WEATHER-RESISTANT SLEEVE AND MITT

Abstract

A protective sleeve for use with a firearm which protects a user's hands from the elements, especially at very cold temperatures. The sleeve fits over a firearm or other operable object and provides access to the controls, such as a firearm trigger, through a branch sleeve or mitt protrusion. The primary portion of the sleeve which fits over a firearm or other operable object may be uninsulated to prevent loss of sight-lines. The mitt protrusion or branch portion is insulated to protect the operator's hands when operating the firearm or other object. The sleeve may be secured to the object using straps, elastic bands, hook-and-loop closures, or by other suitable means.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority in U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/566,466, filed Dec. 2, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a weather-resistant, insulated sleeve and glove apparatus for sporting equipment and firearms, such as shotguns, rifles, or remote control packs.

2. Description of the Related Art

Firearms are used for a multitude of purposes, from hunting, to military purposes, to sport-shooting. Using firearms is a challenging skill that requires years of practice to perfect. Hunting seasons, sport shooting events, and military operations that occur during the winter or colder areas of the world present the additional challenge of cold temperatures. As a result, typically a person has a decision to make: whether to (1) use a bare hand, providing a safe and reliable operation of the firearm mechanism while sacrificing comfort and hand-functionality in cold weather; or (2) to wear thick gloves, or several gloves to try to arrive at a satisfactory balance of function and comfort. Most firearm users employ a variety of thin gloves, which provide just enough warmth to avoid great pain, but still hinder dexterity significantly when compared to the bare hand. This compromise is not ideal.

Other entertainment and sporting related devices suffer similar problems in cold environments, such as remote control devices. Modern remotely controlled aircraft and other devices are capable of high degrees of mobility, but that mobility requires accurate and precise use of the remote control pack which controls the device. In colder weather, hands and fingers tend not to function as fluidly, and gloves can dull a user's reaction time and sensitivity.

The present invention solves this problem by providing the warmth and insulating properties of a glove or mitten, and the dexterity and reliability of operating the weapon or device with bare hands. Additional benefits include but are certainly not limited to increased safety, improved concealment and comfort.

Heretofore there has not been available a water-resistant sporting sleeve and mitt with the features and elements of the present invention.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a glove or mitten adapted to a firearm using a sleeve. An embodiment of the present invention may be used to insulate the hand of a hunter or shooter while using a firearm, and in position to operate the weapon.

A preferred embodiment includes a reusable insular sleeve included within a mitten or glove-like device. The device may be temporarily affixed to a firearm by sliding the sleeve over the firearm stock and action (which contains the mechanical and moving parts of the firearm), and fastening the sleeve to both the action and the stock. A mitten-like protrusion from the sleeve allows a user to insert their hand into the sleeve for access to the trigger and safety mechanisms, while the mitten protects the hand from cold temperatures and weather.

The present invention is adapted to fit most, if not all, long firearms, such as shotguns and rifles. The sleeve may be adjustable in certain ways to accommodate different firearm mechanisms and components. Hook-and-fastener connectors or pull-straps allow the device to securely be temporarily affixed to the firearm.

The interior of the mitten portion may include a pocket for storing a chemical heat packet such as a Hot Hands® packet, manufactured by HeatMax® of Georgia, United States.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention may be used to house a remote control pack for remotely controlling a device, such as a radio controlled airplane, car, or boat. The insulating and weather-resistant material prevents moisture or other elements from harming the sensitive electronics of the control pack, and also ensures that the user's hands are capable of maximum flexibility and precision during operation in cold weather.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrating various objects and features thereof.

FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the invention as it would interact with the environment.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view showing an embodiment of the present invention manufactured for a right-handed user.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view showing the opposite side of that shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an elevation view showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention used in conjunction with a standard trigger remote.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention used in conjunction with a standard remote control pack.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

1. Introduction and Environment

As required, detailed aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed aspects are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, front, back, right and left refer to the invention as orientated in the view being referred to, such as the front or rear of a firearm. The words, “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the aspect being described and designated parts thereof. Forwardly and rearwardly are generally in reference to the direction of travel, if appropriate. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar meaning.

An embodiment of the present invention is generally designed to provide a sleeve 2, including a mitten or glove-like protrusion 3, for covering a long gun 4 such as a rifle or a shotgun, while allowing the user to have access to the firing mechanisms.

2. Long Gun 4 Sleeve 2

Referring to the drawings in more detail, FIG. 1 generally demonstrates a person using a long gun 4 such as an over/under shotgun. A weather-resistant, insulated sleeve 2 is placed over the stock 14, trigger guard 26, and just behind the action 16 of the firearm, and a glove or mitt protrusion 3 extends out from the sleeve to accept a human hand and forearm. The mitt protrusion 3 operates like a branch stemming from the main body 18 of the insulated sleeve 2.

The sleeve 2, generally comprised of weather-resistant cloth or a similarly suitable material, includes a rear opening 6 for receiving the stock 14 of a firearm, and an adjustable strap 12 or other securing means for securing the stock within the sleeve. The sleeve further includes a front opening 10 for receiving the action 16 of the firearm 4 just above the trigger guard 26. An enclosure 22 comprised of elastic, an adjustable strap, a zipper, or other securing means secures the front opening 10 around the action 16 of the firearm.

The sleeve 2 includes an upper, un-insulated portion 18 covering the top portion of the firearm 4 so as not to obstruct the line of sight 20 of the user. The lower insulated portion 30 of the sleeve includes a glove or mitt protrusion 3 which extends from the body of the sleeve 2, and includes a mitt opening 8 which receives the user's hand and forearm. As shown in more detail in FIG. 4, the mitt includes an inner insulated layer 40 and an outer, weather-resistant layer 42, which covers the entirety of the sleeve 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the rear strap 12 which secures the stock 14 of the firearm 4 includes an adjustor 24, which allows the strap 12 to fit multiple firearm types and sizes. The rear opening 6 is flexible, to further accommodate firearms of different sizes. Likewise, the front opening 10 and front enclosure 22 are capable of expanding to secure larger firearms, or contracting for smaller firearms.

The mitt protrusion 3 includes a concealed pocket 28 for receiving a heating source, such as a Hot Hands® packet, manufactured by HeatMax® of Georgia, United States. The pocket optimally would be placed such that it would press against the back of the user's hand, so as to provide heat without abstructing the user's access to the trigger guard 26, trigger, and safety mechanisms or, in the case of a rifle, the bolt.

The sleeve 2 must fit suitably loose about the firearm 4, especially the trigger guard 26 and other operable mechanisms. This allows full range of use of the weapon, while protecting both the weapon components and the user's hand.

As shown in FIG. 3, a side of the sleeve 2 may include a number of ammunition pockets 32 for receiving and storing extra shotgun shells or rifle rounds. Alternatively, a standard pocket may be sewn into the side of the sleeve 2, may be made of the same material as the sleeve or any otherwise suitable material, and may store any other items the user deems appropriate.

FIG. 4 demonstrates an example of how the front enclosure 22 may secure the front opening 10 about the action of the firearm. One type of enclosure may utilize a hook-and-loop tab 34 and receiver pad 36 for sealing the front opening 10. A relief stitch 38 allows the opening to close over smaller firearms, or to expand for larger firearms. Other possible enclosures include, but are not limited to, a zipper, and elastic band, magnets, or an adjustable strap. For example, in military operations, magnets may produce an ideal result over other options.

FIG. 4 further demonstrates the varying layers of the sleeve 2. An insulated layer 40 is shown within the mitt protrusion 3, and throughout the insulated lower portion 30 of the sleeve 2. The insulation may extend up throughout the sleeve except along the top, un-insulated portion 18, where additional layers may obstruct the user's line of sight 20 when viewing down the sights of the firearm 4. FIGS. 2 and 3 show most clearly which portion of the sleeve should remain un-insulated.

Alternatively, the mitt protrusion 3 may initially be detached from the sleeve 2. The mitt may be affixed to a human hand and arm, and later attached to the remainder of the sleeve when use of the firearm is desired.

3. Alternative Embodiment Trigger Remote Enclosure 102

Enthusiasts of remote control devices, such as remote-controlled cars, boats, and airplanes often must practice their hobbies outdoors because of indoor space constraints. In colder months or in inclement weather circumstances, the user may desire to both protect the sensitive remote control device from the elements, while also ensuring that the user's own hands remain warm and nimble during operation.

FIG. 5 demonstrates an alternative embodiment insulated enclosure 102 for housing a trigger remote control 103, commonly used to control entertainment devices such as remote controlled cars and boats. The enclosure 102 generally includes an insulated bag 104 made of weather-resistant cloth or similarly suitable material. The bag 104 includes an insulated layer 114 and an un-insulated, weather-resistant layer 112. A bag opening 110 allows the user to insert one hand into the bag to access the remote control 103. The bag insulation layer 114 extends to the opening 110. An access hole 120 for an antenna is provided for a typical trigger remote 103. An adjustable opening may be included instead to allow for various antenna placements.

A sleeve or mitt protrusion 106 extends out from the main body of the bag 104 and allows the user to insert a second hand through the protrusion opening 108. The protrusion 106 also includes an insulated layer 118 and an un-insulated, weather-resistant layer 116.

4. Alternative Embodiment Remote Control Pack Enclosure 202

FIG. 6 demonstrates another alternative enclosure 202 for securing and protecting a remote control pack 204, often used to pilot remote controlled airplanes. A storage bag 206 made of weather-resistant fabric or a similarly suitable material houses the control pack 204. A view window 208 gives a user clear view of the controls on the control pack. A mitt protrusion 210 extends from either side of the storage bag 206. The protrusions are intended to receive the user's arms and hands, and have openings 212 to receive the arm and hand on either side of the control pack. An access hole 220 for an antenna is provided for a typical remote pack 204. An adjustable opening may be included instead to allow for various antenna placements.

The entire enclosure 202 includes an insulated layer 216 for keeping the user's hands warm during operation, and a weather-resistant layer 214 for protecting the insulating layer and the sensitive remote control pack. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is superior to other control pack enclosures in that it includes both a weather resistant outer layer and an insulated inner layer for improving user comfort and precision while using the enclosed remote control pack.

It is to be understood that the invention can be embodied in various forms, and is not to be limited to the examples discussed above. The range of components and configurations which can be utilized in the practice of the present invention is virtually unlimited.

Claims

1. A wearable protective cover for a user holding an object, the protective cover comprising:

a primary sleeve comprising a sidewall, a proximal end having a first sleeve opening, and a distal end having a second sleeve opening;

said primary sleeve adapted to receive at least a portion of the object;

a branch sleeve comprising a sidewall, a first branch opening, and a second branch opening, and wherein said branch sleeve second opening is affixed to said first sleeve side-wall;

said branch sleeve adapted to encompass a human hand;

wherein said object is a firearm including a stock, a muzzle, and a trigger section;

wherein said primary sleeve generally covers said rifle stock past said trigger section;

wherein said branch sleeve provides access to said trigger section; and

an adjustable strap adapted to secure said primary sleeve second sleeve opening around a rear end of said firearm stock.

2. (canceled)

3. The wearable protective cover of claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of pockets capable of storing firearm ammunition.

4. (canceled)

5. The wearable protective cover of claim 1, wherein said primary sleeve first opening includes an elastic band capable of securing said protective cover against said firearm past said firearm trigger section.

6. The wearable protective cover of claim 1, wherein said firearm is a rifle.

7. The wearable protective cover of claim 1, wherein said firearm is a shotgun.

8. The wearable protective cover of claim 1, wherein said protective cover is comprised of a thermally insulating material.

9. The wearable protective cover of claim 8, wherein said branch sleeve includes a pocket adapted to receive a chemical heat packet.

10. The wearable protective cover of claim 8, wherein said protective cover is further comprised of polychloroprene.

11. The wearable protective cover of claim 8, wherein said primary sleeve is comprised of an insulated material, and said branch sleeve is comprised of said thermally insulating material.

12. A wearable protective cover, for a user holding a firearm including a stock, a muzzle, and a trigger section, the protective cover comprising a thermally insulating material and further comprising:

a primary sleeve comprising a sidewall, a proximal end having a first sleeve opening, and a distal end having a second sleeve opening;

wherein said primary sleeve generally covers said rifle stock past the trigger section;

a branch sleeve comprising a sidewall, a first branch opening, and a second branch opening, wherein said branch sleeve second opening is affixed to said first sleeve side-wall, and wherein said branch sleeve comprises an additional layer of insulation;

said branch sleeve adapted to encompass a human hand and provides access to said firearm trigger section;

a plurality of pockets capable of storing firearm ammunition;

an adjustable strap adapted to secure said primary sleeve second sleeve opening around a rear end of said firearm stock; and

wherein said branch sleeve includes a pocket adapted to receive a chemical heat packet.

13. The wearable protective cover of claim 12, wherein said firearm is a rifle.

14. The wearable protective cover of claim 12, wherein said firearm is a shotgun.

15. The wearable protective cover of claim 12, wherein said protective cover is further comprised of polychloroprene.

16. A method of protecting a user operating a firearm including a stock, a muzzle, and a trigger section, the method comprising the steps:

providing a wearable protective cover including a primary sleeve adapted for receiving at least a portion of the firearm, and a branch sleeve adapted to receive a human hand and to provide access to said firearm trigger section;

providing an adjustable strap affixed to a first end of said primary sleeve;

placing the primary sleeve over the muzzle of said firearm;

sliding said primary sleeve into position over said firearm stock, such that said primary sleeve covers said trigger portion;

securing said adjustable strap about an end of said firearm stock; and

accessing said firearm trigger portion through said branch sleeve.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising the steps:

providing a pocket within said branch sleeve;

providing a chemical heat packet;

activating said chemical heat packet; and

placing said chemical heat packet into said pocket within said branch sleeve.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising the steps:

providing a plurality of pockets located on said primary sleeve; and

filling said plurality of pockets with firearm ammunition.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein said protective cover does not hinder a sightline of the firearm.