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Best AR-15 Charging Handles 2023 [Hands-On]

There are dozens of AR-15 charging handles out there. We hands-on tested almost all of them and chose our favorites for specific AR build needs.
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    The AR-15 as a platform is upgradeable to an extreme degree.

    Modded AR-15s
    Modded AR-15s

    It seems like every part can be upgraded to be a little better. But that can often mean costing you an arm and a leg!

    One of the smallest and easiest upgrades you can make to your AR-15 is swapping the charging handle.

    All The Charging Handles
    All The Charging Handles

    Like every other AR-15 part in the world, the charging handle has dozens and dozens of different options.

    Navigating AR charging handles can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to finding the right one for you. So we want to help you a bit.

    Left Side Ejection AR-15 Pistol
    Testing Charging Handles and showing some Pew Pew Tactical SWAG!

    We’ve gathered together charging handles from companies far and wide, and through testing and evaluation, we’ve narrowed it down to our favorites.

    Note: These appear in no particular order. All of them are awesome in different ways and for various reasons.

    Summary of Our Top Picks

    1. Best on a Budget

      Strike Industries ARCH

      Affordable, mil-spec, charnging handle

    2. Best for Lightweight Builds

      Radian Raptor LT Charging Handle

      Lightweight and well made

    3. Editor's Pick

      Aero Precision Ambidextrous Charging Handle

      One of our favorite all around handles

    4. Best for Lefties

      BCM Gunfighter Mod 4x4

      Ambi and great for left-handed shooters

    5. Best for Gloves

      Geissele Super Charging Handle

      Easy to grip in bad conditions or with gloves

    Best AR-15 Charging Handles

    1. Strike Industries ARCH

    An upgraded charging handle doesn’t mean an extended charging handle, latch-less charging handle, or really anything crazy at all.

    Even the most basic Mil-Spec style charging handle can be well made and can stand above other Mil-Spec options. (Improving on Mil-Spec is easy when it isn’t made by the lowest bidder).

    Strike Industries in AR-15
    Strike Industries in AR-15

    If you want an affordable, Mil-Spec option, then Strike Industries has you covered.

    On the outside, this is a pretty standard-looking charging handle, but upon closer inspection, you can tell Strike put some work into this simple charging handle.

    The SI ARCH is hard anodized and is exceptionally smooth.

    This smooth finish allows it to glide rearwards with ease. The most significant difference you’ll see is near the rear of the charging handle.

    It’s rounded off at the back but features a sharp straight angle on the inside of the charging handle.

    Strike Industries Out of Rifle
    Strike Industries Out of Rifle

    The inside is also textured for a better grip, and the latch is only as large as it needs to be. While the differences are subtle, once you start running the charging handle, they are significant.

    A textured grip is excellent for clearing jams when your hands are sweaty or if you are wearing gloves.

    The smoother finish makes the charging handle glide backward; it reduces the effort needed to charge the weapon, clear jams, and more.

    Plus, it just feels nice, really lovely. The SI ARCH isn’t necessarily sexy or fancy, but it functions and does so well.

    Best on a Budget
    28
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    2. Strike Industries ARCH with Extended Latch

    Budget is relative to what you are getting for the money. So yes, cheaper charging handles exist, but they don’t deliver as much value as the SI ARCH with the extended latch.

    For right around $30, you get an excellent charging handle that takes the best features of the Standard ARCH and makes it a little quicker and easier to grasp.

    Strike Extended Latch
    Strike Extended Latch

    The extended latch sticks out about an extra half-inch, giving the user a little more space to grip the charging handle.

    This additional purchase gives you the ability to quickly charge the weapon and clear malfunctions.

    It also gives you more room to grab the charging handle if you are rocking a variable power optic.

    Strike Extended Latch on Rifle
    Strike Extended Latch on Rifle

    The Strike Industries ARCH is already an outstanding charging handle; we just covered it above, and all the same features there are present here.

    One detraction from this design is that the extended portion of the handle is only on the left-hand part of the charging handle. This charging feature is somewhat useless for left-handed shooters.

    Side view of the Strike Industries Extended Latch
    Side view of the Strike Industries Extended Latch

    The Strike Industries ARCH charging handle is a great option and comes in at a low price.

    It’s a lot like Starbucks, basic but not bad.

    Best Bang for Buck Charging Handle
    39
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    3. Strike Industries Latchless Charging Handle

    Strike Industries likes to experiment and does so quite well. The Latchless Charging Handle is one such experiment.

    The lack of a latch is an interesting idea as it reduces the movements needed to release the latch and manipulate the weapon.

    Strike Industries Latchless
    Strike Industries Latchless

    I could charge the weapon with a compromised grip. (Compromised means rushed, crappy, and in a hurry.)

    The lack of a latch allowed me to load the gun from either side with ease. If my left arm is out of the fight, I can still find a way to manipulate the charging handle.

    This latch-less system uses a cool hidden spring mechanism in the center of the charging handle to make sure it stays put when not in use.

    That spring holds it in place entirely, but you don’t even feel it when you charge the weapon.

    Strike Industries Latchless in Rifle
    Strike Industries Latchless in Rifle

    Like the Strike ARCH, this is 7075 T6 aluminum charging handle, and the finish is slick.

    The Latchless Charging Handle can be extended via a simple add-on to the left or right side that makes the handle a little bigger.

    If you wanted to, you could purchase two extended handles and have one on the right and the left side. They install quickly and are like $10.

    The charging handle also features side gas venting, which is great for my 7.5-inch barrel AR pistol. It tends to be a gassy girl.

    Best Latchless Charging Handle
    30
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    4. The Radian Raptor LT

    AR-15s are getting smaller and lighter.

    Guns come in at well under 6 pounds these days, and some builders are taking that to the extreme.

    My friend Rex Nanorum over at The Loadout Room built a lightweight AR under 6 pounds when it’s outfitted with a suppressor and optic.

    Radian Raptor-LT
    Radian Raptor-LT

    From talking with him, I’ve learned that guys taking on these projects are looking to trim ounces, and even half ounces, as much as possible.

    If you are chasing this kind of build and still looking for a lightweight but functional charging handle, then the Radian LT is an excellent choice.

    Coming in at only 1.2 ounces the Radian LT is a functional choice.

    It’s got two massive wings on the sides that make the charging handle easy to grip and rip regardless of the situation. This is especially true when it comes to using the charging handle with an optic.

    Raptor LT on Rifle
    Raptor LT on Rifle

    The Radian Raptor LT is made from 7075 aluminum and is hard anodized with a Mil-Spec Type 3 finish.

    It is also reinforced with high-strength reinforced polymer for saving weight but maintaining strength.

    The Radian Raptor LT is lightweight, well-made, and priced well. It’s a great option for your lightweight build or just a standard build that needs a great charging handle that’s priced affordably.

    Best for Lightweight Builds
    74
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    5. Original Radian Raptor

    If we are going to name the lighter-weight choice, we can’t leave out the classic Radian Raptor. The Radian Raptor was one of the OG modern, extended charging handles.

    An ambidextrous design features two extended handles for lots of space to grip.

    Original Radian Raptor
    Original Radian Raptor

    The extended charging handles are big enough to allow a blading technique for those of us with tough hands. Blading is when you are catching the charging handle with your palm and rapidly pull it rearward.

    You need a nice, large charging handle to do this efficiently and quickly. The Radian Raptor allows that to be possible.

    It also sports two different independent levers that enable quick and easy charging and weapon manipulation.

    Charging the Raptor
    Charging the Raptor

    The Radian Raptor is made from 7075 aluminum and comes in a multitude of colors.

    The different colors make it charming and sexy, and I appreciate a splash of color here and there. As you can see, we went with the FDE Radian Raptor.

    The Raptor is a classic extended charging handle that still keeps up with the young ones.

    94
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    6. Radian Raptor SD

    The third and final Radian Raptor is one specifically designed for suppressed guns.

    The Radian Raptor SD is the same old Raptor grip we know and love but vented explicitly for suppressed ARs.

    Left Side Ejecting AR-15 with Raptor Charging Handle
    AR-15 with Raptor Charging Handle

    AR-15s have quite a bit of gas blowback when they are suppressed. This gas blowback hits the shooter, occasionally carrying carbon to the shooter’s face.

    This gas can be a mild inconvenience that gets worse and worse the more rounds you put downrange.

    Radian Raptor SD
    Radian Raptor SD

    The Radian Raptor SD is vented extensively down the sides to decrease gas blowback by directing it out the sides.

    This makes shooting your suppressed AR a much lovelier experience.

    If you are shooting suppressed, you can stop reading now; this is the charging handle you need.

    Best Suppressor Ready CH
    124
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    7. Aero Precision Ambidextrous

    If you want a massive charging handle, then Aero Precision has you covered.

    The Aero Precision Ambidextrous charging handle is quite likely one of the most significant charging handles on the market.

    Aero Precision Charging
    Aero Precision Charging

    This makes it perfect for optic’s equipped AR-15s. Especially when it comes to large variable optics.

    These handles will clear the eyepiece of any modern scope. It’s my go-to on my budget Recce rifle.

    Aero Precision Charging Handle
    Aero Precision Charging Handle

    This ambi charging handle sports two massive latches, and it’s simple to blade the weapon, even with an optic on the gun.

    The Aero Precision charging handle is one of my favorite all-around charging handles ever. I like it on any rifle, and its large size works with my massive hands pretty well.

    The 7075-T6 aluminum design makes it a rugged and capable charging handle for your build.

    Aero Precision and The Meme War
    Aero Precision and The Meme War

    I love how it glides backward when pulled, and the extra size means extra leverage. This makes blading pretty easy and not too painful on the hands.

    The Aero Precision charging handle is my personal favorite, and it functions as an absolute champ.

    Best for a Scoped AR-15
    79
    at Aero Precision

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    8. BCM Gunfighter MOD 4

    BCM redesigned the traditional charging handle to take the force off the roll pin, placing it to the rear of the charging handle.

    The GFH MOD 4 features a medium latch on the left-hand side for right-handed shooters.

    This particular extended model is a little shorter than an inch past the main body of the charging handle.

    BCM Gunfighter MOD 4 Ready to Rock (Get it Rock Sorry.)
    BCM Gunfighter MOD 4 Ready to Rock (Get it Rock Sorry.)

    The BCM GFH MOD 4 is primarily designed to be used with the blading technique, so the pressure applied via this technique won’t damage the charging handle or latch. 

    It’s not often that you see a firearms technique incorporated into the design of a part. But this is the kind of extra level of effort that I’ve come to expect from BCM.

    The BCM Gunfighter MOD 4
    The BCM Gunfighter MOD 4

    It catches the hand perfectly and is perfect if you are new to this technique.

    The Gunfighter is a thoroughly modern option for your next AR-15 build. Not to mention, Bravo Company has an outstanding reputation for producing high-quality AR components and even full rifles.

    56
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    9. BCM Gunfighter MOD 4B

    If you want to keep things simple, the BCM Gunfighter MOD 4B is the option for you.

    It’s a compact and small charging handle that meets the standard Mil-Spec dimensions.

    This charging handle is designed for shooters used to the standard manual of arms associated with military training.

    BCM Charging
    BCM Mod 4B Charging

    While it functions as a standard charging handle, it’s made to last.

    Using 7075-T6 aluminum, it’s strong as hell and outfitted with a type 3 hard anodized finish for long-lasting durability.

    The MOD 4B is available in both a mil-spec design and an ambidextrous model.

    BCM Mod 4B
    BCM Mod 4B

    This particular model is the mil-spec model. It excels for those of us who’ve spent a little time in the armed forces.

    The MOD 4B also works as a great low-profile option for those who don’t need or want an extended latch system.

    It’s textured for a more comfortable grip and outfitted with BCM’s load-eliminating design. This reduces wear on the pivot pin and paces it midline of the rifle.

    59
    at Primary Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Used the BCM MOD4? If so, give it a rating below!

    Readers' Ratings

    4.99/5 (1311)

    Your Rating?

    10. BCM Gunfighter MOD 4×4

    The 4X4 from BCM is an ambidextrous option for Bravo Company.

    Its mil-spec size and dimensions make it nice and compact — at least compared to other charging handles on this list.

    Each side features a latch that releases the charging handle with ease.

    BCM Mod 4x4
    BCM Mod 4×4

    The GFH 4X4 is a great option for lefties seeking a mil-spec-sized charging handle. It’s straightforward to use and is made from 7075-T6 aluminum.

    I’m a right-handed shooter, so maybe I can’t get the full effect of this charging handle, but I get the concept.

    BCM 4x4 in Rifle
    BCM 4×4 in Rifle

    Even though it feels unnatural for me to charge the rifle with my right hand, I find it surprisingly easy to do with this charging handle.

    The MOD 4X4 is priced affordably for a premium-grade charging handle.

    Best for Lefties
    89
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    11. Breek Arms Warhammer

    We dig the Warhammer because it’s simple, straightforward, works well, and has a nice shape to the handle.

    Does it do anything special? Not really.

    But simple and works doesn’t need to be special every time.

    Breek Warhammer
    Breek Arms Warhammer

    It is ambi, though, and it does have a deflection piece to get excess gasses away from the shooter.

    When it comes down to it, that’s the two most popular features for a charging handle to have, and the Breek does both very well.

    The arms of the handle are a bit larger than most, which makes it nice to grab with gloves but can also snag on gear. The trade-off is up to you, though.

    44
    at Primary Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    12. Aero Precision Breach

    Made from 7075 Aluminum (the good stuff) the Breach has two sizes and two platforms on offer — a large handle and a small handle for the AR-15 or the AR-10.

    Lightweight, sturdy, ambi, gas deflecting, and two handle size options…much of that is what we’ve come to expect from aftermarket charging handles.

    But Aero Precision executes it better than most.

    Aero Breach (2)
    Aero Precision Breach charging handles

    Plus…we just really dig the look of these.

    We’ve been running them in an AR-9 lately and have zero issues.

    Aero Breach (14)
    Large Vs. Small

    The small handle is still easy to grab but has reduced snagging potential also. It’s a bit hard to get a good grip on with gloves, but that’s what the large handle is for.

    If you’re in the cold often or wear gloves either way — then the large handle has a lot more meat for you to get your digits around.

    79
    at Aero Precision

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    13. Geissele Super Charging Handle

    Geissele Automatics, well known for their triggers, didn’t take long to move into other accessories. The Super Charging handle soon followed.

    Machined out of a solid block of anodized aircraft grade 7075-T6 aluminum, the SCH is an ambidextrous charging handle with a symmetrical approach.

    A symmetrical, ambidextrous beauty.

    It features a checkered texture inside the handles to greatly aid with grip, even in poor conditions or while wearing gloves.

    The size and curve of the handles are a nice balance, not so big that they hang up on things, but big enough to be easier to grab than a stock charging handle.

    The SCH is a great option under an LPVO too.

    In addition, the rear lip was raised to help keep some of the gas out of the shooter’s face when running suppressed or short-barreled applications.

    The SCH is on the upper end of the price scale but is sturdy and should provide years of service.

    Best for Gloves
    85
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    14. Blackout Defense Stryker Charging Handle

    Having handled a few products from Blackout Defense, we’ve really been impressed with their quality. Their Stryker Charging Handle is no exception.

    Made of aircraft grade 7075 aluminum, it is with a hard coat anodizing and Cerakoted in a number of different colors. It also comes with a heavy duty latch to hold it in place when not chambering a round.

    Blackout Defense Stryker Charging Handle

    Fully ambidextrous, the Stryker features wings on both sides for grip. The surface of these wings is covered with a heavy duty serration that is easy to hang on to.

    Thankfully, the edges are also rounded so they don’t grab onto gear like slings, plate carriers, or chest rigs.

    Final Thoughts

    I’ve gone through a lot of charging handles; I mean a lot of them. So much so that when testing these designs, I got a nice case of tennis elbow and a bruised palm.

    Maybe it’s the charging handle elbow?

    Whatever you want to call it I got it. I did, however, learn a ton about charging handles, and there is more to learn than I expected.

    The best thing I learned was I have a ton of options when it comes to AR-15 builds of all kinds.

    What do you think? Did we miss any stellar charging handles? If so let us know in the comments below. For more AR upgrades, check out Best AR-15 Upgrades for everything from triggers to handguards and more.

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    50 Leave a Reply

    • Commenter Avatar
      Scott B

      I'm surprised in a review of charging handles you didn't include the innovative Springfield LevAR handle. I had a lot of problems with stuck casings using cheap steel ammo which had me mortaring the rifle every time to clear. I installed this handle and it ratchets the casings out every time easily.

      August 28, 2023 9:39 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Ryan Tecklenburg

      Regarding Radian Raptor SD and shooting suppressed; this charging handle is still recommended even if you have a Superlative Adjustable Gas Block dialed in correctly?

      December 7, 2022 4:56 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      C Raven

      The LWRC ambi charging handle is better than and heavier duty than all of these. Disappointed it's not even on the list let alone #1 which is should be.

      November 9, 2022 5:38 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Thomas W

      Don’t buy the Breek Arms Warhammer. Mine just broke with less than 500 rounds. Latch pin fell out and the charging handle began reciprocating. That caused malfunctions of course. Garbage product.

      January 15, 2022 6:21 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bill B

      LWRC ambi charging handle , would have been nice to see up against the others .
      I always enjoy your reviews .

      January 10, 2022 3:03 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Charlie

      Every post more and more feels like it is driven by who donates the most that week. Though I am surprised to not see PSA on here

      January 10, 2022 12:54 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Josh r

      You missed two stellar charging handles, arguably the best on the market I do love Radian SD on my supressed rifle I also love the Forward control design ACF really helps prevent gas in your face. Second on my list is the Badger gen 3

      January 9, 2022 11:16 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bull o' the Woods

      Oh come on. No mention of the Geissele URGI Airborne Charging Handle?

      July 23, 2021 12:09 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Tom Smith

      I still don't know which one I'll buy next!!! LOL Great write-up Travis! OOOhhh....RAH!!

      July 20, 2021 11:19 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bama

      C’mon man- I’m gonna make the third request for an AR-10 (specifically the PSA PA 10). I’m having a hard time getting around my scope. Also, any info on a side charger? Seems to be a sizable crowd that lean on and value your opinions. Thanks for all that ya’ll do for us!

      June 3, 2021 5:12 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        DP

        I really enjoy my Breek Arms Warhammer Mod 2 on my PA-10.

        August 30, 2022 10:49 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Michael Such

      I would love to see your take on AR10 Charging handles. I just received a PA10 from PSA. And a after market charging handle would be great.

      May 3, 2021 8:08 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        DP

        I went with the Breek Arms on my PA10. Works very well.

        August 30, 2022 10:48 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bob House

      Do we have an opinion on slide charging handles, the over the cheek rest on the AR shoulder butt. They are ambitious and seem to be out of the way

      April 30, 2021 3:15 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Damien

        All I run is a non reciprocated mean say charging handle on my lower sometimes an ambidextrous sling sometimes the right side of my knee but I'll never go back to a regular charging handle I think it's easier to clear quicker but you don't have your forward assist they can sometimes get in the way of an object with the magnifier behind it it's just all around a much simpler and easier and quicker for me but everybody's different

        July 17, 2021 1:24 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jordan

      Radian Raptor. No other charging handle compares.

      April 29, 2021 2:25 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Chad gilbert Wilkins

        Many are much better. The geissele and the bcm stuff is worlds better. Im glad you like your radian, but nonsense like "nothing else compares" is laughably false.

        May 4, 2021 4:40 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Grizzly

        I'm not sure if they're actually incomparable or the best in the world but I do have two of the Radian Raptor charging handles & they do work very well.

        February 20, 2022 6:40 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Scott

      Will you do a similar article for AR10s? Just curious what people are putting on their bigger brothers to the AR15s, especially when there are scopes mounted. It's always a chore using the charging handle when having to work around the scope.

      April 28, 2021 6:27 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Alternator

      Death to the useless latch!!

      April 27, 2021 12:17 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Josh r

        Boomer talk radian, FCD and badger are world's ahead

        January 9, 2022 11:06 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      E E

      Question about the Strike Latchless Charging Handle. It says on their website "Not for use on SBRs or pistol length barrels (<14.5")", but you mention it working great on a 7.5" pistol. Do you know why they say it is not meant for use on pistol length AR builds.? I ordered one for my 10.5" 300 blackout build and did not see this warning on the site I ordered from and just wondering if I need to get another model/brand. Thanks for any info.

      February 14, 2021 4:44 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jack Smith

      I have the VLTOR BCM Mod 4 and it's a great handle. I will probably buy it for my next one as well. I might consider the Raptor as well.

      February 6, 2021 4:29 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Josh Brown

      Lol that bcm model 4x4 pic that's not a bcm it looks like the radian.

      Thanks for these articles i like the feed back on yalls opinions with parts yall actually had your hands on. I've been real happy with everything yall have suggested.

      June 22, 2020 9:59 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Cruiser51

      I appreciate your article. I'm a lefty and was frustrated with the right handed charging handle on my AR-15. Your article gave me some good insight on what ambi charging handles are available. This week I bought a Bravo Company 4x4. Got it today and it works nicely. Keep up the nice work on your reviews.

      May 9, 2020 1:36 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      ConfusedForeignGirl

      I have the radian raptor on both of my rifles. My arpistol has a bunch of strike industries red parts and the radian raptor competition red charging handle matches them nicely

      March 6, 2020 11:52 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bull o' the Woods

      What about the Geissele Airborne charging handle, which leaves the rest of them in the dust? Simply the best.

      January 26, 2020 8:45 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        thoughtcrime11

        owned Geissele, Radian, Daniel Defense Ambi, LWRC Ambi, BCM, etc. Radian Raptor is clearly the best. I would possibly take the LWRC or DD over the Geissele, I could see how people think Geissele is the best, there is no way it trumps Radian Raptors, laughable.

        April 30, 2020 11:45 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Nick

      the fact that the top 3 were all made by Strike Industries really makes me question whether or not I should take this website seriously anymore

      November 12, 2019 6:25 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        David, PPT Editor

        The first three listed were made by Strike, the list is not in order of best to worst.

        November 12, 2019 7:36 pm
        • Commenter Avatar
          William

          In your opinion wich would be best with a scope just over top. Have a stock a2 I guess and can do it but obviously could be better

          December 13, 2019 6:24 pm
          • Commenter Avatar
            David, PPT Editor

            I have Radian Raptor LT on all of my rifles, I really like them. They're durable, easy to use, and a decent price most of the time. Highly recommend it!

            December 14, 2019 5:01 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        CHRIS ROCK

        Maybe try reading comprehension. It clearly states in the article that they are in no particular order.

        October 20, 2022 5:59 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Pete

      I once saw a picture of a very unorthodox AR-15 charging handle that hugged the top of the stock and you pulled it back like the slide of a pistol. I was hoping you’d mention that. I have no idea who makes it or what it costs, but I’m sure some of your readers have seen it.

      June 12, 2019 3:59 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        David, PPT Editor

        There is a couple of them I think, the one I've seen the most is the HABU MOD 1 for $65 at Brownells. I've only used it a small amount, but I wasn't a big fan. It's a bit akward, the grip doesn't feel super positive, it's much harder to use if you need to aggressively charge the rifle to clear a malfunction, and I had to change my cheek weld or risk getting poked in the face with the back of the handle on recoil.

        June 12, 2019 4:22 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Shane Fowler

      The PRI gasbuster and any of the POF Ambis I've used the tomahawk and it's pretty awesome and low pro.

      Be interested to see how the new ambi ArmaSpec stacks up. Supposed to be gas busting type as well

      February 12, 2019 6:30 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Tad

        I was very surprised none of those got a mention.

        June 23, 2019 9:17 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Dogtired

      To the points raised below about not needing more than a $6 handle, there ARE good reasons to choose something else. Some of these designs--the BCM in particular (and I think the SI)--take pressure off the roll pin so the part doesn't fail. Some may want to run optics. Putting an extension on the standard mil-spec handle exacerbates the torque on that little pin. There are some handles that rely on bearings instead of pins. Some handles keep gas from blowing back in your face as much. Some give you greater purchase for those with weaker fingers or hands. I look for good handles on sale cheap. Still more expensive than a mil-spec. To each their own. To some the extra cost is worth the peace of mind or the ease of use. To others it's not. That's why we have choice. Whatever you shoot, enjoy what you do and let others do the same.

      January 14, 2019 10:26 am