Understanding Charging Handles: Why a Change Matters
Common Concerns with Standard Charging Handles
Many AR-15 owners quickly discover the limitations of their factory-installed charging handle. These limitations can manifest in a variety of ways, directly affecting the user’s ability to rapidly and effectively operate their rifle. One common complaint is stiff operation. Durability concerns also exist. Another issue revolves around difficult operation with gloves. The design of most stock charging handles presents problems for ambidextrous use.
The Advantages of an Upgrade
Choosing the best charging handle for AR 15 offers significant benefits that extend beyond mere convenience. Improved Ergonomics and Faster Manipulation, Enhanced Durability, Ambidextrous Operation, Better Performance in Adverse Conditions, and Easier Access.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Charging Handle
Ambidextrous Versus Standard: An Informed Decision
The first critical decision is whether to opt for an ambidextrous or standard charging handle. Ambidextrous charging handles are designed for use by both left- and right-handed shooters. Standard charging handles, on the other hand, have a latch on one side.
Material and Build: Understanding Construction
The materials used in the construction of the charging handle and their finish affect its durability and overall performance. Aluminum is a popular choice. Steel provides superior durability. Other materials, such as polymer or titanium, also exist, offering unique benefits related to weight, strength, or cost.
Latch Design and Size: Practical Functionality
The latch design of the charging handle is essential for both speed and ease of use. Extended latches are a popular upgrade. Oversized latches offer even more surface area. Tactical latches sometimes feature specific angles or textures designed to assist in quick manipulation. The size of the latch can also impact ease of use, and will affect handling with optics or gloves.
Surface Finishes: Protecting Your Investment
The finish on a charging handle plays a vital role in its durability, corrosion resistance, and appearance. Common finishes include anodizing, which is a popular choice for aluminum handles and Cerakote, which is a ceramic-based coating.
Budget Considerations: Finding the Sweet Spot
Charging handles come in a wide range of price points. Entry-level options provide a basic upgrade over the standard handle, often with improved ergonomics. Mid-range options typically offer enhanced materials, ambidextrous designs, and a focus on durability. High-end options utilize premium materials, advanced designs, and offer specialized features for demanding applications. Careful consideration of your budget and desired features helps you select the right charging handle.
Top Choices: The Best Charging Handles for AR-15s
Now, let’s review some of the most recommended and highly-rated charging handles for your AR-15. Remember, the best charging handle for AR 15 varies depending on the shooter’s individual needs.
The Raptor Ambidextrous Charging Handle
Key Features: Ambidextrous design, made from 7075-T6 aluminum, oversized latches. Pros: Smooth operation, easy to use with gloves, ambidextrous functionality, excellent ergonomics. Cons: Can be more expensive than some standard options. Best for: General use, tactical applications, shooters who prefer ambidextrous operation.
The BCM (Bravo Company) Gunfighter Charging Handle
Key Features: Multiple latch sizes available, made from 7075-T6 aluminum, designed for strength and durability. Pros: Extremely durable, offers different latch sizes, very reliable. Cons: The standard size latches may not be ideal for users with large hands or thick gloves. Best for: Hard use, tactical shooting, shooters seeking a robust and reliable charging handle.
Geissele Super Charging Handle (SCH)
Key Features: Ambidextrous design, robust build, designed to redirect gas away from the shooter’s face. Pros: High-quality construction, excellent performance, gas-deflecting design helps maintain a clean shooting experience. Cons: Higher price point than many other options. Best for: Serious shooters, competition, users who want premium quality and performance, especially those who frequently shoot suppressed.
Radian Weapons Raptor SD Charging Handle
Key Features: Ambidextrous design, integrated gas vents to further reduce gas blowback when shooting suppressed, made from 7075-T6 aluminum. Pros: Exceptionally effective at mitigating gas blowback, ambidextrous, high quality construction. Cons: Relatively expensive. Best for: Suppressed shooting, tactical use, users who prioritize reducing gas exposure.
Griffin Armament SN-ACH Ambidextrous Charging Handle
Key Features: Ambidextrous design, built-in gas vents, 7075 aluminum construction, a “snag-free” profile. Pros: Very durable, reduced snag profile, effective at gas redirection, affordable. Cons: Not ideal for extended use in wet or muddy conditions, can be more challenging to operate with gloves than some other models. Best for: Tactical shooting, those who prefer a cleaner experience while also needing ambidextrous operation.
Installation and Maintenance
Replacing your charging handle is a straightforward process. Removing the old handle. Installing the new handle, and maintenance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your AR-15’s charging handle is an easy and often overlooked step. Choosing the best charging handle for AR 15 can significantly improve your shooting experience. By considering factors like ambidextrous functionality, material, latch design, and overall quality, you can find a handle that perfectly complements your shooting style and needs. For most users, the Raptor Ambidextrous Charging Handle offers excellent value. For those prioritizing extreme durability, the BCM Gunfighter Charging Handle remains a top choice. If budget is less of a concern and the reduced gas exposure is very important, the Radian Weapons Raptor SD or Geissele Super Charging Handle are fantastic options. Find the perfect charging handle to transform your AR-15, and experience the difference.
