What Is a Charging Handle on a Gun? (And Why You Need One)

What Is a Charging Handle on a Gun?

The charging handle is a lever or knob on a firearm that is used to cock or load the weapon. It is typically located on the right side of the receiver, just above the ejection port. When the charging handle is pulled rearward, it causes the bolt carrier group (BCG) to move rearward and strip a round from the magazine. The BCG then moves forward, chambering the round and locking the bolt into place.

The charging handle is an essential part of a firearm, as it is necessary to load and cock the weapon before firing. It is also used to clear a jam or malfunction.

Types of Charging Handles

There are two main types of charging handles:

• Straight: This is the most common type of charging handle. It is a simple lever that is pulled rearward to cock the weapon.
• Knuckle: This type of charging handle is curved, and it is designed to be easier to grip and operate. It is often found on rifles with bullpup designs.

Some firearms have ambidextrous charging handles, which can be operated from either side of the weapon. This is a valuable feature for left-handed shooters.

How to Use a Charging Handle

To use a charging handle, follow these steps:

1. Grasp the charging handle with your dominant hand.
2. Pull the charging handle rearward until it stops.
3. Release the charging handle and allow the bolt carrier group to move forward.

If the weapon is not cocked, the charging handle will not move rearward. To cock the weapon, pull the trigger or use the bolt release.

To clear a jam or malfunction, follow these steps:

1. Grasp the charging handle with your dominant hand.
2. Pull the charging handle rearward until it stops.
3. Look into the ejection port and see if there is a round stuck in the chamber.
4. If there is a round stuck in the chamber, use a cleaning rod or other tool to remove it.
5. Release the charging handle and allow the bolt carrier group to move forward.

The charging handle is an essential part of a firearm, and it is important to know how to use it properly. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively operate your firearm.

What is a charging handle on a gun?

A charging handle is a lever or knob that is used to pull the bolt back and chamber a round in a firearm. It is typically located on the right side of the receiver, and is operated by the shooter’s right hand.

What are the different types of charging handles?

There are two main types of charging handles:

• Non-reciprocating charging handles do not move when the bolt is cycled. This type of charging handle is more common on semi-automatic rifles, as it does not interfere with the operation of the action.
• Reciprocating charging handles move with the bolt when it is cycled. This type of charging handle is more common on fully automatic rifles, as it allows the shooter to keep their hand on the charging handle while firing.

**How do you use a charging handle?

To use a charging handle, grasp it with your right hand and pull it back until it stops. This will chamber a round in the firearm. To release the bolt, push the charging handle forward until it locks into place.

**What are the benefits of a charging handle?

A charging handle can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Increased speed: A charging handle can allow the shooter to chamber a round more quickly than a manual bolt release.
• Improved ergonomics: A charging handle can be positioned in a more comfortable location for the shooter, making it easier to operate.
• Reduced wear and tear: A charging handle can help to reduce wear and tear on the bolt and other parts of the firearm.

**What are the drawbacks of a charging handle?

A charging handle can also have a number of drawbacks, including:

• Increased weight: A charging handle can add weight to the firearm, which can make it less maneuverable.
• Increased complexity: A charging handle can add complexity to the firearm, which can make it more difficult to maintain.
• Increased cost: A charging handle can increase the cost of the firearm.

**When should you use a charging handle?

A charging handle should be used whenever you need to chamber a round in a firearm. This includes when you are loading the firearm for the first time, when you are clearing a malfunction, and when you are reloading the firearm.

**What are the safety precautions you should take when using a charging handle?

When using a charging handle, you should always take the following safety precautions:

• Be sure that the firearm is unloaded before you begin.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
• Do not point the firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the potential for ricochets.

**Additional resources

• [The Charging Handle: A Comprehensive Guide](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/charging-handle-guide/)
• [How to Use a Charging Handle](https://www.luckygunner.com/lounge/how-to-use-a-charging-handle/)
• [The Best Charging Handles for AR-15s](https://www.ar15.com/articles/the-best-charging-handles-for-ar-15s-2560234814.html)

  a charging handle is a critical component of any firearm. It is responsible for moving the bolt carrier group rearward, which chambers a new round of ammunition and readies the firearm for firing. Charging handles come in a variety of styles and designs, but they all serve the same basic function. By understanding how a charging handle works, you can better operate your firearm and ensure that it is functioning properly.