Choosing an AR-15 Charging Handle

How to choose the right AR-15 charging handle

Selecting the right parts for your AR-15 isn’t always easy. One part that often gets overlooked but is crucial to the functioning of your rifle is the charging handle. It’s the part you use to load, unload, and clear malfunctions from your firearm, so choosing the right one is essential. In this blog, we’ll guide you through choosing an AR-15 charging handle that is right for you.

What Does the AR-15 Charging Handle Do?

The AR-15 charging handle manually cycles the bolt carrier group (BCG) in an AR-15 rifle or pistol. When the charging handle is pulled back and released, it pulls the BCG back, which extracts and ejects the spent cartridge casing and then chambers a new round from the magazine.

The charging handle is an important component of the AR-15, as it allows the shooter to load, unload, and clear malfunctions in the firearm. It also provides access to the chamber for cleaning and maintenance.

Consider Your Needs

The first step in choosing the right AR-15 charging handle is considering your needs. Once you establish your needs and the demands you’ll want your charging handle to meet, you can start to identify the best choice. Whatever the application, your AR-15 charging handle should match accordingly.

Types of AR-15 Charging Handles

The first step in choosing the right AR-15 charging handle is considering your needs. Are you a casual shooter who only occasionally takes your rifle to the range? Or are you a competitive shooter who demands the most reliable and efficient equipment? Your answer to this question will determine the type of charging handle you should choose.

Three Main Types of AR-15 Charging Handles

There are three main types of AR-15 charging handles:

Mil-Spec charging handles

Mil-Spec charging handles are the most common type of charging handle found on most AR-15 rifles. They are reliable and affordable, making them a good choice for casual shooters or those on a tight budget. However, they can be difficult to operate for left-handed shooters or those with small hands.

Some of the things to consider when purchasing Mil-Spec charging handles:

Mil-Spec Charging Handle Pros:

• Cost: Mil-Spec charging handles are generally less expensive than upgraded ones, which can be a significant factor for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Availability: Mil-Spec charging handles are readily available and can be found at many firearm retailers, making them a convenient option for gun owners.
• Reliability: Mil-Spec charging handles are often made from durable materials and are designed to withstand heavy use, making them a reliable option for gun owners who need a charging handle that can withstand frequent use.

Mil-Spec Charging Handle Cons:

• Limited Features: Mil-Spec charging handles often lack the additional features and customization options available with upgraded charging handles, such as extended or ambidextrous options.
• Ergonomics: Mil-Spec charging handles may not be as ergonomic or comfortable as upgraded charging handles, affecting the accuracy and overall shooting experience.
• Compatibility: Some Mil-Spec charging handles may not be compatible with all firearms or require additional modifications or accessories to function properly.
• Functionality: Mil-Spec charging handles may not function as smoothly or efficiently as upgraded charging handles, affecting speed and ease of use.

Ambidextrous Charging Handles

Ambidextrous charging handles are designed for left-handed shooters or those who prefer to use their off-hand to manipulate the charging handle. They feature a latch on both sides of the handle, making them easy to operate from either side. They are more expensive than Mil-Spec charging handles but are worth the investment for those who need them. Some other considerations include.

Ambidextrous Charging Handle Pros:

• Versatility: Ambidextrous charging handles allow right-handed and left-handed shooters to easily manipulate the charging handle without repositioning the firearm.
• Improved Control: Ambidextrous charging handles offer a more secure and comfortable grip, which can improve control and reduce the risk of malfunctions or accidents.
• Easier Access: Ambidextrous charging handles are often designed to be easily accessible and allow for quicker and more efficient firearm operation.
• Customization: Many ambidextrous charging handles offer customization options, such as extended or oversized handles, which can improve ergonomics and ease of use.

Ambidextrous Charging Handle Cons:

• Cost: Ambidextrous charging handles are typically more expensive than standard ones, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Weight: Some ambidextrous charging handles may be heavier than standard charging handles due to their additional features, which can affect the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Compatibility: Some ambidextrous charging handles may not be compatible with all firearms or require additional modifications or accessories to function properly.
• Complexity: Ambidextrous charging handles may have more moving parts or require additional maintenance, which can complicate the firearm’s operation.

Extended Charging Handles

Extended charging handles are designed to make it easier to manipulate the charging handle, especially when using a scope or other optics. They extend the length of the handle, providing more surface area to grip and pull. They are ideal for competitive shooters or those who must operate their AR-15 quickly and efficiently. These charging handles are more expensive than Mil-Spec, but their benefits make them worth the investment for those who need them.

Extended Charging Handle Pros:

• Increased Functionality: Extended charging handles offer additional leverage and grip. This makes it easier to manipulate the charging handle, particularly for users wearing gloves or with smaller hands.
• Customization: Many extended charging handles offer customization options, such as size, shape, and color, which can improve ergonomics and ease of use.
• Ambidextrous: Some extended charging handles allow both right- and left-handed shooters to manipulate the charging handle easily.
• Accessibility: Extended charging handles are often designed to be easily accessible, allowing quicker and more efficient firearm operation.

Extended Charging Handle Cons:

• Cost: Extended charging handles are often more expensive than standard ones, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Weight: Some extended charging handles may be heavier than standard charging handles due to their additional features, which can affect the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Compatibility: Some extended charging handles may not be compatible with all firearms. Or require additional modifications or accessories to function properly.
• Snagging: Some extended charging handles may protrude further from the firearm, increasing the risk of snagging on clothing or other objects.

Materials

The parts and materials used to construct the charging handle can affect its durability and performance. The most common materials for AR-15 charging handles are aluminum, steel, and titanium.

Aluminum Charging Handles

Aluminum charging handles are the most common type of charging handle. They are lightweight and affordable, making them an excellent choice for casual shooters. However, they may not be as durable as steel or titanium charging handles.

Aluminum Charging Handle Pros:

• Durability: Aluminum charging handles are made from high-quality materials. They are designed to withstand heavy use, making them a durable option.
• Lightweight: Aluminum charging handles are significantly lighter than steel or other metal charging handles, which can improve the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Customization: Many aluminum charging handles offer customization options. This can include size, shape, and color, improving ergonomics and ease of use.
• Improved Functionality: Some aluminum charging handles are designed with additional features. For example, an extended or ambidextrous design can improve functionality and ease of use.

Aluminum Charging Handle Cons:

• Cost: Aluminum charging handles are often more expensive than standard steel, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Strength: Aluminum charging handles may not be as strong as steel or metal, affecting durability and longevity.
• Compatibility: Some aluminum charging handles may not be compatible with all firearms or require additional modifications or accessories to function properly.
• Grip: Aluminum charging handles may not have the same level of grip as other handles. For some shooters, this would be a deal breaker.

Steel Charging Handles

Steel charging handles are more durable than aluminum charging handles but are heavier. They are an excellent choice for those who need a reliable charging handle but don’t mind the extra weight.

Steel Charging Handle Pros:

• Durability: Steel charging handles are made from high-quality materials that withstand heavy use.
• Strength: Steel charging handles are significantly stronger than aluminum or other lightweight charging handles, which can improve durability and longevity.
• Compatibility: Steel charging handles are often compatible with a wide range of firearms. This makes them a versatile option for gun owners.
• Improved Grip: Steel charging handles may offer a better grip; this can improve accuracy and overall shooting experience.

Steel Charging Handle Cons:

• Weight: Steel charging handles are often heavier than aluminum or other lightweight ones. This can affect the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Customization: Steel charging handles may not offer the same customization options as aluminum or other lightweight handles.
• Rust: Steel charging handles may be rust-prone if not properly cared for or maintained.
• Cost: Steel charging handles will likely be more expensive than aluminum or other lightweight ones. Again, this can be a consideration for budget-conscious gun owners.

Titanium Charging Handles

Titanium charging handles are the most durable and lightweight charging handles available. They are an excellent choice for competitive shooters who demand the most reliable and efficient equipment. However, they are also the most expensive type of charging handle.

Titanium Charging Handle Pros:

• Strength: Titanium charging handles are incredibly strong and durable, making them reliable for heavy use and tough conditions.
• Lightweight: Titanium charging handles are significantly lighter than steel or other metal. This can improve the balance and maneuverability of the firearm.
• Corrosion-resistant: Titanium is highly resistant to corrosion and rust. They are ideal for use in wet or humid environments.
• Customization: Many titanium charging handles offer customization options. This can include size, shape, and color, which can improve ergonomics and ease of use.

Titanium Charging Handle Cons:

• Cost: Titanium charging handles are often the most expensive option among charging handles. This will be a consideration for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Compatibility: Some titanium charging handles may not be compatible with all firearms. Others may require additional modifications or accessories to function properly.
• Availability: Titanium charging handles may be harder to find and less commonly stocked by retailers than other options.
• Heat Conductivity: Titanium is a great heat conductor, which can concern users in extreme heat environments.

AR-15 Compatibility

Another essential factor to consider when choosing an AR-15 charging handle is compatibility. Not all charging handles are compatible with all AR-15 rifles. You must ensure that your charging handle is compatible with your specific rifle. Some ways to ensure compatibility are.

• Type of AR-15: There are different AR-15s, each with a specific size and shape of the upper receiver and bolt carrier group. For example, an AR-15 with a mil-spec upper receiver and bolt carrier group will require a mil-spec charging handle. In contrast, an AR-15 with a non-mil-spec upper receiver and bolt carrier group may require a different type of charging handle.
• Size: Charging handles come in different sizes, and it is important to ensure that the size of the charging handles you choose matches the size of your upper receiver and bolt carrier group.
• Purpose: Consider the intended use of your AR-15 and select a charging handle that is appropriate for that purpose. For example, if you plan to use your AR-15 for long-range shooting, you may want to consider a charging handle with an extended latch for improved ergonomics.

Choosing an AR-15 Charging Handle Final Thoughts

Choosing the right AR-15 charging handle is crucial to the performance and reliability of your rifle. By considering your needs, the type of charging handle, materials, and compatibility, you can find the right one for your firearm. Investing in a high-quality charging handle is worth the investment to ensure your rifle functions flawlessly. Consider also stocking up with lower-cost backups in case your malfunctions.

Choosing the Right AR-15 Charging Handle FAQs