I just recieved the Badger Ordnance left handed charging handle with extended latch. Unfortunately, I am not impressed. I though this would allow me to pull the bolt on the weapon rearward using just my right (support) hand. However, when I attempt to do this the bolt scrapes along the inner left side of the upper reciever and binds up completely before the bolt goes all the way to the rear. Reaching up and pinching the bolt latch with my thumb and index finger works so long as I make a conscious effort to keep any tilt out of the movement.
I find the only way to pull the bolt fully rearward consistantly is to hook both sides of the charging handle with my index and middle finger. Just like you would with a standard charging handle. I don't know if this is an issue because of different tolerances within the upper reciever itself, a problem specific to the M&P brand, or just a design flaw. I'm curious if anyone else has had a similar experience with this product as well? Am I doing something wrong?
Based on these initial observations, I would not suggest this product to other left handed AR shooters. It just doesn't seem to offer any advantage over a traditional charging handle in my opinion. The thumb and index finger method I mentioned do allow you to cycle the bolt without to much adjustment to shooting position, but require too much fine motor skill to be useable in a high stress situation.


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