Understanding the AR10 Charging Handle
What is an AR10 Charging Handle?
The charging handle is the key component that allows you to manually cycle the action of your AR10 rifle. It’s a crucial piece, used to: Chamber the first round, Clear malfunctions, Unlock the bolt for disassembly.
Common Challenges
Common challenges with the standard charging handle are immediately apparent once you use an AR10 under different conditions:
- **Limited Reach and Ergonomics:** The standard design can be tricky to manipulate, especially with bulky gloves on or under stress. The small size and sometimes slippery surface make it difficult to get a firm grip, particularly in adverse weather conditions or if you’re running a scope with limited space for manipulation.
- **Durability Concerns:** Some standard charging handles, particularly those manufactured with less robust materials, are susceptible to bending or breaking, especially under heavy use or when experiencing malfunctions. This can be a critical failure in a self-defense scenario.
Key Features to Consider
- **Material Matters:**
- Aluminum Alloys: Commonly used for their balance of strength and weight, aluminum handles are often treated with anodizing or other coatings to enhance their corrosion resistance and overall longevity. They’re also usually more affordable.
- Steel: Steel charging handles offer superior durability and resistance to bending or breaking, and can withstand the stresses of heavy use. However, steel handles tend to be heavier and often come at a higher price point.
- Other Materials: Some manufacturers use composite materials or incorporate other specialized designs.
- **Latch Design:**
- Extended Latches: Extended latches provide a larger gripping surface, making it much easier to operate the handle, particularly when wearing gloves or using scopes with limited clearance.
- Ambidextrous Charging Handles: These are designed with latches on both sides of the handle, allowing for easy operation by both right- and left-handed shooters. This can be a significant advantage in tactical situations.
- **Surface Treatment and Finish:**
- Anodizing: A common treatment for aluminum charging handles, anodizing increases corrosion resistance and provides a durable, wear-resistant surface.
- Cerakote: Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating known for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and corrosion. It also offers a wide range of color options.
- Other Coatings: Various other coatings like melonite and DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) can also be used, each offering different properties and benefits.
- **Fit and Compatibility:** Always check that the charging handle is specifically designed for the AR10 platform. While some charging handles may fit both AR15 and AR10 platforms, others are specifically engineered for the AR10’s larger size and operating system. The AR10 charging handle needs to be able to accommodate the heavier spring of the larger platform.
- **Ease of Installation:** Most charging handles are designed for easy installation. However, always review the manufacturer’s instructions. Consider whether you are comfortable with basic gunsmithing or if professional installation is required.
Top Charging Handles for AR10: Reviews and Recommendations
Radian Weapons Raptor-SD
- Key Features and Specifications: This ambidextrous charging handle is known for its smooth, intuitive design. It features an extended latch for easy manipulation, even with optics. It is designed to work very well with suppressors.
- Pros: Extremely smooth operation, durable construction, ambidextrous design, available in many colors.
- Cons: Can be on the pricier side.
- Why it’s recommended: The Raptor-SD is a top-tier choice for anyone looking for a premium, easy-to-use, and highly reliable AR10 charging handle. Its smooth operation and ambidextrous design make it an excellent upgrade for any AR10.
Geissele Super Charging Handle (SCH)
- Key Features and Specifications: The Geissele SCH is a robust, ambidextrous charging handle machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, with a large, ergonomic latch. The design of the latch also helps to reduce gas blowback into the shooter’s face when shooting suppressed.
- Pros: Extremely durable, ergonomic design, reduces gas blowback, ambidextrous.
- Cons: The large latches may not be ideal for all shooters.
- Why it’s recommended: The Geissele SCH is a premium choice built to last, offering great ease of use and a design that specifically addresses the issue of gas blowback, making it an excellent option for suppressed shooting.
BCM Gunfighter Charging Handle
- Key Features and Specifications: The BCM Gunfighter is known for its innovative design that redirects the force during cycling away from the handle itself. It comes in several configurations, with varying latch sizes.
- Pros: Durable and well-made, various latch sizes available to suit user preferences, affordable.
- Cons: Not fully ambidextrous on some models, depends on the chosen latch configuration.
- Why it’s recommended: The BCM Gunfighter offers excellent value, delivering a durable and ergonomic design that is a solid upgrade from the standard handle.
Precision Reflex Inc. (PRI) Gas Buster Charging Handle
- Key Features and Specifications: PRI’s Gas Buster is a popular choice for those who shoot suppressed. It features a design that significantly reduces gas blowback, diverting it away from the shooter’s face.
- Pros: Extremely effective at reducing gas blowback, durable construction.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, sometimes the design is not as ergonomic as other premium options.
- Why it’s recommended: If you shoot suppressed, the PRI Gas Buster is an excellent option that will greatly improve your shooting experience by minimizing gas in your face.
Strike Industries AR10 Charging Handle
- Key Features and Specifications: Strike Industries offers a wide variety of charging handles with different latch styles and materials, often at an affordable price point.
- Pros: Wide variety of styles, colors, and prices, good value.
- Cons: Quality can vary, some models might not have the same fit/finish as premium competitors.
- Why it’s recommended: A good option for those looking for an upgrade on a budget, Strike Industries provides several reliable charging handle options.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right AR10 Charging Handle
Consider Your Primary Usage
- Target Shooting: Focus on ergonomics and smooth operation. An extended latch or ambidextrous design can be helpful.
- Hunting: Durability and ease of use are critical, especially in harsh conditions.
- Tactical Use/Self-Defense: Reliability is paramount. Consider a charging handle with a proven track record of durability and an easy-to-manipulate design.
- Suppressed Shooting: If you’re using a suppressor, look for a charging handle designed to mitigate gas blowback, as this will significantly improve the shooting experience.
Set a Budget
Charging handles range widely in price. Set a budget before you start shopping. High-end models often come with premium materials and superior features.
Consider Optics and Accessories
Ensure the charging handle provides enough clearance for your scope and other accessories. An extended latch is beneficial if you have a large optic.
Installation Tips
Most charging handles are easy to install, but make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Check your AR10’s manual for any specific requirements or recommendations. You can usually install a new charging handle by pulling back on the old one and rotating the handles locking lever/pin on the old handle and sliding it out. To install the new handle do this process in reverse order.
Maintenance
Clean your charging handle regularly. Avoid using abrasive cleaners. A light coating of oil or lubricant can help ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a quality charging handle is more than just an accessory; it’s an essential component that impacts the functionality, reliability, and user experience of your AR10. Whether you’re looking for enhanced ergonomics, improved durability, or features specifically designed for suppressed shooting, upgrading your charging handle is a wise investment. With the information in this guide, you can confidently choose the best charging handle for AR10 for your specific needs and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable shooting experience. Take the time to research the models reviewed here and consider how your specific shooting style benefits from their features. Don’t hesitate to upgrade. You won’t regret it!
