U.S. patent application number 14/593116 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-12 for carrier guide and firearm.
This patent application is currently assigned to S. I. DEFENSE, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is S. I. DEFENSE, INC.. Invention is credited to Aaron A. McGinty.
Application Number | 20150323269 14/593116 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54367543 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150323269 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McGinty; Aaron A. |
November 12, 2015 |
CARRIER GUIDE AND FIREARM
Abstract
Firearms having a carrier assembly, buffer systems, and methods,
having a carrier spindle, carrier saddle, or both, to reduce
carrier tilt or wobble, reduce wear, or both. A carrier spindle can
be located forward of the buffer spring, buffer weight, or both,
and aft of the carrier assembly, and can slidably engage the
carrier assembly. A spindle spring can bias the carrier spindle aft
from the carrier assembly. In some embodiments, a taper on the
carrier spindle facilitates separation of the lower receiver from
the upper receiver. In some embodiments, the spindle spring is a
helical spring that is loaded in compression and pushes the carrier
spindle aftward. Some embodiments include a carrier saddle that
supports the aft end of the carrier assembly. The carrier saddle
can be raised, have a concave top surface, be made of a softer
material, have dimensions within certain ranges, or a combination
thereof.
Inventors: |
McGinty; Aaron A.;
(Kalispell, MT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
S. I. DEFENSE, INC. |
Kalispell |
MT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
S. I. DEFENSE, INC.
Kalispell
MT
|
Family ID: |
54367543 |
Appl. No.: |
14/593116 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61936022 |
Feb 5, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
42/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 3/26 20130101; F41A
11/00 20130101; F41A 3/66 20130101; F41A 3/64 20130101; F41A 3/82
20130101; F41A 5/24 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41A 5/24 20060101
F41A005/24; F41A 3/82 20060101 F41A003/82 |
Claims
1. A firearm comprising: a carrier assembly; a carrier spindle that
is at least partially aft of the carrier assembly, wherein the
carrier spindle slidably engages the carrier assembly; and a
helical spindle spring located between the carrier spindle and the
carrier assembly that pushes the carrier spindle aftward, away from
the carrier assembly, wherein the helical spindle spring is loaded
in compression.
2. The firearm of claim 1 further comprising a buffer weight aft of
the carrier spindle and a main buffer spring aft of the buffer
weight.
3. The firearm of claim 1 further comprising a main buffer spring
aft of the carrier assembly wherein the main buffer spring is
stiffer than the helical spindle spring.
4. The firearm of claim 1 wherein the carrier spindle fits inside
the carrier assembly when the firearm is assembled.
5. The firearm of claim 1 comprising a barrel through which bullets
are fired, wherein: the carrier spindle comprises a length parallel
to an axis of the barrel, a forward end, and an aft end; the aft
end has a larger major lateral dimension than the forward end; and
the forward end has a uniform major lateral dimension over a
majority of the length of the carrier spindle.
6. The firearm of claim 1 wherein: the carrier spindle comprises a
forward end and an aft end; the aft end comprises a taper; the
firearm comprises an upper receiver and a lower receiver; and the
taper pushes the carrier spindle forward when the upper receiver is
separated from the lower receiver.
7. The firearm of claim 1 wherein: the firearm comprises a buffer
tube; when the firearm is discharged, the carrier spindle guides
the carrier assembly into the buffer tube; and the carrier spindle
acts to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm.
8. The firearm of claim 1 further comprising a raised carrier
saddle that supports an aft end of the carrier assembly.
9. A firearm comprising: a carrier assembly having an aft end; a
buffer spring that biases the carrier assembly forward; and a
raised carrier saddle that supports the aft end of the carrier
assembly.
10. The firearm of claim 9 further comprising a buffer weight aft
of the carrier assembly, wherein the buffer spring is aft of the
buffer weight.
11. The firearm of claim 9 wherein the firearm comprises an upper
receiver and a lower receiver and the lower receiver comprises the
raised carrier saddle.
12. The firearm of claim 11 wherein the raised carrier saddle is
integral with the lower receiver.
13. The firearm of claim 9 wherein: the firearm comprises a buffer
tube; and when the firearm is discharged, the raised carrier saddle
guides the carrier assembly into the buffer tube.
14. The firearm of claim 9 wherein the raised carrier saddle acts
to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm.
15. The firearm of claim 9 wherein the raised carrier saddle
comprises a concave top surface that supports the aft end of the
carrier assembly.
16. The firearm of claim 9 wherein: the raised carrier saddle
comprises a top surface that supports the aft end of the carrier
assembly; and the raised carrier saddle comprises an overall top
surface lateral dimension that is between 25 percent and 75 percent
of an overall lateral dimension of the carrier assembly at the aft
end.
17. The firearm of claim 9 wherein: the raised carrier saddle
comprises a top surface that supports the aft end of the carrier
assembly; and the raised carrier saddle comprises an overall top
surface longitudinal dimension that is between 1/8 inch and an
overall lateral dimension of the carrier assembly at the aft
end.
18. The firearm of claim 9 wherein the raised carrier saddle
consists of a material having a significantly lower hardness than a
hardness of the carrier assembly at the aft end.
19. The firearm of claim 9 wherein: the firearm comprises an upper
receiver and a lower receiver; the lower receiver comprises the
raised carrier saddle; the lower receiver comprises a buffer tube;
when the firearm is discharged, the raised carrier saddle guides
the carrier assembly into the buffer tube; the raised carrier
saddle acts to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm; the raised
carrier saddle comprises a concave top surface that supports the
aft end of the carrier assembly; the raised carrier saddle
comprises an overall top surface lateral dimension that is between
25 percent and 75 percent of an overall lateral dimension of the
carrier assembly at the aft end; and the raised carrier saddle
comprises an overall top surface longitudinal dimension that is
less than the overall lateral dimension of the carrier assembly at
the aft end; and the raised carrier saddle consists of a material
having a lower hardness than a hardness of the carrier assembly at
the aft end.
20. A firearm comprising: an upper receiver; a lower receiver
comprising a buffer tube; a carrier assembly located in the upper
receiver, the carrier assembly having an aft end; a buffer spring
located in the buffer tube in the lower receiver and aft of the aft
end of the carrier assembly; and a raised carrier saddle that
supports the aft end of the carrier assembly wherein: when the
firearm is discharged, the raised carrier saddle guides the carrier
assembly into the buffer tube and the raised carrier saddle acts to
reduce carrier tilt within the firearm.
Description
RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/936,022, filed on Feb. 5, 2014, titled
CARRIER GUIDE AND FIREARM, which has at least one inventor in
common with the current patent application and the same assignee.
The contents of this priority provisional patent application are
incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Various embodiments of this invention relate to firearms.
Particular embodiments relate to firearms having carrier
assemblies.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Firearms have been used for several centuries for various
purposes including as weapons for warfare, law enforcement, self
defense, hunting, and target practice. Although many new weapons
and weapon systems have been developed, firearms are still widely
used and soldiers are trained in firearm use and carry firearms in
essentially all armies throughout the world. Over time, firearms
have been improved in many ways, but opportunities for improvement
still exist in particular areas and for particular aspects of these
devices.
[0004] Firearms have been constructed with a bolt assembly and a
carrier assembly, or with a bolt carrier group, and a main buffer
spring. In a number of embodiments, when such a firearm is
discharged, the bolt assembly and the carrier assembly or the bolt
carrier group are propelled rearward by the products of combustion
and compress the main buffer spring. The main buffer spring then
pushes the bolt assembly and the carrier assembly or the bolt
carrier group forward, which loads another round from the magazine
into the chamber for firing. In addition to loading the next round,
the buffer spring absorbs some of the recoil from firing the
weapon.
[0005] In a number of prior art firearms, when the trigger is
pulled and the bullet is fired, gas from the bullet discharge
pushes the carrier group aft. As the bolt carrier group, for
example, moves aft, the aft part or end of the bolt carrier group
has tended to tilt down (carrier tilt), for instance, due to
gravity or other forces (e.g., pressure coming from the top of the
carrier group), has wobbled (e.g., side to side) within the upper
receiver that contains the bolt carrier group (e.g., due to
misalignment between the bolt carrier group and the upper
receiver), or both. This has caused misalignment, for example, of
the bolt carrier group. In a number of prior art firearms, the bolt
carrier group has moved aft and engaged the main buffer or buffer
weight and the main buffer spring, for example. In a number of
embodiments, the main buffer spring suppresses the recoil of the
rifle, for example, as well as returning the bolt carrier group
forward. Further, in some cases, tilt or wobble has occurred when
the buffer spring returns the bolt carrier group forward.
[0006] Carrier tilt and wobble and misalignment of the bolt carrier
group has caused accelerated wear, for example, of the upper
receiver, the lower receiver, the buffer tube, the bolt carrier
group, or a combination thereof. In addition, carrier tilt and
wobble and misalignment of the bolt carrier group has reduced
accuracy of the firearm. Needs or potential for benefit or
improvement exist for firearms wherein carrier tilt or wobble is
avoided or reduced.
[0007] The problem of carrier tilt or wobble has been addressed by
adding an elongated head to the buffer (i.e., the buffer weight),
aft of the bolt carrier group, to form an anti-tilt buffer. The
elongated head of an anti-tilt buffer has been configured with a
close fit inside the bolt carrier group, guiding the bolt carrier
group as the firearm is discharged, which reduces or eliminates
contact and wear between the bolt carrier group and the buffer
tube, at least at the aft end of the bolt carrier group. Anti-tilt
buffers, however, make it difficult to open the gun because the
elongated head and the connection with the bolt carrier group can
interfere with separation of the upper receiver from the lower
receiver, for instance. Needs or potential for benefit or
improvement exist for firearms wherein carrier tilt or wobble is
avoided or reduced but wherein the opening of the gun is not
precluded and separation of the upper receiver from the lower
receiver is not blocked or encumbered. Needs or potential for
benefit or improvement exist for firearms that are smoother in
operation, that operate with less friction, that have less
misalignment between moving parts, that avoid or reduce wobble
between parts, that operate with less wear, that last longer, that
are more accurate, or a combination thereof, as examples. Room for
improvement exists over the prior art in these and other areas that
may be apparent to a person of skill in the art having studied this
document.
SUMMARY OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] This invention provides, among other things, firearms with
improved systems and methods of reducing tilt or wobble of the bolt
assembly, carrier assembly, or bolt carrier group, for example,
within the buffer tube. In a number of firearms, as the bolt
carrier group, for example, moves aft, the tilt downward of the aft
part or end of the bolt carrier group is reduced, wobble within the
upper receiver is reduced, or both. In a number of embodiments,
this reduces misalignment, for example, of the bolt carrier group
with the buffer tube. Further, in some embodiments, tilt or wobble
is reduced when the buffer spring returns the bolt carrier group
forward. In a number of embodiments wear is reduced, for example,
of the upper receiver, the lower receiver, the bolt carrier group,
the buffer tube, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments,
carrier tilt or wobble is avoided or reduced. Further, in some
embodiments, accuracy of the firearm is improved.
[0009] In a number of embodiments, a carrier spindle fits (e.g.,
with a close fit) inside the carrier assembly or the bolt carrier
group, for example, guiding the carrier assembly or the bolt
carrier group as the firearm is discharged, which reduces or
eliminates contact and wear between the carrier assembly or the
bolt carrier group and the buffer tube, at least at the aft end of
the carrier assembly or the bolt carrier group. Further, in a
number of embodiments, a carrier saddle (e.g., a raised carrier
saddle) supports an aft end of the carrier assembly or the bolt
carrier group, for example, guiding the carrier assembly or the
bolt carrier group as the firearm is discharged, which reduces or
eliminates contact and wear between the carrier assembly or the
bolt carrier group and the buffer tube, at least at the aft end of
the carrier assembly or the bolt carrier group. Some embodiments
have a carrier spindle and a carrier saddle, but other embodiments
have a carrier spindle and no carrier saddle or a carrier saddle
and no carrier spindle.
[0010] In various embodiments, the gun can readily be opened
without interference during separation of the upper receiver from
the lower receiver. Thus, in a number of embodiments, carrier tilt
or wobble is avoided or reduced but the opening of the gun is not
precluded and separation of the upper receiver from the lower
receiver is not blocked or encumbered. In certain embodiments, the
firearms are smoother in operation, operate with less friction,
have less misalignment between particular moving parts, avoid or
reduce wobble between certain parts, operate with less wear, last
longer, are more accurate, or a combination thereof, as
examples.
[0011] Other embodiments, besides firearms, include methods of
configuring, obtaining, or providing a firearm having less carrier
tilt or wobble that particular alternatives. In a number of
embodiments, improvements to firearms herein provide for firearms
that are more reliable, that last longer, that are more adaptable,
that can be used in conditions that are more extreme, that handle
abuse well, that work better, that are easier to use, that are
easier to maintain, that are less expensive to manufacture, that
have a lower lifecycle cost, that offer more options for use, that
can be fired more easily for a longer period of time, that are more
accurate whether a single shot or multiple shots are fired, or a
combination thereof, in comparison with certain alternatives.
[0012] Specific embodiments include various firearms that each
include, for example, a carrier assembly, a carrier spindle, and a
spindle spring. In a number of embodiments, a helical spindle
spring, for example, is located between the carrier spindle and the
carrier assembly, pushes the carrier spindle, for instance,
aftward, away from the carrier assembly, or a combination thereof.
In various embodiments, for example, the helical spindle spring is
loaded in compression. Moreover, in a number of embodiments, the
carrier spindle is at least partially aft of the carrier assembly.
Further, in various embodiments, the carrier spindle slidably
engages the carrier assembly.
[0013] In addition, some such embodiments include a buffer weight,
a main buffer spring, or both. In a number of embodiments, for
example, the buffer weight is aft of the carrier spindle, the main
buffer spring is aft of the buffer weight, or both. Further still,
in various embodiments the main buffer spring is aft of the carrier
assembly. Even further, in some embodiments, the main buffer spring
is stiffer than the (e.g., helical) spindle spring. Still further,
in a number of embodiments, the carrier spindle fits inside the
carrier assembly when the firearm is assembled.
[0014] Various embodiments include, for example, a barrel through
which bullets are fired. In some embodiments, for instance, the
carrier spindle includes a length parallel to an axis of the
barrel, a forward end, and an aft end, and the aft end has a larger
major lateral dimension than the forward end. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the forward end has a uniform major lateral dimension
over a majority of the length of the carrier spindle. Further, in
some embodiments, the aft end of the carrier spindle includes a
taper. Still further, in a number of embodiments, the firearm
includes an upper receiver and a lower receiver. Even further, in
certain embodiments, the taper pushes the carrier spindle forward
when the upper receiver is separated from the lower receiver.
[0015] In some embodiments, the firearm includes a buffer tube.
Further, in various embodiments, when the firearm is discharged,
the carrier spindle guides the carrier assembly into the buffer
tube, the carrier spindle acts to reduce carrier tilt within the
firearm, or both. Further, certain embodiments include, for
example, a raised carrier saddle that supports an aft end of the
carrier assembly.
[0016] Other specific embodiments include various firearms that
include, for example, a carrier assembly, a buffer spring, and a
carrier saddle, for instance, that supports the aft end of the
carrier assembly. In certain such embodiments, for example, the
carrier assembly has an aft end, and the buffer spring biases the
carrier assembly forward. Moreover, in various embodiments, the
carrier saddle that supports the aft end of the carrier assembly is
raised.
[0017] A number of such embodiments include, for example, a buffer
weight, for instance, aft of the carrier assembly. Further, in some
embodiments, the buffer spring is aft of the buffer weight. Still
further, in various embodiments, the firearm includes an upper
receiver and a lower receiver. Even further, in some embodiments,
the lower receiver includes the raised carrier saddle. Further
still, in certain embodiments, for instance, the raised carrier
saddle is integral with the lower receiver. Even further still, in
some embodiments, the firearm includes a buffer tube, and when the
firearm is discharged, the (e.g., raised) carrier saddle guides the
carrier assembly into the buffer tube. Moreover, in various
embodiments, the (e.g., raised) carrier saddle acts to reduce
carrier tilt within the firearm.
[0018] In some embodiments, the carrier saddle includes a concave
top surface (e.g., raised) that supports the aft end of the carrier
assembly. Further, in some embodiments, the top surface of the
carrier saddle (e.g., that supports the aft end of the carrier
assembly) includes an overall top surface lateral dimension that is
between 25 percent and 75 percent of an overall lateral dimension
of the carrier assembly at the aft end. Still further, in some
embodiments, the top surface that supports the aft end of the
carrier assembly includes an overall top surface longitudinal
dimension that is less than the overall lateral dimension of the
carrier assembly at the aft end. Even further, in some embodiments,
the overall top surface longitudinal dimension is between 1/8 inch
and the overall lateral dimension of the carrier assembly at the
aft end, for example. Even further still, in various embodiments,
the raised carrier saddle consists of a material having a lower
hardness than a hardness of the carrier assembly at the aft end.
Still further, in certain embodiments, the raised carrier saddle
consists of a material having a significantly lower hardness than a
hardness of the carrier assembly at the aft end.
[0019] In still other specific embodiments, a firearm includes, for
example, an upper receiver, a lower receiver, a carrier assembly, a
buffer spring, and a raised carrier saddle. In a number of
embodiments, for example, the lower receiver includes a buffer
tube, the carrier assembly is located in the upper receiver, the
carrier assembly has an aft end, or a combination thereof. Further,
in various embodiments, the buffer spring is located in the buffer
tube, in the lower receiver, aft of the aft end of the carrier
assembly, or a combination thereof. Still further, in a number of
embodiments, the raised carrier saddle supports the aft end of the
carrier assembly. Even further, in various embodiments, for
instance, when the firearm is discharged, the raised carrier saddle
guides the carrier assembly, for example, into the buffer tube, the
raised carrier saddle acts to reduce carrier tilt within the
firearm, or both. In addition, various other embodiments of the
invention are also described herein, and other benefits of certain
embodiments may be apparent to a person of skill in this area of
technology.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The drawings provided herewith illustrate, among other
things, examples of certain aspects of particular embodiments.
Other embodiments may differ. Various embodiments may include
aspects shown in the drawings, described in the specification
(including the claims), known in the art, or a combination thereof,
as examples. Other embodiments, however, may differ.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a right-side cross-sectional view of an embodiment
of a firearm that includes a carrier spindle;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a detail right-side cross-sectional view of part
of the firearm of FIG. 1 showing, among other things, the lower
receiver, most of the upper receiver, the main buffer spring, the
buffer weight, the carrier spindle, and the bolt carrier group of
the firearm, including the carrier assembly;
[0023] FIG. 3 is the detail right-side cross-sectional view of part
of the firearm of FIG. 2 except showing the upper receiver
partially separated from the lower receiver of the firearm;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a detail right-side cross-sectional view of part
of another embodiment of a firearm, this embodiment having a
carrier spindle and a carrier saddle, this view showing the same
part of the firearm as FIG. 2, and this view also showing, among
other things, the lower receiver, most of the upper receiver, the
carrier assembly, the main buffer spring, and the buffer weight of
the firearm;
[0025] FIG. 5 is the detail right-side cross-sectional view of part
of the firearm of FIG. 4 except showing the upper receiver
partially separated from the lower receiver of the firearm; and
[0026] FIG. 6 is an isometric top, front, right-side view of part
of the lower receiver of the firearm of FIGS. 4-5 illustrating,
among other things, the carrier saddle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS
[0027] This patent application describes, among other things,
examples of certain embodiments, and certain aspects thereof. Other
embodiments may differ from the particular examples described in
detail herein. Various embodiments are or concern firearms, for
example, having improvements over the prior art. Different
embodiments include firearms, mechanisms for firearms, and methods
that provide for less carrier tilt or wobble of the carrier
assembly or bolt carrier group within firearms, as examples.
[0028] In various embodiments, a firearm (e.g., 10, 40, shown in
FIGS. 1-5) includes a carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), for
instance, of a bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47), and a carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45) that is located, for example, at least
partially aft of the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). As used
herein, "aft" means the direction opposite the direction that the
bullet is traveling in when the bullet leaves the firearm (e.g.,
10, 40). In contrast, as used herein, "forward" means the direction
that the bullet is traveling in when the bullet leaves the firearm
(e.g., 10, 40). Further, as used herein, a first component or
assembly is considered to be aft of a second component or assembly
if the center of mass of the first component or assembly is aft of
the center of mass of the second component or assembly.
[0029] In a number of embodiments, when the trigger of the firearm
(e.g., 10, 40) is pulled and the bullet is fired, gas from the
bullet discharge pushes the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or the
bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) aft. As the bolt carrier group
(e.g., 27, 47) moves aft, in various embodiments, the aft part
(e.g., aft end 39 of carrier assembly 26 or aft end 59 of carrier
assembly 46) of the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) is supported
and guided, at least in part, by the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45), for example, into the buffer tube (e.g., 22). In a number of
embodiments, this partially, significantly, or substantially
prevents the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) from tilting down
(carrier tilt) due to gravity, pressure coming from the top of the
carrier group, or both, as examples. In some embodiments, the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) also corrects (e.g., at least
partially) any misalignment of the bolt carrier group and the upper
receiver (e.g., 11), which in turn, partially, significantly, or
substantially prevents the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) from
wobbling side to side or wobbling up and down as the carrier moves
aft.
[0030] In various embodiments, the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46),
the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47), or both, continues to move
aft and engages the (e.g., main) buffer weight (e.g., 23), (e.g.,
main) buffer spring (e.g., 21), or both. In a number of
embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21), for example,
suppresses the recoil of the rifle (e.g., firearm 10 or 40), for
example, returns the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), the bolt
carrier group (e.g., 27, 47), or both, forward, or a combination
thereof. Moreover, in various embodiments, during this forward
motion, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) partially,
significantly, or substantially prevents the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46), the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47), or both from
tilting or wobbling (e.g., side to side, up and down, or both).
[0031] In a number of embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45) slidably engages a component of the firearm, for instance, the
bolt carrier group or the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). In
certain embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) slides
inside the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or bolt carrier group
(e.g., 27, 47) when the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or bolt
carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) moves aft when a shot is fired. In a
number of embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) has a
close fit with the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or bolt carrier
group (e.g., 27, 47) and guides the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46)
or bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47).
[0032] In particular embodiments, where a "close fit" is indicated
herein, the clearance between the two parts, for example, the
diametrical clearance between the forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) and the aft end (e.g., 39, 59) of
the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) or carrier assembly is less
than 0.10, less than 0.070, less than 0.050, less than 0.040, less
than 0.030, less than 0.020, less than 0.015, less than 0.012, less
than 0.010, less than 0.009, less than 0.008, less than 0.007, less
than 0.006, or less than 0.005 inches, as examples, or within a
range between two such clearances, as other examples. In different
embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) is made of metal,
for example, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, bronze, copper,
brass, or titanium, or an alloy thereof, while in other
embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) is made of plastic
(e.g., nylon, polyurethane, or polyethylene. In some embodiments,
the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) is solid, while in other
embodiments, the carrier spindle is hollow (not shown).
[0033] Further, in certain embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40)
includes a main buffer spring (e.g., 21), for instance, aft of the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45). Further, in some embodiments, the
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes a buffer weight (e.g., 23), for
example, aft of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), for instance,
between the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) and the main buffer
spring (e.g., 21). In particular embodiments, the buffer weight
(e.g., 23) and the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) are located
between the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) and the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46) or bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47). In certain
embodiments, the buffer weight (e.g., 23) and the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) are in contact with each other, for example, when
the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is ready to be fired. Even further, in a
number of embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is located
aft of the buffer weight (e.g., 23).
[0034] Still further, some embodiments include a spindle spring
(e.g., 24), for example, located between the carrier spindle (e.g.,
25, 45) and the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). In certain
embodiments, the spindle spring (e.g., 24) surrounds or is
concentric with (or both) the forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), for example, as shown. Even
further, in particular embodiments, the spindle spring (e.g., 24)
is located partially or at least partially inside the carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47),
for instance. In some embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g.,
21), the spindle spring (e.g., 24), or both, is a helical spring
(e.g., as shown). In particular embodiments, the spindle spring
(e.g., 24) pushes the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), for instance,
away from the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). In certain
embodiments, the spindle spring (e.g., 24) biases the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45) aftward (i.e., in the aft direction), for
example. In various embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21),
the spindle spring (e.g., 24), or both, are loaded in compression
(e.g., when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is fired, or in some cases
(e.g., to a lesser extent), also when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is
assembled and ready for firing). An example is shown.
[0035] In various embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is
longer than the spindle spring (e.g., 24), for instance, in the
direction of the axis of the helix of the spring, or in a direction
parallel to the barrel (e.g., 13) of the firearm. Further, in some
embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is stiffer than the
spindle spring (e.g., 24), the spindle spring (e.g., 24) is made of
a smaller diameter wire, or both. In other embodiments, however,
the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is less stiff than the spindle
spring (e.g., 24), or in certain embodiments, the main buffer
spring (e.g., 21) and the spindle spring (e.g., 24) have a
stiffness that is equal or substantially equal, as other examples.
As used herein, unless stated otherwise, "equal" means equal to
within 5 percent, and "substantially equal" means equal to within
10 percent. Further still, in a number of embodiments, the main
buffer spring (e.g., 21) and the spindle spring (e.g., 24) have a
common axis (e.g., center of the helix). As used herein, two spring
axes are considered to be in common if the axes of the two springs
fall on the same line (i.e., when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is
assembled and ready for firing) to within 1/4 inch over the length
of the two springs. In other embodiments, the main buffer spring
(e.g., 21) and the spindle spring (e.g., 24) have a common axis to
within 1/8, 3/16, 5/16, 3/8, or 1/2 inch, as other examples.
[0036] In a number of embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g.,
21), the spindle spring (e.g., 24), or both, are made of metal, for
example, steel or stainless steel. In some embodiments, however,
the main buffer spring (e.g., 21), the spindle spring (e.g., 24),
or both, are air springs. Further, in some embodiments, the main
buffer spring (e.g., 21), the spindle spring (e.g., 24), or both,
are dampened, for example, with a hydraulic or pneumatic damper,
with dry friction, or a combination thereof, as examples. In some
embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) (e.g., the upper receiver
(e.g., 11) or the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42)) is configured with
an appropriate fit and tolerance, one or more seals, or both, so
that when the bolt assembly (e.g., 28), carrier assembly (e.g., 26,
46), or buffer weight (e.g., 23), (or a combination thereof) move
after a round is fired, the bolt assembly (e.g., 28), carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46), or buffer weight (e.g., 23), (or a
combination thereof) traps air that then compresses, flows through
the clearance or an orifice, as examples, to absorb recoil energy,
dampen motion, or both. Even further, in some embodiments, a bumper
or bump stop, for example, made of rubber or an elastomeric
material, can be used, for instance, in combination with or instead
of a spring. Even further still, in some embodiments, multiple
springs can be used where the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) or
spindle spring (e.g., 24) is described herein (e.g., 2, 3, or 4
concentric helical springs).
[0037] In several embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes
a bolt assembly (e.g., 28). Further, in various embodiments, the
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes a bolt carrier group (e.g., 27,
47). Even further, in many embodiments, the bolt carrier group
(e.g., 27, 47) includes the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46).
Further still, in particular embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10,
40) includes a bolt assembly (e.g., 28), a carrier assembly (e.g.,
26, 46), a main buffer spring (e.g., 21) aft of carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46), and a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) between the
carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) and the main buffer spring (e.g.,
21), for example. In some embodiments, the carrier assembly (e.g.,
26, 46) is aft of the bolt assembly (e.g., 28), for example. In
some embodiments, part of the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) may
overlap with part of the bolt assembly (e.g., 28), however. Even
further still, in various embodiments, a firearm (e.g., 10, 40) can
include other components or assemblies as well, which may be known
in the art, such as a barrel (e.g., 13), through which bullets are
fired, a chamber, a firing pin, a magazine, a receiver, a stock, a
trigger, a trigger mechanism, etc. Further, in many embodiments,
the bolt assembly (e.g., 28) includes at least a bolt and the
carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) includes at least a carrier, but
these assemblies can include other components as well. Thus, as
used herein, an "assembly" can include one or more different
components. In some embodiments, the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27,
47), for example, includes the bolt assembly (e.g., 28), the
carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), or both. The drawing illustrate
examples.
[0038] In a number of embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45) fits inside the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), for example,
with a close fit and corresponding tolerance. In some embodiments,
for example, a forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) fits inside an aft end (e.g., 39, 59) of the carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46). Further, in some embodiments, the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45) includes a forward end (e.g., 32, 52) and an
aft end (e.g., 31, 51). Further still, in a number of embodiments,
the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) has a larger major lateral dimension
(e.g., 36, 56) than a major lateral dimension (e.g., 37 or 57) at
the forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45). As used herein, "lateral" means perpendicular to the axis of
the barrel (e.g., 13) of the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) or
perpendicular to the direction of motion of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46) when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is fired. Moreover,
as used herein, a "major dimension" of a component means a
dimension that extends all the way across at least a portion of the
component. An example of a major dimension is a diameter of at
least a portion (e.g., a cross section) of the component.
[0039] In various embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45)
has a length (e.g., 33, 53) parallel to the axis of the barrel
(e.g., 13), and the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) has a forward
end (e.g., 32, 52) and an aft end (e.g., 31, 51), and the forward
end (e.g., 32, 52) has a uniform major lateral dimension (e.g., 37,
57) over a majority of the length of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45). As used herein, "uniform" means the same to within ten (10)
percent of the major lateral dimension (e.g., diameter). In various
embodiments, however, the forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45) has a uniform major lateral dimension (e.g.,
37, 57) over a majority of the length of the carrier spindle (e.g.,
25, 45) that is uniform to within 7.5, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.5, 0.25,
0.2, 0.1, or 0.05 percent of the major lateral dimension (e.g., 37,
57), as other examples. Further, in some embodiments, the uniform
lateral dimension (e.g., 37, 57) is a diameter of a circular cross
section of the forward end (e.g., 32, 52) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45). Other embodiments, however, have a different shape
cross section, such as a square, a rectangle, a regular polygon, a
hexagon, an octagon, a cross, an oval, a star shape, or a splined
shape, as examples.
[0040] In particular embodiments, the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) has a circular cross section.
Moreover, in particular embodiments, the aft end (e.g., 31, 51)
comprises a taper (e.g., 34, 54). This taper (e.g., 34, 54) can be,
for example, a variation in major lateral dimension (e.g., 36, 56),
such as diameter, from a minimum (e.g., of the aft end 31, 51) at
the aftmost surface of the aft end (e.g., 31, 51), varying
gradually (e.g., linearly, for instance, concentrically) to a
maximum major lateral dimension (e.g., 36, 56) a short distance
forward of the aftmost surface. As used herein, the "major lateral
dimension" at the aft end, is measured forward of the taper (e.g.,
34, 54), on embodiments that include such a taper. In addition, as
used herein, in this context, the "short distance forward of the
aftmost surface" is less than 1/3 of the major lateral dimension
(e.g., 36, 56) at the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45).
[0041] In some embodiments, this "short distance forward of the
aftmost surface" or the longitudinal dimension of the taper (e.g.,
34, 54) is 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, or 1/8 of the major lateral dimension
(e.g., 36, 56) at the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45), as examples. In some embodiments, this "short
distance" or the size of the taper (e.g., 34, 54) can be 1/8, 3/16,
7/32, 1/4, 9/32, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, or 1/2 inch, as examples (e.g.,
measured along the taper, for instance, 34, 54, or in a direction
parallel to the centerline of the carrier spindle). In various
embodiments, the taper (e.g., 34, 54) can be made at an angle of
30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60 degrees (e.g., measured from the
aftmost surface of the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) or from the
centerline of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), for example,
perpendicular to the axis of the barrel (e.g., 13) of the firearm),
as examples.
[0042] In certain embodiments, the taper (e.g., 34, 54) extends all
the way around the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45). Further, in particular embodiments, the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45), taper (e.g., 34, 54), or both, is
symmetrical about a centerline, for example, of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) that is parallel to or concentric with the
centerline of the barrel (e.g., 13) of the firearm (e.g., 10, 40).
In other embodiments, however, the taper (e.g., 34, 54) can be
present only on the top of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), only
on the top half of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), or on the
top and bottom of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) but not the
sides of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), as other examples. In
various embodiments, however, the taper (e.g., 34) is present at
least on the top of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45).
[0043] In various embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes
an upper receiver (e.g., 11) and a lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42).
In some such embodiments, the taper (e.g., 34, 54) pushes the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) forward (e.g., away from the buffer
weight, for instance, 23) when the upper receiver (e.g., 11) is
separated from the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42). In a number of
embodiments, the upper receiver (e.g., 11) moves upward relative to
the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42) when the upper receiver and the
lower receiver are separated. For example, in some embodiments, the
upper receiver (e.g., 11) is pivotably attached to the lower
receiver (e.g., 12, 42), for instance, below the forward end of the
bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) or the bolt assembly (e.g., 28),
and the taper (e.g., 34, 54) pushes the carrier spindle (e.g., 25,
45) forward when the upper receiver (e.g., 11) is pivoted (e.g.,
upward) relative to the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42). In a number
of embodiments, the taper (e.g., 34, 54) pushes against part of the
lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42), which pushes the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) forward, for example, against the spindle spring
(e.g., 24). In various embodiments, this makes the firearm (e.g.,
10, 40) easier to open than certain prior art alternatives. In a
number of embodiments, the spindle spring (e.g., 24) pushes the
carrier spindle aft when the upper receiver and the lower receiver
are fully separated or when the upper receiver is mated to the
lower receiver.
[0044] Further, in some embodiments, when the firearm (e.g., 10,
40) is ready to be fired, at least a portion of the aft end (e.g.,
31, 51) of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) or at least a portion
of the taper (e.g., 34, 54) extends into the lower receiver (e.g.,
12, 42), for instance, aft of the upper receiver (e.g., 11) at this
location along the firearm. In a number of embodiments, when the
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is ready to be fired, a majority of the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) is located in the upper receiver
(e.g., 11), however.
[0045] Moreover, in certain embodiments that include a spindle
spring (e.g., 24) that biases the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45)
aftward, when the taper (e.g., 34) pushes the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) forward, the spindle spring (e.g., 24) is compressed
(e.g., at least partially compressed, for instance, more compressed
(e.g., at least momentarily) than if the firearm (e.g., 10, 40)
were not opened. Furthermore, in some embodiments, when the firearm
(e.g., 10, 40) is discharged, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45)
moves further into the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42). Still
further, in some embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes a
buffer tube (e.g., 22), for instance, in the lower receiver (e.g.,
12, 42), and when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is discharged, the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) guides the carrier assembly (e.g.,
26, 46) into the buffer tube (e.g., 22), for example, partially
into the buffer tube (e.g., 22). For example, in a number of
embodiments, the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) fits inside the buffer tube (e.g., 22) and has a
close tolerance with the buffer tube (e.g., 22) and controls
lateral motion of the aft end (e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47),
for instance, when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is discharged, when
the buffer spring returns the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) or
the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) forward, or both.
[0046] Certain embodiments include various firearms (e.g., 10, 40)
that each include, for example, a carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46),
a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), and a spindle spring (e.g., 24).
In a number of embodiments, a helical spindle spring (e.g., 24),
for example, is located between the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45)
and the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). Further, in a number of
embodiments, the spindle spring (e.g., 24), pushes the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45), for instance, aftward, away from the
carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), or both. In various embodiments,
for example, the (e.g., helical) spindle spring (e.g., 24) is
loaded in compression. Moreover, in a number of embodiments, the
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) is at least partially aft of the
carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). Further, in various embodiments,
the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) slidably engages the carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46).
[0047] Further, as mentioned, some embodiments include a buffer
weight (e.g., 23), a main buffer spring (e.g., 21), or both. In a
number of embodiments, for example, the buffer weight (e.g., 23) is
aft of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), the main buffer spring
(e.g., 21) is aft of the buffer weight (e.g., 23), or both. Further
still, in various embodiments the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is
aft of the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). Even further, in some
embodiments, the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) is stiffer than the
(e.g., helical) spindle spring (e.g., 24). Still further, in a
number of embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) fits
inside the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) when the firearm (e.g.,
10, 40) is assembled. An example is illustrated in the
drawings.
[0048] Various embodiments include, for example, a barrel (e.g.,
13) through which bullets are fired. In some embodiments, for
instance, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) includes a length
(e.g., 33, 53) parallel to an axis of the barrel (e.g., 13), a
forward end (e.g., 32, 52), and an aft end (e.g., 31, 51), and the
aft end (e.g., 31, 51) has a larger major lateral dimension (e.g.,
36, 56) than the forward end (e.g., major lateral dimension 37, 57
at forward end 32, 52). Moreover, in some embodiments, the forward
end (e.g., 32, 52) has a uniform major lateral dimension (e.g., 37,
57) over a majority of the length (e.g., 33, 53) of the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45). Further, in some embodiments, the aft end
(e.g., 31, 51) of the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) includes a
taper (e.g., 34, 54). Still further, in a number of embodiments,
the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes an upper receiver (e.g., 11)
and a lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42).
[0049] Even further, in certain embodiments, the taper (e.g., 34,
54) pushes the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) forward when the
upper receiver (e.g., 11) is separated (e.g., pivoted) from the
lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42). In some embodiments, the firearm
(e.g., 10, 40) includes a buffer tube (e.g., 22). Further, in
various embodiments, when the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is discharged,
the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) guides the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46) into the buffer tube (e.g., 22), the carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45) acts to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm, or
both. Further, certain embodiments include, for example, a raised
carrier saddle (e.g., 60) that supports an aft end (e.g., 59) of
the carrier assembly (e.g., 46), for example, in addition to other
components described above. Other embodiments, however, include a
carrier saddle (e.g., 60) that supports an aft end (e.g., 59) of
the carrier assembly (e.g., 46), but do not necessarily include
other components described above.
[0050] Particular embodiments include various firearms that
include, for example, a carrier assembly (e.g., 46), a buffer
spring (e.g., 21), and a carrier saddle (e.g., 60), for instance,
that supports the aft end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly (e.g.,
46). In certain such embodiments, for example, the carrier assembly
(e.g., 46) has an aft end (e.g., 59), and the buffer spring (e.g.,
21) biases the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) forward. Moreover, in
various embodiments, the carrier saddle (e.g., 60) that supports
the aft end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) is raised
(e.g., a raised carrier saddle), for instance, raised from the
adjacent interior surface of the lower receiver (e.g., 42). In
various embodiments, the carrier saddle (e.g., 60) partially or
fully prevents the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) or bolt carrier
group (e.g., 47) from tilting, for example, when the carrier
assembly (e.g., 46) or bolt carrier group (e.g., 47) is moving, for
instance, back and forth when the firearm (e.g., 40) is fired.
[0051] A number of embodiments further include, for example, a
buffer weight (e.g., 23), for instance, aft of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 46). Further, in some embodiments, the buffer spring is aft
of the buffer weight (e.g., 23). Still further, in various
embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 40) includes an upper receiver
(e.g., 11) and a lower receiver (e.g., 42). Even further, in some
embodiments, the lower receiver (e.g., 42) includes the (e.g.,
raised) carrier saddle (e.g., 60). Further still, in certain
embodiments, for instance, the carrier saddle (e.g., 60) is
integrated into or integral with the lower receiver (e.g., 42). In
other embodiments, however, the carrier saddle is a separate piece
from the lower receiver, for example, attached to the lower
receiver. In certain embodiments, the height of the carrier saddle
is adjustable, for example, to adjust clearance, to guide the
carrier assembly (e.g., 46) into the buffer tube (e.g., 22), to
reduce carrier tilt within the firearm, or a combination thereof,
as examples. In various embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 40)
includes a buffer tube (e.g., 22), and when the firearm (e.g., 40)
is discharged, the (e.g., raised) carrier saddle (e.g., 60) guides
the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) into the buffer tube (e.g., 22).
Moreover, in various embodiments, the (e.g., raised) carrier saddle
(e.g., 60) acts to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm.
[0052] In some embodiments, the carrier saddle (e.g., 60) includes
a concave top surface (e.g., 61) (e.g., raised) that supports, for
example, the aft end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46).
In some such embodiments, for example, the top surface (e.g., 61)
is concave when viewed from the forward end or rearward end (e.g.,
via a cross section of the firearm), for instance, as shown. In the
embodiment illustrated, however, the top surface (e.g., 61) does
not appear to be concave when viewed from the side (e.g., right
side or left side, for instance, via a cross section of the
firearm).
[0053] Further, in some embodiments, the top surface (e.g., 61) of
the carrier saddle (e.g., 60), for instance, that supports the aft
end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46), includes an
overall top surface (e.g., 61) lateral dimension (e.g., 62), for
instance, measured in a horizontal direction, that is between 25
percent and 75 percent of an overall lateral dimension (e.g., 58)
of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59).
Further still, in some embodiments, the top surface (e.g., 61) of
the carrier saddle (e.g., 60), includes an overall top surface
(e.g., 61) lateral dimension (e.g., 62), measured in a horizontal
direction, that is between 10 percent and 90 percent, between 20
and 80 percent, between 30 and 70 percent, or between 40 and 60
percent of the overall lateral dimension (e.g., 58) of the carrier
assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59), as examples, or that
is less than the larger end of such ranges.
[0054] Still further, in some embodiments, the top surface (e.g.,
61) that supports the aft end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 46) includes an overall top surface (e.g., 61) longitudinal
dimension (e.g., 63) that is less than the overall lateral
dimension (e.g., 58) of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft
end (e.g., 59). As used herein, a "longitudinal dimension" (e.g.,
63) is measured parallel to the axis of the barrel (e.g., 13) of
the firearm. Even further, in some embodiments, the overall top
surface (e.g., 61) longitudinal dimension (e.g., 63) is between 1/8
inch and the overall lateral dimension (e.g., 58) of the carrier
assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59), for example. In
certain embodiments, the overall top surface (e.g., 61)
longitudinal dimension (e.g., 63) is greater than 1/4, 3/8, 1/2,
5/8, or 1/4 inch, as other examples. Even further still, in
particular embodiments, the overall top surface (e.g., 61)
longitudinal dimension (e.g., 63) is less than 90, 80, 70, 60, 50,
or 40 percent of the overall lateral dimension (e.g., 58) of the
carrier assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59) as other
examples.
[0055] Even further, in various embodiments, the (e.g., raised)
carrier saddle (e.g., 60) comprises or consists of a material
having a lower hardness than a hardness of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59). In some embodiments, for
example, the carrier saddle is aluminum and the carrier assembly is
steel. Still further, in certain embodiments, the carrier saddle
(e.g., 60) comprises or consists of a material having a
significantly lower hardness than a hardness of the carrier
assembly (e.g., 46) at the aft end (e.g., 59). As used herein, a
"significantly lower hardness" means less than half of the
hardness. In some embodiments, the carrier saddle may comprise a
low friction material, a lubricant (e.g., a solid lubricant), a
lubricant delivery system (e.g., including a grease or oil
passage), or a combination thereof.
[0056] In various embodiments, a firearm (e.g., 40) includes, for
example, an upper receiver (e.g., 11), a lower receiver (e.g., 42),
a carrier assembly (e.g., 46), a buffer spring (e.g., 21), and a
raised carrier saddle (e.g., 60). In a number of embodiments, for
example, the lower receiver (e.g., 42) includes a buffer tube
(e.g., 22), the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) is located in the upper
receiver (e.g., 11), the carrier assembly (e.g., 46) has an aft end
(e.g., 59), or a combination thereof. Further, in various
embodiments, the buffer spring (e.g., 21) is located in the buffer
tube (e.g., 22), in the lower receiver (e.g., 42), aft of the aft
end (e.g., 59) of the carrier assembly (e.g., 46), or a combination
thereof. Still further, in a number of embodiments, the raised
carrier saddle (e.g., 60) supports the aft end (e.g., 59) of the
carrier assembly (e.g., 46). Even further, in various embodiments,
for instance, when the firearm (e.g., 40) is discharged, the raised
carrier saddle (e.g., 60) guides the carrier assembly (e.g., 46),
for example, into the buffer tube (e.g., 22), the raised carrier
saddle (e.g., 60) acts to reduce carrier tilt within the firearm,
or both. In a number of embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 40)
includes a carrier spindle (e.g., 45), but in other embodiments, a
firearm having a (e.g., raised) carrier saddle (e.g., 60), may omit
a carrier spindle (e.g., 45), carrier spring (e.g., 24), or
both.
[0057] Other embodiments, besides firearms, include buffer systems
(e.g., 40, 50) for firearms. Such a firearm (e.g., 10, 40) can
include a bolt assembly (e.g., 28) and a carrier assembly (e.g.,
26, 46), for example, or a bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47). In
some embodiments, the buffer system (e.g., 40, 50), includes a main
buffer spring (e.g., 21), for instance, aft of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46), and a spindle spring (e.g., 24), for example,
between the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46) and the main buffer
spring (e.g., 21). Such a buffer system (e.g., 40, 50), or a
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) containing such a buffer system, can further
include, in particular embodiments, a combination (e.g., any
combination) of the features recited herein, or known in the art,
for instance, for a firearm. In some embodiments, for example, the
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes a bolt carrier group (e.g., 27,
47), and the buffer system (e.g., 40, 50) includes a main buffer
spring (e.g., 21) aft of the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47), a
buffer weight (e.g., 23) forward of the main buffer spring (e.g.,
21), and a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) between the bolt carrier
group (e.g., 27, 47) and the buffer weight (e.g., 23). Buffer
systems (e.g., 40, 50) can include other features described herein.
All different combinations are contemplated.
[0058] Still other embodiments include certain methods that pertain
to buffer systems (e.g., 40, 50) for firearms. Further, particular
methods can include acts of obtaining or providing, as examples,
other features, components, or aspects described herein. All
possible combinations are contemplated. Further, methods described
herein contain various acts. The order in which these acts are
described herein may be an example of the order in which these acts
can be performed, but in other embodiments, unless stated otherwise
herein or precluded by other factors, the acts may be performed in
a different order. In some embodiments, acts may overlap or be
performed at the same time, as another example.
[0059] Particular embodiments include certain methods of absorbing
recoil energy of a firearm (e.g., 10, 40), for instance. Such a
method can include, for example, at least the acts of: obtaining or
providing a main buffer spring (e.g., 21), and obtaining or
providing a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45). Further, some methods
include an act of obtaining or providing a (e.g., raised) carrier
saddle (e.g., 60), for example, instead of, or in addition to, a
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45). Further, some embodiments (e.g.,
having a carrier spindle) include obtaining or providing a spindle
spring (e.g., 24). In some embodiments, the method further includes
locating the main buffer spring (e.g., 21) aft of a carrier
assembly (e.g., 26, 46) of the firearm. Further, in a number of
embodiments, the method further includes locating the spindle
spring (e.g., 24) aft of a bolt assembly (e.g., 28) of the firearm
(e.g., 10, 40) or a bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47). Further
still, in some embodiments, the method further includes locating
the spindle spring (e.g., 24) aft of a carrier assembly (e.g., 26,
46) of the firearm. Different embodiments include some or all of
such acts.
[0060] Yet other embodiments include various methods of making a
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) easier to be used (e.g., at least by certain
people). Such a method can include, for example, obtaining,
providing, or manufacturing the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) having a
bolt assembly (e.g., 28), a carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46), a main
buffer spring (e.g., 21), for instance, aft of the carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46), a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), and a spindle
spring (e.g., 24), for example, between the carrier spindle (e.g.,
25, 45) and the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). In different
embodiments, a method (e.g., as described herein) further includes
acts of obtaining or providing a combination of the components or
features recited herein (e.g., above). All applicable combinations
are contemplated. Various methods can further include acts of
manufacturing other components described herein, shown on the
drawings, or both.
[0061] Other methods include certain methods of reducing carrier
tilt within a firearm (e.g., 10, 40) having a carrier (e.g.,
carrier assembly 46, 46), a buffer weight (e.g., 23), a buffer
spring (e.g., 21), an upper receiver (e.g., 11), and a lower
receiver (e.g., 12, 42). Such a method can include, for instance,
at least the acts of obtaining or providing a carrier spindle
(e.g., 25, 45), and locating the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45)
between a buffer weight (e.g., 23) and the carrier. In a number of
embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) and the buffer
weight (e.g., 23) are separate pieces that separate (i.e., come
apart) when the upper receiver (e.g., 11) and the lower receiver
(e.g., 12, 42) are separated (i.e., in a normal process of
disassembly of the weapon for service or inspection). Some
embodiments include an act of obtaining or providing a taper (e.g.,
34, 54) on the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) or an act of
obtaining or providing a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) having
taper (e.g., 34, 54), for instance, as described herein. Further,
various methods include acts of obtaining or providing a
combination of the features or limitations recited herein.
[0062] Furthermore, in various of the firearms, buffer systems, and
methods contemplated, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45), carrier
saddle (e.g., 60), or both, acts to reduce carrier tilt within the
firearm. Further, in some embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g.,
25, 45), carrier saddle (e.g., 60), or both, acts to reduce carrier
wobble within the firearm, acts to reduce carrier misalignment
within the firearm, acts to reduce wear within the firearm,
specifically acts to reduce buffer tube (e.g., 22) wear within the
firearm, or a combination thereof. In still other specific
embodiments, a firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes a carrier assembly
(e.g., 26, 46), an upper receiver (e.g., 11), a lower receiver
(e.g., 12, 42), and a carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) that is at
least partially aft of the carrier assembly (e.g., 26, 46). In a
number of embodiments, the carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) includes
a tapered (e.g., taper 34, 54) portion that pushes the carrier
spindle (e.g., 25, 45) forward when the upper receiver (e.g., 11)
is separated from the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42).
[0063] In further embodiments, a firearm (e.g., 10, 40) includes an
upper receiver (e.g., 11), a lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42), a bolt
carrier group (e.g., 27, 47) located at least partially within the
upper receiver (e.g., 11), a main buffer spring (e.g., 21) located
within the lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42) aft of the bolt carrier
group (e.g., 27, 47), a buffer weight (e.g., 23) located within the
lower receiver (e.g., 12, 42) aft of the bolt carrier group (e.g.,
27, 47) and forward of the main buffer spring (e.g., 21), and a
carrier spindle (e.g., 25, 45) that is at least partially aft of
the bolt carrier group (e.g., 27, 47). Such firearms can further
include other features described herein. In a number of
embodiments, a firearm includes a sub-combination of the components
or features described herein. Further, various embodiments include
other combinations of the features described herein. All feasible
combinations are contemplated.
[0064] In a number of embodiments of a firearm, buffer system, or
method, as examples, the spindle spring (e.g., 24) acts to reduce
peak recoil force produced by the firearm. Further, in some
embodiments of a firearm, buffer system, or method, for instance,
the spindle spring (e.g., 24) acts to absorb recoil energy produced
by the firearm. Specifically, in certain embodiments, the spindle
spring (e.g., 24) acts to absorb recoil energy produced by the
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) not otherwise absorbed by the main buffer
spring (e.g., 21). Further, in particular embodiments, more of the
recoil energy is absorbed by the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) rather than
by the operator, for example, in comparison with the firearm (i.e.,
the same firearm) without the spindle spring (e.g., 24).
[0065] In a number of embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) is a
rifle. In particular embodiments, for example, the firearm (e.g.,
10, 40) is an assault rifle, such as an AR-15 or an M-16. In some
embodiments, the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) can be a semi-automatic
firearm (e.g., 10, 40) or a fully automatic firearm, as examples.
Further, in particular embodiments, the firearm is a rifle
configured to selectably (e.g., via operation of a selector lever)
fire in a fully-automatic mode and in a semi-automatic mode. Other
embodiments, however, may differ. For instance, in particular
embodiments the firearm (e.g., 10, 40) can be a pistol.
[0066] Further, various embodiments of the subject matter described
herein include various combinations of the acts, structure,
components, and features described herein, shown in the drawings,
described in documents that are incorporated by reference herein,
or that are known in the art. Moreover, certain procedures can
include acts such as manufacturing, obtaining, or providing
components that perform functions described herein or in the
documents that are incorporated by reference. The subject matter
described herein also includes various means for accomplishing the
various functions or acts described herein, in the documents that
are incorporated by reference, or that are apparent from the
structure and acts described. Each function described herein is
also contemplated as a means for accomplishing that function, or
where appropriate, as a step for accomplishing that function.
[0067] Further still, as used herein, the word "or", except where
indicated otherwise, does not imply that the alternatives listed
are mutually exclusive. Even further, where alternatives are listed
herein, it should be understood that in some embodiments, fewer
alternatives may be available, or in particular embodiments, just
one alternative may be available, as examples.
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