U.S. patent application number 12/424717 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-15 for holster enhancements.
This patent application is currently assigned to Tactical Design Labs. Invention is credited to MICHAEL V. LOWE, ANTHONY J. SENN, Robert L. Shaver, ERIC YATES.
Application Number | 20100176165 12/424717 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42318321 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100176165 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LOWE; MICHAEL V. ; et
al. |
July 15, 2010 |
HOLSTER ENHANCEMENTS
Abstract
A security holster for handguns which utilizes a U-shaped rod as
part of the locking and releasing mechanism. The user presses a
handgun against a portion of the U-shaped rod, which pushes the
U-shaped rod forward, and causes the locking tab to seat against
the ejection port or another feature of the handgun.
Inventors: |
LOWE; MICHAEL V.; (BOISE,
ID) ; SENN; ANTHONY J.; (BOISE, ID) ; YATES;
ERIC; (BOISE, ID) ; Shaver; Robert L.; (Boise,
ID) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DYKAS, SHAVER & NIPPER, LLP
P.O. BOX 877
BOISE
ID
83701-0877
US
|
Assignee: |
Tactical Design Labs
Boise
ID
|
Family ID: |
42318321 |
Appl. No.: |
12/424717 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10877780 |
Jun 25, 2004 |
7584875 |
|
|
12424717 |
|
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
224/191 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41C 33/0263 20130101;
F41C 33/0209 20130101; F41C 33/0254 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/191 |
International
Class: |
F41C 33/02 20060101
F41C033/02 |
Claims
1. A security holster for use with a handgun, the handgun having a
handle with left and right sides, a trigger guard and trigger,
comprising: a holster body with inner and outer spaced
substantially rigid sidewalls formed to define an inner cavity with
an open top portion for receiving a handgun therein and for
removing a handgun there from; one or more inlay receiving regions
on an outer surface of said holster, with each inlay receiving
region recessed in said holster surface, each inlay receiving
region including a recess inner wall; and one or more inlays, for
placing in said one or more inlay receiving regions; whereby the
edges of the one or more inlays is protected from wear or being
peeled off by the recess inner wall of the corresponding inlay
receiving region.
2. The security holster of claim 24, in which said inlay-receiving
regions are at least as deep as inlays are thick.
3. The security holster of claim 24, wherein said inlays are
adhesively backed for easy decoration of said security holster.
4. The security holster of claim 24, where said inlays may be
attached to said security holster using any of glue, snaps, plastic
weld, heat, or pressure.
5. The security holster of claim 24, wherein said inlays further
comprise any of a logo, color, pattern, insignia, or reflective
material for identification purposes.
Description
PRIORITY/CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of application
Ser. No. 10/877,780, filed Jun. 25, 2004, which is pending, the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to handgun holsters,
and more particularly relates to holsters, which provide security
against unauthorized withdrawal of a handgun.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] Police, security officers, and military personnel in a
number of situations must be ready to withdraw and use a handgun in
the line of duty at a moment's notice. In an emergency situation,
withdrawing the handgun must be done in a completely natural and
unobstructed manner so that it can be withdrawn as quickly as
possible. The officer's life may depend on the speed with which he
can withdraw the handgun. However, after the handgun is withdrawn,
the situation may dictate other options or needs, requiring the
officer to re-holster the handgun just as quickly. Current holsters
do not meet this demand, without some continued manipulation of
security straps, before the officer knows or has confidence that
the weapon is secure. In this type of situation, the officer needs
to be able to holster his handgun with one hand without looking at
the holster, and while maintaining eye contact with the person in
question.
[0006] The problem results when a suspect becomes an assailant, and
attacks the officer and tries to gain access to his weapon. In the
event of an attack, a holster is likely to be bumped, jostled,
pried, and pressured with forces exerted on nearly any part of the
holster. Some holsters have release mechanisms that may be
accidentally engaged during such an assault, releasing the weapon
from the effective grip of the holster. When an assailant attacks,
it is of utmost importance that the officer maintains control of
his handgun, and that the assailant does not get access to the
handgun. Many holsters have been designed to accomplish this
purpose in a number of different manners. However, they all suffer
a number of drawbacks. Some require two hands to release and secure
the handgun. This is unacceptable. Some of them secure the handgun
with a device that can be difficult to release in a fast draw
situation, and therefore is a dangerous security mechanism. Some
holsters secure the weapon in place to keep it from bouncing out of
the holster, but are not designed to withstand the attack of an
assailant and would allow the handgun to be taken from the officer
by the assailant. Some holsters use electronic devices for
fingerprint recognition and run the risk of malfunctioning or
having a dead battery. Some holsters require the user to tilt or
rock the handgun, or twist it before it can be released from the
handgun. Such a maneuver must be practiced frequently in order to
ensure that the wearer can perform it without mistake in an
emergency situation. Many of the holsters are unable to address the
above-mentioned problems or provide a security holster for a
left-handed user. Additionally, many holster using groups desire to
have a uniform pattern for their equipment. Some groups use
specific patterns and symbols to identify a user's equipment and
identity. Most security holsters provide no manner in which the
holsters can be customized or individualized for an individual or
specific group. All of the above named difficulties are problems
that face a security holster user, and an improved security holster
is needed which solves these problems.
[0007] For these reasons, it is an object of the present invention
to provide a security holster for use by left-handed and
right-handed users, which allows a handgun to be quickly inserted
or withdrawn with one hand without looking at the holster, and
which secures the holster to the officer without undue manipulation
of the handgun. It is a further goal of the invention that the
security holster and corresponding locking and releasing mechanisms
prevent an unauthorized withdrawal of the handgun due to an
accident or during an assault on the wearer. It is a further object
of the invention to provide a handgun-securing holster that is
easily released by a natural and fluid motion of the officer
whether left or right-handed. It is a further object of the
invention to provide a security holster that may be fluidly
inserted or removed from the holster. Another object of the
invention is to provide a security holster that may be effectively
customized with adhesive inlays for standardization and matching
purposes. Another object of the invention is to require a minimum
compression force that must be exerted on the security holster in
order to engage and disengage the locking mechanism for a
handgun.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] One embodiment of the holster is specifically for
left-handed users of a semi-automatic handgun. It includes a
holster body. The holster body includes inner and outer rigid
sidewalls that are spaced apart to define an inner cavity. The
inner cavity has an open top portion into which the handgun is
inserted. The top portion is also identified as the rear of the
holster. The portion of the holster that is adjacent to the end of
the handgun barrel is designated as the front or bottom of the
holster. The holster also includes a locking means, which is
designed to allow the handgun to pass by it. When the handgun is
seated in the holster, the locking means is designed to engage a
feature of the handgun, thereby preventing the withdrawal of the
handgun prior to the release of the locking means. The security
holster also includes a releasing means, which is mounted so that
when a handgun is inserted within the holster, the releasing means
is adjacent the right side of the handle of the handgun. In this
version of the holster, the releasing means is configured for
activation by movement of a user's left thumb. The releasing means
is a release tab that is depressed by a left-handed user's left
thumb as he/she reaches for the handgun. When the user's hand is on
the handle of the handgun, the release tab is positioned directly
below his/her thumb over the right side of the handgun handle. The
release tab is operationally connected to a locking tab, and when
the release tab is pressed down, the locking tab disengages from
the handgun feature and allows the handgun to be withdrawn.
[0009] This version of the holster provides for one-handed
insertion of the handgun into the security holster. When a handgun
is pressed into the holster, the locking tab engages a handgun
feature such as a trigger guard, the slide, or preferably an
ejection port. This engagement prevents the handgun from being
withdrawn until the release tab is activated by the left-handed
user's left thumb.
[0010] The locking tab is a generally planar projection that
extends from an arm connected to the release tab. The locking tab
is configured to move from an open position that allows entry of
the handgun without the handgun touching the locking tab, into a
closed position in which the locking tab engages a feature of the
handgun. The locking tab can be activated to move into engagement
with the handgun feature such as the ejection port by compression
of one or more springs built into the holster. Preferably, the
locking tab passes through the ejection port on the slide of the
semi-automatic handgun and locks under the ejection port on the
slide, adjacent the barrel of the handgun. Alternatively, any
feature of the slide could also be utilized because not all models
of handguns have a space under the ejection port that can be
utilized. Once engaged, the locking tab is typically pressed into
engagement with the handgun feature by a spring, which is
compressed during insertion into the holster.
[0011] The release tab of the holster is typically an elongated
tray, which is configured for sliding engagement with the
left-handed user's left thumb. The elongated tray extends from over
the trigger guard to partially over the handle of the handgun,
which allows the left-handed user to activate the release tab with
his/her left thumb.
[0012] Another feature of this configuration of the device is that
the locking tab engages the handgun feature with an audible
indication of locking. This is typically a distinctive click, which
in most environments can easily be heard and is a certain
indication to the user that the handgun is engaged in the holster.
The locking tab engages with sufficient force so that there is also
a tactile indication of locking, which the user may feel through
the handle of the handgun or through the body of the holster into
his/her hip region. This version of the holster typically includes
a pressure switch, which activates the locking means when the
handgun is pressed into the holster with a required degree of
insertion force. The pressure switch, also called a rebounding
device, also operates with the releasing means, and a minimum
degree of insertion force is required before the handgun is
released.
[0013] Other embodiments of the security holster can include left
or right-handed versions. A feature of one embodiment of the
security holster is that the locking mechanism does not contact the
slide of the gun as the gun is inserted into the holster. This is
accomplished because the locking tab rests against the outside of
the security holster until the locking tab is moved laterally, at
which time a torsion spring causes the locking tab to rotate down
and engage a feature of the handgun, such as an area between the
slide ejection port and the barrel of the handgun. Lateral movement
of the locking tab is caused by downward pressure from the handgun.
Similarly, to release the handgun, downward pressure of the handgun
is required so that the locking tab again moves laterally and
clears the ejection port of the holster and may be raised away from
the handgun by pressing the release tab.
[0014] A distinctive feature of the holster is that one action is
utilized to seat the handgun and secure it in the holster. This
action is pressing the handgun down. Seating it in the locking
mechanism of the holster is clearly indicated by an audible click
of the locking tab, and can also be felt through the user's hand or
holster. Three actions are required to remove the handgun from the
holster. These three actions are: (1) pushing the gun down, (2)
depressing the release tab, and (3) lifting the handgun out of the
holster while depressing the release tab for a certain portion of
the withdrawal.
[0015] Another feature of one embodiment of the present invention
is that the locking mechanism includes a generally U-shaped rod.
The rod has a right side, a left side, and a joining piece, which
together forms a U-shape. The joining piece passes through a pair
of slots or notches in the inner and outer side of the holster, and
the left and right side of the U-shaped rod are attached to the
holster, but are configured to move laterally in relation to the
holster, parallel with the long axis of the holster. Typically,
they are attached to the holster by bosses or guides on the left
and right hand side. Preferably, one spring is utilized on both
sides of the U-shaped rod, which urge the U-shaped rod toward the
rear of the holster.
[0016] When a handgun is inserted into the holster, the front of
the handgun contacts the joining piece of the U-shaped rod.
Continued pressure on the handgun pushes the U-shaped rod forward,
and the joining piece moves in two slots on the front of the
handgun. When the handgun is pressed down, the two springs on
either side of the U-shaped rod are compressed, and when the
handgun is released, these springs press the handgun toward the
rear or open end of the holster.
[0017] Also attached to the U-shaped rod is a locking tab. The
locking tab is preferably urged to rotate toward the barrel of the
gun by attachment to one of the springs, which is around the right
side of the U-shaped rod. In the open position, the release tab is
pressed into the side of the holster by the first spring. When the
U-shaped rod is pressed toward the front of the holster, the
locking tab moves with it, and at a certain point clears the
ejection port slot of the holster body, and is caused by the spring
to pass through the ejection port slot of the holster, which at
that time is also lined up with the ejection port of the handgun.
This allows the locking tab to pass through the ejection port of
the slide and to contact the barrel of the handgun. After
contacting the barrel of the handgun, when the handgun is released,
the springs push the U-shaped rod and the locking tab toward the
rear of the holster, and the side of the locking tab presses
against the side of the ejection port slot of the holster body.
Different handguns have different configurations, and in other
handguns another feature of the handgun, preferably a feature on
the slide, would be engaged. Once the handgun is released, it is
locked in place until the releasing means is activated.
[0018] The user activates the releasing means by pressing down on
the handgun. This causes the U-shaped rod to move toward the front
of the holster and also moves the locking tab laterally. When the
locking tab is moved sufficiently toward the front of the holster,
it becomes clear of the ejection port of the handgun and may be
lifted away from the handgun by the user's thumb or finger pressing
down on the release tab. When this happens, the handgun may be
removed from the holster. While the handgun is being removed from
the holster, the release tab may be pressed down for a portion of
the withdrawal by the thumb and/or finger as it slides over the
release tab toward the rear of the holster.
[0019] A significant feature of the holster is that one spring is
utilized to accomplish two actions. The first action is to urge the
U-shaped rod toward the rear of the holster, and thus urge the
handgun out of the holster. The second action is that the same
spring applies a rotating or torsional force to the locking tab and
pushes it toward the handgun.
[0020] Another feature of the security holster of the present
invention is that the surface of the holster has one or more inlay
receiving regions. Each inlay-receiving region is basically a
recess in the holster's surface, surrounded by a raised edge. Into
each of these recesses, an adhesive backed inlay may be placed.
These inlays are the same depth as the recess so that the inlay
does not extend above the surface of the holster. Due to the inlay
receiving regions, the inner wall of the recess surrounds each edge
of each inlay, and no inlay edge is exposed to wear. The result of
this is that the recesses protect the inlays from wear, and the
inlays do not tend to peel up at the edges. The purpose of the
inlays is to allow the holster to receive a decorative surface to
match the requirements of any particular gun user. For instance,
one particular police department may require a certain style or
finish on the accessories that the officers carry. In this way, a
plastic holster can be covered with a decorative surface pattern,
such as basket weave, to match the other accessories being carried
by a police office. The inlays can also contain the insignia of an
organization or artwork preferred by any particular user. The
inlays can also be of a color chosen by the user and may contain
reflective material to make the holster more visible at night.
[0021] A feature of all embodiments is an optional detachable
overlay, which can be snapped into place on the holster of the
invention. The overlay forms a protective shield around the release
tab, and thus is a finger tube into which a user must place a
portion of his/her finger in order to access the release tab. This
feature restricts access to the release tab, and makes release of
the handgun difficult for anyone other than the wearer of the
holster.
[0022] One embodiment of the invention includes a release tab on
the left side of the handgun. In this version, a locking means is
configured to admit the handgun into the security holster. It is
also adapted to engage a handgun feature of the handgun placed in
the inner cavity of the security holster, thereby preventing the
withdrawal of the handgun prior to release of said locking
means.
[0023] This embodiment includes a releasing means located adjacent
to said left side handle of the handgun for releasing the locking
means by movement of a user's right thumb or left hand index
finger. The releasing means is a release tab that is configured for
engagement with the user's right thumb when a right-handed user
reaches for, releases, and removes the handgun from the holster.
The release tab is operationally connected to a locking tab. The
release tab is activated by pressure of a user's right thumb or
left hand index finger, which disengages the locking tab from said
handgun feature when said release tab is depressed.
[0024] This embodiment of the security holster includes a release
ramp that lifts the locking tab out of the ejection port when the
locking tab moves forward. The release is connected to the locking
tab by a rod that passes from the left side of the handgun to the
right side of the handgun. The rod has one or more springs attached
to it, which urges the linking rod toward the rear of the holster
and urges the locking tab into engagement with the ejection
port.
[0025] Still other objects and advantages of the present invention
will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the
following detailed description wherein we have shown and described
only the preferred embodiment of the invention, simply by way of
illustration of the best mode contemplated by carrying out my
invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of
modification in various obvious respects all without departing from
the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description of the
preferred embodiment are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,
and not as restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of
the right-handed security holster.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the attachable overlay.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a rear view of an empty right-handed security
holster.
[0029] FIG. 4 is an outer perspective view of the right-handed
security holster loaded with a handgun with the attachable overlay
removed to reveal the release and locking mechanism of this
embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the U-shaped rod locking
mechanism of a right-handed security holster.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a top view of the U-shaped locking mechanism of a
right-handed security holster.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a view of the left side of a right-handed security
holster loaded with a handgun, with the attachable overlay removed
to reveal the release and locking mechanism.
[0033] FIG. 8 is an outer side view of the right-handed security
holster loaded with a handgun with the attachable overlay removed
to expose the release and locking mechanism.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a right-handed security
holster loaded with a handgun with the attachable overlay removed
and a cutaway showing the U bar mechanism, the security holster is
fitted with inlays.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a left-handed security
holster.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a partially cut away perspective view of the
right-handed version of the holster of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a partially cut away perspective view of the
left-handed version of the holster of the invention.
[0038] FIG. 13A is a view of the right side of one embodiment of
the invention.
[0039] FIG. 13B is a view of the left side of one embodiment of the
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0040] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments
thereof have been shown in the drawings and will be described below
in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no
intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed,
but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications,
alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the
spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0041] The present invention is a security holster for use with a
handgun that allows rapid insertion of the handgun and equally
rapid withdrawal of the handgun. The security holster also provides
a secure locking mechanism that secures the handgun in the holster
until the user releases it.
[0042] Several preferred embodiments and features of the security
holster are shown in FIGS. 1-14. The security holster shown in FIG.
1 shows a perspective view of the general configuration of the
security holster when used with a handgun 2, and is designated as
10 in the figures. Preferably, the security holster is made of a
tough and durable plastic such as Kydex (Mfg. By Kleerdex Company).
A thickness of 1/8 inch of this material has been found to be
suitable for making the security holster. Other materials or
thicknesses of materials that have similar characteristics of
rigidity, strength, and weight would also be suitable. This might
include metal such as aluminum, steel, other types of plastics, or
leather. The security holster 10 is not limited strictly to
handguns. In additional embodiments, the security holster 10 may be
adapted to holster additional devices such as stun guns, tools, or
other instruments that could benefit from the features of the
present invention.
[0043] The security holster 10 includes a holster body and an
attachable overlay 12. The attachable overlay 12 wraps either fully
or partially around the holster body, and covers the locking and
release mechanism. A belt mount 11 is also shown for mounting the
security holster 10 to a user's belt.
[0044] FIG. 2 shows the attachable overlay by itself. The
attachable overlay 12 allows a security holster 10 user to adapt
the holster to expected conditions. If a user expects dangerous
conditions, the attachable overlay 12 may be connected to the
security holster 10. In a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the attachable overlay is a molded part designed to snap
onto the exterior of the security holster 10. In additional
embodiments, the attachable overlay 12 may include snaps, straps,
or other mechanisms for securing the overlay to the security
holster 10. The attachable overlay 12 could easily be attached if a
user felt the added protection necessary, and removed later as
desired by the user. The attachable overlay 12 provides a
protective shield or finger tube around the release mechanism of
the security holster. The finger tube protects the release tab from
activation by an assailant or from accidental activation by the
wearer brushing against a building or rolling on the ground.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the security holster without a
handgun inserted. The attachable overlay 12 attaches to the holster
body to form a finger tube or finger flare which is an opening or
finger-receiving receptacle between the attachable overlay 12 and
the holster body, which allows insertion of a user's index finger
and serves to help the user position his/her finger on the release
mechanism. By covering the locking and release mechanisms, the
handgun 2 cannot easily be accidentally released when a user is
lying on the holster, when it is bumped or rubbed against
something, or is under attack by an assailant.
[0046] The release tab mechanism of the security holster 10 may be
engaged when a user flexes a finger in the direction of the release
mechanism. In a left-handed security holster 10, the release may be
engaged by a user's thumb, as shown in FIG. 10. As used herein, any
digit, finger, thumb, or other appendage inserted into the security
holster for the purpose of releasing a handgun will generally be
referred to as a finger, except in the specific use of a users
thumb in a left-handed holster. In the preferred embodiment,
release is accomplished by flexing the finger in a direction normal
to the plane of the security holster and corresponding handgun
against a release tab. Flexing is defined as the bending of a
portion of a finger about a joint that allows the finger to apply
pressure against a surface or mechanism. A release tab is
positioned so that it can be released by a finger flexed in a
single direction, which provides an additional safety feature. The
tendons of a finger only allow a finger to be flexed in a direction
toward the palm of the hand. As a result, an unauthorized person
that is able to insert a finger in between the attachable overlay
12 and the holster body would not be able to release the handgun by
finger flexure.
[0047] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the right-handed security
holster of the invention, loaded with a handgun with the attachable
overlay removed to reveal the release and locking mechanism. In the
preferred embodiment, the release tab 16 and the locking tab 18 are
formed from a single piece of hardened plastic to form a lever 15.
The lever 15 of the present invention is a first class lever
because the fulcrum is between the load and the effort force. In
the present invention, the hinge connection (the fulcrum point
rotating about a U bar 14) is a tube 46 and is between the locking
tab 18 (the load) and the release tab 16 (effort force).
[0048] The lever 15 includes a release tab 16, which is
semicircular in cross section and fitted to receive the index
finger of a user, and lies over the trigger and trigger guard of a
handgun 2 when it is fully inserted into the security holster 10.
The release tab 16 is angled so that as a user inserts a finger
between the attachable overlay 12 and the holster body, the finger
slides up and onto the release tab for easy access.
[0049] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the locking mechanism of the
right-handed security holster. The locking tab 18 preferably has a
pointed or ramped end 36 that facilitates locking and releasing the
handgun. In the preferred embodiment, the locking tab 18 passes
through an ejection port slot 38 defined in the holster body, in
order to engage the ejection port of the handgun. The lever 15
preferably defines an inner cavity, or tube 46, that is designed to
function as a hinge or pivot point. The lever 15 pivots on a U bar
or rod 14 with a right portion of the U bar 14 passing through the
tube 46 defined by the lever 15. The lever 15 is preferably biased
by a torsion spring 24. The torsion spring 24 biases the lever 15
so that the locking tab 18 is always pressing toward the holster
body and handgun 2. The same torsion spring 24 also biases the
release tab 16, pressuring it away from the holster body toward the
attachable overlay when connected.
[0050] Another unique feature of one embodiment of the present
invention is the previously mentioned U bar 14. FIG. 6 is a top
view of the locking mechanism of the present invention. The U bar
14 has a right side 48, a left side 50, and a joining piece 52,
which together form a U-shape. The joining piece 52 passes through
a pair of notches (left notch 54 and right notch 56) or aperture
guides in the inner and outer side of the security holster 10
defined by the holster body, and the left and right side of the U
bar 14 slidably passing through the notches 54 and 56 of the
security holster and are configured to move laterally with relation
to the holster, parallel with the long axis of the holster.
[0051] In one embodiment, the torsion spring 24 and compression
spring 26 are held in place when positioned on the U bar 14. The U
bar 14 may have a pair of circular grooves near the ends of the
sides 48 and 50 of the U bar. A snap ring 58 is fitted over each of
the grooves in the U bar 14. The compression spring 26 and the
torsion spring 24 may be held in place by bushings 28 that are
compressed out until they encompass and are fixed from moving by
the snap rings. On the right side of the U bar 14 it is preferred
that the torsion spring 24 is secured in the rear by a bushing
abutted against the lever 15. The lever 15 may be supported at the
rearmost portion by a snap ring and corresponding bushing. The
bushings 28 have various purposes. The ends of the springs rest on
the bushings 28 and as a result the bushings 28 prevent the
compression spring 26 and torsion spring 24 from making noise as
they are compressed and moved, providing a low friction surface.
The bushings also hold the springs from contacting the surface of
the U bar as they are compressed.
[0052] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the left side of the
security holster loaded with a handgun 2, with the attachable
overlay 12 removed to reveal the release and locking mechanism of
this embodiment. Guides 20 and 22 are shown, and hold the U-shaped
rod 14 against the holster body 8. Typically, the left guide 20 and
right guide 22 are molded into the body 8 of the security holster
10. In an additional embodiment, the guides are attached to the
holster 10 by bosses on the left and right hand side. Preferably,
one spring is utilized on both sides of the U-shaped rod 14, which
urge the U-shaped rod 14 toward the rear 60 of the holster. The
spring utilized on the inner or left side of the handgun 2 is
preferably a compression spring 26 designed to provide the majority
of the force exerted toward the front of the holster 10 on the U
bar 14. Multiple belt mounting apertures 34 are also shown for
attaching the security holster 10 to a belt mount so that a user
can effectively wear the holster 10.
[0053] FIG. 8 is a side view of the right side of the security
holster loaded with a handgun, with the attachable overlay 12
removed to expose the release and locking mechanism of this
embodiment. The right spring 24 or outer spring, is preferably a
torsion spring providing both torsion and compression
characteristics for the specific reasons previously mentioned. When
a handgun 2 is inserted into the holster 10, the front of the
handgun 2 contacts the joining piece 52 of the U bar 14. The
joining piece 52 of the U bar 14 is preferably equipped with a
bumper 30 that prevents the handgun barrel from being marred,
scratched or otherwise damaged due to constant contact with the
joining piece 52. The bumper 30 may be rubber, cloth or other
material that would not cause damage to the handgun 2 during
repeated contact. Continued pressure on the handgun 2 pushes the U
bar 14 forward against the springs 24 and 26, and the joining piece
moves in two notches 54 and 56 defined in the holster body. When
the handgun 2 is pressed down, the compression spring 26 and
torsion spring 24 on either side of the U bar 14 are compressed,
and when the handgun 2 is released, these springs press the handgun
2 toward the rear of the holster 10.
[0054] Also pivotally mounted on the U bar 14 are the lever 15 and
corresponding locking tab 18 and release tab 16. The locking tab 18
is preferably urged to rotate toward the barrel of the handgun by
attachment to the torsion spring 24, which is positioned on the
outer or right side of the U bar 14. In the open position, the
locking tab 18 is pressed into the side of the holster 10 by the
torsion spring 24. When the U bar 14 is pressed toward the front of
the holster 10, the locking tab 18 moves with it, and at a certain
point clears the ejection port slot 38 of the holster 10, and is
caused by the torsion spring 24 to pass through the ejection port
slot of the holster 10, which at that time is also lined up with
the ejection port of the handgun 2. This allows the locking tab 18
to pass through the ejection port of the slide, and to contact the
barrel of the handgun 2. After contacting the barrel of the handgun
2, when the handgun 2 is released, the springs 24 and 26 push the U
bar 14 and the locking tab 18 toward the rear of the holster 10,
and the ramped end 36 of the locking tab 18 passes behind the
holster body 8 until the side 62 of the locking tab 18 is pressed
against the side of the ejection port slot 38. Different handguns
have different configurations, and in other handguns another
feature of the handgun 2, preferably a feature on the slide, would
be engaged. Once the handgun is released, it is locked in place
until the releasing mechanism is activated.
[0055] The releasing mechanism is activated by the user pressing
down on the handgun 2 with a minimum compression or insertion
force. This causes the U bar 14 to move toward the front of the
holster 10 and also moves the locking tab 18 laterally, parallel to
the long axis of the security holster 10. When the locking tab 18
is moved sufficiently toward the front of the holster 10, the
ramped end 46 comes clear of the ejection port of the handgun 2,
and the locking tab 18 may be lifted away from the handgun by the
user's finger pressing down on the release tab 16. As soon as the
ramped end 36 of the locking tab 18 is past the ejection port slot
38, the release tab need not be held down anymore. When this
happens, the handgun 2 may be removed from the holster 10. While
the handgun 2 is being removed from the holster 10, the release tab
16 may be pressed down for a portion of the withdrawal by the
finger as it slides over the release tab 16 toward the rear of the
holster 10.
[0056] A significant feature of the holster is that the torsion
spring 24 is utilized to accomplish two actions. The first action
is to urge the U bar toward the rear of the holster 10, and thus
urge the handgun 2 out of the holster 10. The second action is that
the torsion spring 24 applies a rotating or torsional force to the
locking tab 18 and pushes it toward the handgun while at the same
time pushing the release tab 16 away from the handgun 2 as part of
the lever 15 connected to the two tabs.
[0057] Another unique feature of one embodiment of the security
holster 10 is that the locking mechanism does not contact the slide
of the handgun as the handgun 2 is inserted into the holster 10.
This is a benefit because it means that there is less wear and tear
on the handgun 2 and on the security holster 10. This is
accomplished because the locking tab 18 rests against the outside
of the security holster 10 until the locking tab 18 is moved
laterally, at which time the torsion spring 24 causes the locking
tab 18 to rotate down through an ejection port slot 36 defined by
the holster body 8 to engage the ejection port of the handgun 2.
Lateral movement of the locking tab 18 is caused by downward
pressure from the handgun 2 on the interconnected U bar 14.
Similarly, to release the handgun 2, downward pressure of the
handgun 2 is required so that the locking tab 18 again moves
laterally and clears the ejection port slot 36 of the holster and
may be raised away from the handgun 2 by pressing the release tab
16.
[0058] Returning again to FIG. 1, a perspective view of the
right-handed security holster. Another feature of the security
holster 10 of the present invention is that the holster body or
attachable overlay 12 has or defines one or more inlay receiving
regions 40. Each inlay-receiving region 40 is basically a recess in
the holster's surface that is surrounded on the edges by an inner
wall 42. The inlay receiving regions are the same depth as an inlay
or deeper so that the inlay does not extend above the inner walls
42.
[0059] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a right-handed security
holster fitted with inlays and an inserted handgun. Due to the
inlay receiving regions 40, the inner wall 42 of the recess
surrounds each edge of the inlay 44, and no inlay 44 edges are
exposed to wear. The result of this is that the inlay receiving
regions, used in conjunction with the inner wall 42, protects the
inlays 44 from wear, and the inlays 44 do not tend to peel up at
the edges. Into each of these recesses, an adhesive backed inlay 44
or other type of inlay 44 may be placed, glued, or fixed. These
inlays 44 are the same depth as the recess or slightly less deep so
that the inlay 44 does not extend above the surface of the holster.
The purpose of the inlays 44 is to allow the holster to receive a
decorative surface or insignia to match the requirements of any
particular handgun user. For instance, one particular police
department may require a certain style or finish on the accessories
that the officers carry. In this way, a plastic holster can be
covered with a decorative surface pattern, such as basket weave, to
match the other accessories being carried by a police office. The
inlays 44 may also contain the insignia of an organization or
artwork preferred by any particular user. The inlays 44 may be of a
color chosen by the user and may contain reflective material to
make the holster more visible at night.
[0060] One embodiment of the holster is specifically for
left-handed users of a semi-automatic handgun. FIG. 10 is a
perspective view of a left-handed security holster. It includes a
holster body. The holster body includes inner and outer rigid
sidewalls that are spaced apart to define an inner cavity. The
inner cavity has an open top portion into which the handgun 2 is
inserted. The top portion is also identified as the rear of the
holster. The portion of the holster that is adjacent to the end of
the handgun barrel is designated as the front or bottom of the
holster. The holster 10 also includes a locking mechanism, which is
designed to allow the handgun to pass by it. When the handgun 2 is
seated in the holster, the locking mechanism engages a feature of
the handgun 2, thereby preventing the withdrawal of the handgun 2
prior to the release of the locking mechanism.
[0061] The security holster 10 also includes a releasing mechanism,
which is mounted so that when a handgun 2 is inserted within the
holster 10, the releasing mechanism is adjacent the right side of
the handle of the handgun 2. In the left-handed version of the
holster 10, the releasing mechanism is configured for activation by
movement of a user's left thumb. The releasing mechanism is a
release tab 16 that is depressed by a user's left thumb as he/she
reaches for the handgun 2. When the user's hand is on the handle of
the handgun 2, the release tab 16 is positioned directly below
his/her thumb over the right side of the handgun handle. The
release tab 16 is operationally connected to a locking tab 18, and
when the release tab 16 is pressed down, the locking tab 18
disengages from the handgun feature and allows the handgun 2 to be
withdrawn. As with the right-handed version previously described,
the left handed security holster 10 shown if FIG. 10 operates in
essentially the same fundamental way. The largest differences are
that the release tab 16 is between the user and the rest of the
holster as opposed to the right-handed version. The release tab 16
is also elongated to accommodate the user's thumb. Although
available for use in left-handed holsters, the need for an
attachable overlay is not as great. This is because the release
mechanism is more naturally protected between the user and the rest
of the holster from attack and some other similar
circumstances.
[0062] This embodiment includes a releasing mechanism located
adjacent to said left side handle of the handgun for releasing the
locking mechanism by movement of a user's right thumb or left hand
index finger. The releasing mechanism is a release tab 16 that it
is configured for engagement with the user's right thumb when a
user reaches for, releases, and removes the handgun 2 from the
holster 10. The release tab 16 is operationally connected to a
locking tab 18. The release tab 16 is activated by pressure of a
user's right thumb or left hand index finger, which disengages the
locking tab 18 from said handgun feature when said release tab is
depressed.
[0063] This embodiment of the security holster includes a ramp that
lifts the locking tab 18 out of the ejection port when the locking
tab 18 moves forward. The release is connected to the locking tab
18 by a U bar 14 that passes from the left side of the handgun to
the right side of the handgun. The rod has one or more springs
attached to it, which urges the rod toward the rear of the holster
and urges the locking tab into engagement with the ejection
port.
[0064] Both the left and right-handed version of the holster
provide for one-handed insertion of the handgun 2 into the security
holster 10. When a handgun 2 is pressed into the holster 10, the
locking tab 18 engages a handgun feature such as a trigger guard,
the slide, or preferably an ejection port. This engagement prevents
the handgun 2 from being withdrawn until the release tab 16 is
engaged by the user's left thumb.
[0065] The locking tab 18 is a generally planar projection that
extends from an arm connected to the release tab 16. The locking
tab 18 is configured to move from an open position that allows
entry of the handgun 2 without the handgun 2 touching the locking
tab 18 into a closed position in which the locking tab 18 engages a
feature of the handgun 2. The locking tab 2 can be activated to
move into engagement with the handgun feature, such as the ejection
port by compression of one or more springs built into the holster
10. Preferably, the locking tab 18 passes through the ejection port
on the slide of the semi-automatic handgun and locks under the
ejection port on the slide, adjacent the barrel of the handgun.
Alternatively, any feature of the slide could also be utilized
because not all models of handguns have a space under the ejection
port that can be utilized. Once engaged, the locking tab 18 is
typically pressed into engagement with the handgun feature by a
spring, which is compressed during insertion into the holster
10.
[0066] The release tab 16 of the holster is typically an elongated
tray, which is configured for sliding engagement with the user's
left thumb. The elongated tray extends from over the trigger guard
to partially over the handle of the handgun, which allows the
left-handed user to activate the release tab 16 with his/her left
thumb.
[0067] Another feature of this configuration of the device is that
the locking tab 18 engages the handgun feature with an audible
indication of locking. This is typically a distinctive click, which
in most environments can easily be heard and is a certain
indication to the user that the handgun is engaged in the holster.
The locking tab engages with sufficient force so that there is also
a tactile indication of locking, which the user may feel through
the handle of the handgun or through the body of the holster into
his/her hip region. This version of the holster typically includes
a rotationally biased locking tab 18 that is biased toward the
handgun 2, which activates the locking mechanism when the handgun
is pressed into the holster with a required minimum compression
force. The minimum compression force also operates with the
releasing mechanism, and a minimum degree of compression force is
required before the handgun is released.
[0068] A distinctive feature of the holster 10 is that one action
is utilized to seat the handgun 2 and secure it in the holster 10.
This action is pressing the handgun 2 down. Seating it in the
locking mechanism of the holster 10 is clearly indicated by an
audible click of the locking tab 18, and can also be felt through
the user's hand or holster 10. Three actions are required to remove
the handgun 2 from the holster 10. These three actions are: (1)
pushing the handgun 2 down, (2) depressing the release tab 16 so
that the locking tab 18 is disengaged from the ejection port, and
(3) lifting the handgun out of the holster while depressing the
release tab 16 for a certain portion of the withdrawal.
[0069] FIG. 11 shows a partially cut away rear view of the holster
of the invention. A portion of the holster that is partially cut
away is the attachable overlay 12, which forms a protective finger
tube around the release tab 16.
[0070] FIG. 12 is a partially cut away rear perspective view of a
left-handed version of the invention. In this version of the
invention, as in FIG. 11, the release tab 16 is on the right side
of the holster body 8. The release tab in this position is worn on
the left side of a user's body, which allows a left-handed user to
utilize his/her thumb to activate the release tab 16. In other
respects, this version of the holster is consistent with versions
previously described.
[0071] FIG. 13A is a view of the right side of another embodiment
of the holster. On the right side of the holster is located a
release ramp 84. This version utilizes a modified U-shaped rod 70,
which has a right leg 72, a left leg 74 (shown in FIG. 13B), and a
bridge section 76. Both the left leg 74 and the right leg 72 are
attached to the holster body 8 by guides 78. In this version, the
left leg 74 and right leg 72 each have a compression spring 80. The
spring 80 operates as both a compression spring and a torsion
spring. One end of it is attached to a locking tab 18, and causes
it to be biased towards the holster body 8. Thus, the locking tab
18 is continually urged toward the ejection port slot 38.
[0072] FIG. 13B shows that attached to the left leg 74 is a thumb
bar 82. This is an angled surface, which is attached to the holster
body 8. In this version of the security holster, several components
are rigidly attached to each other and move as one unit. When the
user presses on the thumb bar 82, the entire modified U-shaped rod
70 moves towards the barrel end of the holster. When this happens,
the locking tab 18 (shown in FIG. 13A) also moves in that direction
as the locking tab 18 encounters the release ramp 84 (shown in FIG.
13A), it rides up over the release ramp 84 (shown in FIG. 13A) and
is lifted away from the handgun and out of the ejection port slot
38 (shown in FIG. 13A) of the security holster 10. The locking tab
18 is attached to the right leg 72 of the modified U-shaped rod 70,
but it is able to rotate around that rod, which allows it to lift
up away from the handgun, and also to drop down in place in the
ejection port of the handgun.
[0073] From the foregoing description, it will be apparent that
various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined by the following claims. While
there is shown and described the present preferred embodiment of
the invention, it is to be distinctly understood that this
invention is not limited thereto but may be variously embodied to
practice within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *