Cocking handle
The cocking handle, also known as charging handle or bolt handle, is a device on a firearm which, when manipulated, results in the
These devices vary significantly between firearms but may occur in the form of a small protrusion or hook from the side of the bolt, pump, or lever on manual repeating firearms. The slide on a pistol performs a similar action as a cocking handle.[2]
In designing a cocking handle, both durability and ergonomics must be taken into account. When heavily used, repeated motion of the handle can lead to
Cocking handles can be reciprocating or non-reciprocating. The advantage of the former is that it gives the user complete control over the movement of the bolt and bolt carrier. It enables great force to be used to chamber or extract difficult or ruptured cartridges. However, it adds an extra, fast-moving part on the outside of the gun and may limit the way the gun is handled.[4]
See also
References
- ^ "How a Handgun Works: 1911 .45". AnimaGraffs. 14 December 2013. Retrieved 2015-08-06.
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- ISBN 978-1-84603-225-7.
- ^ "What are the advantages of a reciprocating charging handle vs non-reciprocating?". Reddit Guns. Retrieved 2015-08-06.