Why buy an expensive AR charging handle?

[TomkinsSP]

Don't see a need for (an ambi) one, but then I am not in my "right" mind.

Perhaps to another point, I saw a cheap, charging handle seriously damage an AR.

Friend bought a "just about mil -spec" charging handle. Tolerances weren't what they were supposed to be.

Charging handle didn't fit correctly. It ended up binding the BCG in the upper. That took forever to extract all the parts.

Not saying you need an ultra fancy high priced charging handle. I am saying you need one that is manufactured to mil-spec.

As far as an ambi charging handle goes.......why don't you find someone that has one and give it try? I tried one out first. I then purchased the BCM ambi handle and it works rather nicely. It is on my Bravo/Temple SBR build.

Try it out.....you may like it.

Seriously, why put LESS THAN MIL SPEC PARTS on any AR? And it's easier to swap out a part and "see" than it is to find someone to lend you the part. Try as many potentials you are able.

 

[03hemi]

I'm really liking the Radian, Geisiel and BCM handles so far, the BCM is the cheapest which isn't a factor at these price points. All are CNC machined from 7075 T solid billet too, just a matter of esthetics really with all of them being milspec.

 

[jsfricks]

So, to the one's that actually have one, is it a smoother pull? Anymore precise feeling? or just really cool looking?

I have the Radian Raptor on my Larue PredatOBR and highly recommend it. There's definitely a difference between the standard milspec and the Radians. There's no binding if pulled at an angle and feels like it's running on ball bearings. It's also easier to grasp when there's a scope tube right above it like mine in the picture. They put them on sale about once a year, knocking around $20 off the regular price.

 

[bushmaster1313]

A few years ago I bought a charging handle for the princely sum of $500.00.
However a complete carbine came with it at no extra charge.

In New Jersey, if they come with a pistol grip and a folding stock they are a banned Assault Handle.

 

[03hemi]

I have the Radian Raptor on my Larue PredatOBR and highly recommend it. There's definitely a difference between the standard milspec and the Radians. There's no binding if pulled at an angle and feels like it's running on ball bearings. It's also easier to grasp when there's a scope tube right above it like mine in the picture. They put them on sale about once a year, knocking around $20 off the regular price.

Glad to hear that! The Raptor is my favorite by looks by far. You just made my decision for me, thanks. Tray

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

Waste of money.

 

[GaryV2]

I have a pre-ban ArmaLite M15 (A2) and a S&W 15 MOE and have trained on original M16 (in AF) and M4 configurations. IMO there is no appreciable difference in charging handle functionality. If you've trained on the firearm no need to change the charging handle.

 

[S.B.]

Wait a minute? Doesn't the military teach to use both sides of the charging handle so(a finger on both sides), what makes these ambidextrous?
Steve

 

[jsfricks]

Wait a minute? Doesn't the military teach to use both sides of the charging handle so(a finger on both sides), what makes these ambidextrous?
Steve

Using either side releases the lock where the standard mil-spec one side releases the lock and the other side is fixed.

 

[S.B.]

Using either side releases the lock where the standard mil-spec one side releases the lock and the other side is fixed.

Yes, I understand how they work.
Steve

 

[jsfricks]

Yes, I understand how they work.
Steve

And with a scope it can be tough to quickly grab both sides to charge the rifle reaching under the scope, even more so with gloves. With the Ambi handle one-finger charges or "palming" the handle from either side are a piece of cake. They're not for everyone, other styles work better for others.

 

[gehlsurf]

I have a left side one on my AR9, it's a slab side so I like it.

I have a SIG MCX and broke 2 of the stock ones (common problem, but they send you a new one with just a call, so easy to fix). I eventually lucked out in a forum I was in where a guy made upgrades charging handles. Got 2 (one prototype raw aluminum and another finished). Havent had a problem yet!!

It may seem like a simple part, but if it breaks it sucks!! Think of scope rings, they are ridiculously simple. But they do break. Rattle apart etc. So dont go cheap, you need that precise machining, good tight roll pins, good springs, etc.

 

[joelsr]

AR Charging handle

Been using the stock charging handle. Works for me, but appreciate comments.

 

[muzzleblast]

Does an expensive ($100 or less seems to be the range) charging handle make any difference? Other than being ambi, is there a noticeable difference in the feel when you charge it, or is it just for looks?

I'd rather spend the $ on ammo.

 

[F75gunslinger]

This right here.Also have added an extended bolt release.

About the only thing I've ever done above the standard mil spec is add a extended latch so it's easier to operate when a scope is mounted.

 

[S.B.]

Been using the stock charging handle. Works for me, but appreciate comments.

Ditto, answer for a problem I don't have. Guess I learned the manual of arms for M16? Too many bells and whistles out there today for these.
Steve

 

[hfriedly]

I have one AR with a red dot and a standard charging handle. My other AR has a 4-12x40 scope which gets in the way of the standard charging handle a little, so I think and extension on the left side would be useful. I just haven't gotten around to getting one yet.

 

[NiteGoat]

So, to the one's that actually have one, is it a smoother pull? Anymore precise feeling? or just really cool looking?

I have BCM Gunfighter charging handles on all 3 of my ARs. The operation, to me, is more smooth (they don't rock back and forth when charging) and they redirect the gas away from my face, which was another issue I had with the stock "MILSPEC" charging handles. It's just a personal preference thing.

 

[M14sRock]

A stock charging handle is fine, unless you need to use your boot heel on it to free a stuck case. When that happens you will appreciate the strength of the BCM Gunfighter charging handle.

The BCM also has a raised lip around the back of the upper that directs any gas blowback up, rather than back into your face/eye.

Run an AR hard enough and long enough and you'll see the value in a good replacement charging handle.

 

[Deen]

If you run the mil-spec charging handle with the blade of your left hand, like an FAL, you can easily bend it from the asymmetrical force (BTDT).