For Pistols Patents (Class 42/71.02)
  • Patent number: 7765999
    Abstract: An apparatus for firing a projectile, such as a paintball, that comprises a trigger frame assembly that is detachable from either a mechanical cartridge or an electronic cartridge. The trigger frame assembly includes a trigger, a sear, and a frame on which the trigger and the sear are mounted. The trigger has a mechanical actuating surface and an electronic actuating surface. Both the mechanical cartridge and the electronic cartridge are configured to selectively attach to and detach from the frame. It is an aspect of the invention to allow a user to selectively and readily convert the apparatus between mechanical firing actuation and electronic firing actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: KEE Action Sports II LLC
    Inventors: Aaron A. Stephens, Yin Bun Bernard Luk, Hin Wong
  • Patent number: 7748153
    Abstract: A grip (10) of a firearm (12), particularly of a gun, comprises a body (14) extending substantially in a development direction (16) and a gripping portion (20) removably mounted on the body (14) in a rear area with reference to a trigger of the weapon. The gripping portion (20) at least partially envelops and covers a rear surface (14a) and a tract of side surfaces (14b) of the body (14). Means for locking the gripping portion (20) on the body (14) operating in an inserting direction (24) transversal to the development direction (16) are arranged in at least one side portion of the body (14) and the gripping portion (20) and comprise first strikes (52) associated with the gripping portion (20) and offset in the development direction (16) relative to second strikes (54) associated with the body. Interference means are interposed between the first and second strikes (52, 54) for locking the gripping portion (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Fabrica D/Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A.
    Inventor: Ugo Gussalli Beretta
  • Patent number: 7739821
    Abstract: A lightweight, compact, collapsible, and easily concealed pistol. The pistol has a barrel and a handgrip which are pivotally attached to the frame. The barrel is locked to the frame by a barrel lock. Operation of the barrel lock releases the barrel, allowing the barrel to pivot for reloading. In the collapsed position, the handgrip folds to cover the frame and the trigger, which is retracted therein. In the firing position, the handgrip is rotated away from the barrel, and locks in place via grip locks disposed in the frame, and the trigger extends from the frame. The hammer is pivotally attached to the frame. The hammer incorporates a firing pin. A safety located on the hammer retracts the firing pin within the hammer to prevent firing the pistol in the safe position, and extends the firing pin to fire the pistol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Wayne Eugene Hamme
  • Publication number: 20100132238
    Abstract: For an exchangeable adapter assembly 100 for a handle frame 120 of a handgun comprising a trigger 150 and a handle 160, into which a magazine 130 including a magazine base 131 can be inserted, the handle 160 having a front region 161 close to the handle and a rear region 162 more remote from the handle, a quick changeover is ensured in that in the rear 162 and front 161 regions of the handle frame at least one adapter element 125/126 is provided which cooperates with a rear 102 and front 103 adapter piece of a grip enhancer 100 for attachment of the grip enhancer 100 to the handle frame 120, and in the rear part 162 of the handle frame 120 there is also provided at least one eyelet device 123 which, when the grip enhancer 100 is attached to the handle frame 120, positively engages a bore 101 in the grip enhancer 100, into which a securing pin 140 can be releasably inserted in order to releasably connect the grip enhancer 100 to the handle frame 120.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: Martin Werner, Wulf-Heinz Pflaumer, Franz Wonisch
  • Patent number: 7694449
    Abstract: The present invention comprises plastic pistols and individual parts therefore having an increased use of plastic in comparison to prior art plastic pistols, reducing the number and simplifying the design of the metal parts to reduce the cost of the pistols while still maintaining gun quality. One aspect of the invention is the use of plastic in certain critical areas, simplifying the configuration of the metal inserts used. In many cases, this can eliminate expensive machining of metal parts in favor of parts injection molded to finished dimensions. In that regard, legal requirements can still be met with respect to metal content, yet that metal content may be simplified in configuration for ease of manufacture. Certain preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: James V. Pontillo, II
  • Patent number: 7603996
    Abstract: A structure for changing gas cylinder for air guns and paintball guns including a bottle frame having a lateral through hole on a gun handle, a prop screwed at the bottom of the bottle frame for moving the gas cylinder upwardly and downwardly, a valve installed at the top of the bottle frame and connected to a gas supply valve tube, a track disposed along both sides of the handle and latched by an embedded member of a U-shape handle cover. The U-shape handle cover is movable along the track between open and closed positions. The gas cylinder can be unloaded from and loaded into the bottle frame without removing the prop or the U-shape handle cover. The U-shape handle cover can be pushed forward along the track to completely seal the pressurized gas cylinder to form a handle without completely removing the prop or the U-shape handle cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Wilson Wei
  • Patent number: 7587852
    Abstract: A firearm handgun grip portion invention that includes the handgun grip portion of a handgun frame with a forward grip portion and a rear grip portion with the rear grip portion having connecting means for removably connecting a plurality of removable and replaceable grip portions to the rear grip portion of the handgun frame. The removable and replaceable grip portions are connected to and removed from the handgun grip portion of a handgun frame through a sliding motion with a projecting rib portion on the handgun grip portion sliding into and out of slots located in the removable and replaceable grip portions. Portions of the removable and replaceable grip portions are retained in a well to prevent them from spreading under pressure. The removable and replaceable grip portions have different configurations including grip portions with different sizes and different shapes, including the shape of another type of handgun such as the well known Model 1911 pistol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: CCF RaceFrames LLC
    Inventor: Raymond E. Harms
  • Patent number: 7552557
    Abstract: A pivotable shoulder stock for use in combination with a handgun includes a mirror and allows the user to aim and fire an equipped laser handgun around the corner of a building or other obstacle. The user is able to fire with relative accuracy from behind a building or other obstacle using the mirror attached to the shoulder stock. The mirror can be adjustably positioned for viewing in order to fire the handgun at about a ninety degree (90°) angle in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The mirror can be revolved to a downward posture when firing the handgun in a linear direction similar to a rifle or for storage purposes. The pivotable shoulder stock is relatively simple to operate and can be quickly adjusted by latching the second section against the first section for use as a hand weapon rather than being shoulder fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: James B. Mabry
  • Patent number: 7506469
    Abstract: A configurable firearm grip is provided in which a removable portion thereof can be selected by the user based on the user's preference. For example, backstraps of various forms, thicknesses, and textures can be fitted to a handgun depending upon if the handgun is to be used for target shooting, competitive target shooting, hunting, personal protection, or any other shooting activity, or to accommodate varying hand sizes. The backstrap can be removed and installed without the use of tools. Cooperative portions on the inner surfaces of the backstrap and the rearward portion of the grip facilitate the registration of the backstrap with a fixed portion in preparation for the insertion of a locking element. The backstrap is able to be secured on the fixed grip portion of the handgun with one hand while the locking element is inserted through the backstrap and the fixed grip portion with the other hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Michael J. Poulin, Sean O'Clair
  • Patent number: 7472507
    Abstract: A firearm includes a frame, a slide, and modular sear and trigger mechanism housings. The frame has fore and rear receptacles integrally formed therein, e.g., upwardly open compartments accessible from the top of the frame. The modular housings house one or more operational components of the firearm, e.g., trigger and sear components, and are configured for “drop in” insertion into the receptacles. Each housing also includes a set of integral slide rails. For assembly, the operational components are attached to the modular housings, and the housings are dropped into the receptacles and secured to the frame. The slide is operably positioned on the slide rails for reciprocating movement thereon. The frame is provided without integral rails and other features for supporting the operational components. Instead, the rails are provided as part of the modular, drop-in sear and trigger mechanism housings, which also support the operational components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Brett Curry, Michael J. Poulin
  • Patent number: 7437847
    Abstract: A pivotable shoulder stock for a handgun allows the user to aim and fire a handgun around the corner of a building or other obstacle. The user is able to fire with relative accuracy from behind a building or other obstacle using a mirror attached to the shoulder stock. The mirror can be adjustably positioned for viewing in order to fire the handgun at about a ninety degree (90°) angle in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The mirror can be removed when firing the handgun in a linear direction similar to a rifle or for storage purposes. The pivotable shoulder stock is relatively simple to operate and can be quickly adjusted while under assault conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Inventor: James B. Mabry
  • Patent number: 7322143
    Abstract: A semiautomatic handgun has a frame, a barrel mounted on the frame and having a chamber for receiving a cartridge, a slide mounted on the frame and over the barrel and longitudinally movable relative to the frame and the barrel, a firing mechanism for striking the cartridge, and a trigger for releasing the firing mechanism. The barrel has a peripheral wall portion extending from the chamber, a cylindrical portion forming a front terminal end of the barrel, and a conical portion disposed between and contiguous with each of the peripheral wall portion and the cylindrical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Rohrbaugh Firearms Corp.
    Inventors: Karl Rohrbaugh, Steven F. Reuter, Anthony Reda, Geoff Gliebe
  • Patent number: 7287455
    Abstract: A safety panel is attachable to the grip of a handgun that stores rounds in the grip and that has at least one opening in the frame of the grip through which hot gases and shrapnel may pass in a blowout. The safety panel is a plate that completely covers the openings and that has no apertures through it in a portion that is over an opening. The plate may have screw holes through it for attaching it to the frame. It also may have indentations in its periphery for an ambidextrous thumb safety, a mainspring housing pin, and a magazine release clearance. The safety panel is attached to the grip of the gun by removing the grip cover, inserting the safety panel in between the frame and the grip cover, and re-fastening the grip cover to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventors: Marianne M. Key-Carniak, Fred D. Vincent, IV
  • Patent number: 7216450
    Abstract: A handgun including a one-piece frame assembly including a slide interface portion, a grip portion and a trigger guard, wherein the frame assembly includes at least two portions that have different hardnesses, and a firing assembly that includes a slide supported for reciprocal longitudinal sliding movement on the slide interface portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Dov Pikielny
  • Patent number: 7191556
    Abstract: A magazine sleeve attachable to a magazine and including a front strap, a back strap and side panels extending between the front and back straps, wherein the front and back straps and side panels are configured to substantially match an outer contour and/or texture of a grip of a given manufacturer's handgun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Dov Pikielny
  • Patent number: 7124528
    Abstract: The invented firearm pistol grip monopod gun stabilizer reduces rifle movement to improve the shooter's aim by using an adjustable elongated member connected inside the firearms pistol grip. A threaded rod assembly provides a means for precise height adjustment while a footpad resting on a supporting surface provides stability during recoil, and while the front of the firearm rest on a bi-pod or other support. A head cap screw on one end of the monopod gun stabilizer connects it to the firearm and a footpad on the other end of the monopod gun stabilizer rests on the ground. In between the two ends a female tubular assembly and a threaded rod assembly provide for precise adjustment for targeting. The monopod gun stabilizer threads into it self for transport and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Matthew Wayne Long
  • Patent number: 7117622
    Abstract: A two-piece snap-on magazine adapter for a handgun. This magazine adapter provides a relatively continuous surface between the handgun and locked extended length magazine to afford the handgun user with a comfortable grip among other benefits. In the preferred embodiment, the magazine adapter has two snap together pieces: a main body and an end cap. The main body has an interior pocket configuration contoured to capture the magazine floor plate. The main body of the device is then captured by an end cap that locks via a detent mechanism onto the main adapter body. The magazine adapter fits completely around the magazine such that when the magazine is locked into the handgun, the resulting grip provides a smooth, continuous and comfortable fit between the extended length magazine's floor plate and the butt of the handgun's grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventors: Robert M. Freed, Gregory M. Somers
  • Patent number: 7117623
    Abstract: Frame construction for a firearm (10) with a frame (18) and a slide (12) constrained to move longitudinally between a forward and a rearward position but which is also removable from the frame. A recess (39) in the side of the frame contains the Kammer trigger mechanism (26, 38) that is accessible through a side opening (40) in the frame. A thin side plate (42) drops over the side opening and is held at its side edges and bottom edge by flanges (50) an the side plate overlapping congruent grooves in the frame and is held in place an top by the slide. After removing the slide in the conventional manner, the side plate can be slide upwardly and removed using a finger cutout (48) in the side plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventor: Wildey J. Moore
  • Patent number: 6993864
    Abstract: A locking block mechanism for a compact semiautomatic pistol includes a pair of forward guide rails, which are normally separate from the locking block. Additionally, the locking block includes transverse ribs on the sides of the locking block, which engage mating slots in the polymeric frame of the pistol and secure the block to the frame. The guide rails and transverse ribs are separated by a space or discontinuity on the side wall of the locking block. The guide rails include chamfered front and rear edge surfaces and arcuate, convex bottom surfaces. The above-mentioned features function to create a durable locking block that allows for the construction of a pistol that is more compact than prior art designs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Sean O'Clair, Michael J. Poulin, Kevin G. Foley
  • Patent number: 6941693
    Abstract: A paintball gun is disclosed which includes a data link for transferring data to and/or from a remote terminal. The link may be a contact or contactless one. A removable data carrier may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: NPF Limited
    Inventors: John Ronald Rice, Nicholas John Marks
  • Patent number: 6928764
    Abstract: The present invention provides a grip extender for a handgun. The grip extender provides a relatively continuous surface between the handgun and locked magazine to afford the handgun user with a comfortable grip. The grip extender can be adapted to fit a variety of handguns and magazines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Freed Designs Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Freed
  • Patent number: 6874266
    Abstract: A device to provide storage of a firearm cartridge (26) within a firearm frame cavity (30) consisting of an insert body (10) shaped to fit within the frame cavity of the firearm while securely holding the firearm cartridge. The insert body contains a pair of rigid poles (12,14) attached to a pair of half disks (32,34) that secure the inserted cartridge by tensions created due to the rigidity of the poles when the inserted firearm cartridge forces the poles to their proximal positions. During insertion to the firearm frame cavity, the rigid stopper support (44) of the insert body is urged to its proximal position, but returns to its distal position when the stopper (18) engages the lanyard hole (48) of the frame cavity. Applying a downward force to the front bottom edge (24) of the insert body forces the rigid stopper support back to its proximal position and disengages the stopper from the lanyard hole facilitating removal of the insert body with the stored firearm cartridge still attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Larry Shuming Kong
  • Patent number: 6860053
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a grip fractioning pattern for any object, but specifically designed for handgun and rifle grips. The pattern consists of a series of spaces frusto-conical projections regularly spaced about the surface of the weapon's grip. Alternatively, the series may be interrupted by an interspaced series of pyramids, with their points not extending above the height of the frusto-conical projections. The grip pattern may be utilized in any circumstance where a user desires greater and more comfortable friction when gripping an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Ned F. Christiansen
  • Patent number: 6854205
    Abstract: A grip for attachment to a firearm is provided. The grip includes an internal battery storage chamber having at least one inwardly stepped storage cavity that includes a plurality of battery compartments for storing a plurality of batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventors: Timothy Carver Wikle, Timothy John Bowman, Jeffrey Matthew Cahill
  • Publication number: 20040211104
    Abstract: A gunstock is presented which is individually capable of mounting a diverse assortment of long gun firearms. It is comprised of three primary components, these being a buttstock, a bedding chassis, and a forestock. These components are removably attached to one another, thereby permitting selective assembly and disassembly of the gunstock. The bedding chassis, which is the component that is attached to the firearm's action and barrel assembly, can be configured to accommodate various types of firearms. The utility of the gunstock derives from the fact that different types of firearms can be mounted to individual bedding chassis, which can be removably and interchangeably installed in the gunstock. Further, the bedding chassis acts as a base onto which components with varied configurations can be attached, permitting a firearm to be modularly reconfigured as circumstances warrant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Glen Richard Eberle
  • Patent number: 6804907
    Abstract: An anatomical hand grip for a firearm is disclosed providing a trigger finger support protrusion for the positioning of the mid-portion of the distal phalanx of the index trigger finger directly on the trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Gregory Slobodkin
  • Patent number: 6802148
    Abstract: A target grip for a firearm comprising insertable and removable trigger finger support inserts for a side panel of the grip for enabling the distal portion of a user's trigger finger to contact a trigger perpendicular to the trigger for more shooting accuracy and consistency. Various size trigger finger target grip extender inserts may be inserted into the firearm grip and removed until the proper size insert is found. The target grip extender insert is secured by a friction fit or by a clip on the end of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Gregory A. Danas
  • Publication number: 20040111946
    Abstract: A grip for attachment to a firearm is provided. The grip includes an internal battery storage chamber having at least one inwardly stepped storage cavity that includes a plurality of battery compartments for storing a plurality of batteries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy Carver Wikle, Timothy John Bowman, Jeffrey Matthew Cahill
  • Publication number: 20040107621
    Abstract: A posture grip referring to a grip configuration to be used in arms and, more specifically, in arms of predominantly manual support and/or function, such as revolvers, pistols, carbines, rifles, etc. Such a grip incorporates known scientific knowledge of orthopedic medicine and concepts such as “functional position,” “precision grip,” “opposition,” and “awkward position,” in referring to the precise position that a user's hand and forearm assume during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Julio Abel Segalle
  • Patent number: 6729061
    Abstract: A coupling device for enabling an elongated item of police equipment to be rapidly employed as a shoulder stock for use with a handgun includes a rigid mounting ring having a forwardly directed rigid prong, and a diametrically located set screw for adjustable engagement with the elongated item. The prong is adapted to fit within a recess at the base of the handgrip of a handgun, thereby establishing stabilized joinder with the handgun. Suitable elongated items include batons and flashlights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Rogers P. DeJarnette, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6726072
    Abstract: A clip for a handgun allows the handgun to be carried either on a belt or in a holster. The clip includes a mounting plate, removably attached to the handgun, and a clip portion which is screwed onto the mounting plate. The mounting plate is preferably affixed to the handgun using a double-sided adhesive. The position of the mounting plate can be changed, and the mounting plate can also be moved to an entirely different handgun. The clip of the present invention can therefore be used with a wide variety of handguns. When the clip portion is attached, the handgun can be carried on a belt or other non-holstered holding device. When the clip portion is removed, the handgun can be stored in a holster, with the mounting plate still attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Skyline Toolworks LLC
    Inventor: John B. Rugh
  • Patent number: 6711819
    Abstract: Firearms having scandium containing aluminum alloy components having alloying elements including light weight metals, such as magnesium, chromium, copper and zinc, heavier metals, such as zirconium, and other rare earth metals. The components have yield strengths of 82 to 100 KSI, tensile strengths of 88 to 106 KSI, 12 to 19% elongation's, and 7 to 10% reduction areas, and a method for heat treating the scandium containing aluminum alloy. The alloy is composed of 0.05% to 0.15% scandium, 7.5% to 8.3% zinc, 1.6% to 2.2% magnesium, 1.6% to 2.0% copper, 0.02% to 0.04% chromium, 0.05% to 0.15% zirconium, and 87 to 90% aluminum. A method for making the components involves exposure to solution heat treatment of 875° F. for an hours or two, followed by water quench, natural aging at ambient temperature for 24 to 72 hours, artificial aging at 250° F. for 24 hours, and allowed to air cool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Stall, Jeffrey Luty, Kevin R. Fleury, Norman W. Spencer
  • Publication number: 20040049963
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a grip fractioning pattern for any object, but specifically designed for handgun and rifle grips. The pattern consists of a series of spaces frusto-conical projections regularly spaced about the surface of the weapon's grip. Alternatively, the series may be interrupted by an interspaced series of pyramids, with their points not extending above the height of the frusto-conical projections. The grip pattern may be utilized in any circumstance where a user desires greater and more comfortable friction when gripping an object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Ned F. Christiansen
  • Patent number: 6698127
    Abstract: The modified magazine bottom (32 is provided with the two lateral cheeks (33′ or 33″) and the prisms (34′ or 34″) which provide for a slide fit in combination with lateral grooves existing on a pistol stock. The magazine with the magazine bottom (32) can thereby be fastened to the pistol stock and used as a support grip. The latch (32f) acts as a spring catch in combination with the transverse groove at the bottom of the pistol stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Christoph Weber
  • Publication number: 20040031181
    Abstract: The present invention provides a grip extender for a handgun. The grip extender provides a relatively continuous surface between the handgun and locked magazine to afford the handgun user with a comfortable grip. The grip extender can be adapted to fit a variety of handguns and magazines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Freed
  • Patent number: 6658781
    Abstract: A grip that can be easily attached to and removed from a handgun or a rifle. In the case of a handgun, the grip is easily slipped onto the gun frame ahead of the trigger guard, and it extends downwardly with the exterior surface containing soft and comfortable finger grips for the other hand of the user. In the case of a rifle, the grip is provided at its upper end with a quick detachable mechanism that can be quickly attached and removed from the conventional mounting base on the under side of the stock of the rifle. The grip is provided with a soft material on its exterior surface with finger grips so that the rifle can be comfortably gripped by the user and allow the rifle to be held steadily when aiming and shooting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Steadyhold Products, LLC
    Inventor: Gary Bowen
  • Patent number: 6609322
    Abstract: An ergonomic and proprioceptive handle design for instruments is disclosed. The handle can be used with a wide variety of medical instruments, such as a rongeur, as well as other instruments, such as guns and staplers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Karlin Michelson
  • Patent number: 6574898
    Abstract: Revolver frame and barrel assembly including a frame, a barrel shroud carrying a sight and keyed in sight alignment with the frame, and a generally cylindrical barrel having a rifled bore and extending through the barrel shroud and threadably engaged in the frame retaining the shroud in assembly with the frame. An assembly tool engaged with and complementing the rifling grooves in the barrel applies predetermined torque to the barrel to assemble it with the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Norman Spencer, William T. Oakley, Craig Albert Mariani, Richard Frederick Mikuta, Kevin Richard Fleury, Brett Curry, Richard Anthony Picard, Joseph A. Galarneau, James Valley
  • Patent number: 6557289
    Abstract: Firearms having scandium containing aluminum alloy components having alloying elements including light weight metals, such as magnesium, chromium, copper and zinc, heavier metals, such as zirconium, and other rare earth metals. The components have yield strengths of 82 to 100 KSI, tensile strengths of 88 to 106 KSI, 12 to 19% elongation's, and 7 to 10% reduction areas, and a method for heat treating the scandium containing aluminum alloy. The alloy is composed of 0.05% to 0.15% scandium, 7.5% to 8.3% zinc, 1.6% to 2.2% magnesium, 1.6% to 2.0% copper, 0.02% to 0.04% chromium, 0.05% to 0.15% zirconium, and 87 to 90% aluminum. A method for making the components involves exposure to solution heat treatment of 875° F. for an hours or two, followed by water quench, natural aging at ambient temperature for 24 to 72 hours, artificial aging at 250° F. for 24 hours, and allowed to air cool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Stall, Jeffrey Luty, Kevin R. Fleury, Norman W. Spencer
  • Patent number: 6536152
    Abstract: A storage compartment forming insert fits within the hollow compartment of a firearm grip assembly to create a storage compartment. The insert generally includes a base and a resilient member extending therefrom. The base defines an outer dimension that provides an interference fit within the hollow compartment. By maintaining the base under tension at the interference fit, the storage compartment is effectively impervious to water. To insert or remove objects within the storage compartment, one need only pull the base. The resilient members stretch and the open end of the grip becomes accessible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: David L. Wisz
  • Patent number: 6526683
    Abstract: A system and method for manufacturing a mid-grip high-powered pistol by modifying an existing rifle receiver, wherein a portion of the original trigger is removed, a new trigger is added in a position forward of the partially removed original trigger, and the new trigger is coupled to the remaining portion of the original trigger via an extension, wherein a recoil lug is added to the rifle receiver to handle the recoil, a plurality of different length barrels can be coupled to the new pistol, and a pivot pin diameter and location of a forearm lug prevent creation of an illegal rifle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: N. Eugene Crandall
  • Publication number: 20030037474
    Abstract: The modified magazine bottom (32 is provided with the two lateral cheeks (33′ or 33″) and the prisms (34′ or 34″) which provide for a slide fit in combination with lateral grooves existing on a pistol stock. The magazine with the magazine bottom (32) can thereby be fastened to the pistol stock and used as a support grip. The latch (32f) acts as a spring catch in combination with the transverse groove at the bottom of the pistol stock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Christoph Weber
  • Publication number: 20020170224
    Abstract: A finger grip enhancer for mounting on a selected location on firearms, hand tools and other items having handles or grips for providing an improved finger gripping surface. The grip enhancer can comprise flexible or rigid materials having a high coefficient of friction for an improved gripping surface. The grip enhancer includes a finger grip body, having a top, a bottom and a back surface. The back surface is preferably adapted for receiving an adhesive thereon and attaching the grip enhancer on the selected location on the firearm or the hand tool The finger grip body also includes an ergonomic shaped front finger surface having a top portion tapered downwardly and outwardly into a lower knob portion. The lower knob portion is adapted for receiving a portion of the bottom of a finger and the top of an adjacent finger of the user and preventing slippage thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Albert J. Lawless
  • Patent number: 6401379
    Abstract: A handgun frame assembly includes a frame member composed of polymer material. A metallic, one-piece, front structural member has a transverse connector encased in the front end portion of the floor of the frame member and right and left rail segments extending laterally inward from the interior surfaces of right and left side walls of the frame member, respectively. A metallic, one-piece, rear structural member has a transverse connector encased in the rear end portion of the floor of the frame member and right and left rail segments extending laterally outward from the exterior surfaces of the right and left side walls, respectively. A slide is supported on the rail segments of the front and rear structural members for reciprocal sliding movement between battery and retired positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Kook-Jin Moon
  • Patent number: 6367187
    Abstract: A holster stock for pistols comprises a shoulder piece (11) and a holding part (12). The pistol has a housing (2) with a grip (3) which projects downward and is at least partially hollow, and has a slide (5) which is guided on the upper part (4) of the housing. The holding part (12) of the holster stock is attached to the grip (3) of the pistol. To combine a firm connection to the pistol with a good grip feel, the holding part (12) has a lower strut (14) and an upper strut (13). The struts run approximately in the firing direction. The lower strut (14) ends in a guide strip (20) which points upward and is inserted from underneath the grip (3) into guides (35) in the interior of the grip (3) while the upper strut (13) bears against the upper part (4) of the housing (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Wilhelm Bubits
  • Publication number: 20020020100
    Abstract: A semiautomatic handgun having multiple safeties includes a body made in two halves and a slide which can move lengthwise on a pair of rails. The hammer is cocked by rearward movement of the slide. The trigger, which has purely translation motion, is blocked from behind except when the user is wearing a special magnetic ring on his trigger finger. A decocker mechanism pushes the firing pin forward and slides the sear back, and prevents release of the hammer until the firing pin is blocked. The firing pin is normally blocked by a cup, which prevents the firing pin from moving forward if the gun is dropped. The cup is moved to an inactive position by a release lever only when the trigger is pulled. A safety lock, which is preferably operated by a special tool, prevents the transfer bar from moving. The firing pin block lever is locked in a downward position when the safety is activated. A hammer block bar prevents the hammer from moving when the safety is on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventors: Albert Roca, Ray Wilson
  • Patent number: 6318014
    Abstract: An adapter for converting a handgun into a rifle or carbine. The adapter includes an elongated member having a stock and a pair of sidewalls forming a cavity. A pair of guide rails is positioned on an inner edge of the cavity, and a locking bar is mounted within the sidewalls and extends across the cavity. The locking bar is selectively positionable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A handgun mounts into the adapter by aligning channels on the outer edge of the handgun into the guide rails. The handgun is slid along the guide rails and into the locking mechanism for attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Richard R. Porter
  • Patent number: 6301818
    Abstract: A synthetic grip for a handgun (specifically a revolver) that does not require any separate attaching components. The grip is attached to the handle frame by engaging the existing frame stock pin with the grip's own spring tension resiliency. The grip has a U-shaped molded assembly having a front wall portion and two side wall portions extending rearwardly from the outer edges of the front wall portion for engaging the side walls of the handle frame. Each side wall portion has a groove in its inner surface extending substantially from its top end to its bottom end thereby forming a track for receiving the opposite ends of the stock pin extending outwardly from the side walls of the handle frame. Adjacent the bottom end of each of the grooves is a recess that captures the ends of the stock pin. The grip is preferably made from a hard plastic U-shaped core member that has been overmolded with a resilient layer of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Patrick L. Hogue
  • Patent number: 6266908
    Abstract: Revolver frame and barrel assembly including a frame, a barrel shroud carrying a sight and keyed in sight alignment with the frame, and a generally cylindrical barrel having a rifled bore and extending through the barrel shroud and threadably engaged in the frame retaining the shroud in assembly with the frame. An assembly tool engaged with and complementing the rifling grooves in the barrel applies predetermined torque to the barrel to assemble it with the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Norman Spencer, William T. Oakley, Craig Albert Mariani, Richard Frederick Mikuta, Kevin Richard Fleury, Brett Curry, Richard Anthony Picard, Joseph A. Galarneau, James Valley
  • Patent number: 6260301
    Abstract: The pistol comprises a housing composed of plastic and a barrel slide (which contains a barrel and a breech and is guided in the longitudinal direction with respect to the housing) as well as a trigger mechanism. In order to allow plastics technology to be used to a large extent, with high precision and easy assembly, a single multifunction part, which is composed of metal, is inserted removably into the housing, on which multifunction part the guides for the barrel slide are formed and in which the elements of the trigger mechanism are mounted and guided. The multifunction part has a hole which holds the disassembly lever shaft and thus produces the connection between the housing and the multifunction part. Furthermore, a recess for a projection of the multifunction part is provided in the rear wall of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Steyr Mannlicher AG & Co KG
    Inventors: Friedrich Aigner, Wilhelm Bubits