FIREARM TRIGGER SPACING DEVICE AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Disclosed herein are spacing devices and systems and methods of manufacturing and using the same. Hand and/or finger spacing devices for firearms, and more specifically, trigger finger spacing devices, and methods of manufacturing and using the same for aiming assistance and trigger control training, are disclosed. Firearm trigger spacing devices can include a ring portion having one or more lobes extending therefrom, which may assist the positioning of a shooters trigger finger while the shooter is pulling a trigger of the firearm.

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Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/373,999, filed on Aug. 30, 2022, entitled TRIGGER RINGS, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to hand and/or finger spacing devices and systems and to methods of manufacturing and using the same. In particular, this disclosure relates to spacing devices for firearms, and more specifically to trigger finger spacing devices, and to methods of manufacturing and using the same for aiming assistance and trigger control training.

Related Technology

Shooting requires a combination of skill and concentration. Many ordinary citizens work to hone both in fulfillment of their desire to become proficient in the operations of their firearms for target practice, hunting, military duties, police duties, and self-defense.

Training for shooting accuracy typically involves a range of activities, including proper stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control. These fundamentals lay the foundation for developing consistent and accurate shooting skills. Practicing regularly is essential to improve muscle memory, hand-eye coordination, and overall shooting proficiency.

To aid in training, shooters can employ a range of tools designed to enhance accuracy. Tools such as target systems, lasers, and video playback allow shooters to adapt their skills over repeated use and practice. By analyzing the results, shooters can identify areas for improvement and adjust their technique accordingly.

In summary, shooting accuracy is a skill that demands dedicated training and the utilization of specialized tools. By focusing on fundamentals, regularly practicing, and incorporating training aids such as shooting target systems, simulators, laser sights, and stability accessories, shooters can enhance their accuracy and achieve consistent and precise shot placement.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with hand and/or finger spacing devices and systems and methods of manufacturing and using the same. In particular, embodiments of the present disclosure include spacing devices for firearms, and more specifically, trigger finger spacing devices, and methods of manufacturing and using the same for aiming assistance and trigger control training.

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure comprise a firearm trigger spacing device, comprising: a band comprising an outer circumference, a through-cavity, a first lobe, and a ridge; wherein said through-cavity is substantially circular; wherein said first lobe extends radially from the outer circumference; wherein said ridge is disposed about a portion of the outer circumference, and the ridge having a width smaller than the width of the outer circumference.

The band can be made from at least one injection-molded deformable elastomeric material. The at least one material of the firearm trigger spacing device can have a Shore A value of 10-50, 10-35, 15-35, 15-30, 15-25, 15-20, 16-20, 16-18, 18-20, 20-25, 20-30, or 20-35. The at least one material can have a tensile strength of at least 6 Mpa, or a tensile strength of 6-7 Mpa, 6.25-6.75 Mpa, or 6.05-6.61 Mpa. The at least one material can have an elongation percentage of at least or greater than 650, or an elongation percentage of 650-900, 650-800, or 650-700. The at least one material can have a tear strength of at least or greater than 10 KN/m, or a tear strength of 10-50 KN/m, 10-40 KN/m, 10-30 KN/m, or 10-20 KN/m. The at least one material can have a permanent set percentage of at least or greater than 20, or a permanent set percentage of 20-50, 20-40, 20-30, or 20-25. The at least one material can have a rebound resilience percentage of at least or greater than 50, or a rebound resilience percentage of 50-200, 50-100, 50-80, 50-75, or 50-60. The at least one material can have a density of 0.5-2 g/cm3, 1-1.5 g/cm3, or 1.07-1.11 g/cm3.

In at least one embodiment, the flexible and/or elastomeric material can be a silicone or silicone material, or a mixture of silicones or silicone materials. For example, the silicone(s) or silicone material(s) can be industrial grade, medical grade, food grade, pharmaceutical grade, or other grade of silicone(s) or silicone material(s). In one or more embodiments, two or more silicones or silicone materials may be mixed together to produce a silicone or silicone material of or suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the durometer (Shore A) value of the flexible and/or elastomeric silicone or silicone material can be achieved by mixing two or more silicones or silicone materials at suitable ratios, amounts, etc. to achieve the desired durometer (Shore A) value.

The first lobe can extend 0.125-0.75 inches, 0.25-0.5 inches, or about 0.375 inches from the outer circumference. The first lobe can have a rounded or curved exterior surface (e.g., circumferential surface, along the circumference of the device). The first lobe can have substantially squared or straight edges (e.g., extending (radially) or protruding from the device). A distal end of the first lobe can taper, or be tapered (e.g., narrowing the distal end of the first lobe). The distal end of the first lobe can, for example, narrow by about 15-30 degrees, 18-25 degrees, 20-23 degrees, 21-22 degrees, or about 21.5 degrees. The distal end's surface of the first lobe can concavely curve towards the band. Circumferentially, the first lobe can gradually increase in radial protrusion or extending away from the outer circumference of the device, reach a maximal radial protrusion, and then, gradually decrease in radial protrusion. The curvature (or radius of curvature) can be approximately 10-15 degrees, 11-14 degrees, 12-13 degrees, 12-12.5 degrees, or approximately 12.2 degrees, proximally towards the band.

In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device can further comprise a second lobe that extends radially from the outer circumference. The first lobe and the second lobe can have similar structural features, and unique structural features. The second lobe can have dimensions different from the first lobe. The second lobe can extend substantially opposite the outer circumference from the first lobe.

The second lobe can extend 0.125-0.75 inches, 0.25-0.5 inches, or about 0.375 inches from the outer circumference. The second lobe can extend (radially) or protrude further away from the outer circumference than the first lobe.

The second lobe can have a rounded or curved exterior surface (e.g., circumferential surface, along the circumference of the device). The second lobe can have substantially squared or straight edges (e.g., extending (radially) or protruding from the device). A distal end of the second lobe can taper, or be tapered (e.g., narrowing the distal end of the first lobe). The distal end of the second lobe can, for example, narrow by about 15-30 degrees, 18-25 degrees, 20-23 degrees, 21-22 degrees, or about 21.5 degrees. The distal end's surface of the second lobe can concavely curve towards the band. Circumferentially, the second lobe can gradually increase in radial protrusion or extending away from the outer circumference of the device, reach a maximal radial protrusion, and then, gradually decrease in radial protrusion. The curvature (or radius of curvature) can be approximately 10-15 degrees, 11-14 degrees, 12-13 degrees, 12-12.5 degrees, or approximately 12.2 degrees, proximally towards the band.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise a system, comprising: a firearm trigger spacing device, as described herein; and a firearm apparatus having a frame and a trigger. The firearm apparatus can comprise a pistol grip.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise a method for aiming, operating, or discharging (firing) a firearm, comprising: placing a firearm trigger spacing device, as described herein, proximal to a user's trigger (e.g., index) finger at a first knuckle or segment (digit)—e.g., closest to the palm; orienting the firearm trigger spacing device such that a lobe extends inwardly from a user's hand palm side; gripping a frame of a firearm such that the lobe abuts the frame in a position proximal the firearms trigger; raising the firearm to a line of sight (e.g., towards a target); and/or bending the user's trigger finger. In some embodiments, a distal end (tip, or last digit) of the users trigger finger remains substantially linear, such that the firearms trigger is pulled linearly towards the user.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise a method for manufacturing a firearm trigger spacing device, as described herein, comprising: selecting at least one of a material; processing the chosen amount of the at least one material; and forming the processed amount of the at least one material into a firearm trigger spacing device, as described herein. Forming can comprise using a compression mold having a plurality of cavities. The compression mold can comprise at least 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 42, or 48 cavities. The compression mold can further comprise a hardened steel mold base. Forming can comprise using an injection mold. Forming can comprise using additive manufacturing techniques. Forming can take place at a temperature of −40 to 440 degrees Fahrenheit.

The at least one material can have a tensile strength of at least 6 Mpa. The at least one material can have a tensile strength of 6-7 Mpa, 6.25-6.75 Mpa, or 6.05-6.61 Mpa. The at least one material can have an elongation percentage of at least or greater than 650. The at least one material can have an elongation percentage of 650-900, 650-800, or 650-700. The at least one material can have a tear strength of at least or greater than 10 KN/m. The at least one material can have a tear strength of 10-50 KN/m, 10-40 KN/m, 10-30 KN/m, or 10-20 KN/m. The at least one material can have a permanent set percentage of at least or greater than 20. The at least one material can have a permanent set percentage of 20-50, 20-40, 20-30, or 20-25. The at least one material can have a rebound resilience percentage of at least or greater than 50. The at least one material can have a rebound resilience percentage of 50-200, 50-100, 50-80, 50-75, or 50-60. The at least one material can have a density of 0.5-2 g/cm3. The at least one material can have a density of 1-1.5 g/cm3. The at least one material can have a density of 1.07-1.11 g/cm3.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various objects, features, characteristics, and advantages of the invention will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims, all of which form a part of this specification. In the Drawings, like reference numerals may be utilized to designate corresponding or similar parts in the various Figures, and the various elements depicted are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates the top profile of an embodiment of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1B illustrates an isometric perspective of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A illustrates a top profile of another embodiment of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B illustrates an isometric perspective of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 illustrates a shooting system incorporating a firearm trigger spacing device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a method of using a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a front perspective view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a back view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a left side view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a right side view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a front perspective view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a back view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates a left side view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a right side view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a top view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom view of a firearm trigger spacing device of the present disclosure.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing various embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited only to the specific parameters, verbiage, and description of the particularly exemplified systems, methods, and/or products that may vary from one embodiment to the next. Thus, while certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to specific features (e.g., configurations, parameters, properties, steps, components, ingredients, members, elements, parts, and/or portions, etc.), the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure and/or the claimed invention. In addition, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the embodiments, and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure and/or the claimed invention. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

Various aspects of the present disclosure, including systems, methods, and/or products may be illustrated with reference to one or more embodiments, which are exemplary in nature. As used herein, the terms “embodiment” mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects disclosed herein. In addition, reference to an “embodiment” of the present disclosure or invention is intended to provide an illustrative example without limiting the scope of the invention, which is indicated by the appended claims.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” each contemplate, include, and specifically disclose both the singular and plural referents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a “protein” contemplates and specifically discloses one, as well as a plurality of (e.g., two or more, three or more, etc.) proteins. Similarly, use of a plural referent does not necessarily require a plurality of such referents, but contemplates, includes, specifically discloses, and/or provides support for a single, as well as a plurality of such referents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used throughout this disclosure, the words “can” and “may” are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Additionally, the terms “including,” “having,” “involving,” “containing,” “characterized by,” variants thereof (e.g., “includes,” “has,” and “involves,” “contains,” etc.), and similar terms as used herein, including the claims, shall be inclusive and/or open-ended, shall have the same meaning as the word “comprising” and variants thereof (e.g., “comprise” and “comprises”), and do not exclude additional, un-recited elements or method steps, illustratively. Additionally, use of “is” regarding examples, elements, and/or features should be interpreted to be definite only regarding a specific example and should not be interpreted as definite regarding every example. Furthermore, references to “the disclosure” and/or “this disclosure” refer to the entirety of the writings of this document and the entirety of the accompanying illustrations, which extends to all the writings of each subsection of this document, including the Title, Background, Brief description of the Drawings, Detailed Description, Claims, Abstract, and any other document and/or resource incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein “same” means sharing all features and “similar” means sharing a substantial number of features or sharing materially important features even if a substantial number of features are not shared. A feature illustrated in one of the figures may be the same as or similar to a feature illustrated in another of the figures. Similarly, a feature described in connection with one of the figures may be the same as or similar to a feature described in connection with another of the figures. The same or similar features may be noted by the same or similar reference characters unless expressly described otherwise. Additionally, the description of a particular figure may refer to a feature not shown in the particular figure. The feature may be illustrated in and/or further described in connection with another figure.

As used herein regarding a list, “and” forms a group inclusive of all the listed elements. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, and D is an example that includes A, includes B, includes C, and also includes D. As used herein regarding a list, “or” forms a list of elements, any of which may be included. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, or D is an example that includes any of the elements A, B, C, and D. Unless otherwise stated, an example including a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude other examples that include various combinations of some or all of the alternatively-inclusive elements. An example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements includes at least one element of the listed elements. However, an example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude another example that includes all of the listed elements. And, an example described using a list of alternatively-inclusive elements does not preclude another example that includes a combination of some of the listed elements. As used herein regarding a list, “and/or” forms a list of elements inclusive alone or in any combination. For example, an example described as including A, B, C, and/or D is an example that may include: A alone; A and B; A, B and C; A, B, C, and D; and so forth. The bounds of an “and/or” list are defined by the complete set of combinations and permutations for the list.

Where multiples of a particular element are shown in a FIG., and where it is clear that the element is duplicated throughout the FIG., only one label may be provided for the element, despite multiple instances of the element being present in the FIG. Accordingly, other instances in the FIG. of the element having identical or similar structure and/or function may not have been redundantly labeled. A person having ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein redundant and/or duplicated elements of the same FIG. Despite this, redundant labeling may be included where helpful in clarifying the structure of the depicted examples.

For the sake of brevity, the present disclosure may recite a list or range of numerical values. It will be appreciated, however, that where such a list or range of numerical values (e.g., greater than, less than, up to, at least, and/or about a certain value, and/or between two recited values) is disclosed or recited, any specific value or range of values falling within the disclosed values or list or range of values is likewise specifically disclosed and contemplated herein.

To facilitate understanding, like references (i.e., like naming of components and/or elements) have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to different embodiments of the present disclosure. Similarly, like components, or components with like functions, will be provided with similar reference designations, where possible. Specific language will be used herein to describe the exemplary embodiments. Nevertheless it will be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Rather, it is to be understood that the language used to describe the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only and is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure (unless such language is expressly described herein as essential).

While the detailed description is separated into sections, the section headers and contents within each section are for organizational purposes only and are not intended to be self-contained descriptions and embodiments or to limit the scope of the description or the claims. Rather, the contents of each section within the detailed description are intended to be read and understood as a collective whole, where elements of one section may pertain to and/or inform other sections. Accordingly, embodiments specifically disclosed within one section may also relate to and/or serve as additional and/or alternative embodiments in another section having the same and/or similar products, methods, and/or terminology.

Firearm trigger spacing devices, as disclosed herein, will become better understood through a review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various embodiments of spacing devices. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity and clarity, all the contemplated variations may not be individually described in the following detailed description. Those skilled in the art will understand how the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered and not depart in substance from the scope of the examples described herein.

New shooters often desire to become more proficient in the operations of their firearms (e.g., handguns, long guns, rifles, shotguns, etc.). Such proficiency includes, inter alia, an ability to consistently group rounds on a practice target. New shooters often shoot low and to the left, if right-handed, or low and to the right, if left-handed. This is, in part, due to a gap between the first and second knuckles of the shooter's trigger finger and the grip of the firearm. This gap permits inconsistent movement of the trigger finger, between the second knuckle and the fingertip, which may produce inconsistent shot placement.

A conventional firearm training device may include aiming devices meant to assist identification of where the shooter is aiming (e.g., laser aiming devices, etc.) or training devices meant to assist a user in developing a trigger pull. Such a training device may include a mockup of a firearm's grip and trigger area. This mockup may be held by a trainee to repeat the motion of trigger pulls and develop appropriate trigger finger movement.

However, such mockup devices and laser devices do not solve the problems that firearm trigger spacing devices, as disclosed herein, solve. For example, a user of a mockup device is not utilizing a real firearm with a real trigger. Furthermore, the mockup device does not enable a user to actually discharge a firearm while using it. Laser aiming devices do not assist users in developing proper trigger finger movement, as such devices merely indicate where a user is aiming rather than controlling the user's finger positioning and pull trajectories. None of the presented alternatives account for the spacing between a shooter's trigger figure and the frame of the firearm, as does the firearm trigger spacing device of the current disclosure.

Implementations of firearm trigger spacing devices may address some or all of the problems described above. A firearm trigger spacing device may include a ring portion having a lobe extending therefrom, which may assist a position of a finger of a shooter while pulling a trigger of a firearm. Firearm trigger spacing devices may be constructed of a flexible material (e.g., soft rubber or silicone). In at least one embodiment, the flexible and/or elastomeric material can be a silicone or silicone material, or a mixture of silicones or silicone materials. For example, the silicone(s) or silicone material(s) can be industrial grade, medical grade, food grade, pharmaceutical grade, or other grade of silicone(s) or silicone material(s). In one or more embodiments, two or more silicones or silicone materials may be mixed together to produce a silicone or silicone material of or suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the durometer (Shore A) value of the flexible and/or elastomeric silicone or silicone material can be achieved by mixing two or more silicones or silicone materials at suitable ratios, amounts, etc. to achieve the desired durometer (Shore A) value.

The band of a firearm trigger spacing device may be sized variably to accommodate different finger sizes, firearm frames, and shooter preferences. Further, the lobe of the firearm trigger spacing device may be sized variably to similarly account for changes users' hand size, firearm size, or any other relevant variable.

Implementations herein may solve some or all of the problems discussed above, and others, while effectively training a user of a firearm to properly squeeze a trigger. Such implementations may cause a shooter to learn muscle memory of proper finger placement and motion while squeezing a trigger. Additionally, implementations herein may further aid in maintaining the proper position of a shooter's trigger finger, for example, by maintaining the segment of the shooter's trigger finger from the first knuckle to the second knuckle parallel to the barrel of the firearm. Such positioning may allow a shooter to produce a more repeatable squeezing of the firearm's trigger.

Example 1

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of a firearm trigger spacing device 100, according to the present disclosure. The firearm trigger spacing device 100 may be utilized as a tactile and hands-on training device for shooters. This training may be utilized by a shooter to improve a variety of shooting skills, shooting habits, performance, and trigger finger management.

In the illustrated embodiment, the firearm trigger spacing device 100 comprises a band 104, which may define a through-cavity 102. The band 104, may be sized so as to fit around a given shooter's index finger, for example, such that the shooter's index finger may fit within the through-cavity 102. The through-cavity 102 may have dimensions similar to those found in jewelry, such that the inner diameter of through-cavity 102 spans 12 mm to 22.6 mm. In another embodiment, through-cavity 102 may have alternative dimensions to further its versatility to fit specific or unique sizes, such as so-called “ring sizes” (e.g., size 10 through size 18). The precise dimensions and characteristics of the band 104 may vary between embodiments so as to provide adaptability for a variety of shooter's hand and finger sizes. For example, the band 104 may be formed of an elastic or elastically deformable material such that the firearm trigger spacing device 100 may fit snugly around a shooter's index finger, or the band 104 may be stretched to accommodate larger trigger fingers.

The firearm trigger spacing device 100 (or flexible material thereof—e.g., soft rubber or silicone), may have a Shore A value of 10-100. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 10-50. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 15-35. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 15-30. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 15-25. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 20-25. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 25-35. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 35-45. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 45-50. In some embodiments, the firearm trigger spacing device may have a Shore A value of 50-100.

The firearm trigger spacing device 100 may be formed through compression molding, injection molding, additive manufacturing, or other similar methods. The forming the trigger spacing device 100 may occur at temperatures of −40 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In one embodiment, firearm trigger spacing device 100 may be formed using a compression mold comprising 42 cavities and a hardened steel mold base.

The firearm trigger spacing device 100 may be formed of a single material. A plurality of pieces of the same material with varying colors may be combined to achieve patterns such as camouflage. In some embodiments, a combination of differing materials with varying material characteristics may be combined to produce a single embodiment of the firearm trigger spacing device 100. In some embodiments, wt/wt (in grams) of a material or combination of materials will be used in forming the firearm trigger spacing device 100. The material characteristics of a given embodiment of the firearm trigger spacing device of the current disclosure may be seen in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Tensile Strength (Mpa)  >=6 Elongation (%) >=650  Tear Strength (KN/m)  10 Permanent Set (%) >=20 Durometer (Shore A) 15-35 Rebound Resilience (%) >=50 Density (g/cm3) 1.09 +/− 0.02

An exemplary example of a firearm trigger spacing device would exhibit a tensile strength of 6.05-6.61 Mpa, an elongation % of 1356-1366, a tear strength of 15.21-15.27 KN/m, a permanent set percent of 15, a durometer shore A value of 15-35, a rebound resilience percent of 58, and a density of 1.08-1.085 g/cm3. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the other values of the various properties listed in Table 1 may all change when the Shore A durometer value changes. In other words, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a durometer shore A value can encompass or reflect all or some of the other properties listed in Table 1. Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the durometer shore A value can be 15-30, 15-25, 15-20, 16-20, or about 18.

Without being bound to any particular theory, a durometer (Shore A) value too low (e.g., below 15) may not be suitable for certain embodiments, which may require enough structural rigidity to hold provide the benefits and needs disclosed herein. Similarly, a durometer (Shore A) value too high (e.g., above 35, or about 25, in some embodiments) may not be suitable for certain embodiments, which may require enough softness, flexibility, elasticity, etc. to be comfortably worn on the user's index or trigger finger and/or to not damage (e.g., scratch) a firearm.

Disposed along at least a portion of the outer circumference of the band 104 may be a ridge 106, as seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In some embodiments, the ridge 106 may have dimensions such that the width of the ridge 106 is smaller than the overall width of the band 104. The ridge 106 may be sized to provide structural rigidity to the band 104. The additional layer provided by the ridge 106 aids in not allowing the band 104 to become twisted or deformed during its placement or removal from the shooter's trigger finger. Furthermore, when a shooter is using the firearm trigger spacing device 100, the ridge 106 aid in limiting the deformation of the band 104 when the firearm trigger spacing device 100 is pressed firmly against the frame of the shooter's firearm. The ridge 106 allows the ring to maintain its shape and structure while being made out made the elastically deformable material, as herein described, without the need to be made, at least in part, by a more rigid material such as hard polymers, plastics, and metals. The ridge 106 may have dimensions such that it provides a surface area on which a logo, lettering, or otherwise may be molded, etched, printed, housed, or displayed without impacting the structural integrity of the band 104 itself. In some embodiments, the ridge 106 may be disposed about the outer circumference of the band 104, where the band 104 merges at either end into the lobe 108. In another embodiment, the ridge 106 may terminate at a point along the band 104 such that it tapers smoothly into the outer circumference face of the band 104. A shooter utilizing the firearm trigger spacing device 100 would benefit from the smooth transition of the ridge 106, as it provides a seamless design, and it limits the areas on which the firearm trigger spacing device 100 could catch.

Projecting from the outer surface of the band 104 may be a lobe 108. In some embodiments, the lobe 108 may be formed of the same materials as the band 104, as herein described. In some embodiments, the lobe 108 may be of homogonous construction to the body of the firearm trigger spacing device 100, such that the firearm trigger spacing device 100 is of single solid construction. The lobe 108 may be sized to provide support between the inside of the shooter's trigger finger and the frame of the firearm. The precise dimensions of the lobe 108 may, for example, be sized on a per-user basis, per-firearm basis, or on any other bases of various other sizing requirements. In some embodiments, a user would beneficially appreciate the deformable and elastic qualities of the materials that may be used in the production of the lobe 108. During the use of the firearm trigger spacing device 100, in these embodiments, the lobe 108 may slightly deform under the pressure of being pressed between the shooter's trigger finger and the firearm frame, such that it forms to the curves of the firearm frame, limiting the chance of shifting during its use.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate another embodiment of a firearm trigger spacing device 120, according to the present disclosure. The firearm trigger spacing device 120 may provide additional support for a shooter's finger, for example, through the use of two opposing lobes 128a and 128b. FIG. 2A further presents angles that may define the shape of the band 124, the ridge(s) 126a and 126b, and the lobe(s) 128a and 128b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the firearm trigger spacing device 120 comprises a band 124, which may define a through-cavity 122. The band 124, may be sized so as to fit around a given shooter's index finger, for example, such that the shooter's index finger may fit within the through-cavity 122. The through-cavity 122 may have dimensions similar to those found in jewelry, such that the inner diameter of through-cavity 122 spans 14 mm to 22.6 mm. The through-cavity 122 may have alternative dimensions to further its versatility to fit specific or unique sizes. The precise dimensions of the band 124 may vary between embodiments so as to provide for a variety of shooter's hand and finger sizes. For example, the band 124 may be formed of an elastic or elastically deformable material such that the firearm trigger spacing device 120 may fit snugly around a shooter's index finger, or the band 124 may be stretched to accommodate larger trigger fingers.

Disposed along at least a portion of the outer circumference of the band 124 may be ridges 126a and 126b, as seen in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the ridges 126a and 126b may have dimensions such that the width of the ridges 126a and 126b is smaller than the overall width of the band 124. The ridges 126a and 126b may be disposed on substantially opposite ends of the band 124. In some embodiments, the ridges 126a and 126b may have separate and distinct dimensions. The ridges 126a and 126b may be sized to provide structural rigidity to the band 124. The additional layer provided by the ridges 126a and 126b aid in preventing the band 124 from becoming twisted or deformed during its placement or removal from the shooter's trigger finger. Furthermore, when a shooter is using the firearm trigger spacing device 120, the ridges 126a and 126b aid in limiting the deformation of the band 124 when the firearm trigger spacing device 120 is pressed firmly against the frame of the shooter's firearm. The ridges 126a and 126b allows the ring to maintain its shape and structure while being made out made the elastically deformable material, as herein described, without the need to be made, at least in part, by wholly rigid materials such as hard polymers, plastics, and metals. The ridges 126a and 126b may have dimensions such that it provides a surface area on which a logo, lettering, or otherwise may be molded, etched, printed, or housed without potentially lowering the structural integrity of the band 124 itself. In some embodiments, the ridges 126a and 126b may be disposed about the outer circumference of the band 124, where their endpoints merge into either lobe 128a or 128b. In another embodiment, the ridges 126a and 126b may terminate at a point along the band 124 such that they taper smoothly into the outer circumference face of the band 124. The shooter utilizing the firearm trigger spacing device 120 would benefit from the merged and smooth transitions of the ridge as it provides a seamless design limiting the areas on which the firearm trigger spacing device 120 could catch.

Projecting from the outer surface of the band 124 may be the lobes 128a and 128b. The lobes 128a and 128b may be disposed on opposing ends of the band 124 outer circumference. In some embodiments, the lobes 128a and 128b may be formed of the same materials as the band 124, as herein described. In some embodiments, the lobes 128a and 128b may be of homogonous construction to the body of the firearm trigger spacing device 120, such that the firearm trigger spacing device 120 is of single solid construction. The lobe 128a may have different dimensions from lobe 128a. The lobes 128a and 128b may be sized to provide support between the inside of the shooter's trigger finger and the frame of the firearm. The addition of a second lobe allows a shooter to have different lobe sizes to easily change between to adjust for firearm frames, training styles, or other preferences/requirements. The additional lobe further allows for multiple shooters to benefit from a single firearm trigger spacing device. The precise dimensions of the lobes 128a and 128b may, for example, be sized on a per-user basis, per-firearm basis, or on any other bases of various other sizing requirements. In some embodiments, a user would beneficially appreciate the deformable and elastic qualities of the materials that may be used in the production of the lobes 128a and 128b. During the use of the firearm trigger spacing device 120, in some embodiments, the lobes 128a and 128b may slightly deform under the pressure of being pressed between the shooter's trigger finger and the firearm frame, such that it forms to the curves of the firearm frame, limiting the chance of shifting during its use. In some embodiments, the lobe 128a may have different material characteristics than the lobe 128b, allowing for a shooter to adapt to a variety of scenarios.

The dimensions of firearm trigger spacing device 120 may be seen in FIG. 2A. The presented dimensions are not meant to limit all embodiments of firearm trigger spacing devices, rather they illustrate a single viable embodiment. For example, in another embodiment, the lobe 128a may narrow at its distal end by 19.35 degrees to 23.65 degrees. Additionally, the distal end surface may curve back towards the band 124 by 10.98 degrees to 13.42 degrees. Further, the lobe 128b distal end may narrow by 22.86 degrees to 27.94 degrees. Additional embodiments may employ similar or different dimensions to adapt to a variety of shooter's hand and finger sizes, as well as firearm sizes or dimensions.

FIG. 3 illustrates a shooting system 140 incorporating a firearm trigger spacing device 144, according to an embodiment. The shooting system 140 may enable a shooter to improve their accuracy when shooting. The shooting system 140 may be utilized by a shooter for training and developing discipline in managing the position of the shooter's trigger finger.

The shooting system 140 may be used by a shooter having a trigger finger 146, and the shooting system 140 may include the firearm trigger spacing device 144 and a firearm 142 (e.g., a pistol). The shooter may fit the firearm trigger spacing device 144 to the shooter's trigger finger 146 to provide for spacing between the shooter's trigger finger 146 and the frame of the firearm 142. In some embodiments, the firearm may be a handgun, a long gun, a firearm, an “any other weapon,” or any similarly designated device. In some embodiments, the trigger finger of a shooter may be a finger other than the shooter's index finger. The firearm trigger spacing device 144 may be of any of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method 160 of using a firearm trigger spacing device, according to an embodiment. The method 160 may provide for a shooter to utilize a firearm trigger spacing device as disclosed herein to improve shooting accuracy, increase grip comfort, and to train in proper trigger finger management.

At 162, a firearm trigger spacing device may be placed on a finger of a shooter. At 164, the shooter may grip a firearm. At 166, the shooter may place the shooter's finger having the firearm trigger spacing device there on the trigger of the firearm. At 168, the shooter may squeeze the trigger, therefore discharging the firearm and, with the use of the firearm trigger spacing device, minimizing the effects of shifting the firearm away from their chosen target while squeezing the trigger.

Example 2

The ornamental design for a firearm trigger spacing device as shown and described.

CONCLUSION

While the foregoing detailed description makes reference to specific exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Accordingly, the described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. For instance, various substitutions, alterations, and/or modifications of the inventive features described and/or illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles described and/or illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, can be made to the described and/or illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Such substitutions, alterations, and/or modifications are to be considered within the scope of this disclosure.

The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. The limitations recited in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to specific examples described in the foregoing detailed description, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive and non-exhaustive. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

It will also be appreciated that various features of certain embodiments can be compatible with, combined with, included in, and/or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. For instance, systems, methods, and/or products according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise features described in other embodiments disclosed and/or described herein. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment.

In addition, unless a feature is described as being requiring in a particular embodiment, features described in the various embodiments can be optional and may not be included in other embodiments of the present disclosure. Moreover, unless a feature is described as requiring another feature in combination therewith, any feature herein may be combined with any other feature of a same or different embodiment disclosed herein. It will be appreciated that while features may be optional in certain embodiments, when features are included in such embodiments, they can be required to have a specific configuration as described in the present disclosure.

Likewise, any steps recited in any method or process described herein and/or recited in the claims can be executed in any suitable order and are not necessarily limited to the order described and/or recited, unless otherwise stated (explicitly or implicitly). Such steps can, however, also be required to be performed in a specific order or any suitable order in certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

Furthermore, various well-known aspects of illustrative systems, methods, products, and the like are not described herein in particular detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of the example embodiments. Such aspects are, however, also contemplated herein.

Elements of processes (i.e., methods) described herein may be executed in one or more ways such as by a human, by a processing device, by mechanisms operating automatically or under human control, and so forth. Additionally, although various elements of a process may be depicted in the figures in a particular order, the elements of the process may be performed in one or more different orders without departing from the substance and spirit of the disclosure herein.

The foregoing description sets forth numerous specific details such as examples of specific systems, components, methods and so forth, in order to provide a good understanding of several implementations. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that at least some implementations may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail or are presented in simple block diagram format in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present implementations. Thus, the specific details set forth above are merely exemplary. Particular implementations may vary from these exemplary details and still be contemplated to be within the scope of the present implementations.

Related elements in the examples and/or embodiments described herein may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity and clarity, related elements may not be redundantly explained. Instead, the use of a same, similar, and/or related element names and/or reference characters may cue the reader that an element with a given name and/or associated reference character may be similar to another related element with the same, similar, and/or related element name and/or reference character in an example explained elsewhere herein. Elements specific to a given example may be described regarding that particular example. A person having ordinary skill in the art will understand that a given element need not be the same and/or similar to the specific portrayal of a related element in any given figure or example in order to share features of the related element.

It is to be understood that the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many other implementations will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. The scope of the present implementations should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

The foregoing disclosure encompasses multiple distinct examples with independent utility. While these examples have been disclosed in a particular form, the specific examples disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter disclosed herein includes novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above both explicitly and inherently. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims is to be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more of such elements.

The Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed examples that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Examples embodied in other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same example or a different example and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the examples described herein.

Claims

1. A firearm trigger spacing device, comprising:

a band comprising an outer circumference, a through-cavity, a first lobe, and a ridge; wherein said through-cavity is substantially circular; wherein said first lobe extends radially from the outer circumference; wherein said ridge is disposed about a portion of the outer circumference, and the ridge having a width smaller than the width of the outer circumference.

2. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein the band is made from an injection-molded deformable elastomeric material.

3. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, further comprises a second lobe that extends radially from the outer circumference.

4. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 3, wherein the second lobe extends substantially opposite the outer circumference from the first lobe.

5. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein a material of the firearm trigger spacing device has a Shore A value of the material is 25-30.

6. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein a material of the firearm trigger spacing device has a Shore A value of the material is 1-50.

7. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein a material of the firearm trigger spacing device has a Shore A value of the material is 50-100.

8. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein the first lobe extends 0.25-0.75 inches from the outer circumference.

9. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein the first lobe has a rounded exterior surface.

10. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein the first lobe has substantially squared edges.

11. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein a distal end of the first lobe tapers, narrowing the distal end of the first lobe

12. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 11, wherein the distal end of the first lobe narrows by 21.5 degrees.

13. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1, wherein a distal end's surface of the first lobe concavely curves towards the band.

14. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 13, wherein the curvature is approximately 12.2 degrees proximally towards the band.

15. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 3, wherein the second lobe has dimensions different from the first lobe.

16. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 3, wherein the first lobe and second lobe have a rounded exterior surface.

17. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 3, wherein the first lobe and second lobe have substantially squared edges.

18. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 3, wherein a distal end of the second lobe tapers, narrowing the distal end of the first lobe.

19. The firearm trigger spacing device of claim 11, wherein the distal end of the first lobe narrows by 25.4 degrees.

20. A system, comprising:

the firearm trigger spacing device of claim 1; and
an firearm apparatus having a frame and a trigger.
Patent History
Publication number: 20250076003
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 6, 2023
Publication Date: Mar 6, 2025
Inventor: KEVIN KLIPPEL (PROVO, UT)
Application Number: 18/462,377
Classifications
International Classification: F41G 3/26 (20060101);