U.S. patent application number 15/873830 was filed with the patent office on 2018-08-09 for locking holster for handguns with non-traditional form factors.
The applicant listed for this patent is Vista Outdoor Operations LLC. Invention is credited to Robert Kincaid, Daniel Sereday.
Application Number | 20180224240 15/873830 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63037229 |
Filed Date | 2018-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180224240 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sereday; Daniel ; et
al. |
August 9, 2018 |
LOCKING HOLSTER FOR HANDGUNS WITH NON-TRADITIONAL FORM FACTORS
Abstract
A holster for receiving an integrally suppressed handgun having
a trigger guard and a complementary interlocking feature located
forward of a forward-most end of the trigger guard. The holster
comprising a holster body having a forward end, a rearward end, and
a holster wall extending therebetween. The holster wall defining a
cavity extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis. The
holster including a retention mechanism comprising a lever
pivotally supported by the wall of the holster body with the lever
being pivotable about a pivot axis. A blocking member of the lever
being dimensioned and adapted to be received in the complementary
interlocking feature of the handgun. The lever being positioned so
that the blocking member extends through an aperture and into the
forward portion of the cavity at least when the lever is in the
blocking position.
Inventors: |
Sereday; Daniel; (Belgrade,
MT) ; Kincaid; Robert; (Manhattan, MT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Vista Outdoor Operations LLC |
Farmington |
UT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
63037229 |
Appl. No.: |
15/873830 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62447208 |
Jan 17, 2017 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41C 33/0254 20130101;
F41C 33/0236 20130101; F41C 33/0263 20130101; F41A 21/30
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41C 33/02 20060101
F41C033/02; F41A 21/30 20060101 F41A021/30 |
Claims
1. A combination of a holster for receiving a handgun and a
handgun, the handgun comprising a frame having a handgrip portion,
a barrel supported by the frame, the barrel having a breech end, a
muzzle end, and a barrel wall, the barrel wall extending along a
barrel axis in a forward direction from the breech end to the
muzzle end, a trigger guard located forward of the handgrip
portion, the trigger guard being supported by the frame, the
handgun comprising a forward suppressor unit located forward of the
trigger guard, the forward suppressor unit being supported by the
frame, the forward suppressor unit comprising a complementary
interlocking feature located forward of a forward-most surface of
the trigger guard, the complementary interlocking feature
comprising a rearwardly facing stop surface, the forward suppressor
unit comprising a sound suppressing assembly located forward of the
muzzle end of the barrel; the holster comprising a holster body
having a forward end and a rearward end, the holster body
comprising a holster wall defining a cavity extending along a
handgun receiving and withdrawal axis extending forwardly and
rearwardly; the holster body further defining the cavity as having
a rearward portion, a trigger guard portion forward of the rearward
portion, and a forward portion forward of the trigger guard
receiving portion, the holster wall defining an aperture opening
into the forward portion of the cavity; a retention mechanism
comprising a lever pivotally supported by the holster wall, the
lever being pivotable about a pivot axis, the lever having a finger
engaging portion disposed on a first side of the pivot axis and a
blocking member disposed on a second side of the pivot axis, the
lever being positioned so that the blocking member extends through
the aperture and into the forward portion of the cavity at least
when the lever is in the blocking position, the blocking member of
the lever being dimensioned and adapted to be positioned at the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun when the handgun
is holstered; the lever being selectively pivotable between a
blocking position in which the blocking member of the lever is
positioned at the complementary interlocking feature of the handgun
and a non-blocking position in which the blocking member of the
lever is displaced away from the complementary interlocking feature
of the handgun.
2. The combination of claim 1 wherein the complementary
interlocking feature defines a notch.
3. The combination of claim 1 wherein the complementary
interlocking feature comprises a surface perpendicular or oblique
to the barrel axis of the handgun.
4. The combination of claim 1 wherein the finger engaging portion
of the lever is adapted and positioned for actuation via contact
with a first phalanx of an index finger of a holster user while a
grip portion of the handgun is disposed between the index finger
and a thumb of the holster user.
5. The combination of claim 1 further including a spring member
applying a torque to the lever, the torque having a torque
direction such that the lever is biased to pivot toward the
blocking position.
6. The combination of claim 1 wherein: the cavity has a height
dimension and a width dimension; and an aspect ratio of the height
dimension to the width dimension is greater than about two.
7. The combination of claim 1 wherein: the lever comprises a first
arm, a second arm and a corner portion disposed between the first
arm and the second arm, the first arm extending rearward from the
corner portion, and the second arm extending forward and downward
from the corner portion; the second arm includes a first side
surface facing generally away from the holster cavity and a second
side surface facing generally toward the holster cavity; the
blocking member comprises a protrusion extending beyond the second
side surface of the engagement member in a direction toward the
holster cavity.
8. The combination of claim 7 wherein the protrusion comprises a
forwardly facing surface for engaging a rearwardly facing surface
of the complementary interlocking feature.
9. The combination of claim 7 wherein the protrusion comprises a
forwardly facing surface for engaging the complementary
interlocking feature.
10. The combination of claim 7 wherein the forward facing surface
comprises a convex surface.
11. The combination of claim 7 wherein the forward facing surface
comprises a planar surface, the planar surface having a skewed
orientation relative to the handgun insertion and withdrawal axis
such that the planar surface extends rearward as the planar surface
extends upward.
12. The combination of claim 7 wherein the complementary
interlocking feature comprises a concave surface.
13. The combination of claim 7 wherein the first arm extends
rearward to a point rearward of the forward end of the trigger
guard when the handgun is received in the cavity.
14. The combination of claim 7 wherein the first arm extends
rearward to a point forward of the rearward end of the trigger
guard when the handgun is received in the cavity.
15. The combination of claim 7 wherein a rearward end of the first
arm is located rearward of the forward end of the trigger guard
when the handgun is received in the cavity.
16. The combination of claim 7 wherein a rearward end of the first
arm is located forward of the rearward end of the trigger guard
when the handgun is received in the cavity.
17. The combination of claim 1 wherein the sound suppressing
assembly comprises a plurality of starboard wall portions, a
plurality of opposing port wall portions, and a plurality of baffle
wall portions extending between the starboard wall portions and the
port wall portions, the wall portions defining a plurality of
expansion chambers, each baffle wall portion defining a bullet
passageway, the baffle wall portions being arranged along the
barrel axis with the barrel axis intersecting the bullet passageway
defined by each baffle wall portion.
18. A combination of a holster for receiving a handgun and a
handgun: the handgun comprising a trigger guard and a forward
suppressor unit having a complementary interlocking feature
defining a rearward and laterally outward facing notch located
forward of a forward-most end of the trigger guard; the holster
comprising a holster body having a forward end, a rearward end, and
a holster wall, the holster wall defining a cavity extending along
a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis, the handgun receiving and
withdrawal axis extending forwardly and rearwardly; the holster
body further defining the cavity as having a rearward portion, a
trigger guard portion forward of the rearward portion, and a
forward portion forward of the trigger guard receiving portion, the
trigger guard receiving portion being disposed between the forward
portion and the rearward portion, the holster wall defining an
aperture opening into the forward portion of the cavity; a
retention mechanism comprising a lever pivotally supported by the
holster wall, the lever being pivotable about a pivot axis, the
lever having a finger engaging portion disposed on a first side of
the pivot axis and a blocking member disposed on a second side of
the pivot axis, the blocking member of the lever being dimensioned
and adapted to be received in the notch defined by the
complementary interlocking feature of the forward suppressor unit;
the lever being positioned so that the blocking member extends
through the aperture and into the forward portion of the cavity at
least when the lever is in the blocking position; the lever being
selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever is positioned in the notch of the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun and a
non-blocking position in which the blocking member of the lever is
displaced away from the notch of the complementary interlocking
feature of the forward suppressor unit.
19. A combination of a holster for receiving a handgun and a
handgun, the combination comprising: the holster and the handgun,
the handgun comprising a frame having a handgrip portion supporting
a pair of grips, the handgun further comprising a trigger guard
located forward of the handgrip, the trigger guard being supported
by the frame, the handgun comprising a forward suppressor unit
located forward of the trigger guard, the forward suppressor unit
being supported by the frame, the forward suppressor unit
comprising a complementary interlocking feature located forward of
a forward-most surface of the trigger guard, the complementary
interlocking feature having a rearwardly facing surface; the
handgun further comprising a barrel supported by the frame, the
barrel having a breech end, a muzzle end, and a barrel wall, the
barrel wall extending along a barrel axis in a forward direction
from the breech end to the muzzle end; the forward suppressor unit
comprising a sound suppressing assembly located forward of the
muzzle end of the barrel, comprising a plurality of starboard wall
portions, a plurality of opposing port wall portions, and a
plurality of baffle wall portions extending between the starboard
wall portions and the port wall portions, the wall portions
defining a plurality of expansion chambers, each baffle wall
portion defining a bullet passageway, the baffle wall portions
being arranged along the barrel axis with the barrel axis
intersecting the bullet passageway of each baffle wall portion; the
holster comprising a holster body having a forward end, a rearward
end, and a holster wall, the holster wall defining a cavity
extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis, the
handgun receiving and withdrawal axis extending forwardly and
rearwardly; the holster body further defining the cavity as having
a rearward portion, a trigger guard portion forward of the rearward
portion, and a forward portion forward of the trigger guard
receiving portion, the trigger guard receiving portion being
disposed between the forward portion and the rearward portion, the
holster wall defining an aperture opening into the forward portion
of the cavity; a retention mechanism comprising a lever pivotally
supported by the holster wall, the lever being pivotable about a
pivot axis, the lever having a finger engaging portion disposed on
a first side of the pivot axis and a blocking member disposed on a
second side of the pivot axis, the blocking member of the lever
being dimensioned and adapted to confront the rearwardly facing
surface of the complementary interlocking feature of the forward
suppressor unit; the lever being positioned so that the blocking
member extends through the aperture and into the forward portion of
the cavity at least when the lever is in the blocking position; the
lever being selectively pivotable between a blocking position in
which the blocking member of the lever is positioned to confront
the rearwardly facing surface of the complementary interlocking
feature of the handgun and a non-blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever is displaced away from the
complementary interlocking feature of the forward suppressor unit.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to copending U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/447,208 filed Jan. 17, 2017 to
Sereday et al., entitled "Locking Holster For Handguns With
Non-Traditional Form Factors," which is incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Handgun users, such as law enforcement personnel, frequently
use a holster to protect the handgun and hold it securely. A
locking mechanism is an important feature, for example, to prevent
an assailant from drawing a police officer's firearm from its
holster. A locking mechanism may also prevent the handgun from
inadvertently falling out of the holster, for example, when a
police officer is running or climbing over an obstacle such as a
fence. A number of holsters are designed to lock onto the trigger
guard of a hand gun.
[0003] Some handguns have a non-traditional form factor.
Additionally, some handgun users may mount an accessory, such as a
light, forward of the trigger guard and below the barrel of the
handgun. When this is the case, the handgun/accessory assembly has
an overall form factor different from the traditional gun shaped
form factor. A locking holster design compatible with handguns
having a non-traditional form factors would be a welcome addition
to the equipment available to handgun users such as law enforcement
personnel.
SUMMARY
[0004] A combination of a holster for receiving a handgun and a
handgun is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the handgun
comprises a frame having a rearward grip portion and a barrel
supported by the frame. In one or more embodiments, the barrel has
a breech end, a muzzle end, and a barrel wall, the barrel wall
extending along a barrel axis in a forward direction from the
breech end to the muzzle end. In one or more embodiments, a trigger
guard is located forward of the grip portion, the trigger guard
being supported by the frame. In one or more embodiments, the
handgun further comprises a forward suppressor unit located forward
of the trigger guard, the forward suppressor unit being supported
by the frame. In one or more embodiments, the forward suppressor
unit comprises a complementary interlocking feature located forward
of a forward facing surface of the trigger guard. In one or more
embodiments, the complementary interlocking feature comprises a
rearwardly facing stop surface. In one or more embodiments, the
forward suppressor unit comprises a sound suppressing assembly
located forward of the muzzle end of the barrel. In one or more
embodiments, the sound suppressing assembly comprises a plurality
of baffle wall portions that cooperate with starboard wall portions
and port wall portions to define a plurality of expansion chambers.
In one or more embodiments, the holster comprises a holster body
having a forward end and a rearward end. In one or more
embodiments, the holster body comprises a holster wall defining a
cavity extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis
extending forwardly and rearwardly. In one or more embodiments, the
holster body further defines the cavity as having a rearward
portion, a trigger guard receiving portion forward of the rearward
portion, and a forward portion forward of the trigger guard
receiving portion. In one or more embodiments, the holster wall
defines an aperture opening into the cavity. In one or more
embodiments, the combination includes a retention mechanism
comprising a lever pivotally supported by the holster wall, the
lever being pivotable about a pivot axis. In one or more
embodiments, the lever has a finger engaging portion disposed on a
first side of the pivot axis and a blocking member disposed on a
second side of the pivot axis. In one or more embodiments, the
lever is positioned so that the blocking member extends through the
aperture and into the cavity at least when the lever is in the
blocking position. In one or more embodiments, the blocking member
of the lever is dimensioned and adapted to be positioned at the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun when the handgun
is holstered. In one or more embodiments, the lever is selectively
pivotable between a blocking position in which the blocking member
of the lever is positioned at the complementary interlocking
feature of the handgun and a non-blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever is displaced away from the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun.
[0005] A holster for receiving an integrally suppressed handgun
having a trigger guard and a complementary interlocking feature
located forward of a forward-most end of the trigger guard is
disclosed. The holster comprising a holster body having a forward
end, a rearward end, and a holster wall extending therebetween. The
holster wall defining a cavity extending along a handgun receiving
and withdrawal axis. The cavity comprising a rearward portion, a
forward portion, and a trigger guard receiving portion disposed
between the forward portion and the rearward portion. The holster
wall defining an aperture opening into the forward portion of the
cavity. The holster including a retention mechanism comprising a
lever pivotally supported by the wall of the holster body with the
lever being pivotable about a pivot axis. The lever having a finger
engaging portion disposed on a first side of the pivot axis and a
blocking member disposed on a second side of the pivot axis. The
blocking member of the lever being dimensioned and adapted to be
received in the complementary interlocking feature of the handgun.
The lever being positioned so that the blocking member extends
through the aperture and into the forward portion of the cavity at
least when the lever is in the blocking position.
[0006] In one or more embodiments, a holster for receiving a
handgun having a trigger guard and a complementary interlocking
feature located forward of a forward-most end of the trigger guard
comprises a holster body having a forward end, a rearward end, and
a holster wall extending therebetween. The holster wall extends in
a forward direction from the rearward end to the forward end and
extends in the rearward direction from the rearward end to the
forward end. The holster wall comprises a starboard side portion
and a port side portion. The holster wall defines a holster cavity
extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis. The
handgun receiving and withdrawal axis extends forwardly and
rearwardly.
[0007] The holster cavity comprises a rearward portion, a forward
portion, and a trigger guard receiving portion disposed between the
forward portion and the rearward portion. The holster wall defines
an aperture that opens into the forward portion of the holster
cavity. A retention mechanism of the holster is supported by the
holster wall. The retention mechanism comprises a lever pivotally
supported by the holster wall. The lever is pivotable relative to
the holster body about a pivot axis. In one or more embodiments,
the lever pivots about a pin that extends along the pivot axis. The
lever comprises a finger engaging portion disposed on a first side
of the pivot axis and a blocking member disposed on a second side
of the pivot axis. The blocking member of the lever is dimensioned
and adapted to engage a complementary interlocking feature of the
handgun. In one or more embodiments, the blocking member of the
lever is dimensioned and adapted to be received in a notch of the
complementary interlocking feature.
[0008] The lever of the holster is positioned so that the blocking
member extends through the aperture and into the forward portion of
the holster cavity at least when the lever is in the blocking
position. The lever is selectively pivotable between a blocking
position in which the blocking member of the lever engages the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun and a
non-blocking position in which the blocking member of the lever is
disengaged from the complementary interlocking feature of the
handgun. In one or more embodiments, the handgun is retained in the
holster cavity when the blocking member is engaging the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun and the handgun
may be withdrawn from the holster cavity when the blocking member
of the lever is disengaged from the complementary interlocking
feature of the handgun. In one or more embodiments, the handgun is
retained in the holster cavity when the blocking member is received
in a notch of the complementary interlocking feature of the handgun
and the handgun may be withdrawn from the holster cavity when the
blocking member of the lever is located outside of the notch of the
complementary interlocking feature. In one or more embodiments, a
spring member of the holster applies a torque to the lever. In one
or more embodiments, the torque has a torque direction such that
the lever is biased to pivot toward the blocking position.
[0009] In one or more embodiments, a handgun in accordance with
this detailed description may comprise a frame supporting a barrel.
In one or more embodiments, the barrel has a breech end, a muzzle
end, and a barrel wall extending therebetween. The barrel wall
extends along a barrel axis in the forward direction from the
breech end to the muzzle end and extends along the barrel axis in a
rearward direction from the muzzle end to the breech end. In one or
more embodiments, the handgun comprises a rearward grip portion of
the frame and a forward block portion supported by the frame. In
one or more embodiments, the rearward grip portion and the forward
block portion each extend in a generally downward direction away
from the barrel. The handgun comprises a trigger guard having a
rearward-most end, a forward-most end, and an intermediate portion
extending therebetween. The rearward-most end of the trigger guard
being fixed to a forward facing surface of the rearward grip
portion. The forward-most end of the trigger guard being fixed to a
rearward facing surface of the forward block portion. In one or
more embodiments, the forward block portion of the handgun
comprises a complementary interlocking feature. In one or more
embodiments, the complementary interlocking feature is disposed
forward of the forward-most end of the trigger guard. In one or
more embodiments, the complementary interlocking feature is
disposed downward of the forward-most end of the trigger guard.
[0010] In one or more embodiments, the lever of the retention
mechanism comprises a first arm, a second arm and a corner portion
disposed between the first arm and the second arm. In one or more
embodiments, the first arm extends rearward from the corner portion
and the second arm extends forward and downward from the corner
portion. In one or more embodiments, the first arm of the lever
extends rearward to a point rearward of the forward-most end of the
trigger guard when the handgun is received in the holster
cavity.
[0011] In one or more embodiments, the first arm of the lever
extends rearward to a point forward of the rearward-most end of the
trigger guard when the handgun is received in the holster
cavity.
[0012] In one or more embodiments, a rearward end of the first arm
is located rearward of the forward-most end of the trigger guard
when the handgun is received in the holster cavity.
[0013] In one or more embodiments, a rearward end of the first arm
is located forward of the rearward-most end of the trigger guard
when the handgun is received in the holster cavity.
[0014] In one or more embodiments, a rearward end of the first arm
is located upward of the forward-most end of the trigger guard when
the handgun is received in the holster cavity.
[0015] In one or more embodiments, the complementary interlocking
feature of the forward block portion of the handgun comprises a
notch dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of a
blocking member of a retention mechanism of a holster. The
retention mechanism of the holster comprises a lever pivotally
supported by the holster wall. The lever is pivotable about a pivot
axis with a finger engaging portion of the lever disposed on a
first side of the pivot axis and a blocking member of the lever
disposed on a second side of the pivot axis. The lever of the
holster is positioned so that the blocking member extends through
the aperture and into the forward portion of the holster cavity at
least when the lever is in the blocking position. The lever is
selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever engages the complementary interlocking
feature of the handgun and a non-blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever is disengaged from the complementary
interlocking feature of the handgun. In one or more embodiments,
the handgun is retained in the holster cavity when the blocking
member is engaging the complementary interlocking feature of the
handgun and the handgun may be withdrawn from the holster cavity
when the blocking member of the lever is disengaged from the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun. In one or more
embodiments, the handgun is retained in the holster cavity when the
blocking member is received in a notch of the complementary
interlocking feature of the handgun and the handgun may be
withdrawn from the holster cavity when the blocking member of the
lever is located outside of the notch of the complementary
interlocking feature. In one or more embodiments, a spring member
of the holster applies a torque to the lever. In one or more
embodiments, the torque has a torque direction such that the lever
is biased to pivot toward the blocking position.
[0016] In one or more embodiments, the holster wall defines an
aperture that opens into the holster cavity and the lever is
positioned so that the blocking member extends through the aperture
at least when the lever is in the blocking position. In one or more
embodiments, the aperture is disposed forward of the forward-most
end of the trigger guard when the handgun is received in the
holster cavity. In one or more embodiments, the aperture is
disposed downward of the forward-most end of the trigger guard when
the handgun is received in the holster cavity. In one or more
embodiments, the blocking member is disposed forward of the
forward-most end of the trigger guard when the handgun is received
in the holster cavity. In one or more embodiments, the blocking
member is disposed downward of the forward-most end of the trigger
guard when the handgun is received in the holster cavity. In one or
more embodiments, the holster cavity comprises a rearward portion,
a forward portion, and a trigger guard receiving portion disposed
between the forward portion and the rearward portion. In one or
more embodiments, the holster wall defines an aperture that opens
into the forward portion of the holster cavity. In one or more
embodiments, the lever of a retention mechanism is positioned so
that the blocking member of the lever extends through the aperture
and into the forward portion of the holster cavity at least when
the lever is in the blocking position.
[0017] In one or more embodiments, the lever comprises a first arm,
a second arm and a corner portion disposed between the first arm
and the second arm. In one or more embodiments, the first arm
extends rearward from the corner portion and the second arm extends
forward and downward from the corner portion. In one or more
embodiments, the second arm includes a first side surface facing
generally away from the holster cavity and a second side surface
facing generally toward the holster cavity. In one or more
embodiments, the blocking member of the lever comprises a
protrusion extending beyond the second side surface in a direction
toward the holster cavity.
[0018] In one or more embodiments, the protrusion of the lever
comprises a forward facing surface. In one or more embodiments, the
forward facing surface comprises a first facet, a second facet and
a convex surface disposed between the first facet and the second
facet.
[0019] In one or more embodiments, the first facet has a skewed
orientation relative to the handgun insertion and withdrawal axis
such that the first facet extends rearward as the first facet
extends upward.
[0020] In one or more embodiments, the protrusion of the lever
comprises a forward facing surface. In one or more embodiments, the
forward facing surface comprises a first facet, a second facet and
a convex surface disposed between the first facet and the second
facet.
[0021] In one or more embodiments, the complementary interlocking
feature comprises a first face, a second face and a concave surface
disposed between the first face and the second face.
[0022] In one or more embodiments, the finger engaging portion of
the lever is adapted and positioned for actuation via contact with
a proximal portion of an index finger of a holster user.
[0023] A feature and advantage of embodiments is a handgun with a
forward suppressor in combination with a holster that has a release
mechanism that obstructs removal of the handgun and suppressor by
engaging and blocking the forward suppressor at a surface
perpendicular or oblique to the barrel axis of the handgun.
[0024] A feature and advantage of embodiments is automatic
retention of the handgun upon insertion of the handgun into the
holster. The forward block of the handgun may engage a rearward
facing ramped surface of the blocking member upon insertion of the
handgun into the holster. Forces applied to the rearward facing
ramped surface of the blocking member upon insertion of the handgun
into the holster may cause the lever to pivot so that the blocking
member is temporarily in a non-blocking position. The lever of the
retention mechanism may be biased, such as by a spring, to pivot
toward the blocking position when the complementary interlocking
feature of the forward block is positioned proximate the blocking
member.
[0025] An assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments
comprises the combination of a holster for receiving a handgun and
the handgun. In one or more embodiments, the handgun comprises a
frame having a rearward grip portion supporting a pair of grips. In
one or more embodiments, the handgun further comprises a trigger
guard located forward of the grip portion, the trigger guard being
supported by the frame. In one or more embodiments, the handgun
comprises a forward suppressor unit located forward of the trigger
guard, the forward suppressor unit being supported by the frame. In
one or more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit comprises a
complementary interlocking feature located forward of a forward
facing surface of the trigger guard. In one or more embodiments,
the complementary interlocking feature is located on a starboard
side of the forward suppressor unit. In one or more embodiments,
the mating interlocking feature comprises a notch defined by a
starboard wall portion of the forward suppressor unit. In one or
more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit comprises a mating
interlocking feature located forward of a forward facing surface of
the trigger guard. In one or more embodiments, the mating
interlocking feature is located on a port side of the forward
suppressor unit. In one or more embodiments, the mating
interlocking feature comprises a notch defined by a port wall
portion of the forward suppressor unit. In one or more embodiments,
the handgun further comprises a barrel supported by the frame. In
one or more embodiments, the barrel has a breech end, a muzzle end,
and a barrel wall. In one or more embodiments, the barrel wall
extends along a barrel axis in a forward direction from the breech
end to the muzzle end.
[0026] In one or more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit
comprises a sound suppressing assembly located forward of the
muzzle end of the barrel. In one or more embodiments, the forward
suppressor unit comprises, a plurality of starboard wall portions,
a plurality of opposing port wall portions, and a plurality of
baffle wall portions extending between the starboard wall portions
and the port wall portions. In one or more embodiments, the wall
portions define a plurality of expansion chambers. In one or more
embodiments, each of the baffle wall portions defines a bullet
passageway. In one or more embodiments, the baffle wall portions
are arranged along the barrel axis with the barrel axis
intersecting the bullet passageway defined by each of the baffle
wall portions.
[0027] In one or more embodiments, the holster comprises a holster
body having a forward end, a rearward end, and a holster wall. In
one or more embodiments, the holster wall defines a cavity
extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis, the
handgun receiving and withdrawal axis extending forwardly and
rearwardly. In one or more embodiments, the holster body further
defines the cavity as having a rearward portion, a trigger guard
receiving portion forward of the rearward portion, and a forward
portion forward of the trigger guard receiving portion. In one or
more embodiments, the trigger guard receiving portion is disposed
between the forward portion and the rearward portion. In one or
more embodiments, the holster wall defines an aperture opening into
the forward portion of the cavity. An assembly in accordance with
one or more embodiments further comprises a retention mechanism
comprising a lever that is pivotally supported by the holster wall.
In one or more embodiments, the lever is pivotable about a pivot
axis. In one or more embodiments, the lever has a finger engaging
portion disposed on a first side of the pivot axis and a blocking
member disposed on a second side of the pivot axis. In one or more
embodiments, the blocking member of the lever is dimensioned and
adapted to be received in a complementary interlocking feature of
the handgun. In one or more embodiments, the lever is positioned so
that the blocking member extends through the aperture and into the
forward portion of the cavity at least when the lever is in the
blocking position. In one or more embodiments, the lever is
selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which the
blocking member of the lever is positioned at the complementary
interlocking feature of the handgun and a non-blocking position in
which the blocking member of the lever is displaced away from the
complementary interlocking feature of the handgun.
[0028] A feature and advantage of embodiments is a retention
mechanism that is automatically reset after withdrawal of the
handgun. The lever of the retention mechanism may be biased, such
as by a spring, to pivot toward the blocking position when the hand
and the handgun are moved away from the holster.
[0029] A feature and advantage of embodiments is a locking action
that resists or prevents pivoting of the lever while rearward
forces are being applied to the handgun; for example, when an
attacker is attempting to draw the user's weapon.
[0030] A feature and advantage of embodiments is a locking
mechanism including a lever having a finger engaging portion
adapted and positioned for actuation via contact with a proximal
portion of an index finger of the holster user rather than a
fingertip.
[0031] The above summary is not intended to describe each
illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present
disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] The drawings included in the present application are
incorporated into, and form part of, the specification. They
illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, along with
the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.
The drawings are only illustrative of certain embodiments and do
not limit the disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a
handgun and a holster.
[0034] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a
handgun and a holster.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a handgun and a lever
of a locking mechanism.
[0036] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a handgun.
[0037] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a handgun.
[0038] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a handgun.
[0039] FIG. 7 is a side view showing a lever.
[0040] FIG. 8A is a front view of a lever in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0041] FIG. 8B is a right side view of the lever shown in FIG.
8A.
[0042] FIG. 8C is a top view of the lever shown in FIG. 8A.
[0043] FIG. 8D is a rear view of the lever shown in FIG. 8A.
[0044] FIG. 8E is a left side view of the lever shown in FIG.
8A.
[0045] FIG. 8F is a bottom view of the lever shown in FIG. 8A.
[0046] FIG. 9A is a front view of a handgun in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0047] FIG. 9B is a right side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
9A.
[0048] FIG. 9C is a top view of the handgun shown in FIG. 9A.
[0049] FIG. 9D is a rear view of the handgun shown in FIG. 9A.
[0050] FIG. 9E is a left side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
9A.
[0051] FIG. 9F is a bottom view of the handgun shown in FIG.
9A.
[0052] FIG. 10A is a front view of a handgun in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0053] FIG. 10B is a right side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
10A.
[0054] FIG. 10C is a top view of the handgun shown in FIG. 10A.
[0055] FIG. 10D is a rear view of the handgun shown in FIG.
10A.
[0056] FIG. 10E is a left side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
10A.
[0057] FIG. 10F is a bottom view of the handgun shown in FIG.
10A.
[0058] FIG. 11A is a front view of a handgun in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0059] FIG. 11B is a right side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
11A.
[0060] FIG. 11C is a top view of the handgun shown in FIG. 11A.
[0061] FIG. 11D is a rear view of the handgun shown in FIG.
11A.
[0062] FIG. 11E is a left side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
11A.
[0063] FIG. 11F is a bottom view of the handgun shown in FIG.
11A.
[0064] FIG. 12A is a front view of a handgun in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0065] FIG. 12B is a right side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
12A.
[0066] FIG. 12C is a top view of the handgun shown in FIG. 12A.
[0067] FIG. 12D is a rear view of the handgun shown in FIG.
12A.
[0068] FIG. 12E is a left side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
12A.
[0069] FIG. 12F is a bottom view of the handgun shown in FIG.
12A.
[0070] FIG. 13A is a front view of a handgun in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0071] FIG. 13B is a right side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
13A.
[0072] FIG. 13C is a top view of the handgun shown in FIG. 13A.
[0073] FIG. 13D is a rear view of the handgun shown in FIG.
13A.
[0074] FIG. 13E is a left side view of the handgun shown in FIG.
13A.
[0075] FIG. 13F is a bottom view of the handgun shown in FIG.
13A.
[0076] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a handgun. The handgun
of FIG. 14 may form part of a combination including the handgun of
FIG. 14 and the holsters described in the instant patent
application.
[0077] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a handgun. The handgun
of FIG. 15 may form part of a combination including the handgun of
FIG. 15 and the holsters described in the instant patent
application.
[0078] FIG. 16 is a partially exploded perspective view further
illustrating the handgun shown in FIG. 14.
[0079] FIG. 17 is a partially exploded perspective view further
illustrating the handgun shown in FIG. 15.
[0080] FIG. 18 is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view
further illustrating the handgun shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.
[0081] FIG. 19 is a partially exploded perspective view further
illustrating the handgun shown in FIG. 14.
[0082] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view showing an assembly
including a lever, a spring member, and a pin.
[0083] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view showing an assembly
including a lever, a spring member, and a pin.
[0084] FIG. 22A is a front view of a holster in accordance with an
embodiment described in the detailed description.
[0085] FIG. 22B is a right side view of the holster shown in FIG.
22A.
[0086] FIG. 22C is a top view of the holster shown in FIG. 22A.
[0087] FIG. 22D is a rear view of the holster shown in FIG.
22A.
[0088] FIG. 22E is a left side view of the holster shown in FIG.
22A.
[0089] FIG. 22F is a bottom view of the holster shown in FIG.
22A.
[0090] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a handgun holstered in
a holster.
[0091] While embodiments of the disclosure are amenable to various
modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been
shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not
to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On
the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,
equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope
of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0092] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1-3 and 14-19, a
combination of a holster 120 for receiving a handgun 122 and a
handgun 122 is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the handgun
122 comprises a frame 220 having a rearward grip portion 232 and a
barrel 222 supported by the frame 220. In one or more embodiments,
the barrel 222 has a breech end 224, a muzzle end 226, and a barrel
wall 228, the barrel wall 228 extending along a barrel axis 230 in
a forward direction from the breech end 224 to the muzzle end 226.
In one or more embodiments, a trigger guard 124 is located forward
of the grip portion 232, the trigger guard 124 being supported by
the frame 220. In one or more embodiments, the handgun 122 further
comprises a forward suppressor unit 240 located forward of the
trigger guard 124, the forward suppressor unit 240 being supported
by the frame 220. In one or more embodiments, the forward
suppressor unit 240 comprises a complementary interlocking feature
132 located forward of a forward facing surface 102 of the trigger
guard 124. In one or more embodiments, the complementary
interlocking feature 132 comprises a rearwardly facing stop surface
106. In one or more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit 240
comprises a sound suppressing assembly 238 located forward of the
muzzle end 226 of the barrel 222. In one or more embodiments, the
sound suppressing assembly 238 comprises a plurality of baffle wall
portions 248 that cooperate with starboard wall portions 242 and
port wall portions 244 to define a plurality of expansion chambers
246. In one or more embodiments, the holster 120 comprises a
holster body 134 having a forward end 136 and a rearward end 138.
In one or more embodiments, the holster body 134 comprises a
holster wall 140 defining a cavity 146 extending along a handgun
receiving and withdrawal axis 148 extending forwardly and
rearwardly. In one or more embodiments, the holster body 134
further defines the cavity 146 as having a rearward portion 150, a
trigger guard receiving portion 256 forward of the rearward portion
150, and a forward portion 152 forward of the trigger guard
receiving portion 256. In one or more embodiments, the holster wall
140 defines an aperture 156 opening into the cavity 146. In one or
more embodiments, the combination includes a retention mechanism
158 comprising a lever 160 pivotally supported by the holster wall
140, the lever 160 being pivotable about a pivot axis 162. In one
or more embodiments, the lever 160 has a finger engaging portion
disposed on a first side of the pivot axis 162 and a blocking
member 166 disposed on a second side of the pivot axis 162. In one
or more embodiments, the lever 160 is positioned so that the
blocking member 166 extends through the aperture 156 and into the
cavity 146 at least when the lever 160 is in the blocking position.
In one or more embodiments, the blocking member 166 of the lever
160 is dimensioned and adapted to be positioned at the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122 when the
handgun 122 is holstered. In one or more embodiments, the lever 160
is selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which the
blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is positioned at the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122 and a
non-blocking position in which the blocking member 166 of the lever
160 is displaced away from the complementary interlocking feature
132 of the handgun 122.
[0093] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1-9, a holster 120 for
receiving a handgun 122 having a trigger guard 124 and a
complementary interlocking feature 132 located forward of a
forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124 comprises a holster
body 134 having a forward end 136, a rearward end 138, and a
holster wall 140 extending therebetween. The holster wall 140
extends in a forward direction from the rearward end 138 to the
forward end 136 and extends in the rearward direction from the
rearward end 138 to the forward end 136. The holster wall 140
comprises a starboard side portion 142 and a port side portion 144.
The holster wall 140 defines a holster cavity 146 extending along a
handgun receiving and withdrawal axis 148. The handgun receiving
and withdrawal axis 148 extends forwardly and rearwardly.
[0094] The holster cavity 146 comprises a rearward portion 150, a
forward portion 152, and a trigger guard receiving portion 164
disposed between the forward portion 152 and the rearward portion
150. The holster wall 140 defines an aperture 156 that opens into
the forward portion 152 of the holster cavity 146. A retention
mechanism 158 of the holster 120 is supported by the holster wall
140. The retention mechanism 158 comprises a lever 160 pivotally
supported by the holster wall 140. The lever 160 is pivotable
relative to the holster body 134 about a pivot axis 162. In one or
more embodiments, the lever 160 pivots about a pin 304 that extends
along the pivot axis 162. The lever 160 comprises a finger engaging
portion 164 disposed on a first side of the pivot axis 162 and a
blocking member 166 disposed on a second side of the pivot axis
162. The blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is dimensioned and
adapted to engage a complementary interlocking feature 132 of the
handgun 122. In one or more embodiments, the blocking member 166 of
the lever 160 is dimensioned and adapted to be received in a notch
190 of the complementary interlocking feature 132. In one or more
embodiments, the notch 190 of the complementary interlocking
feature 132 may be defined by a starboard wall portion xx. In one
or more embodiments, the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is
dimensioned and adapted to be received in a notch 190 of a mating
interlocking feature xx. In one or more embodiments, the notch 190
of the complementary interlocking feature xx may be defined by a
port wall portion xx.
[0095] The lever 160 of the holster 120 is positioned so that the
blocking member 166 extends through the aperture 156 and into the
forward portion 152 of the holster cavity 146 at least when the
lever 160 is in the blocking position. The lever 160 is selectively
pivotable between a blocking position in which the blocking member
166 of the lever 160 engages the complementary interlocking feature
132 of the handgun 122 and a non-blocking position in which the
blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is disengaged from the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122. In one
or more embodiments, the handgun 122 is retained in the holster
cavity 146 when the blocking member 166 is engaging the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122 and the
handgun 122 may be withdrawn from the holster cavity 146 when the
blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is disengaged from the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122. In one
or more embodiments, the handgun 122 is retained in the holster
cavity 146 when the blocking member 166 is received in the notch
190 of the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun
122 and the handgun 122 may be withdrawn from the holster cavity
146 when the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is located
outside of the notch 190 of the complementary interlocking feature
132. In one or more embodiments, a spring member 302 of the holster
applies a torque to the lever 160. In one or more embodiments, the
torque has a torque direction such that the lever 160 is biased to
pivot toward the blocking position.
[0096] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1, 2 and 9, a handgun 122
in accordance with this detailed description may comprise a frame
220 supporting a barrel 222. In one or more embodiments, the barrel
has a breech end 224, a muzzle end 226, and a barrel wall 228
extending therebetween. The barrel wall 228 extends along a barrel
axis 230 in the forward direction from the breech end 224 o the
muzzle end 226 and extends along the barrel axis 230 in a rearward
direction from the muzzle end 226 to the breech end 224. In one or
more embodiments, the handgun 122 comprises a rearward grip portion
232 of the frame and a forward block portion 130 supported by the
frame 220. In one or more embodiments, the rearward grip portion
232 and the forward block portion 130 each extend in a generally
downward direction away from the barrel 222. The handgun 122
comprises a trigger guard 124 having a rearward-most end 128, a
forward-most end 126, and an intermediate portion 236 extending
therebetween. The rearward-most end 128 of the trigger guard 124
being fixed to a forward facing surface of the rearward grip
portion 232. The forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124
being fixed to a rearward facing surface of the forward block
portion 130. In one or more embodiments, the forward block portion
130 of the handgun 122 comprises a complementary interlocking
feature 132. In one or more embodiments, the complementary
interlocking feature 132 is disposed forward of the forward-most
end 126 of the trigger guard 124. In one or more embodiments, the
complementary interlocking feature 132 is disposed downward of the
forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124.
[0097] In one or more embodiments, the lever 160 of the retention
mechanism comprises a first arm 168, a second arm 170 and a corner
portion 172 disposed between the first arm 168 and the second arm
170. In one or more embodiments, the first arm 168 extends rearward
from the corner portion 172 and the second arm 170 extends forward
and downward from the corner portion 172. In one or more
embodiments, the first arm 168 of the lever 160 extends rearward to
a point rearward of the forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard
124 when the handgun 122 is received in the holster cavity 146.
[0098] In one or more embodiments, the first arm 168 of the lever
160 extends rearward to a point forward of the rearward-most end
128 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122 is received in
the holster cavity 146. In one or more embodiments, a rearward end
138 of the first arm 168 is located rearward of the forward-most
end 126 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122 is received
in the holster cavity 146. In one or more embodiments, a rearward
end 138 of the first arm 168 is located forward of the
rearward-most end 128 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122
is received in the holster cavity 146. In one or more embodiments,
a rearward end 138 of the first arm 168 is located upward of the
forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122
is received in the holster cavity 146.
[0099] In one or more embodiments, the complementary interlocking
feature 132 of the forward block portion of the handgun comprises a
notch 190 dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion
of a blocking member 166 of a retention mechanism 158 of a holster
120. The retention mechanism 158 of the holster 120 comprises a
lever 160 pivotally supported by the holster wall 140. The lever
160 is pivotable about a pivot axis 162 with a finger engaging
portion 164 of the lever 160 disposed on a first side of the pivot
axis 162 and a blocking member 166 of the lever 160 disposed on a
second side of the pivot axis 162. The lever 160 of the holster 120
is positioned so that the blocking member 166 extends through the
aperture 156 and into the forward portion 152 of the holster cavity
146 at least when the lever 160 is in the blocking position. The
lever 160 is selectively pivotable between a blocking position in
which the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 engages the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122 and a
non-blocking position in which the blocking member 166 of the lever
160 is disengaged from the complementary interlocking feature 132
of the handgun 122. In one or more embodiments, the handgun 122 is
retained in the holster cavity 146 when the blocking member 166 is
engaging the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun
122 and the handgun 122 may be withdrawn from the holster cavity
146 when the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is disengaged
from the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122.
In one or more embodiments, the handgun 122 is retained in the
holster cavity 146 when the blocking member 166 is received in a
notch 190 of the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the
handgun 122 and the handgun 122 may be withdrawn from the holster
cavity 146 when the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is located
outside of the notch 190 of the complementary interlocking feature
132. A spring member 302 of the holster applies a torque to the
lever 160. In one or more embodiments, the torque has a torque
direction such that the lever 160 is biased to pivot toward the
blocking position.
[0100] In one or more embodiments, the holster wall 140 defines an
aperture 156 that opens into the holster cavity 146 and the lever
160 is positioned so that the blocking member 166 extends through
the aperture 156 at least when the lever 160 is in the blocking
position. In one or more embodiments, the aperture 156 is disposed
forward of the forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124 when
the handgun 122 is received in the holster cavity 146. In one or
more embodiments, the aperture 156 is disposed downward of the
forward-most end 126 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122
is received in the holster cavity 146. In one or more embodiments,
the blocking member 166 is disposed forward of the forward-most end
126 of the trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122 is received in
the holster cavity 146. In one or more embodiments, the blocking
member 166 is disposed downward of the forward-most end 126 of the
trigger guard 124 when the handgun 122 is received in the holster
cavity 146. In one or more embodiments, the holster cavity 146
comprises a rearward portion 150, a forward portion 152, and a
trigger guard receiving portion 164 disposed between the forward
portion 152 and the rearward portion 150. In one or more
embodiments, the holster wall 140 defines an aperture 156 that
opens into the forward portion 152 of the holster cavity. In one or
more embodiments, the lever 160 of a retention mechanism 158 is
positioned so that the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 extends
through the aperture 156 and into the forward portion 152 of the
holster cavity 146 at least when the lever 160 is in the blocking
position.
[0101] In one or more embodiments, the lever 160 comprises a first
arm 168, a second arm 170 and a corner portion 172 disposed between
the first arm 168 and the second arm 170. In one or more
embodiments, the first arm 168 extends rearward from the corner
portion 172 and the second arm 170 extends forward and downward
from the corner portion 172. In one or more embodiments, the second
arm 170 includes a first side surface 192 facing generally away
from the holster cavity 146 and a second side surface 194 facing
generally toward the holster cavity 146. In one or more
embodiments, the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 comprises a
protrusion 174 extending beyond the second side surface 194 in a
direction toward the holster cavity 146. Referring to FIGS. 1-11,
an upward direction U and a downward direction D are illustrated
using arrows labeled "U" and "D." A forward direction F and a
rearward direction R are illustrated using arrows labeled "F" and
"R," respectively, in FIG. 1. A starboard direction S and a port
direction P are illustrated using arrows labeled "S" and "P,"
respectively, in FIG. 1. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, these
directions may be conceptualized from the point of view of a user
who is holding a firearm and/or viewing a device affixed to the
firearm. The directions illustrated using these arrows may be
conceptualized, by way of example and not limitation, from the
point of view of a user holding a handgun in a normal firing
position. The directions illustrated using these arrows are
applicable to the apparatus shown and discussed throughout this
application. The port direction may also be referred to as the
portward direction.
[0102] It will be appreciated that direction indicating terms may
be related to the instant orientation of the object being
described. It will also be appreciated that the objects described
herein may assume various orientations without deviating from the
spirit and scope of this detailed description. Accordingly,
direction-indicating terms such as "upwardly," "downwardly,"
"forwardly," "backwardly," "portwardly," and "starboardly," should
not be interpreted to limit the scope of the invention recited in
the attached claims. Various direction-indicating terms may be used
herein as a convenient way to discuss the objects shown in the
figures.
[0103] With continuing reference to FIGS. 1-11, a Y-axis generally
extends in the upward direction U and the downward or lower
direction D and an X-axis generally extends in the starboard
direction S and the port direction P. A Z-axis generally extends in
the forward direction F and the rearward direction R. In one or
more embodiments, the X, Y and Z axes are mutually orthogonal axes.
The X-axis is generally orthogonal to an YZ plane defined by the
Y-axis and the Z-axis. The Y-axis is generally orthogonal to an XZ
plane defined by the X-axis and the Z-axis. The Z-axis is generally
orthogonal to an XY plane defined by the X-axis and the Y-axis.
[0104] In one or more embodiments, the upward direction is
generally opposite the downward direction. In one or more
embodiments, the upward direction and the downward direction are
both generally orthogonal to an XZ plane defined by the forward
direction and the starboard direction. In one or more embodiments,
the forward direction is generally opposite the rearward direction.
In one or more embodiments, the forward direction and the rearward
direction are both generally orthogonal to a XY plane defined by
the upward direction and the starboard direction. In one or more
embodiments, the starboard direction is generally opposite the port
direction. In one or more embodiments, starboard direction and the
port direction are both generally orthogonal to a YZ plane defined
by the upward direction and the forward direction. Various
direction-indicating terms are used herein as a convenient way to
discuss the objects shown in the figures.
[0105] FIG. 9A through FIG. 9F are elevation and plan views showing
six sides of the handgun 122. Engineer graphics textbooks generally
refer to the process used to create views showing six sides of a
three dimensional object as multiview projection or orthographic
projection. It is customary to refer to multiview projections using
terms such as front view, right side view, top view, rear view,
left side view, and bottom view. In accordance with this
convention, FIG. 9A may be referred to as a front view of the
handgun 122, FIG. 9B may be referred to as a right side view of the
handgun 122, and FIG. 9C may be referred to as a top view of the
handgun 122. FIG. 9A through FIG. 9F may be referred to
collectively as FIG. 9. Terms such as front view and right side
view are used herein as a convenient method for differentiating
between the views shown in FIG. 9. It will be appreciated that the
elements shown in FIG. 9 may assume various orientations without
deviating from the spirit and scope of this detailed description.
Accordingly, the terms front view, right side view, top view, rear
view, left side view, bottom view, and the like should not be
interpreted to limit the scope of the invention recited in the
attached claims. FIG. 9D may be referred to as a rear view of the
handgun 122, FIG. 9E may be referred to as a left side view of the
handgun 122, and FIG. 9F may be referred to as a bottom view of the
handgun 122.
[0106] Referring to FIG. 10A through FIG. 10F, views showing six
sides of a handgun 250. In the field of engineer graphics, the
process used to create views showing six sides of a three
dimensional object may be referred to as multiview projection or
orthographic projection. It is also customary to refer to multiview
or orthographic projection using terms such as front view, right
side view, top view, rear view, left side view, and bottom view. In
accordance with this convention, FIG. 10A may be referred to as a
front view of the handgun 250, FIG. 10B may be referred to as a
right side view of the handgun 250, and FIG. 10C may be referred to
as a top view of the handgun 250. FIG. 10A through FIG. 10F may be
referred to collectively as FIG. 10. Terms such as front view and
right side view are used herein as a convenient method for
differentiating between the views shown in FIG. 10. It will be
appreciated that the elements shown in FIG. 10 may assume various
orientations without deviating from the spirit and scope of this
detailed description. Accordingly, the terms front view, right side
view, top view, rear view, left side view, bottom view, and the
like should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the invention
recited in the attached claims. FIG. 10D may be referred to as a
rear view of the handgun 250, FIG. 10E may be referred to as a left
side view of the handgun 250, and FIG. 10F may be referred to as a
bottom view of the handgun 250. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, an
accessory 252 is supported by a mounting rail of the handgun 250.
The accessory 252 defines a complementary interlocking feature 132.
Weapon-mounted firearm accessories, such as accessory 252, have
become an important tool for military, police, militia, and
civilian firearm users. Examples of popular firearm accessories
include targeting devices, such as LASER sighting devices, and
target illuminators, such as flashlights. Many handgun designs
incorporate mounting rails for supporting these accessories. Using
an accessory rail interface, a given accessory may be mounted to a
variety of firearms or firearms platforms Likewise, if a particular
firearm includes a rail interface, a variety of accessories may be
interchangeably mounted to the firearm. The interchangeability of
accessories is of particular importance to military and law
enforcement personnel attached to special operations units, as this
allows a single firearm to be reconfigured to meet certain mission
specific needs.
[0107] FIG. 11A through FIG. 11F are elevation and plan views
showing six sides of a handgun 260. Engineer graphics textbooks
generally refer to the process used to create views showing six
sides of a three dimensional object as multiview projection or
orthographic projection. It is customary to refer to multiview
projections using terms such as front view, right side view, top
view, rear view, left side view, and bottom view. In accordance
with this convention, FIG. 11A may be referred to as a front view
of the handgun 260, FIG. 11B may be referred to as a right side
view of the handgun 260, and FIG. 11C may be referred to as a top
view of the handgun 260. FIG. 11A through FIG. 11F may be referred
to collectively as FIG. 11. Terms such as front view and right side
view are used herein as a convenient method for differentiating
between the views shown in FIG. 11. It will be appreciated that the
elements shown in FIG. 11 may assume various orientations without
deviating from the spirit and scope of this detailed description.
Accordingly, the terms front view, right side view, top view, rear
view, left side view, bottom view, and the like should not be
interpreted to limit the scope of the invention recited in the
attached claims. FIG. 11D may be referred to as a rear view of the
handgun 260, FIG. 11E may be referred to as a left side view of the
handgun 260, and FIG. 11F may be referred to as a bottom view of
the handgun 260. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, a forward block
portion 130 of handgun 260 defines a surface 262 that is generally
orthogonal to a barrel axis 230 of the handgun 260.
[0108] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1-3 and 14-19, an assembly
in accordance with one or more embodiments comprises the
combination of a holster 120 for receiving a handgun 122 and the
handgun 122. In one or more embodiments, the handgun 122 comprises
a frame 220 having a rearward grip portion 232 supporting a pair of
grips. In one or more embodiments, the handgun 122 further
comprises a trigger guard 124 located forward of the grip portion
232, the trigger guard 124 being supported by the frame 220. In one
or more embodiments, the handgun 122 comprises a forward suppressor
unit 240 located forward of the trigger guard 124, the forward
suppressor unit 240 being supported by the frame 220. In one or
more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit 240 comprises a
complementary interlocking feature 132 located forward of a forward
facing surface 102 of the trigger guard 124. In one or more
embodiments, the complementary interlocking feature 132 is located
on a starboard side of the forward suppressor unit 240. In one or
more embodiments, the mating interlocking feature 100 comprises a
notch 190 defined by a starboard wall portion 242 of the forward
suppressor unit 240. In one or more embodiments, the forward
suppressor unit 240 comprises a mating interlocking feature 100
located forward of a forward facing surface 102 of the trigger
guard 124. In one or more embodiments, the mating interlocking
feature 100 is located on a port side of the forward suppressor
unit 240. In one or more embodiments, the mating interlocking
feature 100 comprises a notch 190 defined by a port wall portion
244 of the forward suppressor unit 240. In one or more embodiments,
the handgun 122 further comprises a barrel 222 supported by the
frame 220. In one or more embodiments, the barrel 222 has a breech
end 224, a muzzle end 226, and a barrel wall 228. In one or more
embodiments, the barrel wall 228 extends along a barrel axis 230 in
a forward direction from the breech end 224 to the muzzle end
226.
[0109] In one or more embodiments, the forward suppressor unit 240
comprises a sound suppressing assembly 238 located forward of the
muzzle end 226 of the barrel 222. In one or more embodiments, the
forward suppressor unit 240 comprises, a plurality of starboard
wall portions 242, a plurality of opposing port wall portions 244,
and a plurality of baffle wall portions 248 extending between the
starboard wall portions 242 and the port wall portions 244. In one
or more embodiments, the wall portions define a plurality of
expansion chambers 246. In one or more embodiments, each of the
baffle wall portions 248 defines a bullet passageway 254. In one or
more embodiments, the baffle wall portions 248 are arranged along
the barrel axis 230 with the barrel axis 230 intersecting the
bullet passageway 254 defined by each of the baffle wall portions
248.
[0110] In one or more embodiments, the holster 120 comprises a
holster body 134 having a forward end 136, a rearward end 138, and
a holster wall 140. In one or more embodiments, the holster wall
140 defines a cavity 146 extending along a handgun receiving and
withdrawal axis 148, the handgun receiving and withdrawal axis 148
extending forwardly and rearwardly. In one or more embodiments, the
holster body 134 further defines the cavity 146 as having a
rearward portion 150, a trigger guard receiving portion 256 forward
of the rearward portion 150, and a forward portion 152 forward of
the trigger guard receiving portion 256. In one or more
embodiments, the trigger guard receiving portion 256 is disposed
between the forward portion 152 and the rearward portion 150. In
one or more embodiments, the holster wall 140 defines an aperture
156 opening into the forward portion 152 of the cavity 146. An
assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments further
comprises a retention mechanism 158 comprising a lever 160 that is
pivotally supported by the holster wall 140. In one or more
embodiments, the lever 160 is pivotable about a pivot axis 162. In
one or more embodiments, the lever 160 has a finger engaging
portion 164 disposed on a first side of the pivot axis 162 and a
blocking member 166 disposed on a second side of the pivot axis
162. In one or more embodiments, the blocking member 166 of the
lever 160 is dimensioned and adapted to be received in a
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122. In one
or more embodiments, the lever 160 is positioned so that the
blocking member 166 extends through the aperture 156 and into the
forward portion 152 of the cavity 146 at least when the lever 160
is in the blocking position. In one or more embodiments, the lever
160 is selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which
the blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is positioned at the
complementary interlocking feature 132 of the handgun 122 and a
non-blocking position in which the blocking member 166 of the lever
160 is displaced away from the complementary interlocking feature
132 of the handgun 122.
[0111] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1-3 and 14-19, an assembly
in accordance with one or more embodiments comprises the
combination of a holster 120 for receiving a handgun 122 and the
handgun 122. The holster 120 may be a holster as described herein.
The handgun 122 may be, by way of example and not limitation, a
revolver including a cylinder 108 that holds cartridges and
selectively rotates to put a cartridge in a firing position.
[0112] Referring, for example, to FIGS. 1-3 and 14-19, a
combination of a holster 120 for receiving a handgun 122 and a
handgun 122 is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the handgun
122 comprises a trigger guard 124 and a forward suppressor unit 240
having a complementary interlocking feature 132 defining a rearward
and laterally outward facing notch 190 located forward of a forward
facing surface 102 and/or a forward-most end 126 of the trigger
guard 124. In one or more embodiments, the holster 120 comprises a
holster body 134 having a forward end 136, a rearward end 138, and
a holster wall 140. In one or more embodiments, the holster wall
140 defines a cavity 146 extending along a handgun receiving and
withdrawal axis 148, the handgun receiving and withdrawal axis 148
extending forwardly and rearwardly. In one or more embodiments, the
holster body 134 further defines the cavity 146 as having a
rearward portion 150, a trigger guard receiving portion 256 forward
of the rearward portion 150, and a forward portion 152 forward of
the trigger guard receiving portion 256. In one or more
embodiments, the trigger guard receiving portion 256 is disposed
between the forward portion 152 and the rearward portion 150. In
one or more embodiments, the holster wall 140 defines an aperture
156 opening into the cavity 146. In one or more embodiments, a
retention mechanism 158 of the holster 120 comprises a lever 160
pivotally supported by the holster wall 140. In one or more
embodiments, the lever 160 is pivotable about a pivot axis 162. In
one or more embodiments, the lever 160 has a finger engaging
portion disposed on a first side of the pivot axis 162 and a
blocking member 166 disposed on a second side of the pivot axis
162. In one or more embodiments, the blocking member 166 of the
lever 160 is dimensioned and adapted to be received in the notch
190 defined by the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the
forward suppressor unit 240. In one or more embodiments, the
blocking member 166 includes a forwardly facing surface that is
dimensioned and adapted to confront a rearwardly facing surface 106
of the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the forward
suppressor unit 240. In one or more embodiments, the lever 160 is
positioned so that the blocking member 166 extends through the
aperture 156 and into the cavity 146 at least when the lever 160 is
in the blocking position. In one or more embodiments, the lever 160
is selectively pivotable between a blocking position in which the
blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is positioned in the notch 190
of the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the forward
suppressor unit 240 and a non-blocking position in which the
blocking member 166 of the lever 160 is displaced away from the
notch 190 of the complementary interlocking feature 132 of the
forward suppressor unit 240.
[0113] The following United States patents are hereby incorporated
by reference herein: U.S. Pat. No. 5,918,784, U.S. Pat. No.
6,112,962, U.S. Pat. No. 6,267,279, U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,111, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,641,009, U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,300, U.S. Pat. No.
7,434,712, U.S. Pat. No. 7,461,765, U.S. Pat. No. 7,530,456, U.S.
Pat. No. 7,556,181, U.S. Pat. No. 7,841,497, U.S. Pat. No.
7,922,050, U.S. Pat. No. 8,141,758, U.S. Pat. No. 8,177,108, U.S.
Pat. No. 8,235,263, U.S. Pat. No. 8,474,670, U.S. Pat. No.
8,517,235, U.S. Pat. No. 8,602,276, U.S. Pat. No. 8,631,981, U.S.
Pat. No. 8,720,753, U.S. Pat. No. 8,720,755, U.S. Pat. No.
8,851,344, U.S. Pat. No. 8,985,412, U.S. Pat. No. 9,022,262, U.S.
Pat. No. 9,057,579, U.S. Pat. No. 9,057,580, U.S. Pat. No.
9,134,093, U.S. Pat. No. 9,175,925, U.S. Pat. No. 9,267,760, U.S.
Pat. No. 9,347,741, U.S. Pat. No. 9,383,165, U.S. Pat. No.
9,410,767, U.S. Pat. No. 9,500,426, and U.S. Pat. No. 9,83,5400.
Published U.S. Patent Application US2017/0205172 is hereby
incorporated by reference herein. All U.S. patents issuing from and
claiming priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/261,079
are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0114] The above references to U.S. patents in all sections of this
application are herein incorporated by references in their entirety
for all purposes. Components illustrated in such patents may be
utilized with embodiments herein. Incorporation by reference is
discussed, for example, in MPEP section 2163.07(B).
[0115] The above references in all sections of this application are
herein incorporated by references in their entirety for all
purposes. All of the features disclosed in this specification
(including the references incorporated by reference, including any
accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the
steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any
combination, except combinations where at least some of such
features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
[0116] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including
references incorporated by reference, any accompanying claims,
abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features
serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly
stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each
feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of
equivalent or similar features.
[0117] The invention is not restricted to the details of the
foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or
any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this
specification (including any incorporated by reference references,
any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel
one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or
process so disclosed. The above references in all sections of this
application are herein incorporated by references in their entirety
for all purposes.
[0118] Although specific examples have been illustrated and
described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill
in the art that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same
purpose could be substituted for the specific examples shown. This
application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the
present subject matter. Therefore, it is intended that the
invention be defined by the attached claims and their legal
equivalents, as well as the following illustrative aspects. The
above described aspects embodiments of the invention are merely
descriptive of its principles and are not to be considered
limiting. Further modifications of the invention herein disclosed
will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such
modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the
invention.
* * * * *