AR-15 Charging Handles: Old vs. New

[@TiborasaurusRex]

Man, you nailed it. I agree 100% on all points.

[@ReidHenrichs]

Keep killing it on your end Rex. Good stuff you are putting out.

[@Isaac556x45]

👍🇺🇸

[@SwheatCents]

Yall should do a collaboration!

[@derrickvarnadore1682]

I second all of this...

[@beardedbowhunter6139]

@@SwheatCents I agree

[@skim2958]

I bought an oversized ambidextrous charging handle recently. Could not believe how much of a difference it made. The biggest improvement was that instead of a little lever in the handle that you need to depress to unlock the charging handle, the handle itself becomes the unlocker, on both sides no less. Trust me. It made a huge difference.

[@mikelekston698]

No one speaks with more common sense, honesty, and practicality than you. Thank you.

[@colinsanders9397]

"I like it when it throws some of that moisture back in your face." Yup. Still a Devil Dog.

[@LordEagle]

My kinda woman,,,,😲😲😲👍😎

[@Mockturtlesoup1]

I came to the comments section just for this comment.

[@josephrobison8886]

@@Mockturtlesoup1 same here

[@brich2929]

@@LordEagle hell yeah

[@peachfuds]

Moist

[@saltyrebel2037]

My brother was a USMC scout/sniper so I trust his judgment as I do yours, Reid. He was taught the philosophy, "Bells and whistles are for your dress blues, not your firearms!"

[@sheepdog5799]

Agreed

[@dragontalontsiawd]

O621 here Oo fucking rahhhhh devil dog!!! People always want extra this extra that oz's equal lbs

[@georgemoran1017]

Every one of his rifles were covered in bell's and whistles though. Maybe you should trust his judgment a little less.

[@dragontalontsiawd]

@@georgemoran1017 Who? Which rifle?

[@georgemoran1017]

@@dragontalontsiawd his brothers sniper rifles. For the last 35 years each one has had multiple attachments to increase the usability of the rifles.

[@Kenny762c]

With all that being said... I sure do love my BCM extended charging handle.

[@JustSumGuy01]

They are nice

[@martiniversen4898]

Yep, BCM makes some that are only 40 bucks and dont come out crazy far.

[@hunterman600cc]

Reid is the human embodiment of the saying: It's the Indian, not the arrow.

[@GmanGSW]

I agree with you there, brother... Reid is "the Indian, not the arrow!"

[@warriorhealth2172]

That comment hurt my feeling's. You said "Indian". 🙄😏

[@videodistro]

@@warriorhealth2172 LOL!

[@warriorhealth2172]

@@videodistro 😂😂

[@Hisslave1]

@@warriorhealth2172 Yeah, I'm offended too. Hah.

[@Shackleford_Rusty]

You and Clint are the only two subject matter authorities I feel I can trust to be straight forward.

[@Marcus_972]

Guntubers are screaming right now, Reid has failed to shill as required. I love it, good job being honest and having some integrity.

[@J0sh92]

I really appreciated having my Geissele Airborne CH in your Rifleman 1 class. It was 100 degrees on the Ridge both days, and my sweaty hands never slipped during stoppage clearance drills. I'm not sure how effective an old school charging handle would've been (perhaps it wouldn't have been a problem), but I really appreciated the shape and sharp texture of the Geissele latch. And the Airborne isn't any larger than a standard CH (just shaped differently). Stay safe and keep up the good work bro!

[@Phoenix_Atlas]

With practice you can use the standard just as well as the fancy ones.

[@zeroneutral]

I like the feel of the Geissele more than the Raptor, incidentally.

[@CertifiedBullpupHater]

@@Phoenix_Atlas you can but if you can afford it and there is only benefits why not?

[@BERTalert7]

The new ambi handles are quite nice for us southpaws.

[@videodistro]

Agreed!

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

Yeah, although I have been forced to learn to do EVERYTHING, just about, with my right hand, it is super nice having something feel natural right off the get go..

[@ragheadand420roll]

I shoot ar left handed Its all abt trng

[@unlikemuffin4439]

Or you can just hook it with your index and middle fingers like right handers... it still works.

[@BERTalert7]

@@unlikemuffin4439 You are 100% correct. But all my ARs will have ambi latches. It's the one concession I make to help me out. Plus in the video Reid was racking it only from the left side.

[@jamesr792]

Thank you for putting quality information out there. Too many people are too focused on technology and toys, rather than what actually matters.

[@michaelblacktree]

As a lefty, I can appreciate an ambi charging handle. But aside from that, I totally agree.

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

Yeah, as a lefty you probably have gotten mostly used to EVERYTHING in this world being made for right handed people, right!? Which at this point, 47yrs later, I'm glad to have learned to do everything ambidextrously...

[@michaelblacktree]

Yeah, Uncle Sam taught me to use weapons made for right-handed people. It's not that hard. But for my personal use, I can choose the easier path. 😉

[@ReidHenrichs]

Please be sure to subscribe to me on a great platform Odyesee HERE: bit.ly/3dKi4vk Many of my videos will be unfiltered...

[@ungratefulpeasant8085]

Thanks for the video Reid, your opinion is always appreciated. Lube is a good thing. I have never seen a firearm get caked up and go down from being too wet. I have seen plenty go down from not being cleaned and lubed.

[@phoenix55755]

When I first got my AR, I thought I would need to get a bigger handle. I used my off hand to rack the rifle like you showed in the video, no problems, no issues, so I thought, hey, this saves me some money!

[@sean6077]

Agree on all points, Reid. The only things I added to my rifle is an RDS, BUIS, and a light. Everything else was GTG. No failures/issues of any kind through a couple thousand rounds, so far.

[@AMX86]

It's all personal choice and what you learned and practice. Whatever you do it is simple...it has to work and work everytime.

[@iga2728]

Coming to your class this year in NOv. only time i could. Cant wait bro. Looking forward to cool weather as well.

[@davidbreit5615]

I did buy an oversized handle and kept the original one for a replacement. I know of a couple of guy who supposedly broke their charging handle, in the middle of a training class

[@sheepdog5799]

I have had them warp before so it’s never a bad idea to have an extra around

[@FunWithGuns]

Me too

[@graynotescartridgebox]

And the aftermarket ones are less likely to break.

[@Mockturtlesoup1]

@@graynotescartridgebox yeah. The new/after market ones are made to tolerate only being grabbed/charged on one side, as opposed to the two finger technique that was taught/intended for the older style charging handles. I also just got my first silencer(well, bout my first silencer, it'll probably be another 6 months before I get it), and I'm considering getting one of those charging handles built for use with silencers to help prevent excess gas from getting in your face. I did get one of those OSS flow through silencers that supposedly only drastically reduces back pressure, but I'm also cross dominant so I shoot long guns lefty, which puts the ejection port right in front of my face.

[@homeFall1]

Thank you for explaining your preference and WHY. You make great points and you defiantly have enough time with the system to know what you are talking about. As a lefty I personally have ambi BCM Gunfighters on all my ARs except my M16A1 copy, this allows me to also have a common reference for my nose to charging handle as all mine are the same. Having shot in the rain and wet as well as with a WELL lubed gun I like having a better seal to have the gas and water blow out somewhere other than in my face. Lastly I think if you have a large optic mounted towards the rear (LPVO) then it might make sense to run a larger aftermarket charging handle. NOT trying to get in a fight with anyone over this, I think for the majority of people the bog standard unit will work perfectly, just explaining some of the reasons I prefer an alternative.

[@jcarne1015]

Reid, I spent a number of years in the AR style weapons business. I built rifles with all the gizmos and gadgets for gun show displays, and for people with more money than sense. Nowadays, my go to gun is an SP1 carbine with a flashlight and forward grip. Light and fast.

[@pogveteranar9415]

Whatever milspec looking one came with mine works great so far. Great video!

[@muddyhotdog4103]

They do their job just fine an dandy

[@allenpepke1989]

Always love your wisdom. In this case though I have bad arthritis in my hands to it helps me alot

[@Stevarooni]

My only concern would be that it would stick out from the slim profile of the rifle, but not excessively.

[@mattturner6357]

Going to get over to CSAT with My Wife. Hard to believe My Wife and I meet You by chance on Valentines Day at our favorite local Italian restaurant in Nacogdoches TX. We deeply appreciate Your calling. God Bless

[@forestchicken3302]

I have an extended on my rifle. Army infantryman at one time so I can use either. In my current role I like the larger one. I keep my rifle more as a rapid deployment role not carrying it for miles like I used to.

[@thefirespectrum]

I put on ALL my gear for the last rifle class I went to. I discovered that my big charging handle latch was catching on my magazine pouches at low ready. I put the old school charging handle back on as soon as I got home. It wasn't an issue with just a mag shingle, but once plates and fatigue were in the mix, it happened multiple times. I'm glad I trained with all my kit that day, and will continue to do so from now on.

[@bs2951]

The old style release latch puts all the load on the roll pin , On many of the newer style latches the load is on the latch when it contacts the handle, (Stronger), Semper Fi.

[@chrisbaker978]

As always I enjoyed your video brother. Keep up the good fight man!

[@roger7857]

As an older shooter had to addlow power scope so I need little larger charging handle plus some arthritis in hands. You definitely make it understandable to keep original handle. Age sucks but beats the alternative

[@patriotfour3374]

Love the content! Can't wait to get back down there for a rifle class!

[@GmanGSW]

@Reid Henrichs Thank you for All of your Info and Training thoughts, brother! Always great!

[@jallen32785]

Real talk backed by real knowledge, nothing better. Thanks for your videos.

[@thomasmoorman5328]

I've got one for you. While at our Summer FTX last year we went on patrol we where worn out all ready. Not even half way through the four miles with assault packs one of the guys tripped and fell on his rifle. His extended charging handle went into his right nostril. Needless to say he was bleeding like a stuck pig and in extreme pain for days.The tough SOB got to trough the exercise the made final formation.

[@wvmountaineer69]

Wow that's crazy!

[@thomasmoorman5328]

@@wvmountaineer69 Yep its a injury he won't get over. Still in the game though. The people that commit themselves to protecting there community wont give in to injury or there own hardships. We plug along and if anyone needs help we are there. I'm very proud of these people. Sorry I'm off subject but had to comment on the importance of getting your teams together. Train Train and Train more. Beware there is a lot more to training in the manual of arms. Teamwork in traveling and response as well as setting up defensive positions is critical.

[@FunWithGuns]

I recently picked up a geissele airborne charging handle. It's designed so that it is easier to grab, ambidextrous and more durable but doesnt stick out far enough to snag on anything. I also like to close my dust cover when I know my rifle is loaded so I can look down and know my bolt hasnt come out of battery and the condition of my rifle. I like it also because it blocks gases and I feel it wont break if I have to mortar it. To each their own though. You have waaay more experience than I do and your oldschool setup works for you so 🤷‍♂️. I hope to train with you soon!

[@Brotherman94]

I've never had an issue with an extended charging handle just like I've never had an issue with a standard charging handle. Since they perform that same function I've saved myself money and kept the standard charging handle on most of my recent purchases/builds.

[@jl123ist]

Having a scope reducing access to the charging handle is the only reason I would consider changing it from standard mil-spec.

[@zeroneutral]

This exactly. This is why I got one. It's a big difference.

[@ThePongo357]

My duty rifle is set up similar to yours. I do have an extended latch on my charging handle. And I've had it unlatch during transition drills while wearing body armor. Good point here.

[@ReidHenrichs]

You can further help support this channel by becoming a member of my Patreon HERE: www.patreon.com/reidhenrichs

[@dylanbrown3840]

Lots of valid points. Especially the part when using a scope.

[@ericthehalfmexican9187]

The do come in really nice for suppressed rifles, but it doesn’t need to be extended for that. When the latch sticks it too far, then it starts to dig into your chest or gear.

[@IrishCopeDipper]

I used to run extended charging handles on my rifles until I took my first class. Been running milspec charging handles ever since.

[@Quality_Guru]

Excellent content! I have zero experience with military or LEO tours, but I do have a little experience with reliability and innovation. Here is what I learned. If it isn't broke, don't fix it. If you are not getting an advantage in performance all it can do is introduce a new set variables that can lead to unexpected errors.

[@BertieW0oster]

Great advice Reid! When I built my defensive rifle a few years back it turned out almost identical to the one you're holding in this video; the only exception is I went with a mid-length gas system. I followed the K.I.S.S. principle, keeping it simple, basic, and rock solid reliable! I have no desire to "upgrade" a single thing, it works as needed and will continue to do so.

[@johnrice1943]

Wow. I'm in Nacogdoches TX now.

[@nmfailkid3]

“I really like it when it throws some of that moisture back in your face” I see what you did there 😂😂😂

[@jupiterjunk]

. So glad I wasn't the only person thinking that.

[@NessNik]

Reid likes Lube in his face ... Well this is America do what you want LOL but seriously Gun grease like Wilson Combat Ultima-Lube II is amazing! like Franks hot sauce i use that Sh*t on everything!

[@freedomfighter1861]

Always make sure their wet even if you have to use a spit shine!

[@wellregulated8725]

Like.... a squirter?

[@joe-lf2dv]

@@wellregulated8725 We're still talking about guns here right?

[@northernninety7]

When it comes to my AR, the factory charging handle was harder to pull back quickly due to it being loose and dragging itself on the side of the channel. Then I got the Radian charging handle which is a lot tighter, smoother and has more leverage. It’s not necessary but it sure is nice.

[@gpclipner]

Sling update for AR would be nice. Noticed that yours has changed from video from several years ago.

[@philyamascunt7518]

George Clipner I wish Reid or someone would do a "Sling for Dummies" video I got a Vickers Blue Force padded sling as a present. The sling arrived as a continuous loop which is no big deal but when I went to put my QD swivels on it I pulled it out of the plastic container and noticed 5 buckles, a buckle for the quick adjust strap for a total of 6 buckles and a square "Connector/Hinge" on the sling. I stared at the sling and wondered why are there all of these buckles on a sling and where do the non QD buckles go and I cannot find a video or instructions mentioning where these "Middle" buckles should be placed or threaded so it sits in the corner The girl at work that gave me the sling keeps asking if I mounted the sling on a rifle yet and I tell her that I've been busy but I hate to "Lie" to her

[@gpclipner]

@@philyamascunt7518 I get it. I asked a buddies son who at the time was an active duty Ranger Sargent with 13 Tours under his belt. I got his recommended sling pref. Good sling but without constantly practicing could be complicated. For fast use I’m currently using a bungee type. Let’s not go into magazines yet.

[@shadoweng15]

Hey brother. I don't think this resonated with me the first time I saw at 3 and 1/2 years ago as it did when I watched it again just now. But your philosophy has impressed me for a long time. You know of what I speak. Only make changes to improve and it's hard to really improve upon the core AR-15 platform. The greatest Improvement we can make is with ourselves. Training and mindset. Thank you again Reid

[@ianmorace8382]

Always love your straight forward and practical guidance. My rifle came with an oversized charging handle and its one of the reasons I opted for it. I have an issue with my fingers from 20 years in the AF as an Aircraft Mechanic. The oversized charging handle helps me get a better surface in which to manipulate the charging handle. I don't carry plates or anything like that so its a non issue for me but I train with it as much as possible these days. Thanks again for all you do and have done.

[@xXjOmAmMaXx]

I just went with a non-standard charging handle since I'm left handed and it allows me to manipulate the rifle more efficiently, not necessarily for speed.

[@anthonybrown2989]

I ran that same route on my defensive shotgun, I had it all tacticooled out and the more that I shot it and after running a defensive shotgun course it ended up at basically bone stock. The only modifications that stayed were a 590 trigger group, bolt, and foregrip.

[@1968CudaGuy]

I use a specific brand of extended charging handles specifically to help overcome physical disabilities I have. I've used stock charging handles and found them difficult to manipulate with the off hand.

[@Brandonp728]

Just ordered both books can't wait for them to arrive

[@phillipfitzwater6306]

I agree on all points sir. However on my flat top rifles with scopes, the scope and charging handle compete for space. I prefer an extended charging handle when a scope is mounted.

[@LordEagle]

Reid,,,,you're an AWESOME instructor!!!!!!! 👍👍👍🇺🇸👍👍👍

[@OMGWUNSIU]

Reid always has such great videos. On point again! Thank you.

[@rustynut1967]

I have scopes on two of my ARs and the extended handle works good with those so I run the same on my red dot rifle. I'm to old for runnin and gunnin with a load-out anyway. Enjoy your videos 👍

[@LKaramazov]

I’m a newbie, and the manager of my range has been helping me. He recommended an LPVO for my first AR, and like you said, the charging handle is kind of under the scope. It’s kind of a tight squeeze. I live in Michigan. I see valor ridge is in Tennessee. I LOVE Tennessee. I’d love to come down there, and hope to one day. Yes, training is what I need!

[@fredlardieri6879]

One of the things about ARs is there like the Camaro or Mustang folks love to modify them! Trigger is nice, but I believe in the k.i.s.s. method on stuff "as well

[@theeasternfront6436]

Reid giving the clean gun freaks and the “dont over lube the gun” fudds fits with this video.

[@pierowmania2775]

Thank you for this information. I'm just learning about the AR platform and was very interested in what the difference between all the different charging handles meant.

[@kennygerathy]

Awesome Job Hoss... Semper Fidelis. God Bless 🇺🇸

[@user-hk7ob8ri2b]

Great video. One consideration I've heard for aftermarket charging handles is durability. The theory is if you get a round stuck in the chamber, you might need to mortar your rifle or "kick start" the charging handle to get it back into the fight. I've heard that standard charging handles don't stand up to this type of abuse very well, and if your charging handle breaks, your gun is out of the fight. Some aftermarket products claim to be more robust to abuse. Have you ever seen this on the range?

[@JPetersenJohnMiltonPetersonIII]

👍Excellent coverage of this Reid. Best that I have seen.👍

[@coolhandluke6840]

Old School...(cleaned, cared for) reduce almost all issue in all climates and almost all scenarios...right-on!

[@cloneorder6641]

Another great plus for the newer handles are the ones that vent gas well for suppressed use

[@raboo3211]

Very informative thanks Reid. I'm left handed I have the wide handle I like it. 👊

[@thestoryiheard]

I have myopia and astigmatism. That's why I bought a scope with a fast magnification handle. Because of a charging handle with a big pedal, I can charge my AR-15 very fast even though the scope is closer to the gunstock. As an IPSC practitioner speed matters. Thanks for your book. Greetings from Ukraine.

[@thelynchmob385]

Right on point! I've seen many folks build rifles based on "the cool kid stuff". Im not knocking products but im a firm believer in mastering the fundamentals first and foremost. Once you've developed those, you'll see through the hype and know what upgrades/accessories will help address some gaps you may have. Master your fundamentals.

[@cbrabb]

Yes! Excellent points, all around. Thanks for your time, Reid!

[@GrumpyGenXGramps]

They’re VERY beneficial with a DMR with a scope. I couldn’t pull the mil spec charging handle.... but JUST as I typed this, you said it! DAMN!!

[@07blackdog]

I like the standard profile. I do think there is an issue with the original design transferring the force to the small roll pin. Some of the newer ones use the same profile; but the latch rests on the handle when charging. Good video.

[@HillbillyNitroUSA]

Good sound logic, Reid. 👍🏻 I purchased the BCM Mod 3 (large latch) way back when they first came out. I like it, but I’ve never felt the need to add them to any of my other rifles. Keep it simple! My ✌🏻cents... 👍🏻💪🏻👊🏻

[@organic1776]

Great video as always Reid!

[@Godandgunspodcast]

Good talk, I use the extended charge handle on my night hunting AR because Thermal scope blocks access.

[@jamesnapier107]

Good one Reid! My thought is if it's not broke don't fix it, keep it simple and reliable. But glad you said what you did about scopes on the AR. I run a Leupold LPVO on my rifle and a medium size latch BCM charging handle which is what came with my BCM Recce 16. It make it easier for me to charge the weapon with scope mounted. So good point with that being said. Those larger latches just poke me in the chest and get hung up on anything they come in contact with.

[@glorybound7599]

The scope is the reason why I opted for a butterfly style charging handle. Other than that I’m very old school as well.

[@Southernguitar74]

Standard CH for me, but I have no need for an extended handle. I use a LPVO on my AR's, but I will only use an optic with 3"-4" of eye relief, so I have no problem grabbing the handle. It works for me.

[@franklinstower6721]

Great video... all my upgrades are cosmetic except for the charging handle, I went with a standard size ambidextrous handle. I love it. It's never in the way and it doesnt matter if I grab it in an awkward way, itll unlock and I can get it into battery

[@sniperbear5898]

Reed, you bring me back to my days in the Corps with an excellent PMI. Keep the truth coming. One charging handle I really like is the TacOps charging handle (mid size). I was a believer after inserting optics but the standard charging handle works and works well. Semper Fi.

[@jayonez137]

I run the Geissele airborn charging handle on all my rigs. Small enuf not to get hung up on gear but big enuf to get some positive traction. And smooth as butta.

[@MrToad-actual]

My M1A’s charging handle is perfect 👌

[@jjfaughn]

The larger, double latches really come into play for me as a lefty. Small latch on one side is just fine for righties but for lefties the forward assist gets in the way a lot. I’ve pealed skin off a few times from it. So may not be a big difference between new and old for most people but speaking for myself being left handed, it really does help my manipulation. But regardless, the old school one works just fine too. It’s just a convenience thing and what works for some doesn’t for others.

[@Scaliad]

Agree, I've never seen a need for other than mil-spec charging handles.

[@chaosad9754]

I have multiple ARs and finally broke down the other day and bought an extended ambidextrous charging handle. I had my reservations, sticks out too far, digs into my side, wouldn't be the same as my other guns, etc. I put it on a scoped rifle, thinking it would allow for easier access, not having to work around the back of the scope, which is just a little forward of the handle. First time I tried to use it off hand, the extended part broke off. So, it's back to the original.

[@JustSumGuy01]

You know Raptor makes small ones

[@JamesDavis-jo9tk]

Love the video! I would also recommend carrying a standard spare charging handle. The can break from time to time.

[@beltfedTODDRULZ]

All the money saved from not buying Gucci charging handles for a pile of Cars can get you more ammo, mags, spare guns and parts. Appreciate your practical and Patriotic insights , it's really awesome that Rex is here too!

[@beltfedTODDRULZ]

ARs not cars, spell check is messing with me

[@1945tigers]

The Strike extended charging handle is very nice.

[@michaelkennedy996]

Thank you, Marine.

[@bassboy99091]

I have regular old school charging handles on all but one of my rifles the one that has a raptor is because that rifle has a LPVO so I agree 100%

[@Isaac556x45]

Great video sir, thank you for covering these real world issues.

[@jthrelf]

This philosophy is also evident in your rifle here too. Basic, good quality rifle, light and sling - done. And knowing how to use it....

[@JohnnyReb2000]

Being left handed, I once bought an extended, ambidextrous lever for my charging handle as I think 60 dollars for a charging handle is ridiculous. Ended up going back to the old school lever because the ambi extension wore off the finish on the charging handle.

[@lorenwager3703]

Great video I purchased a rifle with one of those over sized charging handles and found that it would catch on gear or clothing and replaced it with the old school style problem solved

[@robertselby8915]

Good information... I agree the oversized charging handle is the solution to a non existing problem and have told several of my friends and co-workers the same... It is just my opinion but our opinions line up here

[@marshallbass7842]

All valid points. Love your videos.

[@boharris8179]

Shout out from a fellow Tennesseean. Great info brother don't always fall for clever marketing if it ain't broke don't fix it. I have one particular CH I use in every rifle I build just so it's always familiar no matter which tool I have out.

[@FootBall432221]

Thank you for the video Reid.

[@rico989]

I changed my basic charging handle just the handle to a steel extended latch but other than hat still mil spec and running good.