US20060175366A1 - Security and retention device for a handgun - Google Patents

Security and retention device for a handgun Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20060175366A1
US20060175366A1 US11/363,114 US36311406A US2006175366A1 US 20060175366 A1 US20060175366 A1 US 20060175366A1 US 36311406 A US36311406 A US 36311406A US 2006175366 A1 US2006175366 A1 US 2006175366A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
holster
gun
cover
lock
holder
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/363,114
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Daniel Dekaise
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Artradex Sprl
Original Assignee
Artradex Sprl
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Artradex Sprl filed Critical Artradex Sprl
Assigned to ARTRADEX SPRL reassignment ARTRADEX SPRL ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: DEKAISE, DANIEL
Publication of US20060175366A1 publication Critical patent/US20060175366A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41WEAPONS
    • F41CSMALLARMS, e.g. PISTOLS, RIFLES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • F41C33/00Means for wearing or carrying smallarms
    • F41C33/02Holsters, i.e. cases for pistols having means for being carried or worn, e.g. at the belt or under the arm
    • F41C33/0209Pouch or pocket like containers for small arms covering all or most of the small arm
    • F41C33/0227Pouch or pocket like containers for small arms covering all or most of the small arm having a strap or other restraining element only covering the hammer or a part of the upper part of the small arm
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41WEAPONS
    • F41CSMALLARMS, e.g. PISTOLS, RIFLES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • F41C33/00Means for wearing or carrying smallarms
    • F41C33/02Holsters, i.e. cases for pistols having means for being carried or worn, e.g. at the belt or under the arm
    • F41C33/0263Holsters, i.e. cases for pistols having means for being carried or worn, e.g. at the belt or under the arm having a locking system for preventing unauthorized or accidental removal of the small arm from the holster

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an automatic security and retention cover for a holster, in particular intended for an individual handgun.
  • Such a cover belongs to the secured retention device of the gun in its holster which is intended to be automatically operational:
  • the invention also relates to the handgun holster implementing said security and retention cover.
  • the gun must also remain secured during violent activities that may be required by operations to maintain public security including during physical contact.
  • the holster must prevent the removal of the gun by other unauthorised persons. It must nevertheless allow rapid withdrawal of the gun by the holder in the event of need. This movement must not only be quick but also simple, secured and compatible with a stress situation.
  • a holster for a handgun 1 comprises a body which has an outer side 2 and an inner side 3 with reference to the position of the gun holder.
  • These inner 3 and outer 2 sides may be formed by a single part made of one or several materials. This part has a general shape and characteristics such that, when it is folded, its two ends may be brought together either directly or by a junction system.
  • the two sides of the holster may also be separate parts that are joined at the front and the back of the holster either directly or by a junction system 4 .
  • the junction system 4 may serve as a guide for the gun in the holster and/or as any kind of system for retaining the gun in the holster.
  • the holster may also be constructed around a frame.
  • the handgun holster has a front part which, by definition, is oriented forwards relative to the gun holder, and a back part located opposite the front part.
  • the above-mentioned junction is normally made in the back part.
  • a flap forming the cover belongs to the holster, the closure system typically comprising buckled strap(s) or press stud(s).
  • a strap or a system of straps connects the two above-mentioned sides above the upper part of the holster and assists with retaining the gun in the holster.
  • This closure is either simple, in the form of a strap fixed on one side and a fastener with press stud on the other, or comprises a device of the “thumb snap” type, which opens under lateral pressure from the holder's thumb.
  • Closure by strap is generally used on almost all the holsters in the state of the art, even those provided with an internal retention.
  • the use of straps or of a flap in holsters nevertheless has drawbacks. Indeed, the movements required to use the strap, i.e. its opening and closure, are movements additional to grasping the gun that are generally complicated and scarcely compatible with the correct and rapid use of a handgun.
  • the patent application U.S. Pat. No. 4,858,799 describes a locking mechanism for a handgun holster with a locked position in order to prevent the withdrawal of the gun from its holster and a set of unlocked positions progressively requiring more force from the user in order to draw the gun from the holster.
  • the position is selected by means of a control dial.
  • the locking device has the form of a mobile part of the equipment located at the level of the triggerguard (or triggerguard safety lock) provided with a cross locking bar that prevents the withdrawal of the handgun from its holster.
  • the gun is an automatic pistol
  • this device is no longer suitable since typically the safety lock no longer has a back part that would allow the engagement of a cross locking bar.
  • the patent describes a variant of the device where the mobile part of the equipment is fixed to the top of the holster, in a locked position, the locking bar being located behind the upper back part of the gun, in particular its hammer.
  • This type of device only works for preventing the withdrawal of the gun in the axial direction. Therefore, a filler material has to be inserted inside the holster in order to prevent any movement other than the axial motion of the gun in the holster. Otherwise, the cross locking bar cannot play its part. There is no ergonomic contact with the mobile part that would cause automatic locking or release of the gun during its withdrawal from or return to the holster.
  • This system typically has minimal automatic retention, the securing or locking system of the retention requiring adjustment and activation of the control button.
  • the patent U.S. Pat. No. 4,325,505 describes a holster for a handgun comprising a case for receiving the gun and a rigidified protection flap mounted to the case.
  • the flap is attached by means of two spaced-out arms mounted on both parts of the case so that it can pivot on a hinge that is offset relative to the axis of the gun.
  • the position of the flap closed over the upper back part of the gun is locked by quick closures of the press stud type.
  • This rudimentary locking system for the holster is entirely manual and not very practical, it does not allow rapid withdrawal from or return to the holster.
  • the systems described in the two above patents in no way allow the retention system to be opened or closed automatically by the natural movement of grasping the gun in order to draw it from its holster with the intention of shooting or in order to return the gun into the holster.
  • the present invention aims to provide a solution that overcomes the drawbacks of the state of the art.
  • one aim of the invention is to provide the holster with one or several retention systems designed and combined in such a way that drawing the gun out of the holster is as natural as possible for the holder and is very difficult and complicated for a third party.
  • the invention precisely aims at providing an ergonomic and anatomical combination of automatic retention systems implemented by a security cover.
  • the invention aims to provide a handgun holster with a security and retention device that does not require the use of a strap.
  • the invention aims to provide a handgun holster with a security and retention device that globally suits all handguns in all configurations and irrespective of the length of the barrel, the hammer, the breech, the shape of the triggerguard, etc.
  • One first aspect of the present invention relates to an automatic security and retention device for a gun holster, preferably a handgun, said holster comprising a body provided with an outer side and an inner side, said device comprising a security and retention cover, connecting the outer side and the inner side above the body of the holster and:
  • the cover is essentially located, in its closed position, in the axis of the holster and has, with a view to being opened when the gun is drawn by the holder, an extension located on the back side of the cover, designed to come into contact ergonomically and anatomically with at least one part of the holder's hand.
  • This cover extension also has a shape and design such that, during its return to the holster, the normal motion of the gun for this action automatically causes said cover to open.
  • said extension for the purposes of opening the cover when the gun is drawn by the holder, is designed so as to come into contact ergonomically and anatomically with the outer lateral side of the holder's hand comprising the outer lateral side of his index finger and the area included in the metacarpal-phalanges angle between the index finger and the thumb.
  • the extension comprises a wheel to assist the hand to slide against the cover.
  • the cover has, for the purposes of its opening when the holder is drawing the gun, an extension comprising a rim on the back inner side of the cover offering an ergonomic support for the holder's thumb in order to pivot the cover forwards.
  • the rim preferably has cut-outs or is shaped in such a way that it can be adapted to the shape of the gun and/or its aiming mechanisms.
  • the attachment at the intersection of the imaginary axis with said sides of the holster is provided either on one side by a spindle and spring mechanism and by a spindle mechanism on the other side or by a spindle and spring mechanism on both sides of the holster body.
  • the device of the invention comprises a first part attached to the cover and pivoting around a rotation axis relative to a second fixed part attached to the side of the holster body, the return of the cover being ensured by a spring attached at one end to a pin mounted on the first part and to a pin mounted on the second part at the other end, the pin being located at an attachment point of the spring.
  • the above-mentioned device also has, by way of additional security, a triggerguard lock with vertical control, for example of a push lever type, which is effective along an axis at 90° relative to this push lever and which can be activated by the holder's thumb.
  • a triggerguard lock with vertical control for example of a push lever type, which is effective along an axis at 90° relative to this push lever and which can be activated by the holder's thumb.
  • the above-mentioned device also comprises, by way of additional security, a side-controlled triggerguard lock, normally in a locked position, located at the level of a back junction of the holster and which can be unlocked by the movement of the holder's thumb towards the holder's body.
  • a side-controlled triggerguard lock normally in a locked position, located at the level of a back junction of the holster and which can be unlocked by the movement of the holder's thumb towards the holder's body.
  • the lateral lock of the triggerguard comprises a lever arm outwardly ending in a tongue that can be operated by the holder, whose support is located at the lower end of the lock, the bolt itself comprising a truncated cylindrical protrusion capable of penetrating the holster inside the triggerguard of the gun, when the gun is fully put into the holster, and a return spring holding the bolt at rest against the internal wall of the holster, said protrusion then being located standing out inside the triggerguard.
  • the device according to the invention also comprises, by way of alternative additional security, a cover lock comprising a rod lever retained by a leaf spring, located at the level of the outer side of the pivoting part of the spindle and spring mechanism of the cover, in such a way that:
  • the device of the invention also comprises a cover-locking strap which, once it is attached, connects the two above-mentioned sides of the holster, or one of the sides of the holster at one end and the cover and/or the lock at the other end.
  • the strap is preferably attached either permanently on one side of the holster and removably by a press stud on the other side, on the cover and/or on the lock, or removably by a press stud on both sides.
  • the cover covers at least partially the hammer and/or the butt of the gun and/or the rear sighting mechanisms of the gun, possibly also on the front part of the holster, in particular the parts of said mechanisms that are visible in the dark.
  • a second aspect of the present invention relates to a holster for a handgun comprising an automatic security and retention device having the above-mentioned characteristics.
  • a third aspect of the present invention relates to the automatic locking of the cover for a security and retention device for a handgun holster, according to the principle of the invention, characterised in that it comprises a push lever maintained by a leaf spring, located at the level of the outer side of a pivoting part of a spindle and spring mechanism for the security cover in such a way that:
  • FIG. 1 a schematically shows an embodiment of a security cover 5 for a handgun according to the invention, in an open position corresponding to the natural position of the hand grasping the gun.
  • the security cover is combined with a holster that has an internal retention system of the triggerguard-locking type.
  • FIG. 1 b schematically shows the security cover of FIG. 1 a in closed position as a result of automatic return.
  • FIG. 2 a schematically shows a cover with a lateral wheel 6 on the outer side.
  • This type of cover is only used with a triggerguard lock of the vertical push-button type.
  • the outer side of the index finger pushes against the wheel of the cover whilst the thumb on the other side pushes the triggerguard-lock control downwards in order to release the bolt.
  • FIG. 2 b shows that, when the gun butt is grasped, the outer side of the extended index finger pushes against the wheel 6 of the cover 5 and opens it fully. On the other side, the thumb fully releases the triggerguard lock.
  • FIG. 2 c shows a rear view of the thumb pushing against the triggerguard lock control 8 and releasing it.
  • the outer side of the index finger has also released the cover by swinging it forward.
  • FIG. 3 a shows a view, in closed position, of a spindle and spring mechanical device of the security cover according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3 b shows a view, in open position, of the device of FIG. 3 a.
  • FIGS. 4 a & 4 b schematically show in closed and open positions respectively, an embodiment of the inner triggerguard-lock with a lateral control according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 4 c to 4 e schematically show a preferred embodiment for the automatic locking of a security cover, detached from and then mounted onto the spindle and spring mechanism of the cover respectively, in unlocked and locked positions (holster for right-handed).
  • FIGS. 4 f & 4 g show the lock of FIG. 4 c mounted on a complete holster in locked and unlocked positions respectively (holster for right-handed).
  • FIGS. 5 a , 5 b , 5 c & 5 d show various designs of cover with inner opening rims and control tongue of the inner triggerguard lock.
  • FIGS. 6 a & 6 b show, in external and internal views respectively, the position of the thumb in the natural movement of the hand for grasping the gun in the holster.
  • the present invention has the following noteworthy characteristics.
  • FIGS. 1 a & 1 b Automatic Security and Retention Cover
  • the cover 5 is a part made of a material that may be rigid or even rigidified either by a frame or by a rigidification treatment. This part is mounted on the upper part of the body of the holster 1 . It connects the inner side 3 and the outer side 2 of the holster from above.
  • the cover 5 pivots towards the front of the holster around an imaginary axis crossing the inner side 3 and the outer side 2 of the holster. This forward pivoting motion defines the open position of the cover ( FIG. 1 a ). Attachment at the intersection of the imaginary axis with said sides is provided on one side by a spindle and spring mechanism attached to said side of the body of the holster and by a spindle system on the other side of the body of the holster, or alternatively by spindle and spring mechanisms on both sides of the body of the holster.
  • FIG. 3 a One example of a particular embodiment for this mechanism is shown in FIG. 3 a .
  • the part attached to the cover 51 pivots around the part attached to the side of the holster 57 , around a pivoting axis 55 (for a left-handed holster, the part is rotated the other way around) .
  • Return of the cover is ensured by a spring 54 attached at one end to a pin 53 fixed to the part 51 and on the other side to a pin 56 fixed to the part 57 .
  • the pin 53 is located at an attachment point of the spring 52 for a right-handed holster (or 58 for a left-handed holster).
  • the side of the pivoting part 51 located on the side of the gun holder will be called the “outer side” and the other side, facing outwards, will be called the “inner side”.
  • the two lateral sides of the part 51 will be called “front lateral side” and “back lateral side” respectively.
  • the cover and its spindle and spring system may also be mounted on the frame of the holster or on the frame (or an extension of it) of an internal retention system for the gun in the holster.
  • the pivoting motion of the cover is limited in the forward direction to a distance that is necessary and sufficient to allow the gun to be withdrawn from the holster by pulling it upwards ( FIG. 3 b ).
  • the pivoting motion in the backward direction, defining the closed position of the cover is limited so that the cover is positioned in the vertical axis of the holster ( FIG. 3 a ) and so as to prevent any withdrawal of the gun, whether it be accidental or malicious.
  • the cover 5 is maintained in closed position or is pushed towards this back position by the spring system 54 linked to the spindle system 55 of the holster cover.
  • the shape of the cover, its ergonomic design, its position on the holster relative to the gun, how it works, its compatibility with other security or retention systems and the combination of these different elements give the holster noteworthy features for securing the gun both when it is in the holster and when it is drawn from the holster and when it is put back in the holster.
  • the operating principle of the cover encourages the holder to adopt a grip on the gun that is correct and complies with the security rules when drawing it.
  • the cover covers a large part of the gun and its mechanisms, making access to them very restricted, without having the major drawbacks of traditional covers.
  • the cover Because of its forward pivoting motion, the cover is mainly opened in the two ways described below.
  • one of the preferred embodiments of the cover 5 is such that an extension 6 of the cover, on the outer side of the holster and towards the back, naturally comes, when the gun is drawn by the holder, into contact with the outer lateral side of the hand 10 of the shooter comprising the outer lateral side of his index finger and the area between the metacarpal-phalanges angle of the index finger and the thumb.
  • This extension may be provided with a wheel system (wheel 6 ) or with another device as required in order to assist this part of the hand to slide against the cover. This wheel is nevertheless an optional accessory.
  • the shape of the cover 5 is such that it is automatically pushed in the open position by the natural movement of the shooter's hand 10 when he grasps the butt of the handgun in order to draw it from the holster in compliance with basic security standards, for example but without restriction, a firm definite grip without having the index finger on the trigger of the gun at the moment when it is drawn from the holster but in a position such that the holder may, immediately once the firing position is reached, decide to make this contact with the trigger.
  • basic security standards for example but without restriction, a firm definite grip without having the index finger on the trigger of the gun at the moment when it is drawn from the holster but in a position such that the holder may, immediately once the firing position is reached, decide to make this contact with the trigger.
  • the cover 5 is automatically opened by the handgun itself during the natural motion of the gun when it is put into the holster.
  • the cover and possibly its additional bolt are designed to achieve this opening.
  • closure of the cover 5 is automatic. Firstly, once the gun has been fully returned to the holster, it releases the cover from its open position, which had previously been brought forward by a pivoting motion. The cover 5 may then pivot backwards and automatically return to its closed position. This motion is caused by the spring system 54 linked to the spindle mechanism 55 of the holster cover.
  • the security cover automatically closed, prevents the gun from being drawn from the holster since the upper part of the cover connecting the inner side 3 and outer side 2 of the holster prevents the gun from being drawn from the holster, even resisting a violent pull exerted on the gun because the force thus exerted on the cover 5 is not exerted in the opening direction.
  • the ability of the cover 5 to retain the gun is completely independent from the force of the return spring 54 .
  • the cover forms a protection for the firing system of the cartridges if the hammer of the firing system is external to the gun.
  • the cover allows the gun to be put into the holster with the hammer cocked or not.
  • the cover automatically closes.
  • the gun is automatically secured when put into the holster and, for another thing, it may be used in a natural way by the holder.
  • the requirement for having an open locking system and thus also an unlocking one would go against this principle and would moreover be a useless and dangerous complication.
  • the closed cover covers the rear sighting mechanisms of the gun, and in particular the sighting mechanisms provided with parts that are visible in the dark or half darkness with which handguns may be provided, thus reducing the danger for the holder of being more easily seen.
  • the design of the cover may moreover be such that it also provides this covering of the rear sighting mechanism on the front part of the holster.
  • the principle of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is that the body of the holster and the cover are standard or almost standard (2 or 3 basic models). Only the set of parts for the back junction of the holster is specific to a particular gun, its design fitting the shape of the part comprising the triggerguard and the underside of the body or of the barrel of the handgun.
  • the same holster body may be common to several models of gun, which is not currently the case with the separating parts at the junction of the two sides of the holster and with the parts ensuring longitudinal locking of the gun, as described in the state of the art.
  • a strap may be coupled to the security cover of the invention (not shown) in order to lock it.
  • This strap is used during operations where security of the gun must be enhanced such as crowd control, where in principle the use of the firearm is only tolerated as the very last resort and under express orders.
  • the strap may be attached either permanently on one side and removably by one or more press studs on the other side of the holster, on the body of the holster or, ideally, on the cover in such a way that, depending on its design or shape, it prevents its use, either by press studs on both sides of the holster, on the body of the holster on one side or on the body of the holster or ideally on the cover on the other side in such a way that, depending on its design or shape, it prevents its use.
  • the strap prevents the cover to be opened. It may also lock the internal retention system by the same principle according to which it may lock the cover, the type of attachment of the strap onto the retention system for the triggerguard depending on the specific system installed.
  • the strap of the cover is not to retain the gun but is an additional system for locking the cover.
  • the security cover of the invention may be used in conjunction with other systems for retaining a gun in a holster, in particular retention systems on the triggerguard of the gun that are generally attached on or form the back junction system of the inner side and of the outer side of the body of the holster (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,419,474 or corresponding patents CA-A-2 108 496, AU-A-7 302 194 and AU-A-671 767).
  • An optional standard strap may be used together with the device according to the invention but its use is restricted to very precise situations.
  • an automatic triggerguard-locking system operated with the thumb in order to activate a push lever releasing a triggerguard-bolt, itself working along an axis at 90° relative to the push lever, may sometimes cause a problem when it is to be automatically operated (return and automatic lock).
  • a simpler operating principle should be adopted for the triggerguard lock.
  • the thumb is used to open the security cover; to this end, a rim 7 is made on the back part of the cover 5 (see FIG. 5 a to 5 d ).
  • the cover 5 thus has a rim 7 on the inner side of its back part, this rim serving to take the pressure from the thumb that rocks the cover forward as the index finger was doing by means of the wheel.
  • the push-button that controls the triggerguard lock is replaced by a tongue 80 with lateral control belonging to (or mounted on) the lock.
  • the lock 80 is lodged in a structure that is attached to the back junction of a holster ( FIG. 4 a ).
  • This inner triggerguard lock with lateral control comprises a body 81 , a bottom 82 , a cover 83 (which may belong to the body of the holster), a screwing system for the back junction of the body of the holster 84 , a return spring 85 , the bolt itself 86 and the tongue 87 for controlling the bolt.
  • it is placed on the holster in a similar way to the lock with vertical control; it may even use the existing structure of (possibly patented) vertical devices.
  • the lock 80 pivots in the manner of a lever 87 whose support is located at the lower end.
  • the lock forms a lever arm and is kept pressed against the inner wall of the holster by a return spring 85 .
  • the control lever for the thumb extends the lever arm.
  • the side of the lock that is pressed against the inner wall of the holster has a truncated cylindrical protrusion 88 that penetrates the holster at the point inside the triggerguard of the gun when the gun is fully put into the holster.
  • the part 88 that is truncated towards the top of the holster also serves to open the lock by the pressure of the triggerguard of the gun that is put into the holster.
  • the lock closes again as a result of the action of the return spring 85 , the cylindrical protrusion 88 thus being in the way of the triggerguard and therefore preventing the gun from being drawn.
  • the control lever for the thumb that extends the bolt serves to pivot the bolt on its support, which draws the cylindrical protrusion 88 out of the way of the triggerguard and allows the gun to be drawn from the holster ( FIG. 4 b ).
  • the control lever for the thumb is extended until it is high enough above the grip of the gun in the holster to an ideal position for the thumb to control it in its movement for grasping the gun.
  • This height may therefore vary depending on the type of gun, the exact shape of the lever at its part in contact with the thumb that can also vary depending on the types of gun that differ in shape, angle and thickness of the butt and on the type of holster in which the system is installed (the lever may also be configured for a different finger (for example the middle finger) of the hand that grasps the butt of the gun when the hand closes around the butt).
  • FIG. 4 c shows an automatic lock for the cover 80 A comprising a rod lever 87 A retained by a leaf spring 85 A on the outer side of the pivoting part 51 of the spindle and spring mechanism of the cover.
  • the lever 87 A is attached at its lower end to an axis 89 A that allows it to transversally pivot (i.e. perpendicular to the forward-backward direction) at the lower end of the back lateral side of the pivoting part 51 .
  • the other end of the lever 87 A i.e. its upper end, ends in a tongue 7 A that can be activated by the holder's thumb.
  • the leaf spring 85 A is riveted or clipped at its attachment points on one side to the lever 87 A below the tongue 7 A and on the other side, on the other lateral side (i.e. the front lateral side) of the pivoting part 51 .
  • the lever 87 A is usually retained in locked position by the leaf spring 85 A ( FIG. 4 e ).
  • the actual body of the holster 1 may be designed in such a way that its edge coincides with the plane of the inner side of the pivoting part 51 .
  • a separate bottom X 1 may also be provided for the spindle and spring mechanism, to which the fixed part 57 is attached and whose outer edge coincides with the plane of the inner side of the pivoting part 51 .
  • This particular embodiment with its own bottom X 1 is advantageous if the type of holster requires it or if one wishes to make the operation of the spindle and spring mechanism independent from the holster body ( FIGS. 4 f & 4 g ).
  • the automatic lock 80 A works as follows.
  • the locking position is thus the position of the lever 87 A pushed towards the bottom X 1 , if it is in position or towards the location where it would be positioned in the event that the body of the holster can advantageously replace it, of the spindle and spring mechanism, i.e. where the fixed part 57 of the spindle and spring mechanism is attached to the body of the holster 1 .
  • the holder therefore achieves a lateral motion of the tongue 7 A of the lock 80 A with his thumb, then a motion forwards on this same tongue 7 A that causes the opening of the cover 5 and thus the release of the gun.
  • the tongue 7 A of the lock 80 is designed so as to come into ergonomic contact with the thumb of the holder who intends to grasp his gun.
  • the tongue 7 A is designed so that the lever 87 A is also automatically unlocked simply by the gun passing by when it is returned to the holster.
  • this lever 87 A is normally forced into its locking position by a spring.
  • the body of the holster 1 is designed so that it can never oppose resistance to the cover opening motion of the tongue 7 A and lever 87 A.
  • the separate bottom X 1 of the fixed part 57 made of resilient material, presents an extended upper part shaped in such a way that its full thickness can sit in a corresponding recess made in the outer wall of the body of the holster 1 .
  • This extended part of the separate bottom X 1 is provided with a transverse protruding element going through a hole also made in the wall of the body of the holster 1 , in such a way that the protruding element can intrude the clearance of the gun in the holster and is designed so that it cannot hinder the sheathing motion of the gun.
  • the holstered gun exerts force on the extended separate bottom X 1 so as to cause the separate bottom X 1 to protrude outside the outer wall of the holster body 1 , sufficiently as to hinder the opening motion of the cover lock 80 A, unless the cover lock is voluntarily unlocked by the holder of the holster.
  • the unholstered gun lets the separate bottom X 1 sit within said recess in the body of the holster 1 where it cannot retain the opening motion of the cover lock 80 A, even in a locked position of the latter.
  • the gun inside or outside the holster automatically selects if the bolt 80 A needs or does not need to be activated by the holder of the holster in order to enable the opening of the cover and the system autolocks itself only when the gun is in the holster.
  • the tongue 7 A of the bolt 80 A does not require, in this specific preferred configuration, to be designed so as to spontaneously cause unlocking of the lever by the motion of the gun when it is holstered.
  • the lock 80 A and axis 89 A system is set into a groove (not displayed) in the pivoting part 51 near and along the back lateral side of the pivoting part 51 , preferably strengthening the system.
  • the leaf spring 85 A can be replaced by a smaller one of any suitable type, located inside this groove.
  • the basic principle of the security cover is to give it a design or shape which, according to one preferred embodiment of the invention, in combination with another compatible form of retention, in addition to preventing the gun from being easily withdrawn from the holster by a third party and in addition to holding the gun securely in the holster, allows the holder to open it by means of a natural movement and to grasp the gun in order to draw it from the holster and keep it ready for firing.
  • FIG. 5 a to 5 d show the principle of a shaped cover with a rim 7 for opening it with the thumb and some possible implementation shapes.
  • This rim 7 on the back inner side of the cover is shaped in such a way as to offer the thumb of the hand grasping the gun a support for pivoting the cover forwards and thus releasing the gun.
  • the present invention meets this requirement without restriction on the possible variations of gun models.
  • the shapes may of course be studied so as to simultaneously fit the largest number of guns.
  • FIGS. 6 a & 6 b show the operating principle of the cover with the sole movement of the thumb according to FIG. 5 a to 5 d.
  • the cover alone cannot provide adequate security with regard to some requirements for ensuring the protection of the gun against unauthorised third parties.
  • This cover will therefore preferably work with and is compatible with one or more additional security devices.
  • the triggerguard-locking system with lateral control works very well with the cover with a rim and totally meets the requirements of the basic concept.
  • the cover with a rim combined with a simplified retention of the triggerguard with lateral control for the thumb ensures the unlocking of the gun in the holder's same natural grasping movement.
  • the cover with a wheel for the index finger works just as well with a triggerguard locking system operated by the thumb with a vertical push, whatever the mechanical system used, possibly patented (AU-A-7 302 194, AU-A-671 767, . . . ) Opening such a combination requires two stages in the same grasping movement of the gun:
  • the cover with a wheel for the index finger is preferably combined with a locking system with a vertical button, as already described, since the natural movement of grasping the gun is precisely retained. It is however not very compatible with the above-described simplified lock since the opening motion for both are not of the same nature (vertical forwards motion for the index finger and lateral motion for the thumb).
  • the security cover in its various forms offers the advantage of having the following range of modular security systems depending on the user's needs and the type of operation, whilst at the same time respecting the basic concept of the invention:

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
  • Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
  • Sealing Devices (AREA)
  • Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)
US11/363,114 2003-08-28 2006-02-27 Security and retention device for a handgun Abandoned US20060175366A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP03447218A EP1510773A1 (de) 2003-08-28 2003-08-28 Sicherungs- und Haltevorrichtung für eine Handwaffe
EP03447218.3 2003-08-28
PCT/BE2004/000120 WO2005022068A1 (fr) 2003-08-28 2004-08-25 Dispositif de securite et retention pour arme de poing

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/BE2004/000120 Continuation-In-Part WO2005022068A1 (fr) 2003-08-28 2004-08-25 Dispositif de securite et retention pour arme de poing

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20060175366A1 true US20060175366A1 (en) 2006-08-10

Family

ID=34089801

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/363,114 Abandoned US20060175366A1 (en) 2003-08-28 2006-02-27 Security and retention device for a handgun

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20060175366A1 (de)
EP (2) EP1510773A1 (de)
AT (1) ATE352020T1 (de)
CA (1) CA2536597A1 (de)
DE (1) DE602004004407T2 (de)
WO (1) WO2005022068A1 (de)

Cited By (28)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20070163164A1 (en) * 2006-01-19 2007-07-19 Noam Avrahami Holster for carrying or wearing smallarms
US20090014484A1 (en) * 2005-05-13 2009-01-15 Peter Spielberger Holster for Small Arms
US20090321480A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2009-12-31 Kincaid Robert A Retention holster having an extended pivot guard
WO2010078318A3 (en) * 2008-12-29 2010-10-28 Prezine, L.L.C. Holster assembly and related methods
US20100299905A1 (en) * 2009-05-27 2010-12-02 Jason Lee McCoy Fast draw security holster
WO2011088446A3 (en) * 2010-01-18 2011-12-08 Safariland, Llc Locking device safety mechanism and related holster assembly
US8371487B1 (en) 2009-04-30 2013-02-12 Rhino Holsters Inc. Handgun holster
US20130075435A1 (en) * 2010-06-04 2013-03-28 Albert Hellweg Retaining mechanism for a handgun holster
US9086254B1 (en) 2013-10-18 2015-07-21 William Joseph Plappert Modular handgun holster
US20150285588A1 (en) * 2014-03-10 2015-10-08 Kelly Irwin Locking holster for a firearm
US9759515B2 (en) 2012-08-17 2017-09-12 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
WO2017165547A1 (en) * 2016-03-22 2017-09-28 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD801041S1 (en) 2016-03-22 2017-10-31 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10066902B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2018-09-04 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a rotatable lockout element
USD838102S1 (en) 2017-01-17 2019-01-15 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD840147S1 (en) 2017-07-17 2019-02-12 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10393477B1 (en) 2006-11-16 2019-08-27 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Retention holster for a firearm having an offset mounted accessory
USD860641S1 (en) 2018-05-09 2019-09-24 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10456938B2 (en) * 2017-08-17 2019-10-29 Race Wu Sheath and knife separation control structure
US10619974B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2020-04-14 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
USD881557S1 (en) 2019-01-18 2020-04-21 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD882247S1 (en) 2015-03-20 2020-04-28 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD903308S1 (en) * 2019-07-10 2020-12-01 Ye Xu Handgun holster with trigger guard and belt clip
US10900744B1 (en) 2019-01-18 2021-01-26 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10996024B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2021-05-04 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US11098979B2 (en) 2016-12-06 2021-08-24 Thf Innovation Pty Ltd Retaining mechanism for a holster
US11781831B2 (en) 2020-06-12 2023-10-10 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster system
US12416470B2 (en) 2023-10-25 2025-09-16 Concealment Express, LLC Holster with retention device and related methods

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2893404B1 (fr) * 2005-11-15 2010-08-13 Gi Professional Etui pour arme de poing, comme par exemple un pistolet ou un revolver
CA2663513A1 (en) * 2006-02-07 2008-02-14 John N. Rassias Lockable holster with multi-directionally adjustable hip mount
DE102007049954A1 (de) * 2007-10-18 2009-04-23 Heckler & Koch Gmbh Waffenhalterung, Holster und Waffenhalterung
DE202014101006U1 (de) 2014-03-06 2014-04-04 Albrecht Kind Gmbh Waffenholster mit Sekundärsicherung

Citations (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2088811A (en) * 1936-03-16 1937-08-03 Clifford A Ray Revolver holster
US4325505A (en) * 1980-06-02 1982-04-20 Hillman Chester K Flap holster
US4721238A (en) * 1985-11-25 1988-01-26 Tex Shoemaker & Sons, Inc. Spring retainer shoulder holster
US4836425A (en) * 1988-02-08 1989-06-06 Mcclellan Gary C Handgun holder
US4858799A (en) * 1988-10-28 1989-08-22 Young Duane E Three way locking system for a hand gun in a holster
US4934574A (en) * 1989-10-30 1990-06-19 Salandre Stephen M Handgun holster and retention apparatus
US5150825A (en) * 1991-01-09 1992-09-29 Nichols Richard E D Holster with retention device
US5395021A (en) * 1993-11-02 1995-03-07 Brown; Alvah B. Handgun holster and retention block therefor
US5419474A (en) * 1993-10-15 1995-05-30 Michaels Of Oregon Co. Handgun holster with internal retention device
US5451023A (en) * 1994-01-12 1995-09-19 Johnston; James R. Holstered handgun retainer
US5509591A (en) * 1992-01-09 1996-04-23 Carver; John W. Holster
US5573157A (en) * 1994-06-13 1996-11-12 Mauriello; Gerald Security means for a pistol holster
US5855305A (en) * 1996-10-01 1999-01-05 Nichols; Richard E. D. Holster with trigger guard retention device
US6283351B1 (en) * 1997-07-30 2001-09-04 Ray M. Brite Universal belt supported carrier for handguns
US20020017541A1 (en) * 2000-08-04 2002-02-14 French John M. Handgun holster with internal retention device
US20020153396A1 (en) * 2000-11-09 2002-10-24 French John M. Handgun holster

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5419747A (en) 1994-01-27 1995-05-30 Piaget; Gary D. Striding-type exercise apparatus
US6085951A (en) 1997-07-09 2000-07-11 Bianchi International Secondary latching device for holsters

Patent Citations (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2088811A (en) * 1936-03-16 1937-08-03 Clifford A Ray Revolver holster
US4325505A (en) * 1980-06-02 1982-04-20 Hillman Chester K Flap holster
US4721238A (en) * 1985-11-25 1988-01-26 Tex Shoemaker & Sons, Inc. Spring retainer shoulder holster
US4836425A (en) * 1988-02-08 1989-06-06 Mcclellan Gary C Handgun holder
US4858799A (en) * 1988-10-28 1989-08-22 Young Duane E Three way locking system for a hand gun in a holster
US4934574A (en) * 1989-10-30 1990-06-19 Salandre Stephen M Handgun holster and retention apparatus
US5150825A (en) * 1991-01-09 1992-09-29 Nichols Richard E D Holster with retention device
US5509591A (en) * 1992-01-09 1996-04-23 Carver; John W. Holster
US5419474A (en) * 1993-10-15 1995-05-30 Michaels Of Oregon Co. Handgun holster with internal retention device
US5395021A (en) * 1993-11-02 1995-03-07 Brown; Alvah B. Handgun holster and retention block therefor
US5451023A (en) * 1994-01-12 1995-09-19 Johnston; James R. Holstered handgun retainer
US5573157A (en) * 1994-06-13 1996-11-12 Mauriello; Gerald Security means for a pistol holster
US5855305A (en) * 1996-10-01 1999-01-05 Nichols; Richard E. D. Holster with trigger guard retention device
US6283351B1 (en) * 1997-07-30 2001-09-04 Ray M. Brite Universal belt supported carrier for handguns
US20020017541A1 (en) * 2000-08-04 2002-02-14 French John M. Handgun holster with internal retention device
US20020153396A1 (en) * 2000-11-09 2002-10-24 French John M. Handgun holster

Cited By (45)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8141758B2 (en) * 2005-05-13 2012-03-27 Peter Spielberger Holster for small arms
US20090014484A1 (en) * 2005-05-13 2009-01-15 Peter Spielberger Holster for Small Arms
US20070163164A1 (en) * 2006-01-19 2007-07-19 Noam Avrahami Holster for carrying or wearing smallarms
US10393477B1 (en) 2006-11-16 2019-08-27 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Retention holster for a firearm having an offset mounted accessory
US20090321480A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2009-12-31 Kincaid Robert A Retention holster having an extended pivot guard
WO2010078318A3 (en) * 2008-12-29 2010-10-28 Prezine, L.L.C. Holster assembly and related methods
US8371487B1 (en) 2009-04-30 2013-02-12 Rhino Holsters Inc. Handgun holster
US20100299905A1 (en) * 2009-05-27 2010-12-02 Jason Lee McCoy Fast draw security holster
US10962325B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2021-03-30 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a removable lockout element
US10066902B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2018-09-04 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a rotatable lockout element
US11561064B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2023-01-24 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a removable lockout element
US12044503B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2024-07-23 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a removable lockout element
US10094637B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2018-10-09 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a removable lockout element
US10088273B2 (en) 2009-11-09 2018-10-02 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster having a slidable locking element
WO2011088446A3 (en) * 2010-01-18 2011-12-08 Safariland, Llc Locking device safety mechanism and related holster assembly
US20130075435A1 (en) * 2010-06-04 2013-03-28 Albert Hellweg Retaining mechanism for a handgun holster
US9759515B2 (en) 2012-08-17 2017-09-12 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10458748B2 (en) 2012-08-17 2019-10-29 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US9086254B1 (en) 2013-10-18 2015-07-21 William Joseph Plappert Modular handgun holster
US20150285588A1 (en) * 2014-03-10 2015-10-08 Kelly Irwin Locking holster for a firearm
US9766037B2 (en) * 2014-03-10 2017-09-19 Assembled Products Corporation Locking holster for a firearm
USD882247S1 (en) 2015-03-20 2020-04-28 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10254078B2 (en) 2016-03-22 2019-04-09 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10436550B2 (en) * 2016-03-22 2019-10-08 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD801041S1 (en) 2016-03-22 2017-10-31 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD871057S1 (en) 2016-03-22 2019-12-31 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US11391539B2 (en) 2016-03-22 2022-07-19 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
WO2017165547A1 (en) * 2016-03-22 2017-09-28 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US11098979B2 (en) 2016-12-06 2021-08-24 Thf Innovation Pty Ltd Retaining mechanism for a holster
USD838102S1 (en) 2017-01-17 2019-01-15 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD840147S1 (en) 2017-07-17 2019-02-12 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10456938B2 (en) * 2017-08-17 2019-10-29 Race Wu Sheath and knife separation control structure
US10996024B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2021-05-04 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US11002511B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2021-05-11 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US11506466B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2022-11-22 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US10619974B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2020-04-14 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US11725905B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2023-08-15 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
US12405082B2 (en) 2018-03-23 2025-09-02 Revelyst Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster
USD1022789S1 (en) 2018-05-09 2024-04-16 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Belt loop
USD860641S1 (en) 2018-05-09 2019-09-24 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
US10900744B1 (en) 2019-01-18 2021-01-26 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD881557S1 (en) 2019-01-18 2020-04-21 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Holster
USD903308S1 (en) * 2019-07-10 2020-12-01 Ye Xu Handgun holster with trigger guard and belt clip
US11781831B2 (en) 2020-06-12 2023-10-10 Vista Outdoor Operations Llc Thumb-actuated locking holster system
US12416470B2 (en) 2023-10-25 2025-09-16 Concealment Express, LLC Holster with retention device and related methods

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1510773A1 (de) 2005-03-02
EP1658468A1 (de) 2006-05-24
DE602004004407D1 (de) 2007-03-08
DE602004004407T2 (de) 2007-08-16
ATE352020T1 (de) 2007-02-15
EP1658468B1 (de) 2007-01-17
WO2005022068A1 (fr) 2005-03-10
CA2536597A1 (en) 2005-03-10

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20060175366A1 (en) Security and retention device for a handgun
US4694980A (en) Handgun holster
US8646665B2 (en) Self-loading holster for semi-automatic or automatic pistols
US6886725B2 (en) Gun holster
US5810221A (en) Handgun holster having a trigger guard retainer latch
US5519954A (en) Ambidextrous magazine release mechanism for firearms
US8096453B2 (en) Gun holster
US6948644B1 (en) Movable welt holster
US5642847A (en) Firearm support
US7434712B2 (en) Hooded holster
US5284281A (en) Holster with trigger guard gripping device
CN101379364B (zh) 具有多方向可调臀架的可锁定手枪套
US5810222A (en) Holster with handgun detent means
US6467660B2 (en) Automatic locking holster
US5918784A (en) Quick-release handgun holster
US7644845B2 (en) Security holster for pistols with attached utility device
US4256243A (en) Holster with hesitation lock
US20170191775A1 (en) Firearm Safety and Theft Deterrent Device
US7950179B2 (en) Attachable handgun storage accessory
US4325505A (en) Flap holster
CA1142149A (en) Combination hand gun holster and belt
US20100299905A1 (en) Fast draw security holster
US7240449B2 (en) Firearm safety system
US5441187A (en) Holster safety snap assembly
WO2008097308A2 (en) Rifle stock with spare magazine storage enclosure and method

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: ARTRADEX SPRL, BELGIUM

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DEKAISE, DANIEL;REEL/FRAME:017558/0945

Effective date: 20060225

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION