Finger-actuated handgun retention device for holster

Abstract

A handgun retention device for a holster includes a catch that extends into a handgun receiving cavity defined by a body of the holster where the catch engages a trigger guard of a holstered handgun to retain the handgun in the cavity. A lever is operably coupled to the catch and extends below the grip of the holstered handgun and aft of its trigger guard, typically behind a rear margin of the holster, where the lever can be depressed to move the catch and release the handgun. The position of the release lever may promote safe gun handling. In a preferred embodiment, the catch and lever are formed of a resilient injection molded resin in a unitary structure with a spring arm that flexes when the lever is pressed inwardly toward the user's body.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 552,927, filed Mar. 11, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] This application relates to security holsters for handguns and the like. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Known security devices for preventing unauthorized or unintended withdrawal of a handgun or other weapon from a holster include security straps and flaps, internal retention devices, and security hoods, among others. To release such security devices, the user must typically manipulate snaps, clasps, buttons, or “thumb-break” straps with his or her thumb or index finger, or both. The motions required to release such devices often require the user to let go of the handgun while releasing the security device and can hinder the user's ability to quickly draw a handgun. [0004] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,419,474 of Marx et al. and 6,547,111 of French describe interna...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The motions required to release such devices often require the user to let go of the handgun while releasing the security device and can hinder the user's ability to quickly draw a handgun.

Other handgun retention mechanisms may hinder a user's ability to extend his or her index finger away from the trigger when drawing the weapon, in accordance with safe gun handling practice, increasing the chance that the user's index finger may inadvertently come into contact with the trigger and cause an accidental discharge.

The inward finger movement in the region of the trigger may increase the risk of accidental discharge of the handgun when quickly drawing it from the holster.

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