Seriously, does it make that much of a difference (charging handle)?

[biker_bill]

Bingo. A close examination of the BCM charging handle will show you that this section is not open, but closed off. The standard CH places all of the stress on a very small roll pin. The pin can shear in two. Or the ears will spread, allowing the pin to bend and eventually pull out.

The BCM CH is closed. This allows the latch itself to stop against the rear wall, transferring stress to the handle and away from that tiny roll pin. It is absolutely stronger and more robust than the standard CH.

With that being said, I can't justify spending more than the cost of the BCM. There are several others that have come to market since the Gunfighter CH was introduced, with prices approaching $100. Screw that. Especially when I can buy the Gunfighter at a 2:1 ratio.

Good info, I'll inspect that part for degradation on the two guns I use the most.
I see anything that doesn't look or measure out right I'll pick up one of those upgraded ones, regardless of the cost.

 

[BangBang]

Man, you boys must be rough as hell on your charging handles if you're bending those ears and breaking pins. I don't baby my stuff, but DAMN!

Heck, my dedicated .22lr AR has a polymer charging handle! LOL

 

[Countryboy 1980]

The BCM handles don't just have a bigger latch, the design is stronger.

That is what I have been saying all the time. Also when seconds count and you are needing to keep your firing hand on the pistol grip it sure is nice to be able to use the weak hand only to charge the weapon in case of a malfunction.

 

[rOmiLaYu]

The carbine spring is stiffer also.

Notice the lack of defecation, wise imaginary English Detective.

 

[mtdawg169]

Notice the lack of defecation, wise imaginary English Detective.

Do what? I'm going to need a Romi translator on my phone if you keep this up!

 

[shootin4fun]

Looks matter too. Lol

 

[albatros43]

Do what? I'm going to need a Romi translator on my phone if you keep this up!

No **** Sherlock

 

[Countryboy 1980]

I just want my stuff to work all the time, and if it does go down I want to be able to get it back in to action fast.

 

[biker_bill]

I just want my stuff to work all the time, and if it does go down I want to be able to get it back in to action fast.

What's that mean? You carry a spare?

 

[letusbuyyourcar]

Has anyone ever broken a charging handle?

Good question. I've had 3 ARs over the years and my last one had an extended release lever that had to be aftermarket. Then someone on here posted an ad looking for one and I traded for his plain factory style. Since I'm clearly NOT a mall ninja operator I don't fell like I need the extended lever or even worse the double extended version. No single point slings,quad rails or vertical foregrip for me. I'm just NOT cool.