). If the cross-sectional shapes of the rotary and sliding selectors610,650are appropriately selected and the selector opening237is appropriately shaped, it is also conceivable to exchange a rotary selector610for a sliding selector650. For example, the sliding selector650can be round and have the same diameter as the cylinder6111of the rotary selector610; the interaction of the locking lever620with the detent616prevents a round shaped sliding selector650from turning.

However, a round shaped sliding selector650with an external longitudinal rib is also conceivable, which acts as a rotary selector with a corresponding longitudinal groove in the selector opening237. Other forms of a selector opening237are also possible, which can accommodate both a rotary selector610and a sliding selector650with different cross sections.

The described sliding selector650according to the present disclosure can also be used with triggers other than those described herein, including those known from the prior art, and it is not limited to the examples shown.

The pull-through trigger shown inFIGS.14-16, is possible as a variant with a rotary selector610according to the description above, as the two-stage trigger shown inFIG.2-8can also be executed with a sliding selector650. The possibilities of combinations of the individual embodiments described are not limited to the variants shown and described.

The trigger described above can be designed in two stages or as a three-stage pull-through trigger. In each case, an embodiment with a fire-control/safety selector60, which is designed as a rotary selector610or a sliding selector650, is possible, wherein the fire-control/safety selector60can each have two or three fire positions.

According to the above statements, it is easily possible for a person skilled in the art to implement variants of the trigger according to the present disclosure without a continuous fire function, in which, for example, the limiter660or the stud613are omitted.

This aspect of the present disclosure can therefore substantially be summarized as follows:

The present disclosure relates to a trigger unit (20) for a firearm comprising a trigger lever (26) mounted rotatably about a trigger axis (262) which, preferably formed integrally with it, has a trigger bar (264) which, viewed in a normal direction (93), lies below the trigger axis (262) and when the trigger unit (20) is actuated when the trigger bar (264) is moved against a barrel direction (91), and a fire-control/safety selector (60) for selecting at least one “safe” and one “fire” position. It is characterized in that a locking lever (620) rotatably mounted about a locking lever axis (641) is arranged in the trigger unit (20) and is biased in the circumferential direction by a locking lever spring (630), and that the locking lever axis (641), considered in the barrel direction (91), is arranged behind the trigger axis (262), and the locking lever (620) is designed for releasably fixing the fire-control/safety selector (60) in a selectable position.

In a further development it is provided that the fire-control/safety selector (60) is designed as a rotary selector (610) which is rotatably mounted about an axis parallel to the normal direction (93) and comprises a first rotary lever (611) and a second rotary lever (612),a. that a cylinder (6111) with an end section (6112) is formed on the first rotary lever (611),b. that the end section (6112) has a smaller diameter than the cylinder (6111) in the region outside the end section (6112) in the assembled state,c. that at least one detent (616), preferably in the form of a radial recess, is arranged on the end section (6112),d. that a hollow cylinder (6212) having a selector slot (6165) extending in the circumferential direction and a continuous notch (615) extending in the direction of a hollow cylinder axis (6213) of the hollow cylinder (6212) is formed on the second rotary lever (612),e. that the inner diameter of the hollow cylinder (6212) corresponds to the diameter of the end section (6112),f. that a rib (614) in the form of a radial elevation is formed on the end section (6112),g. that the continuous notch (615) and the end section (6212) are designed to be complementary in shape to the rib (614) and to the end section (6112), andh. that the end section (6112) can be inserted axially and displaceably into the hollow cylinder (6212).

In one embodiment, it is provided that in the installation situation in a firearm having a locking lever (620), the two rotary levers (611,612) of the rotary selector (610), by engaging a spike (622) of the locking lever (620) in the selector slot (6165), are secured against axially moving apart, and that the rotary selector (610) is secured in this way in the trigger housing (23).

The basic idea can advantageously be further developed in such a way that the fire-control/safety selector (60) is designed as a sliding selector (650) which is mounted displaceably along an axis parallel to the normal direction (93), anda. that the sliding selector (650) has at least one pair of grooves (652) merging into one another on the outer contour, which serve as detents for the locking lever (620) andb. that in the installed condition projections of the spring-loaded locking lever (620) protrude into the grooves (652), so that the position of the sliding selector (650) in the trigger housing (23) is secured.

This configuration can be further developed by the sliding selector (650) having an outer contour with which it is displaceably guided in at least one opening of complementary shape in a trigger housing (23) or in the receiver (11,111,112) of the firearm.

The basic idea can advantageously be further developed so that the locking lever (620) comprises on one side a push portion (670) which is oriented in the transverse direction (92) and which, when installed, engages in a detent in a trigger housing (23) or in the receiver (111,112) of the firearm.

This configuration can be further developed by the trigger housing (23) having the opening of complementary shape in which the sliding selector (650) is displaceably guided.

The basic idea can advantageously be further developed so that the trigger unit (20) is housed in a trigger housing (23), which is preferably designed as a modular drop-in unit.

The present disclosure also comprises a firearm which has one of the trigger units (20) defined above.

Modular Drop-In Trigger Unit20

Another possible embodiment of the trigger according to the present disclosure is shown inFIGS.18and19. As already described, the trigger can preferably be arranged as a trigger unit20in a trigger housing23. A configuration of the present disclosure that is designed as a modular drop-in trigger unit20can be particularly advantageous.

FIG.18shows a section of the lower receiver112of a firearm with a specially shaped receptacle for a modular drop-in trigger unit20, which is referred to below as the trigger pocket12. The trigger pocket12has a complementary shape to the modular drop-in trigger unit20, and accommodates it completely in the lower receiver112, with the trigger bar264protruding downward from the lower receiver112. In this context, complete accommodation is to be understood as meaning that the drop-in trigger unit20is arranged laterally and/or in the barrel direction91and underneath in the installed condition so that it is fixed, but detachable. This can be ensured in a relatively simple manner by a person skilled in the art by choosing appropriate fits and/or the choice of material for the lower receiver112and the trigger housing23. It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the lower receiver112and the trigger housing23are made of the same material, in particular a fiber-reinforced plastic.

FIG.19Ashows a lower receiver112in a side view with the sectional plane B-B.FIG.19Bshows a plan view of the lower receiver112with the modular drop-in trigger unit20, wherein the trigger housing23is shown for better visibility.FIG.19cshows the section along the sectional plane B-B illustrated inFIG.19A, andFIG.19Dshows a section along the sectional plane C-C.

As can be seen in a synopsis ofFIGS.19A-19C, the trigger pocket12can have lateral guides123and front and rear boundaries124(cf.FIG.18) and is designed in a shape complementary to the trigger unit20. The lateral guides123as well as the front and rear boundaries124can be designed, for example, as surfaces, ribs, nipples, rails, notches, etc. and accordingly have, for example, a flat, linear or punctiform effect. The modular drop-in trigger unit20has a corresponding outer contour that is complementary in shape.

In the assembled state, the sides of the trigger unit20(or of the trigger housing23) are guided by the lateral guides123of the trigger pocket12and held in position. The front and rear ends of the trigger unit20(or the trigger housing23) can rest against the front and/or rear boundaries124and thus guided into the trigger pocket12and held in position. Furthermore, at least one trigger housing protrusion231(FIGS.12C and12D) can be formed on the trigger housing23and can be received in a form-complementary trigger window121, which is formed on the trigger pocket12in the lower receiver112, so that the receiving surface122of the lower receiver112is the protrusion side surface232(FIGS.12C and12D) of the trigger unit20(of the trigger housing23) and therefore guides and holds it in position. The receiving surface122and the protrusion side surface232lie close to one another and at least substantially seal the interior of the housing against external environmental influences.

The trigger housing protrusion231(FIG.12C) can, as shown, be designed on both sides and, as in the embodiment shown, be rectangular, but other shapes such as a V-shape, U shape, etc. are also possible.

The modular drop-in trigger unit20inserted in the trigger pocket12of the lower receiver112is thus positioned in the lower receiver112so that it cannot move in all directions except upward, and is also secured against upward movement in the installed condition by a retaining element in either the upper receiver111or the breech, and is thus fixed and immobile in the firearm's receiver11.

The modular structure allows the number of fire positions to be changed by, for example, exchanging the fire-control/safety selector60. Furthermore, the modular structure is advantageous, since by changing the trigger unit20it is possible to switch from a two-stage to a three-stage (pull-through) trigger quickly and without tools (and vice versa). There are also advantages in production because the modular drop-in trigger unit20according to the present disclosure can be produced particularly efficiently due to a generally small number of parts, and the individual variants of the trigger can also be implemented by exchanging only a very limited number of parts. For example, it is conceivable to use a trigger lever26with a trigger rear263designed to accommodate the back end33and/or a disconnector30with a back end33(which then has no function) in a pull-through trigger. Likewise, in a two-stage trigger, both a (again functionless) limiter660and a sear40that is designed to interact with a rocker lever45(not necessary in the two-stage trigger) are conceivable. It is also possible to have the same shape of the locking lever620(with or without a spring-loaded plunger670) for either a rotary selector610or a sliding selector650.

This modular drop-in trigger unit20according to the present disclosure can be exchanged without tools and therefore quickly and easily. If necessary, this modular drop-in trigger unit20represents an invention of its own, for example as defined below:

The present disclosure relates to a trigger unit (20) for a firearm and is characterized in that it is designed as a drop-in trigger unit (20) to complement a trigger pocket (12) of a lower receiver (112) of the firearm, and that the trigger pocket (12) accommodates the trigger housing (23), preferably completely accommodates it.

It should also be noted that the trigger pocket (12) as a reference value for the “module,” the drop-in trigger unit (20) is necessary in the definition without actually being part of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. The term “accommodate” is understood here to mean that the trigger unit (20) is inserted (pushed) into the trigger pocket (12) in such a way that it only protrudes from the lower receiver (112) of the firearm with those parts for which the function of such a protrusion is necessary, and the term “fully” is intended to emphasize this; it is always a technical and not a mathematical-geometric approach.

In one embodiment it is provided that the trigger unit (20) has a hammer (21) which is rotatably mounted about a hammer axis (212) and can be biased by means of a hammer spring (211), wherein the hammer spring (211) has a first arm (2111) and a second arm (2112), a trigger lever (26) rotatably mounted about a trigger axis (262) which, preferably formed integrally with it, has a trigger bar (264) which, viewed in a normal direction (93), lies below the trigger axis (262) and is moved against a barrel direction (91) when the trigger bar (264) is actuated, wherein the trigger lever (26) has a trigger rear (263) that is designed to accommodate at least one disconnector (30), as well as a sear (40) rotatably mounted about a sear axis (43) and biased by means of a sear spring (41), wherein the hammer axis (212), the trigger axis (262) and the sear axis (43) are arranged parallel to one another and parallel to a transverse direction (92)

In another embodiment it is provided that the trigger housing (23) is formed with receptacles or bearings for the pins, shafts etc. (219,269,640) of the components (21,26,30,40) rotatable about the axes (212,35,262,43).

In yet another embodiment it is provided that laterally at least one trigger housing protrusion (231) is formed on the trigger housing (23) in the transverse direction (92).

The present disclosure also relates to a trigger pocket (12) of a firearm, in particular in its lower receiver112, for a modular drop-in trigger unit (20) as defined above, wherein it is provided that the trigger pocket (12) has lateral guides (123) which support the trigger housing (23) and hold it in position.

In a further development the lateral guides (123) are designed as rails, nipples, or, preferably, flat.

In another development, the trigger pocket (12) has front and/or rear boundaries (124) that guide the trigger housing (23) and hold it in position.

In a further development the front and/or rear boundaries (124) are designed as a rail, nipple, or, preferably, flat.

In one embodiment of the last two developments it is provided that the trigger pocket (12) has a trigger window (121) with receiving surfaces (122) for receiving a trigger housing protrusion (231) with protrusion side surfaces (232), anda. that the receiving surfaces (122) are designed to complement the protrusion side surfaces (232),b. that the receiving surfaces (122) guides the protrusion side surfaces (232) and hold the trigger housing (23) in position, andc. that in the installed condition the receiving surfaces (122) and the protrusion side surfaces (232) lie against one another and thus seal the interior of the lower part of the receiver (11) from external environmental influences.

This aspect of the present disclosure also relates to a firearm with a breech, an upper receiver (111) and a lower receiver (112) with a trigger pocket (12) according to one of the preceding definitions, wherein a modular drop-in trigger unit (20) is secured against upward movement in the installed condition by the upper receiver (111) and/or the breech.

In the modular drop-in trigger unit (20) according to the present disclosure, a trigger other than the one shown and described, including one already known from the prior art, can be provided because the mentioned advantages of such a drop-in trigger unit (20) can also be used with other triggers.

Closing Remarks

The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated and described exemplary embodiments, but can be modified and configured in various ways. In particular, the cross-sectional shapes shown in the illustrations of the mentioned receiver parts, pins, rails, recesses, etc. can be adapted to the given basic data, and the lengths and the positions with respect to the receiver can also be easily adapted by a person skilled in the art with knowledge of the present disclosure. In particular, equivalent designs are obvious with knowledge of the present disclosure and can be carried out without further ado by a person skilled in the art.

Principally, it has to be stated that, the number and possibilities of combinations of the individual embodiments described are not limited to the variants shown and described. Further, it is no problem for the person skilled in the art and knowing the present disclosure to combine a detail of a first variant with one or more details of another variant or variants without sticking to (the) other details of the first variant! Free combinations of all details per se are possible without being mentioned here.

It should also be noted that, in the description and the claims, terms such as the “lower region” of an object, refer to the lower half and in particular the lower quarter of the overall height; “lowermost region” refers to the lowermost quarter, and in particular an even smaller part, while “central region” refers to the central third of the overall height. The use of the terms “width” or “length” apply mutatis mutandis. All of these terms have their generally accepted meanings applied to the intended position of the object under consideration.

In the description and the claims, the term “substantially” means a deviation of up to 10% of the stated value, if physically possible, both downward and upward, otherwise only in the appropriate direction; in the case of degrees (angle and temperature), and for indications such as “parallel” or “normal,” these terms mean±10°. If there are terms such as “substantially constant,” etc., what is meant is the technical possibility of deviation which the person skilled in the art takes as a basis and not a mathematical deviation. For example, a “substantially L-shaped cross-section” comprises two elongated surfaces, which merge at one end into the end of the other surface, and whose longitudinal extension is arranged at an angle of 45° to 120° to one another.

All given quantities and percentages, in particular those relating to the limitation of the present disclosure, insofar as they do not relate to specific examples, are understood to have a tolerance of ±10%; accordingly, for example: 11° A means: from 9.9% to 12.1%. With terms such as “a holding means,” the word “a” is not to be considered to represent a singular numeral (“one”), but rather is to be considered an indefinite article or pronoun, unless the context indicates otherwise.

The terms “combination” or “combinations” mean, unless otherwise stated, all types of combinations, starting from two of the relevant components up to a plurality or all of such components. The term “containing” also means “consisting of.”

The features and variants stated in the individual embodiments and examples can easily be combined with those of the other examples and embodiments and, in particular, can be used for characterizing the invention in the claims without necessarily including the other details of the particular embodiment or of the particular example.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1Barrel40Sear2Grip41Sear spring3Magazine412Sear spring supports4Stock42Bearing7Handguard43Sear axis5Bore axis44Sear edge6Firearm median plane45Rocker lever11Receiver451First end111Upper receiver452Second end112Lower receiver455Dowel pin12Trigger pocket456Rocker axis121Trigger window46Spring recess122Receiving surfaces461Ramp123Lateral guides465Sear bottom124Front and rear boundaries47Sear opening20Trigger unit48Front end21Hammer50Auto sear211Hammer spring51Auto sear edge2111First arm52Auto sear axis2112Second arm53Top212Hammer axis54Leg213Hammer hook55Spring seat214Auto sear hook56Auto sear pin215Hammer cam57Hammer stop216Safety cam60Fire-control/safety selector217Hammer recess610Rotary selector219Hammer pin6101Actuators23Trigger housing6102Sealing plates231Trigger housing protrusion611First rotary lever232Protrusion side surfaces6111Cylinder236Locking lever recess6112End section237Selector hole6212Hollow cylinder238Selector cam6213Hollow cylinder axis239Indicator612Second rotary lever26Trigger lever613Stud261Hammer spring support614Rib262Trigger axis615Continuous notch263Trigger rear616Detent, recess264Trigger bar6165Selector slot265Contact surface617Cam surface266Spur618Stop nipple269Trigger pin619Indicator window270Gap620Locking lever30Disconnector621Locking lever arm31Disconnector hook622Spike32Disconnector joint625Locking lever body33Back end630Locking lever spring34Disconnector spring640Locking lever pin35Disconnector axis641Locking lever axis36Finger650Sliding selector654Top651Recess655Push portion652Grooves660Limiter653Stop661Projection70Rest position664Counter surface711sttrigger stage position670Spring loaded plunger722ndtrigger stage position733rdtrigger stage position91Barrel direction (front)92Transverse direction (left)93Normal direction (up)94Hammer rotating direction