Introduction
The acrid smell of burnt powder, stinging your eyes, and the puff of gas blasting into your face. Does this sound familiar? If you’re a fan of suppressed AR-15s, you’ve likely experienced this unpleasant, yet often unavoidable, consequence of shooting with a can. But what if you could minimize these irritations and improve your shooting experience? The answer often lies in a simple, yet critical upgrade: the right charging handle. This article delves into the world of charging handles and why selecting the best charging handle for suppressed AR is a game-changer for anyone looking to optimize their rifle’s performance.
The humble charging handle is far more than just a way to chamber a round. It’s the primary interface between the shooter and the action of the rifle. It controls how quickly and smoothly you prepare to fire and how easy it is to clear malfunctions. In a standard AR-15, it’s a fairly straightforward piece of equipment, but when you introduce a suppressor into the equation, the dynamics change significantly. The standard charging handle often falls short when it comes to mitigating the unwanted effects of gas blowback.
Gas blowback, essentially, is the redirection of excess gases and pressure from the barrel back into the upper receiver and, subsequently, towards the shooter’s face. This problem is greatly exacerbated when using a suppressor.
Understanding the Problems: Gas Blowback and Suppressors
The core of the issue comes down to increased pressure. Suppressors, by their very nature, trap propellant gases as the bullet travels down the barrel. This creates significantly higher pressure inside the system, especially within the upper receiver. These increased pressures have several negative consequences.
First and foremost, you’ll likely encounter an irritating and sometimes even incapacitating cloud of fumes. These gases often contain partially combusted powder, lubricants, and other byproducts, which can sting the eyes, irritate the nose, and leave you feeling generally uncomfortable. This can negatively impact your ability to focus and make accurate shots.
Second, the increased gas pressure contributes to accelerated fouling and carbon buildup within the upper receiver and bolt carrier group. This means more frequent cleaning and maintenance are required to ensure reliable operation. Carbon deposits can hinder the smooth movement of the bolt, which in turn could lead to jams or other malfunctions.
Third, persistent gas blowback can lead to reliability issues. Excessive fouling, combined with the increased stress on components, can increase the likelihood of malfunctions. This is the last thing you want when the situation demands that your weapon performs flawlessly.
To combat these issues, you need a charging handle designed specifically to address the increased pressure and gas flow characteristic of suppressed shooting. This is where choosing the best charging handle for suppressed AR truly makes a difference.
Features to Look For in a Suppressor-Optimized Charging Handle
The market is saturated with charging handle options. However, not all charging handles are created equal, and certainly not all are designed to handle the specific challenges of suppressed shooting. Therefore, certain features are crucial when selecting the best charging handle for suppressed AR.
One of the most important characteristics is a design that actively works to mitigate gas leakage. This typically involves:
Enhanced Sealing or Gas Deflection
Seek charging handles that incorporate features designed to minimize or redirect gas escaping around the handle itself and into the shooter’s face. This could involve strategically placed O-rings, rubber seals, or other barriers that seal the gap between the charging handle body and the upper receiver. Some manufacturers employ angled designs and porting to deflect gas away from the shooter’s face, or extend the body of the charging handle to further the gases away from the shooter’s face.
Another very important factor is the size and design of the latch.
Larger or Ergonomic Latches
An oversized or ambidextrous latch offers several advantages. First, it’s simply more convenient to operate. With larger latches, it’s easy to deploy the charging handle even when wearing gloves or under stress. Secondly, the ability to manipulate the charging handle with either hand is beneficial for those of us who shoot from the left or right side. Ambidextrous options allow for greater flexibility and ease of use, regardless of your dominant hand or shooting position.
Durable construction is a key part of the best charging handle for suppressed AR:
Durable Construction
When it comes to charging handles, the materials used matter. The charging handle endures significant stress during each firing cycle and is handled frequently. The ideal option is built from high-quality, durable materials. Aircraft-grade aluminum is often chosen, known for its strength-to-weight ratio. Steel can also be found, providing exceptional durability, and the latches of some charging handles are built from steel. Regardless of the material, ensure that the manufacturing processes are precise to ensure a reliable product that endures heavy use.
Finally, make sure your new charging handle will fit.
Compatibility
Always double-check compatibility before making a purchase. While most AR-15 charging handles are generally compatible with standard AR-15 upper receivers, some designs might require specific handguard clearances. Ensure your new handle will work with your existing setup without any modifications.
Now that we know what to look for, let’s examine some of the top-performing charging handles designed to tame gas blowback.
Top Charging Handle Recommendations: A Breakdown
There are several exceptional charging handles on the market, each offering its own strengths and advantages. Finding the best charging handle for suppressed AR is highly personal, so consider your specific needs and shooting style.
Option 1: The Radian Raptor SD
The Radian Raptor SD is consistently lauded as one of the top performers in the world of suppressed ARs. It is specifically engineered to address the problems of gas blowback.
Detailed Description
The Raptor SD features a strategically designed body with integrated gas deflecting channels, and is coupled with an O-ring seal. This combination is a serious gas mitigation system. The ambidextrous latch makes the Raptor SD easy to operate, and the construction is extremely sturdy. It’s available in various colors, allowing you to coordinate with your rifle’s aesthetics.
Pros
Exceptional gas sealing and redirection, ambedextrous design for smooth operation, built with incredibly durable materials, known for quality and reliability.
Cons
Comes at a higher price point compared to some other options, may not be necessary for every AR platform, and it’s not the most affordable.
Option 2: The PRI Gas Buster Charging Handle
The PRI Gas Buster is a more budget-friendly option that is popular for good reason, and is often seen as the go-to when you’re in need of a charging handle upgrade.
Detailed Description
The Gas Buster uses a modified design to redirect the flow of gas. It utilizes a built-in “shelf” or deflector at the rear of the charging handle, redirecting the gas forward and away from the shooter’s face. It’s also known for its robust and reliable construction.
Pros
Very effective at redirecting gas, relatively affordable, offers reliable performance.
Cons
The latch design might not be as ergonomic as some ambidextrous options, the overall feel might not be as smooth compared to some high-end alternatives.
Option 3: The Geissele Super Charging Handle
Geissele is known for producing high-quality rifle components, and its charging handles are no exception. While the design might not be as focused on gas mitigation as some of the others on this list, the quality construction and robust design still make it a solid choice.
Detailed Description
Geissele charging handles are built with a focus on durability and ergonomics. They usually feature an oversized ambidextrous latch and are constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. The overall design is meant to withstand the rigors of heavy use and offers a smooth and reliable charging experience.
Pros
Robust and reliable construction, excellent ergonomics with the ambidextrous latch, Geissele’s reputation for quality.
Cons
While gas mitigation is part of the design, it’s not the primary focus; It might not be quite as effective in minimizing gas blowback compared to others on this list.
Other Options to Consider
There are numerous other options on the market. A few honorable mentions include the Griffin Armament SNATCH charging handle, and the BCM Gunfighter charging handle with a proper modification kit. Research is very important when deciding which charging handle will work best for you.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve selected the best charging handle for suppressed AR, proper installation and maintenance are vital to ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
General Installation Guidelines
Installation is usually straightforward and requires minimal tools. Typically, you’ll simply remove your existing charging handle, insert the new one, and ensure it seats correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid any damage.
Important Steps to Prevent Gas Leakage Issues
Be certain the new charging handle is seated correctly in your upper receiver. If your new charging handle has any gas redirection features, be sure to check that everything fits together nicely, and that there is nothing obstructing the operation of the charging handle. Some individuals choose to apply a small amount of high-temperature grease or anti-seize compound to the charging handle body and latch area to further minimize gas leakage and ensure smooth operation.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean your charging handle regularly to remove carbon buildup. Wipe the handle down with a solvent and, when needed, use a brush to remove carbon deposits, particularly around the latch and sealing areas. Inspect the handle for any signs of wear or damage. Keeping a clean charging handle will ensure that it continues to function optimally.
Conclusion: Taming the Beast
The decision to invest in the best charging handle for suppressed AR can dramatically improve your shooting experience. By addressing the annoying issues of gas blowback, from excessive fumes to increased fouling, you can dramatically improve your comfort, performance, and the longevity of your rifle. Consider factors like gas sealing capabilities, the ergonomic design, construction, and compatibility.
While the Radian Raptor SD is one of the top performers, the PRI Gas Buster remains a strong, affordable option and the Geissele charging handle provides its own benefits. Evaluate the pros and cons of each option to select the one that best suits your needs and budget.
So, upgrade your charging handle and get back to enjoying your suppressed shooting experience!
