In general, I keep my self-defence tools stock, at least I thought so until I went over my list of modifications. Most of my modifications are user transparent. My AR has the same basic control as any rack-grade rifle. Why? I don’t want to condition myself to reach for a control that might not be there if I grab a non-customized rifle.
I added a larger trigger guard
for a gloved finger, an ambidextrous charging handle to facilitate clearing
jams and other problems, and a light for low-light operation.
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| A group of Marine Veterans have formed a company called... |
My intention to remain largely stock may change. Recently, Kevin Dockery (author of 'Stalkers and Shooters') showed me a side hard charger that converts your stock AR to a left-hand side charger from Devil Dog Concepts. https://devildogconcepts.com/
I thought, “Is this a solution
looking for a problem?"
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| The side charger fits on your rail and is anchored with set screws |
After I looked at it, I decided this is a good thing. The unit mounts to your rail and replaces your charging handle. It doesn't require gunsmithing, and the new generation 2 fits forged and billet uppers. It doesn't interfere with field striping your rifle, block the mag release, or safety.
I have one gun set up with a
Sylvan Arms Folding Stock. Will it fit
around that?
https://tactical-talk.blogspot.com/2021/12/silvan-arms-ar-folding-adapter.html
I looked at it and realized the
folding coupler is out of the way, and my current charging handle does not
interact with it. I suspect the answer
is ‘No problem.’
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| The side charger operates the rear charging handle. It's a special unit which comes with the unit. |
When I have a simple stoppage to
clear, stovepipe, or dud round, I rotate the rifle on my shoulder about 45
degrees and, with my left hand, reach back and work the charging handle
twice. The cant helps ensure anything
loose drops out of the bolt carrier space.
I suspect I'll do the same with the hard charger.
The difference? Mechanical advantage. The side charger will give me significantly
more leverage. The other big advantage
is clear to every reloader. Let’s face
it. Reloaders experience more jammed
shells than factory new shells. The cure
for this jam is mortaring your rifle. If
you've done this a few times, you know this can be an involved process. The short version of this is: Collapse your
stock. Drop the magazine out, make sure
the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction, grab the charging handle with two
fingers, and drive the gun butt against a hard surface. The momentum and weight of your hand on the
charger handle usually pulls the bolt carrier back and ejects the round. With the side charger, you could use the edge
of a barricade, place it on the ground and use your shoe sole. With the increased leverage, you might be
able to jerk the side charging handle back and solve the problem.
The charging handle is available
in several different styles. I wouldn't
pay more for a slightly customized handle.
The stock model seems fine.
Is there a down side? I’m not sure.
It does add weight to your rifle.
We’ve added dots, suppressors, bipods, lights and bull barrels all the
understanding we’ve added weight. The
side charger will also add about 5 ounces.
Check them out at https://devildogconcepts.com/. Just a reminder, I don’t get anything for
this; I believe this is a valuable addition to your sport or out-the-door gun.
But if Devil Dog wants to send me
one, I'd be happy to field test it this spring and summer.
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