US20140115937A1

US20140115937A1 - Firearm securing devices

Info

Publication number: US20140115937A1
Application number: US14/063,028
Authority: US
Inventors: Wes Harman; Nicholas Vallo; Christopher Trunek; Paul Harrison
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-10-25
Filing date: 2013-10-25
Publication date: 2014-05-01

Abstract

Various embodiments of a firearm securing device are disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/718,558, filed on Oct. 25, 2012, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Individuals wishing to legally protect themselves with a firearm typically understand the importance of properly securing the firearm, especially in a home setting where children are present. These individuals also typically recognize the importance of being able to access the firearm at a moment's notice in the unfortunate event that a threat presents itself. Statistically speaking, an individual in a home defense situation is far more likely to face a home invader during the night than during daylight hours. Additionally, the individual is likely to have little to no time to prepare upon realizing that the home is being invaded.
Currently, individuals wishing to protect themselves with a firearm have limited options for adequately securing the weapon (especially from unauthorized users such as children), none of which offer the individual reliable, quick access. Some means include: gun safes, which require time, visibility, and fine motor skill to open; gun locks configured to encompass a firearm's trigger guard, which require time, visibility, fine motor skill, and sometimes a key to disengage; and lock boxes, which require at least time, fine motor skill, and sometimes a key to manipulate and open. It is not uncommon for the devices listed above to malfunction, causing a delayed or denied access to the firearm by authorized users, especially under the stress of an imminent threat.
Likewise, individuals wishing to have reliable quick access to their firearm are left with limited options for adequately securing it. Oftentimes, these individuals opt for a completely unsecured firearm concealed in a drawer, closet, or under a bed. As a result, there is likely nothing to keep the firearm from falling into the hands of children or other unauthorized users in the home.
What is needed is a firearm securing device capable of adequately securing the firearm from children and other unauthorized users, while also capable of providing authorized users reliable quick access to the firearm in the case of an imminent threat.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, an apparatus for securing a firearm is provided, the apparatus comprising: a lower portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard; and an upper portion pivotally connected to the lower portion, comprising: an engagement portion configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and a firearm backstrap; and a biasing member operatively connected to the engagement portion and configured to bias the engagement portion into engagement with at least one of the firearm slide, the firearm hammer, the firearm tang, and the firearm backstrap.
In another embodiment, an apparatus for securing a firearm is provided, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard; and an engagement portion at least one of pivotally and slidably connected to the enclosure portion, wherein the engagement portion extends about the rear of a firearm slide when in a closed position, wherein the engagement portion further comprises a secondary release mechanism configured to selectively arrest motion of the engagement portion via selective engagement to the enclosure portion.
In another embodiment, an apparatus for securing a firearm is provided, the apparatus comprising: an enclosure portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard; an engagement portion configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of the enclosure portion, a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and a firearm backstrap; and a biasing member operatively connecting the enclosure portion to the engagement portion and configured to bias the engagement portion into engagement with at least one of the enclosure portion, the firearm slide, the firearm hammer, the firearm tang, and the firearm backstrap.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate various example apparatuses and systems, and are used merely to illustrate various example embodiments. In the figures, like elements bear like reference numerals.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm.

FIG. 2 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 2 b illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 2 c illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 3 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 3 b illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 3 c illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 4 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 4 b illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 4 c illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 5 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 5 b illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 5 c illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

FIG. 5 d illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm 100. Firearm 100 may comprise a frame 102, a grip 104, a trigger guard 106, a backstrap 108, and a tang 110. Firearm 100 additionally includes a muzzle portion 112. Firearm 100 may additionally include a slide 114. In one embodiment, a hammer (not shown) extends out proximally from the rear of slide 114. In one embodiment, the hammer comprises a hammer spur extending from the hammer. The firearm illustrated in FIG. 1 may be a semi-automatic handgun. In one embodiment, the invention disclosed herein may be used with other types of firearms, including single-shot handguns, muzzle loading handguns, revolvers, shotguns, carbines, and rifles.
Firearm grip 104 is generally defined as the portion of firearm 100 about which the user grips firearm 100 while using firearm 100. Trigger guard 106 is generally defined as the portion of firearm 100 extending between frame 102 and grip 104 and enclosing the trigger of firearm 100. Backstrap 108 is generally defined as the rearmost portion of grip 104 that would contact a user's palm while the user is gripping firearm 100. Tang 110 is generally defined as the uppermost portion of grip 104 oriented on the rear of grip 104, which portion would contact the web between a user's thumb and index finger while the user is gripping firearm 100. Firearm muzzle portion 112 is generally defined as the portion of firearm 100 extending distally past trigger guard 106.
FIG. 2 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device 200. As illustrated in FIG. 2 a, a firearm comprising a grip 104, a backstrap 108, a tang 110, and a slide 114 is inserted into firearm securing device 200.
Firearm securing device 200 may comprise a lower portion 220. In one embodiment, lower portion 220 is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm muzzle (not shown). In another embodiment, lower portion 220 is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm trigger guard (not shown). In another embodiment, lower portion 220 is configured to surround at least a portion of both a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard.
Firearm securing device 200 may further comprise an upper portion 222 operatively connected to lower portion 220. In one embodiment, upper portion 222 is pivotally connected to lower portion 220. In another embodiment, upper portion 222 is slidably connected to lower portion 220.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 comprises an engagement portion 224. Engagement portion 224 may be configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of firearm slide 114, a firearm hammer, firearm tang 110, and firearm backstrap 108. In one embodiment, engagement portion 224 is configured to engage any of a combination of firearm slide 114, a firearm hammer, firearm tang 110, and firearm backstrap 108. In one embodiment, engagement portion 224 is positioned behind a portion of a firearm and configured to prevent the firearm from being drawn from lower portion 220. In another embodiment, engagement portion 224 is positioned below a portion of a firearm and configured to prevent upper portion 222 from pivoting up and away from lower portion 220. In another embodiment, engagement portion 224 is positioned behind and below a portion of a firearm and configured to prevent both the firearm from being drawn from lower portion 220 and the upper portion 222 from pivoting up and away from lower portion 220. In one embodiment, engagement portion 224 is adjustable and can be configured to selectively engage any of a combination of firearm slide 114, a firearm hammer, firearm tang 110, and firearm backstrap 108 in a variety of different firearms.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 224 is a hooked member configured to extend down and around tang 110. In another embodiment, engagement portion 224 is configured such that at least a portion of upper portion 222 must be translated rearward relative to lower portion 220 and the firearm until engagement portion 224 clears the firearm, thereby allowing upper portion 222 to pivot up and away from lower portion 220.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 comprises a biasing member 226 operatively connected to engagement portion 224. Biasing member 226 may be configured to bias engagement portion 224 into engagement with at least one of a firearm slide 114, a firearm hammer, firearm tang 110, and firearm backstrap 108. In one embodiment, biasing member 226 comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, spring steel, and an over-center cam.
Biasing member 226 may be configured such that force applied by biasing member 226 to engagement portion 224 must be overcome to disengage engagement portion 224 and remove the firearm from firearm securing device 200. In one embodiment, biasing member 226 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent unauthorized disengagement of engagement portion 224. In another embodiment, biasing member 226 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent disengagement of engagement portion 224 by children. In one embodiment, the force applied by biasing member 226 may be adjusted such that the force applied is selectively increased or decreased depending upon the strength of the unauthorized individuals as compared to the strength of the authorized individuals.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 is pivotally connected to lower portion 220 via pivot point 228. Pivot point 228 may comprise at least one of an axle and a bolt.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 further comprises a handle portion 230. In one embodiment, handle portion 230 is operatively connected to at least one of engagement portion 224 and biasing member 226. In another embodiment, handle portion 230 comprises an elongated shaft 232, wherein elongated shaft 232 is operatively connected to at least one of engagement portion 224 and biasing member 226. In one embodiment, firearm securing device 200 is disengaged when an authorized user pulls handle portion 230 rearward such that biasing member 226 is overcome, allowing engagement portion 224 to clear the rear of the firearm, at which point handle portion 230 and upper portion 222 may be pivoted upwardly and away from lower portion 220.
In one embodiment, firearm securing device 200 further comprises a locking mechanism 234. Locking mechanism 234 may be operatively connected to at least one of engagement portion 224 and biasing member 226. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 234 is configured to arrest at least one of engagement portion 224, biasing member 226, and upper portion 222. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 234 is operatively connected to elongated shaft 232, wherein locking mechanism 234 is configured to prevent translation of elongated shaft 232. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 234 is operatively connected to upper portion 222, wherein locking mechanism 234 is configured to prevent at least one of translation and pivoting of upper portion 222 relative to lower portion 220. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 234 comprises a keyed lock. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 234 comprises a coded lock. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 234 comprises a biometric reader lock.
In one embodiment, firearm securing device 200 further comprises a secondary release mechanism (not shown). In one embodiment, the secondary release mechanism must be deactivated before engagement portion 224 may be disengaged from the firearm. The secondary release mechanism may require specific alignment of handle portion 230 through rotation of handle portion 230. In one embodiment, the secondary release mechanism may comprise at least one of one or more buttons integrated into firearm securing device 200, one or more levers integrated into firearm securing device 200, one or more sliding latches integrated into firearm securing device 200, and one or more buttons integrated into handle portion 230. In another embodiment, the secondary release mechanism may be at least partially concealed in firearm securing device 200 so as to prevent deactivation of the secondary release mechanism by unauthorized users.
FIG. 2 b illustrates another view of firearm securing device 200. As illustrated in FIG. 2 b, a firearm comprising a grip 104, a backstrap 108, a tang 110, and a slide 114 is inserted into firearm securing device 200. Firearm securing device 200 may comprise lower portion 220, upper portion 222, engagement portion 224, biasing member 226, pivoting point 228, handle portion 230, and elongated shaft 232.
As illustrated in FIG. 2 b, upper portion 222 may be pivoted up and away from lower portion 220. In one embodiment, when upper portion 222 is pivoted up and away from lower portion 220, the firearm may be inserted or removed into lower portion 220.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 may be selectively held in its upward position through manipulation of elongated shaft 232. In another embodiment, the distal end of elongated shaft 232 is configured to engage at least a portion of lower portion 220 to selectively maintain upper portion 222 in its upward position to allow for selective insertion or removal of the firearm into lower portion 220. In another embodiment, the distal end of elongated shaft is configured to engage a notch in lower portion 220 to selectively maintain upper portion 222 in its upward position.
FIG. 2 c illustrates another view of firearm securing device 200. Firearm securing device 200 comprises lower portion 220, upper portion 222, engagement portion 224, biasing member 226, pivoting point 228, handle portion 230, an elongated shaft 232, and a locking mechanism 234.
In one embodiment, each of these components of firearm securing device 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 c can comprise any of a variety of materials. Each of these components of firearm securing device 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 c may comprise any material, including a metal, a polymer, or a composite. In one embodiment, lower portion 220 and upper portion 222 comprise a polymer. In another embodiment, engagement portion 224 comprises a metal.
In one embodiment, lower portion 220 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, lower portion 220 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, lower portion 220 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, lower portion 220 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, upper portion 222 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, upper portion 222 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, upper portion 222 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, upper portion 222 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, lower portion 220 and upper portion 222 may be configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs, and may be configured to allow interchangeability with alternative lower portions 220 or upper portions 222. For example, upper portion 222 may be generic and not specific to any firearm design or variety of firearm designs, while lower portion 220 is specific to a certain firearm manufacturer's firearm models. In the event that a user desires to use firearm securing device 200 for a different firearm, the user may replace the first lower portion 220 with a second appropriate lower portion 220, thus permitting use of firearm securing device 200 with the different firearm.
FIG. 3 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device 300. Firearm securing device 300 may be used with a firearm having a grip portion 104 and a backstrap 108. Firearm securing device 300 may comprise an enclosure portion 310 and an engagement portion 312. As illustrated in FIG. 3 a, engagement portion 312 may be maintained in a closed position. Engagement portion 312 may comprise a secondary release mechanism 314. Firearm securing device 300 may comprise a biasing member 316.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 310 is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm's muzzle. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 310 is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm's trigger guard. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 310 is configured to surround at least a portion of both a firearm's muzzle and a firearm's trigger guard.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 is at least one of pivotally and slidably connected to enclosure portion 310. In another embodiment, engagement portion 312 is both pivotally and slidably connected to enclosure portion 310. Engagement portion 312 may extend about the rear of a firearm's slide when engagement portion 312 is in a closed position. In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 is configured to contact at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang. In another embodiment, engagement portion 312 is simply oriented so as to restrict the withdrawal of a firearm from enclosure portion 310. In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 comprises a handle portion for gripping by a user.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 comprises a secondary release mechanism 314. Secondary release mechanism 314 may be configured to selectively arrest motion of engagement portion 312 via selective engagement with enclosure portion 310. Secondary release mechanism 314 may comprise any of a variety of methods of selective connection to enclosure portion 310, including for example, a spring-loaded hook. Secondary release mechanism 314 may be configured such that secondary release mechanism 314 must be disengaged before a user may disengage engagement portion 312 and withdraw the firearm from enclosure portion 310.
In one embodiment, biasing member 316 is configured to bias engagement portion 312 into engagement with enclosure portion 310. In another embodiment, biasing member 316 is configured to bias engagement portion 312 into contact with at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang. Biasing member 316 may comprise any biasing member capable of providing force upon engagement portion 312. In one embodiment, biasing member 316 comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, spring steel, and an over-center cam.
In one embodiment, firearm securing device 300 further comprises a locking mechanism (not shown). The locking mechanism may be operatively connected to at least one of enclosure portion 310, engagement portion 312, biasing member 316, and secondary release mechanism 314. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to arrest motion of any of secondary release mechanism 314, biasing member 316, engagement portion 312, and enclosure portion 310. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent at least one of translation and pivoting of engagement portion 312. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to maintain engagement portion 312 in a closed position. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a keyed lock. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a coded lock. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a biometric reader lock.
FIG. 3 b illustrates another view of firearm securing device 300. As illustrated in FIG. 3 b, engagement portion 312 may be slidably connected to enclosure portion 310. In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 must be slidably translated away from enclosure portion 310 past a certain point, after which engagement portion 312 may be rotated up and away from enclosure portion 310. In one embodiment, biasing member 316 provides force against the translation of engagement portion 312 away from enclosure portion 310. In one embodiment, biasing member 316 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent unauthorized disengagement of engagement portion 312. In another embodiment, biasing member 316 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent disengagement of engagement portion 312 by children. In one embodiment, the force applied by biasing member 316 may be adjusted such that the force applied is selectively increased or decreased depending upon the strength of the unauthorized individuals as compared to the strength of the authorized individuals.
FIG. 3 c illustrates another view of firearm securing device 300. As illustrated in FIG. 3 c, engagement portion 312 may be slidably connected to enclosure portion 310. FIG. 3 c illustrates engagement portion 312 rotated up and away from enclosure portion 310, such that a firearm stored within firearm securing device 300 may be removed, or alternatively, such that a firearm may be inserted into firearm securing device 300.
In one embodiment, each of these components of firearm securing device 300 can comprise any of a variety of materials. Each of these components of firearm securing device 300 may comprise any material, including a metal, a polymer, or a composite. In one embodiment, enclosure portion 310 comprises a polymer, while engagement portion 312 comprises a metal.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 310 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 310 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 310 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 310 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 312 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, engagement portion 312 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, engagement portion 312 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, engagement portion 312 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 310 and engagement portion 312 may be configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs, and may be configured to allow interchangeability with alternative enclosure portions 310 or engagement portions 312. For example, engagement portion 312 may be generic and not specific to any firearm design or variety of firearm designs, while enclosure portion 310 is specific to a certain firearm manufacturer's firearm models. In the event that a user desires to use firearm securing device 300 for a different firearm, the user may replace the first enclosure portion 310 with a second appropriate enclosure portion 310, thus permitting use of firearm securing device 300 with the different firearm.
FIG. 4 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device 400. Firearm securing device 400 may be used with a firearm having a grip portion 104 and a backstrap 108. Firearm securing device 400 may comprise an enclosure portion 410 and an engagement portion 412. As illustrated in FIG. 4 a, firearm securing device 400 may be maintained in a closed position. Firearm securing device 400 may also comprise at least one of a biasing member 414 and a locking mechanism 416. Engagement portion 412 may include a handle 418.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 410 is configured to at least partially surround at least a portion of a firearm muzzle. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 410 is configured to at least partially surround at least a portion of a firearm trigger guard. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 410 is configured to surround at least a portion of both a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 412 is configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of enclosure portion 410, a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and firearm backstrap 108. In one embodiment, engagement portion is connected to enclosure portion via biasing member 414. In another embodiment, engagement portion 412 comprises a handle 418. Handle 418 may comprise any device capable of being gripped so as to manipulate engagement portion 412. In one embodiment, handle 418 comprises a leather strap.
In one embodiment, biasing member 414 is configured to bias engagement portion 412 into contact with at least one of enclosure portion 410, a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and firearm backstrap 108. In one embodiment, engagement portion 412 must be slidably translated away from enclosure portion 410 past a certain point, after which engagement portion 412 may be rotated up and away from enclosure portion 410. In one embodiment, biasing member 414 provides force against the translation of engagement portion 412 away from enclosure portion 410. In one embodiment, biasing member 414 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent unauthorized disengagement of engagement portion 412. In another embodiment, biasing member 414 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent disengagement of engagement portion 412 by children. In one embodiment, the force applied by biasing member 414 may be adjusted such that the force applied is selectively increased or decreased depending upon the strength of the unauthorized individuals as compared to the strength of the authorized individuals.
In one embodiment, biasing member 414 comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, spring steel, and an over-center cam. In another embodiment, biasing member 414 comprises an elastic strap. In another embodiment, biasing member 414 comprises an elastic strap that is resistant to cutting.
In one embodiment, firearm securing device 400 comprises a locking mechanism 416. Locking mechanism 416 may be operatively connected to at least one of enclosure portion 410, engagement portion 412, and biasing member 414. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 416 is configured to arrest motion of any of biasing member 414, engagement portion 412, and enclosure portion 410. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 416 is configured to prevent at least one of translation and pivoting of engagement portion 412. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 416 is configured to maintain engagement portion 412 in a closed position. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 416 comprises a keyed lock. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 416 comprises a coded lock. In another embodiment, locking mechanism 416 comprises a biometric reader lock.
FIG. 4 b illustrates another view of firearm securing device 400. As illustrated in FIG. 4 b, engagement portion 412 may be configured to translate relative to enclosure portion 410. FIG. 4 b illustrates engagement portion 412 being translated away from enclosure portion 410. Engagement portion 412 may be translated away from enclosure portion 410 past a certain point, after which engagement portion 412 may be rotated up and away from enclosure portion 410.
FIG. 4 c illustrates another view of firearm securing device 400. As illustrated in FIG. 4 c, engagement portion 412 may be configured to pivot relative to enclosure portion 410. FIG. 4 c illustrates engagement portion 412 being rotated up and away from enclosure portion 410, such that a firearm stored within firearm securing device 400 may be removed, or alternatively, such that a firearm may be inserted into firearm securing device 400.
In one embodiment, each of these components of firearm securing device 400 can comprise any of a variety of materials. Each of these components of firearm securing device 400 may comprise any material, including a metal, a polymer, or a composite. In one embodiment, enclosure portion 410 and engagement portion 412 comprise a polymer, while biasing member 414 comprises a reinforced rubber.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 410 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 410 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 410 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, enclosure portion 410 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 412 may be at least partly configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, engagement portion 412 is adjustable to allow a user to custom fit it to a specific firearm design or a variety of firearm designs. In another embodiment, engagement portion 412 is adjustable to accommodate any of a variety of sizes of firearms. In another embodiment, engagement portion 412 may be generic and not specific to any firearm or variety of firearms.
In one embodiment, enclosure portion 410 and engagement portion 412 may be configured to a specific firearm design or variety of firearm designs, and may be configured to allow interchangeability with alternative enclosure portions 410 or engagement portions 412. For example, engagement portion 412 may be generic and not specific to any firearm design or variety of firearm designs, while enclosure portion 410 is specific to a certain firearm manufacturer's firearm models. In the event that a user desires to use firearm securing device 400 for a different firearm, the user may replace the first enclosure portion 410 with a second appropriate enclosure portion 410, thus permitting use of firearm securing device 400 with the different firearm.
FIG. 5 a illustrates an example arrangement of a firearm securing device 500. Firearm securing device 500 may be used with a firearm having a grip portion 104, a backstrap 108, and a tang 110. Firearm securing device 500 may comprise an enclosure portion (not shown) and an engagement portion 512. As illustrated in FIG. 5 a, engagement portion 512 may be maintained in a closed position. Engagement portion 512 may comprise a secondary release mechanism 514. Firearm securing device 500 may comprise a biasing member 516.
In one embodiment, the enclosure portion (not shown) is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm's muzzle. In another embodiment, the enclosure portion (not shown) is configured to surround at least a portion of a firearm's trigger guard. In another embodiment, the enclosure portion (not shown) is configured to surround at least a portion of both a firearm's muzzle and a firearm's trigger guard.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 512 is at least one of pivotally and slidably connected to the enclosure portion (not shown). Engagement portion 512 may extend about the rear of a firearm's slide when engagement portion 512 is in a closed position. In one embodiment, engagement portion 512 is configured to contact at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang 110. In another embodiment, engagement portion 512 is simply oriented so as to restrict the withdrawal of a firearm from the enclosure portion (not shown). In one embodiment, engagement portion 512 comprises a handle portion for gripping by a user.
In one embodiment, engagement portion 512 comprises a secondary release mechanism 514. Secondary release mechanism 514 may be configured to selectively arrest motion of engagement portion 512 via selective engagement with the enclosure portion (not shown). Secondary release mechanism 514 may comprise any of a variety of methods of selective connection to the enclosure portion (not shown), including for example, a spring-loaded hook. Secondary release mechanism 514 may be configured such that secondary release mechanism 514 must be disengaged before a user may disengage engagement portion 512 and withdraw the firearm from the enclosure portion (not shown).
In one embodiment, firearm securing device 500 may comprise a secondary release disengagement mechanism 518. Secondary release disengagement mechanism may be contained within a handle portion 520, which may be operatively connected to engagement portion 512. Secondary release mechanism 514 may be manipulated from secondary release disengagement mechanism 518, which may include by way of example, one or more buttons, levers, triggers, or sliding members. In one embodiment, secondary release mechanism 514 comprises a hooked member configured to selectively arrest the motion of engagement portion 512. Secondary release mechanism 514 may be manipulated and disengaged via operation of the secondary release disengagement mechanism 518. In one embodiment, secondary release disengagement mechanism 518 comprises one or more buttons. The one or more buttons may move one or more shuttles inside handle 520, which one or more shuttles may be fitted into spiral grooves such that the one or more shuttles are caused to rotate upon translation of the one or more shuttles. The one or more shuttles may be connected to secondary release mechanism 514, and so cause rotation and disengagement of secondary release mechanism 514 upon manipulation of the one or more buttons of secondary release disengagement mechanism 518.
In one embodiment, biasing member 516 is configured to bias engagement portion 512 into engagement with the enclosure portion. In another embodiment, biasing member 516 is configured to bias engagement portion 512 into contact with at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang 110. Biasing member 516 may comprise any biasing member capable of providing force upon engagement portion 512. In one embodiment, biasing member 516 comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, spring steel, and an over-center cam mechanism. In one embodiment, biasing member 516 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent unauthorized disengagement of engagement portion 512. In another embodiment, biasing member 516 comprises a spring rate configured to prevent disengagement of engagement portion 512 by children. In one embodiment, the force applied by biasing member 516 may be adjusted such that the force applied is selectively increased or decreased depending upon the strength of the unauthorized individuals as compared to the strength of the authorized individuals.
In one embodiment, biasing member 516 comprises an over-center cam mechanism. The over-center cam mechanism may comprise spring steel elements geometrically oriented to bias engagement portion 512 closed. In another embodiment, the over-center cam mechanism may comprise any biasing means listed in this application. In one embodiment, the over-center cam mechanism utilizes a difference in hinge points of engagement portion 512 and hinge points of the spring steel elements. In one embodiment, the spring steel elements are oriented such that engagement portion 512 opens to a certain angle and automatically holds itself in that angle, so as to facilitate easier withdraw and insertion of the firearm into firearm securing device 500. In one embodiment, the over-center cam mechanism is oriented such that engagement portion 512 opens to about 45 degrees and stops.
FIG. 5 b illustrates another view of firearm securing device 500. As illustrated in FIG. 5 b, secondary release mechanism 514 may be rotated downward to disengage. In one embodiment, secondary release mechanism 514 may comprise a hooked member, which when rotated down, allows the hooked portion to disengage, thereby allowing engagement portion 512 to disengage. In one embodiment, secondary release mechanism 514 may be manipulated via secondary release disengagement mechanism 518.
FIG. 5 c illustrates another view of firearm securing device 500. As illustrated in FIG. 5 c, engagement portion 512 may be rotated upward to disengage from at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang 110. Engagement portion 512 may be operatively connected to a torsion spring configured to bias engagement portion 512 down an into contact with at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang 110. In one embodiment, the torsion spring comprises a spring rate configured to prevent unauthorized disengagement of engagement portion 512.
FIG. 5 d illustrates another view of firearm securing device 500. As illustrated in FIG. 5 d, engagement portion 512 may be rotated upward to disengage from at least one of a firearm's slide, hammer, backstrap 108, and tang 110. Engagement portion 512 may be pivotally connected to the enclosure portion 522 about the pivot point 524. Engagement portion 512 may be biased into a closed position by biasing member 516. In one embodiment, biasing member 516 comprises an over-center cam mechanism. In one embodiment, the over-center cam mechanism is oriented such that engagement portion 512 opens to a certain angle and automatically holds itself in that angle, so as to facilitate easier withdraw and insertion of the firearm into firearm securing device 500. In one embodiment, the over-center cam mechanism is oriented such that engagement portion 512 opens to about 45 degrees and stops.
In one embodiment, each of these components of firearm securing device 500 illustrated in FIG. 5 d can comprise any of a variety of materials. Each of these components of firearm securing device 500 illustrated in FIG. 5 d may comprise any material, including a metal, a polymer, or a composite.
To the extent that the term “includes” or “including” is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “A or B or both.” When the applicants intend to indicate “only A or B but not both” then the term “only A or B but not both” will be employed. Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. See Bryan A. Garner, A Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage 624 (2 d. Ed. 1995). Also, to the extent that the terms “in” or “into” are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to additionally mean “on” or “onto.” To the extent that the term “selectively” is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to refer to a condition of a component wherein a user of the apparatus may activate or deactivate the feature or function of the component as is necessary or desired in use of the apparatus. To the extent that the term “operatively connected” is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to mean that the identified components are connected in a way to perform a designated function. As used in the specification and the claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural. Finally, where the term “about” is used in conjunction with a number, it is intended to include ±10% of the number. In other words, “about 10” may mean from 9 to 11.
As stated above, while the present application has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the present application. Therefore, the application, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, illustrative examples shown, or any apparatus referred to. Departures may be made from such details, examples, and apparatuses without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept.

Claims

1. An apparatus for securing a firearm comprising:

a lower portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard; and

an upper portion pivotally connected to the lower portion, comprising:

an engagement portion configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and a firearm backstrap; and

a biasing member operatively connected to the engagement portion and configured to bias the engagement portion into engagement with at least one of the firearm slide, the firearm hammer, the firearm tang, and the firearm backstrap.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the upper portion further comprises a handle portion operatively connected to at least one of the engagement portion and the biasing member.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the upper portion further comprises a handle portion comprising an elongated shaft, wherein the elongated shaft is operatively connected to at least one of the engagement portion and the biasing member.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism is operatively connected to at least one of the engagement portion and the biasing member and wherein the locking mechanism is configured to arrest at least one of the engagement portion, the biasing member, and the upper portion.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a locking mechanism operatively connected to the elongated shaft, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to prevent translation of the elongated shaft.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism operatively connected to the upper portion, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to prevent translation of the upper portion relative to the lower portion.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the biasing member comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, a spring steel, and an over-center cam.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a secondary release mechanism configured to selectively arrest motion of at least one of the engagement portion and the upper portion.

10. An apparatus for securing a firearm comprising:

an enclosure portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard; and

an engagement portion at least one of pivotally and slidably connected to the enclosure portion, wherein the engagement portion extends about the rear of a firearm slide when in a closed position,

wherein the engagement portion further comprises a secondary release mechanism configured to selectively arrest motion of the engagement portion via selective engagement to the enclosure portion.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the engagement portion is both pivotally and slidably connected to the enclosure portion.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a biasing member configured to bias the engagement portion into the closed position.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the biasing member comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, a spring steel, and an over-center cam.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a locking mechanism.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the locking mechanism is operatively connected to at least one of the enclosure portion, the engagement portion, and the secondary release mechanism.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to maintain the engagement portion in the closed position.

17. An apparatus for securing a firearm comprising:

an enclosure portion configured to surround at least a portion of at least one of a firearm muzzle and a firearm trigger guard;

an engagement portion configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of the enclosure portion, a firearm slide, a firearm hammer, a firearm tang, and a firearm backstrap; and

a biasing member operatively connecting the enclosure portion to the engagement portion and configured to bias the engagement portion into engagement with at least one of the enclosure portion, the firearm slide, the firearm hammer, the firearm tang, and the firearm backstrap.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the biasing member comprises at least one of a coil spring, a torsion spring, an elastic strap, a piston, a compression spring, a spring steel, and an over-center cam.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the biasing member comprises an elastic strap.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to maintain the engagement portion in engagement with at least one of the enclosure portion, the firearm slide, the firearm hammer, the firearm tang, and the firearm backstrap.