Flare Gun

FIELD

The present specification generally relates to flare guns, and more particularly to an improved flare gun comprising a barrel that is configured to release and/or discharge a spent flare cartridge in a direction horizontal to the barrel of the gun. The present specification further relates to an improved extractor mechanism, an improved hammer arrangement, and a barrel release mechanism for flare guns.

BACKGROUND

A flare is a tube packed with explosive chemicals that burn very brightly and/or release smoke, usually to attract attention in an emergency. Flares are well known in the art as a signaling means, for example, to warn of distress in an emergency, to signal one's location, and/or to divert traffic. The two main types of flares are handheld flares (which operate on the ground) and rocket flares (which are fired into the air).

Rocket flares are usually fired from a specially designed flare gun or Very pistol. Flare gun devices are shaped similarly to hand-held firearms or guns which include an elongate barrel and a handle which extends from the barrel at a right angle or an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the barrel. Several types of hand-held flare guns have been developed in the last few decades. However, most of these designs employ relatively complex and inefficient mechanisms.

In conventional flare guns, the gun barrels are configured to open in a vertical plane which compromises the accuracy of such devices. Because of recoil, the barrel is forcibly rotated up or down if it is not “locked-in”. Even if it is locked in, since a conventional barrel is designed to rotate vertically, the accuracy of the device suffers because the barrel can still rotate a millimeter or two. The vertical barrel devices known in the prior art also suffer from limitations in deploying additional equipment alongside such devices. Conventional flare guns do not have mounts on the sides of the gun to attach any other kind of equipment such as sights, flashlights or laser equipment because such mounts are not designed to align horizontally with the barrel. This causes the equipment to aim at the ground, instead of the intended target, once the barrel is rotated. Further, such equipment is not attached through a bottom mount as that would interfere with the rotational movement of the barrel. In typical firearms, bottom mounts are used to mount equipment such as bipods and flashlights. However, conventional flare guns cannot be attached to this type of firearm bottom mount (as a signaling device) because flare gun barrel configuration and rotation is stunted by the layout of such mounts.

An extractor is a section of the flare gun that serves to remove spent cartridge casings after a flare has been fired. In conventional automatic firearms, the extractor is an integral part of the bolt. A bolt is a mechanical part in the gun which cycles back and forth between each shot. When the bolt moves back, the extractor pulls the spent casing from the gun barrel and ejects it. The bolt then moves forward, strips a new cartridge from a magazine, and pushes it into the gun barrel. The presence of dynamic mechanical parts such as the bolt renders this entire assembly, as described above, as inefficient, unreliable, and bulky if employed in a flare launcher. Further, in conventional firearm systems, a small “hook-like” mechanism clamps onto the end of the casing and pulls it backwards. This round is eventually driven to a fixed pin, which forces the round out of the barrel/chamber. The use of such “hooks” in current firearms makes the device highly dependent on the quality of ammunition used. A round covered in dirt may get jammed and render the firearm temporarily useless. Combined with the complex and precise arrangement of the system, these hooks are also somewhat volatile and unreliable.

The firing mechanism in a flare gun is simple and is similar to that in conventional firearms. The flare gun comprises a hammer that is pulled backwards and then released with the assistance of a trigger to fire the flare gun. The hammer is pulled backwards using a lever. Subsequently, a trigger is pulled to release the hammer which strikes the firing pin with a force that sets off the flare. Since flare guns are commonly used around water such as in marine applications, they suffer from rust problems. Conventional hammer mechanisms comprise several dynamic parts which are highly prone to rust, significantly impairing the performance of the device.

Thus, there is a need for flare launching equipment that can be used in conjunction with additional equipment, including, but not limited to flashlights, lasers, and rifles, with ease. Further, there is a requirement for flare guns that do not compromise accuracy with movement of the barrel. There is also a need for a compact and reliable flare gun that uses fewer dynamic or moving mechanical parts. There is also a need for an improved system for extracting spent shell casings. What is also required are flare gun designs that do not have conventional limitations on the quality or size of the flare cartridges used and can accommodate a large range of flares.

Further, there is a need for a rust-resistant hammer/trigger mechanism with fewer dynamic moving parts that can be used with flare guns that are more reliable for marine applications.

SUMMARY

The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods, which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope.

The present specification discloses a flare gun comprising: a receiver comprising at least one of an upper member and a lower member; and, a barrel comprising a proximal section and a distal section and positioned within at least one of said upper member and said lower member, wherein the distal section of said barrel is coupled to said receiver through a rotating hinge and the proximal section of said barrel is configured to move in a horizontal direction when said barrel is released.

Optionally, when said barrel is released, the distal section of the barrel pivots around the rotating hinge so that proximal section extends outward in a horizontal direction.

Optionally, said barrel is coupled to a barrel release lever and a spring that ejects the barrel in a horizontal direction when said barrel release lever is pulled.

Optionally, said spring is a flat spring.

Optionally, said spring is positioned on at least one side of said receiver.

Optionally, at least one mount can be detachably attached to said upper member and/or said lower member for mounting equipment.

Optionally, said equipment comprises at least one of a sighting device, laser equipment, flashlight, and rifle.

Optionally, said flare gun further comprises an extractor coupled to said barrel such that when the barrel is in a locked position, movement of said extractor is restricted and when said barrel is released the extractor is extended in an outward direction creating a cavity through which spent cartridges are automatically extracted.

Optionally, said extractor is coupled to a spring positioned within the barrel causing said extractor to extend in an outward direction when the barrel is released.

Optionally, said barrel comprises a first section which is substantially cylindrical in shape and a second section which is substantially cuboidal in shape, wherein said second section is coupled to an extractor such that when the barrel is in a locked position, movement of said extractor is restricted and when said barrel is released the extractor is extended in an outward direction creating a cavity through which spent cartridges are automatically extracted.

The present specification also discloses a flare gun comprising: a receiver; and a barrel comprising a proximal section and a distal section and positioned within said receiver, wherein said barrel comprises a first section which is substantially cylindrical in shape and a second section which is substantially cuboidal in shape and wherein said second section is coupled to an extractor such that when the barrel is in a locked position, movement of said extractor is restricted and when said barrel is unlocked the extractor is extended in an outward direction creating a cavity through which spent cartridges are automatically extracted.

Optionally, said barrel is coupled to a spring that constantly exerts force upon the barrel so that it remains in position when locked and wherein as the barrel is unlocked the spring exerts an opposite force on the barrel causing it to rotate.

Optionally, said extractor is coupled to a spring positioned within the barrel causing said extractor to extend in an outward direction when the barrel is released.

Optionally, said barrel is configured to rotate in a vertical direction or a horizontal direction.

Optionally, the distal section of said barrel is coupled to said receiver through a rotating hinge and the proximal section of said barrel is configured to move in a horizontal direction when said barrel is released.

The present specification also discloses a flare gun comprising: a barrel comprising a proximal section and a distal section and configured to rotate in a vertical direction; and a barrel release pin comprising a first section and a second section such the first section of said barrel release pin is configured to engage and disengage with the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel to lock or unlock it and the second section of said barrel release pin is configured to move horizontally within a barrel pin guide.

Optionally, said first and second sections of said barrel release pin are cylindrical in shape and the first section is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the direction of second section.

Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin engages with the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the barrel is locked.

Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin is disengaged from the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the barrel is unlocked.

Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin is disengaged from the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the second section of said barrel release pin moves into the pin guide.

Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin engages with the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the second section of said barrel release pin moves partially out of the pin guide.

The present specification also discloses a flare gun comprising: a barrel comprising a proximal section and a distal section wherein the proximal section of said barrel comprises a cavity; an extractor comprising a proximal section and a distal section wherein said extractor is configured to be positioned in said cavity and fit into the proximal section of said barrel; and, a receiver coupled to said barrel and said extractor such that as the barrel is unlocked and rotated in a vertical direction, the distal section of said extractor is pushed by the surface of said receiver such that said extractor slides along a plane and extends itself in an outward direction and ejects the spent flare casings.

Optionally, the distal section of said extractor comprises a curved surface that allows it to slide and activate as the extractor is pushed by the surface of said receiver.

Optionally, the proximal section of said extractor comprises a semi-circular shaped section that allows the extractor to engage with the proximal section of the barrel and interact with flare cartridge rims.

Optionally, the flare gun further comprises a barrel release pin that comprises a first section and a second section such the first section of said barrel release pin is configured to engage/disengage with the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel to lock/unlock it and the second section of said barrel release pin is configured to move horizontally inside or outside of a barrel pin guide.

Optionally, said first and second sections of said barrel release pin are cylindrical in shape and said first section is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the second section. Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin engages with the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the barrel is locked.

Optionally, as the first section of said barrel release pin is disengaged from the lower portion of the proximal section of said barrel, the barrel is unlocked.

The present specification also discloses a flare gun comprising: a barrel comprising a proximal section and a distal section; a first spring coupled to one side of said barrel such that said first spring is configured to exert pressure on said barrel to push it in an opposite direction; and an extractor positioned within said barrel and comprising a proximal section and a distal section such that the proximal section of said extractor is coupled to a second spring such that said second spring is configured to push said extractor in an outward direction.

Optionally, said barrel comprises a first section which is substantially cylindrical in shape and a second section which is substantially cuboidal in shape and said second section comprises said extractor.

Optionally, when said extractor is extended in an outward direction it discharges spent flare casings.

Optionally, said first spring is a flat spring.

Optionally, said barrel can rotate in a horizontal direction.

Optionally, said barrel can rotate in a vertical direction.

The present specification also discloses a flare gun comprising: a handle portion; a barrel portion coupled to said handle portion; a trigger with a finger engaging end and a hammer engaging end; a hammer mounted on the handle of said gun and configured for pivotal movement between a semi cocked position, a fully cocked position and a fired position; and a hammer gear structure coupled to said hammer and comprising a first notch and a second notch; wherein, in a semi-cocked position, the first notch of the hammer gear structure is locked with the trigger, wherein, in a fully cocked position, a second notch of the hammer gear structure is locked with the trigger, and wherein, as the trigger is pulled counter-clockwise from a fully cocked position, the trigger disengages from the hammer gear structure thereby releasing the hammer to strike a firing pin which sets off the flare.

The aforementioned and other embodiments of the present invention shall be described in greater depth in the drawings and detailed description provided below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated, as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a flare gun in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 2 illustrates a flare gun's internal features with the upper receiver/housing and lower receiver/housing removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternate view of flare gun described in FIG. 2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternate view of flare gun described in FIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5A illustrates the position of gun barrel in a closed position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5B illustrates the position of gun barrel in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5C illustrates a top mount attached to a flare gun in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5D illustrates a bottom mount attached to a flare gun in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 6A illustrates a flare gun with its barrel positioned in a closed/locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 6B illustrates a flare gun with its barrel positioned in an open/unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 6C illustrates the location at which the spring that is coupled to the gun barrel is positioned in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 6D illustrates the spring that is coupled to the gun barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7A illustrates a flare gun barrel with the extractor in a closed position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7B illustrates a flare gun barrel with the extractor in an extended position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7C illustrates an alternate view of the flare gun barrel with the extractor in a closed position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7D illustrates an alternate view of the flare gun barrel with the extractor in an extended position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7E illustrates the positioning of the gun barrel and extractor system components in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7F illustrates the gun barrel and the extractor before the ejection in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 7G illustrates the gun barrel and the extractor after the ejection in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8A illustrates a mechanism for releasing a barrel in vertically-rotating barrel flare guns in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8B illustrates a barrel release pin in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8C illustrates a barrel release pin guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8D illustrates an isolated view of a barrel release pin and the pin guide in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 8E illustrates an isolated view of a barrel release component and pin guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8F illustrates a flare gun barrel in a partially unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification, where said barrel release pin is disengaged;

FIG. 8G illustrates an unlocked and rotated flare gun barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8H illustrates an alternate view of a flare gun barrel in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 8I illustrates an alternate view of the flare gun barrel in an unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 9A illustrates a mechanically powered extractor system and a locked flare gun barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 9B illustrates an alternate view of a mechanically powered extractor system and an unlocked rotating barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 9C illustrates a mechanically powered extractor system and a fully open vertical barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 10 illustrates an isolated view of a mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 11 illustrates a cavity under a barrel for accommodating a mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 12 A illustrates a barrel and a mechanically powered extractor in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 12B illustrates a barrel and the mechanically powered extractor in an unlocked position after rotation of the barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 13A illustrates a hammer in a down or un-cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 13B illustrates a hammer in a semi cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification; and

FIG. 13C illustrates a hammer in a fully cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present specification describes an improved flare gun that provides several benefits over conventional devices. In an embodiment, the present specification describes a flare gun which includes an improved mechanism to release the barrel in a horizontal direction, whereby the horizontal release gun barrel provides greater accuracy compared to vertical release gun barrels. As the movement of the gun barrel is restricted to the horizontal plane of movement or direction, in embodiments, the flare gun of the present specification can also be attached to a rifle for military applications such as distress signaling.

The extractor is a section of the flare gun that serves to remove spent casings of fired cartridges. The extractor mechanism disclosed in embodiments of the present specification has many advantages, when employed in a flare gun, over such systems in conventional firearms. In conventional firearms, the extractor is an integral part of the bolt, a mechanical part in a gun which cycles back and forth between each shot. In an embodiment, the present specification describes an extractor system that is an integral part of the flare gun barrel. The extractor system disclosed in the present specification does not require a bolt which makes the overall assembly of the flare gun much more compact and reliable (less moving/static parts). Further, a “hook”, which is typically employed to clamp casings in conventional systems, is not required in the design disclosed in the embodiments of the present specification. A major issue with the hooks that are used in conventional firearms is that they are highly dependent on the quality of ammunition used. A round covered in dirt may become jammed and render the firearm temporarily useless. Combined with the complex and precise arrangement of the system, these hooks are somewhat volatile and unreliable. In the extractor design disclosed in embodiments of the present specification, because the round's physical form (rim of the casing) is pushed, rather than clamped and pulled, the flare gun can accommodate a larger size range of flares. In an embodiment, the present specification describes an extractor with a spring loaded mechanism that facilitates extension and ejection of flare casings from the extractor. In another embodiment, the present specification describes an extractor coupled with a mechanical system to facilitate extraction and ejection of flare casings.

In an embodiment, the extractor system disclosed in the present specification can be implemented in a flare gun comprising either a vertical barrel or a horizontal barrel.

In an embodiment, the present specification discloses a compact and reliable hammer arrangement for the flare guns that can better resist rust and is hence more reliable for the marine applications.

In another embodiment, the present specification discloses a mechanism for releasing a flare gun barrel that is configured to rotate in the vertical direction.

The present specification is directed towards multiple embodiments. The following disclosure is provided in order to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention. Language used in this specification should not be interpreted as a general disavowal of any one specific embodiment or used to limit the claims beyond the meaning of the terms used therein. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

It should be noted herein that any feature or component described in association with a specific embodiment may be used and implemented with any other embodiment unless clearly indicated otherwise. FIG. 1 illustrates a flare gun design in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 1, the flare gun 100 comprises an upper receiver/housing 110 which encases an upper portion of the flare gun 100 and a lower receiver/housing 120 which encases a lower portion of the flare gun 100. The upper receiver/housing 110 and the lower receiver/housing 120 are used to attach or detach the upper portion and the lower portion of the flare gun 100 to/from each other respectively.

In an embodiment, the upper portion encased in the upper receiver housing 110 of the flare gun 100 comprises some of the operational parts of the gun such as the barrel 101. The lower portion encased in the lower receiver/housing 120 comprises the handle or grip 121 (the part that is held by a user while operating the device), trigger 102, hammer 103, and barrel release lever 104.

Flare guns do not fire in the same manner as conventional firearms and therefore they usually have a smoother and wider barrel compared to conventional firearms or guns that have a rifled and narrow barrel. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the barrel 101 of flare gun 100 has a caliber ranging from 18 mm to 30 mm. In an embodiment, the barrel 101 of the flare gun 100 has a caliber ranging from 26-30 mm. In alternate embodiments, the inner diameter of the barrel may be adjusted to accommodate flare gun rounds of different sizes. For example, in order to use a 12-gauge flare, which is roughly 19.05 mm, the inner diameter of the barrel may be adjusted accordingly. In an embodiment, a barrel release lever 104 is provided to release the barrel from its position for loading/unloading purposes.

In FIG. 1, the barrel 101 is shown in a closed or locked position. In an embodiment, the barrel release lever 104 is pulled in a backward direction which causes a spring coupled to the barrel release lever 104 to act and release the barrel 101 in a horizontal direction. Subsequently, a flare cartridge is manually inserted in the barrel 101 and the barrel 101 is pushed back to a closed position. Once the cartridge is loaded into the flare gun, it is ready to be fired. As shown in the FIG. 1, the flare gun 100 comprises an upper receiver/housing 110 and a lower receiver/housing 120. In embodiments, the upper receiver/housing 110 and the lower receiver/housing 120 can be detached from and reattached to one another. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there can be multiple ways to attach or detach the upper receiver/housing 110 from the lower receiver/housing 120.

In an embodiment, the upper receiver/housing and the lower receiver/housing are two separate parts/members of a single receiver/housing wherein the upper receiver/housing and the lower receiver/housing can be detached from and reattached to one another. In an embodiment, the upper receiver/housing and the lower receiver/housing are referred to as the upper member and the lower member of the receiver, respectively.

In embodiments, the flare gun 100 comprises a hammer 103 that is pulled backwards, locked into position, and then released with the assistance of a trigger 102 to impact a portion of the flare cartridge and cause the firing of the flare gun. In embodiments, the trigger 102 is pulled backward to release the hammer 103. On release, the hammer 103 strikes a firing pin coupled to the lower portion (encased in lower receiver/housing 120) that moves in a forward direction to hit the primer (or impact-powered igniter) of the flare cartridge which sets off the flare. Typically, a cartridge comprises a casing that includes a flare bullet, a powder and a primer. When the primer is hit by the firing pin, a chemical reaction causes a small explosion within the cartridge which ignites the powder. The powder burns rapidly which increases the pressure inside the closed casing. The resulting force propels the flare bullet which then leaves the barrel 101 in a forward position.

In an embodiment, once a cartridge is fired, the barrel release lever 104 is pulled backwards which releases the barrel 101 in a horizontal direction. In an embodiment of the present specification, the barrel 101 comprises an extractor mechanism that is configured to automatically eject the spent casing of the flare cartridge from the barrel 101 without any human intervention when the barrel 101 is released in a horizontal direction.

The above embodiment describes a flare gun in which the cartridge is manually inserted in the chamber of the barrel. However, in alternate embodiments, the flare gun 100 comprises a semi-automatic mechanism in which a magazine of flare cartridges is loaded into the lower portion encased in the lower receiver/housing 120. Typically, the magazine comprises a spring which keeps the cartridges under tension. In such a semi-automatic mechanism, as the trigger is pulled to fire a flare cartridge, the spring present inside the cartridge magazine pushes another cartridge into the chamber of the barrel 101.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flare gun internal design with the upper receiver/housing and lower receiver/housing removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification, thus showing only the internal components. In an embodiment, an upper portion 210a of the flare gun 200 comprises some operational parts of the firearm such as the barrel 201. In an embodiment, the barrel 201 comprises a proximal section 201b and a distal section 201a. The proximal section 201b of barrel 201 is coupled to a firing pin housing 207 which comprises a firing pin 206. In an embodiment, the lower portion 220a of the flare gun 200 comprises the trigger 202, hammer 203, and barrel release lever 204. In an embodiment, the hammer 203 is configured such that it pivots around a pin and is pulled backwards using its proximal portion 203a to position it in a firing mode. Once the hammer 203 is positioned in a firing mode, the trigger 202 is pulled backwards to release the hammer which strikes the firing pin 206 with a force that hits the primer of the flare cartridge and sets off the flares. The flares are released through the distal end 201a of the barrel 201.

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternate view of flare gun described in FIG. 2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In an embodiment, the upper portion 310a of the flare gun 300 comprises some of the operational parts of the gun such as the barrel 301. The lower portion 320a comprises the handle/grip (a part that is held by a user while operating the device), trigger 302, hammer 303 and barrel release lever 304.

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternate view of flare gun described in FIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In an embodiment, the upper portion 410a of the flare gun 400 comprises some of the operational parts of the gun such as the barrel 401. The lower portion 420a of the flare gun 400 comprises the handle/grip (a part that is held by a user while operating the device), trigger 402, hammer 403 and barrel release lever 404. In an embodiment, the hammer 403 pivots around a pin which strikes a firing pin 406 in housing 407.

The present specification describes a system and method to extract the spent flare cartridge casing after the flare gun is fired. In an embodiment, the barrel 401 of the flare gun 400 comprises an extractor section 405 through which the spent flare cartridge is extracted. In embodiments, the extractor 405 is configured such that it does not function when the barrel is in a locked or unreleased position, because its movement is restricted. Once the barrel is released from its position, the extractor system 405 is extended in an outward direction, which in one embodiment, is via a spring action such that the spent flare cartridge is automatically extracted and the user is not required to handle the hot flare cartridge as it poses a burn risk.

In the above described embodiment, when the barrel is in a locked position, a spring located within the barrel and coupled to the extractor, is compressed as the extractor is trapped or butted against the inner frame of the flare gun. However, as the barrel is released, the extractor and the corresponding spring has space to move because the rotational motion of the barrel moves the barrel out of the way of the flare gun frame and allows the extractor to move in that space. As the extractor moves in an outward direction due to the spring action, the spent flare casing is ejected out of the barrel. In an alternative embodiment, the extractor system 405 is not coupled to a spring but it extends in an outward direction as the barrel is rotated through a normal mechanical action.

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate a position of the gun barrel in a closed and open position respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In conventional firearms, gun barrels are configured to open in a vertical direction in a plane 515 defined by the upper receiver/housing and lower receiver/housing of the gun. In an embodiment of the present specification, the flare gun includes a mechanism for releasing the barrel in a horizontal direction 516. In an embodiment, the barrel is configured to release or move in a plane 517 which is perpendicular to the plane defined by the upper receiver/housing and lower receiver/housing of a flare gun. As shown in FIG. 5A, the flare gun 500 comprises a barrel 501 that is coupled to a shield 502 that covers the barrel 501 from the top. In an embodiment, the shield 502 is manufactured using sheet metal. In another embodiment, the shield 502 may be manufactured from a sheet metal structure substitute such as a molded rigid structure. In an embodiment, the shield 502 is a single piece that is attached to the upper receiver/housing (either by screwing it thereto or welding it thereto); thus, it behaves as a unitary platform. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there may be multiple methods for coupling barrel 501 with the shield 502. In an embodiment, shield 502 is used to prevent or restrict vertical movement of the barrel. In an embodiment of the present specification, the barrel 501 is coupled to the shield 502 through a rotating hinge 503. FIG. 5B illustrates the position of gun barrel in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 5B, the barrel 501 is released/opened in a horizontal direction. In an embodiment, the barrel 501 is configured such that it pivots around the rotating hinge 503 and can rotate in the horizontal direction 516 with the support of hinge 503.

The horizontally movable barrel disclosed in the embodiments of the present specification provides a greater accuracy compared with vertical gun barrels. In vertical configurations, because of recoil, the barrel is forcibly rotated up or down if it is not “locked-in”. Even if it is locked in, since a conventional barrel is designed to rotate vertically, accuracy is sacrificed because the barrel can still rotate a millimeter or two. With the horizontal barrel design disclosed in embodiments of the present specification, the barrel cannot be forced up or down because there is a rigid surface (shield 502) preventing such movement. While it can move slightly in a horizontal direction, such movement does not impact the accuracy of the flare gun as the recoil does not influence this type of movement.

Conventional break-action firearms typically do not include mounts on the sides of the gun to attach any other kind of equipment such as flashlights or laser sights because such mounts do not line up horizontally with the barrel. Further, such equipment cannot be attached through a bottom mount as that would interfere with the movement of the barrel. In a typical break-action firearm, that leaves only a top position mount usable. Additionally, if a top mount is used to attach a rifle to the top of a flare gun or firearm, rotation of the barrel is stunted. In an embodiment, the present specification discloses a firearm, such as a flare gun, comprising a horizontal barrel in which both the top and bottom mounts can be used to mount additional equipment. As the movement of the gun barrel is restricted in a horizontal direction, in embodiments, the flare gun of the present specification can be attached to the top or bottom of a rifle for military applications such as distress signaling.

In an embodiment, gun barrel 501 comprises a first section 507 which is cylindrical in shape and a second section 508 which is substantially cuboidal in shape. In an embodiment, gun barrel 501 is manufactured such that first and second sections 507 and 508 are forged to each other. In alternative embodiments, sections 507 and 508 are coupled to each other through various other means. In embodiments, the unique partially cylindrical and partially cuboidal shape of the gun barrel 501 facilitates automatic extraction of spent cartridges from gun barrel 501 as it is released. In embodiments, the cylindrical region of the barrel is the area through which the actual flare will be fired, so that it must be designed such that the inner diameter fits the flare. In embodiments, the cuboidal region comprises a square-like shape so that the extractor can slide on a flat, smooth plane. With these design considerations in mind, it should be noted that the gun barrel can be shaped accordingly in different embodiments and that the shapes are not restricted to cylindrical or cuboidal as long as it achieves the objectives of the present specification. In embodiments, when the barrel is in a locked position, sections 507 and 508 rest against the frame of the flare gun, stunting any outward movement of the extractor that is coupled to the barrel. The extractor system is configured such that the flare gun frame blocks the movement of the extractor when the barrel is in a closed or locked position. As the barrel is unlocked (as a result of pulling a barrel release lever), a spring coupled to one side of the barrel acts to rotate the barrel in other direction. Once the barrel is rotated, sections 507 and 508 no longer rest against the flare gun frame, facilitating movement of extractor in an outward direction. As the extractor extends in an outward direction, the flare casings are ejected out of the barrel. In an embodiment, the extractor may be coupled to a spring such that as the barrel rotates and sections 507 and 508 are no longer in contact with the frame, the spring coupled to the extractor acts to push it in an outward direction. As described in the above embodiment, the barrel and the extractor are coupled to separate springs which keep the respective sections in tension and as soon as the barrel is unlocked the respective springs acts to rotate the barrel and extend the extractor.

In an embodiment, hinge 503 is positioned through the top of section 508 which is substantially cuboidal in shape, as the flare does not travel in this area. Note that it is not desirable to position the hinge in the cylindrical region of the barrel where the flare travels as the hinge point would create a hole in that region, which would interfere with the flare's movement when the flare gun is shot. In an embodiment, the hinge 503 is positioned closer to the distal end 501a of the barrel 501 to allow for enough space for the extractor mechanism to be positioned. The hinge is placed closer to the distal end as placing the hinge any closer would compromise the rotational movement of the barrel (as it would swing into the receiver and not rotate). In an embodiment, the hinge points of the receiver and barrel are in alignment with one another. Thus, the hole on top of the barrel from which it rotates when released lines up with the hole in the receiver, which serves as the axis of rotation. In an embodiment, the hinge point is 0.25 inches in diameter. In another embodiment, this hinge point has a different diameter to accomplish the same design.

FIG. 5C and FIG. 5D illustrate a flare gun with top and bottom mounts, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 5C, the flare gun 500 comprises a gun barrel 501. In an embodiment, a metal shield 502 is coupled to the top portion of the gun barrel 501. In an embodiment, a mount 504 is coupled to the shield 502 for mounting additional equipment, such as a sighting device or laser system, on the flare gun. As the movement of the barrel 501 is restricted in a horizontal direction, it does not interfere with the movement of other equipment. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the mount 504 can be structured in various sizes and shapes without departing from the core spirit and scope of the present specification. In embodiments, the mount 504 is a single piece welded (or attached with a screw) to the shield 502. In embodiments, the mount 504 may comprise multiple pieces however, operates as a single piece platform functionally.

In an embodiment shown in FIG. 5D, the flare gun 500 comprises a metal shield 506 which is coupled to the bottom portion of the gun barrel 501. In an embodiment, a mount 505 is coupled to the shield 506 such that additional equipment can be mounted under the flare gun using the mount 505. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the mount 505 can be structured in various sizes and shapes without departing from the core spirit and scope of the present specification. The availability of both top mount 504 and the bottom mount 505 in a flare gun has useful applications. In embodiments, the bottom mount 505 might be used to attach flashlights or laser sights, while at the same time the upper mount 504 might be used to attach a sighting device or to mount the flare gun under a rifle.

One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there may be multiple ways to control the release/locking of barrel 501. In an embodiment of the present specification, a barrel release lever (such as the barrel release lever 104 shown in FIG. 1) is provided to control the movement of barrel 501. In an embodiment, a spring may be attached to the barrel such that it automatically ejects the barrel when a barrel release lever is pulled. FIG. 6A illustrates a flare gun with its barrel positioned in a closed/locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 6A, barrel 601 is coupled to a barrel release lever portion 604 through block portion 607. In embodiments, the lever portion 604 and the block portion 607 comprise a unitary component that is molded together. As shown in FIG. 6A, the integrated barrel release lever 604 and block portion 607 is positioned in a closed/locked position. In this position, the block portion 607 provides support to keep the barrel 601 in its normal position. In an embodiment, the barrel release lever portion 604 is coupled to a spring and as the barrel release lever 604 is pulled, the spring causes the block portion 607 to move downward and thus, eject the barrel 601 in a horizontal direction. FIG. 6B illustrates a flare gun with its barrel positioned in an open/unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 6B, the barrel release lever portion 604 is in a released/pulled back position and accordingly the block portion 607 is also in an unlocked position. In this position the barrel 601 is in an open/unlocked position and can be moved outward in a horizontal direction, as described above.

One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there could be multiple ways to configure and enable the horizontal movement of the barrel. In an embodiment, a flat spring is coupled to a side of the barrel such that it automatically ejects the barrel when a barrel release lever is pulled, as shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D. As shown in FIG. 6C, the flare gun barrel 601 comprises a proximal portion 601b and a distal portion 601a. In an embodiment, the barrel 601 comprises a first section 608 which is substantially cylindrical in shape and a second section 609 which is substantially cuboidal in shape. In embodiments, first section 608 and second section 609 are forged together. In an embodiment, the cuboidal section 609 comprises a hollow region 610, defined by the walls of the cuboidal section 609 and the barrel. In an embodiment, the hollow region is cuboidal in shape. A flat spring, such as spring 611 illustrated in FIG. 6D, is positioned within hollow region 610 such that when the barrel release lever is pulled the spring 611 “unlocks” or “frees” the barrel which can be then be moved in a horizontal direction. It should be noted that the walls that enclose the hollow region must be sufficiently thick to lend strength to the barrel, but thin enough to fit the flat spring. In an embodiment, the spring 611 is welded or otherwise fixedly attached into the hollow region 610 and compresses when the barrel is closed and extends when the barrel is not obstructed by the barrel release lever and is free to move. As the spring 611 extends, it pushes the barrel to move in a horizontal direction.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a flare gun barrel with an extractor mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the barrel 701 comprises a proximal section 701b and a distal section 701a. In an embodiment, the gun barrel 701 comprises a first section 708 which is substantially cylindrical in shape and a second section 709 which is substantially cuboidal in shape. In an embodiment, the cuboidal portion of the barrel serves to house the extractor and barrel ejector spring. Its flat shape allows for better placement of the hinge, as it allows a level surface for rotation. The flare is fired from only the cylindrical portion of the barrel. In embodiments, the first section 708 and second section 709 are forged together. In an embodiment, extractor system 702 includes the section 709 and a slider 711 which is configured to slide over a portion of the section 709 such that when the gun barrel 701 is in a closed position, the slider 711 is in a first position and when the gun barrel 701 is in an open/released position, the slider 711 is in a second position. In an embodiment, the section 709 of the barrel 701 comprises a protruding section 712, which protrudes from a cavity 713, for restricting the movement of the slider 711 such that it can only toggle between the first position and the second position at each end of the cavity 713. In an embodiment, the distance between the first position of the slider and the second position of the slider is 0.25 inches. In alternate embodiments, the range of the slider varies in length such that it still accomplishes the same function. In an embodiment, the distance is selected such that the flare is sufficiently ejected by in such a manner than the ejector does not interfere with re-locking the barrel. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7A, the extractor 702 is shown in a closed position where the spent casing cannot be ejected from barrel 701. In a first, closed position, the slider 711 is restricted from movement due to the pressure of the body of gun that thwarts any movement of the slider 711. In an embodiment, the extractor 702 described in the present specification is coupled to a spring which acts to extend the extractor in an outward direction when the barrel is released and provides an opening to extract or eject spent shell casings. In an embodiment, the spring is coupled to the outside portion 710 of the barrel 701 (as described with respect to FIGS. 6C and 6D). The spring is configured to exert pressure on the barrel to push it in a direction opposite to the retainer. In embodiments, the spring compresses when the barrel is closed and extends when the barrel is not obstructed by the barrel release lever and is free to move. In embodiments, the spring as described above is a flat spring.

FIG. 7B illustrates the extractor in an extended or open position. In an embodiment, the extractor 702 comprises a spring such that as the gun barrel 701 is released, the spring acts to push the slider 711 in an outward direction which provides an opening 703 through which a spent casing is ejected. In an embodiment, the protruding section 712 and the cavity 713 restrict the distance by which slider 711 can move in an outward direction when the gun barrel 701 is released.

FIG. 7C illustrates an inside view of the gun barrel and the extractor prior to release. As shown in FIG. 7C, the extractor 702 is in an unreleased position such that in this position a spent casing cannot be ejected from the gun. In an embodiment, the barrel 701 and the extractor 702 are configured such that the body of the gun holds the extractor 702 in its position. Once the barrel 701 is released by pulling back a barrel release lever, the extractor 702 automatically extends outwards and ejects the spent casing. FIG. 7D illustrates an inside view of the gun barrel and the extractor after release. As shown in FIG. 7D, after release, the extractor 702 is extended in an outward direction such that a cavity 703 is created through which the spent round is ejected.

FIG. 7E illustrates the positioning of the gun barrel and extractor system components in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 7E, the slider 711 comprises a spring 715 coupled to a rod 705, wherein the spring 715, in a compressed position and along with rod 705, resides within a cylindrical cavity 704 located in the cuboidal section 709. When in a released position, rod 705 is partially removed from within cavity 704 and spring 715 is in an extended position.

FIG. 7F and FIG. 7G illustrate the gun barrel and the slider before barrel release and ejection of a spent casing and after ejection of a spent casing, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 7F, the slider 711 is coupled to one side of the flare gun barrel 701. In FIG. 7F, as the flare gun barrel 701 is in a firing position, both the gun barrel 701 and the slider 711 are supported by a surface 706, located on the flare gun body, stunting the movement of the slider 711. As the flare gun barrel 701 is released/unlocked as shown in FIG. 7G, the flare gun barrel 701 and the slider 711 are no longer supported by surface 706, and are thus, free to move. In an embodiment, when the gun barrel 701 is moved to a released position, the spring 715 coupled to the slider 711 (shown in FIG. 7E) acts to extend it in an outward direction, creating an opening through which spent casings are automatically extracted.

In another embodiment of the present specification, an extractor for use with vertical barrel flare guns is described. FIGS. 8A to 8I illustrate a mechanism for rotationally releasing a barrel in vertical barrel flare guns. As shown in FIG. 8A, flare gun 800 comprises a barrel 801, which includes a bottom portion 811, which in a locked or closed position, rests against a flare gun receiver section 802. Bottom portion 811 also comprises a toothed portion 812, which is releasably coupled to a distal end of a barrel release pin 804.

FIG. 8B illustrates a barrel release pin 804 in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In an embodiment, the barrel release pin 804 comprises a first cylindrical portion 810 which is coupled in a substantially perpendicular direction to a distal end 805a of a second cylindrical portion 805, such that it approximates a “T”-shape. The second cylindrical section 805 is a prong comprising a proximal portion 805b and a distal portion 805a, which, when barrel 801 is in a locked or closed position rests in and through the corresponding cylindrical opening in pin guide 806, as described with respect to FIGS. 8C and 8D. In addition, barrel release pin 804 comprises a rectangular portion 820, which is positioned at a midpoint of first cylindrical portion 810 and connected to second cylindrical portion 805 at its distal portion 805a, wherein the rectangular portion 820 engages with toothed portion 812. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that barrel release pin 804 can be configured in other shapes and sizes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present specification.

FIG. 8C illustrates a barrel release pin guide in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 8C, in an embodiment, the pin guide 806 comprises a cylindrical opening 815 to accommodate prong 805 illustrated in FIG. 8B which is also cylindrical in shape. In alternate embodiments, the shape and size of pin guide 806 can vary to accommodate the corresponding shape and size of prong 805.

FIG. 8D illustrates a closer view of the barrel release pin 804 and the pin guide 806 in accordance with an embodiment. Barrel release pin 804 comprises a prong 805, a portion of which rests through an opening within pin guide 806 (as described in FIG. 8C). As shown in FIG. 8E, the barrel release pin 804 is fully “fed” through the pin guide 806. Further, pin guide 806 comprises a “hook” or “catch” portion 816 then rests above and hooks onto trigger 820.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A through 8E simultaneously, at least a part of first cylindrical portion 810 and at least a part of rectangular portion 820 rests within and engages with the toothed portion 812 of bottom portion 811 of the barrel assembly 801, such that it prevents any rotational movement of the barrel 801. In this embodiment, because the release pin slides on a horizontal plane, no rotational freedom is needed. In an embodiment, the pin is the same size or diameter as cavity 821 which houses the pin just above toothed portion 812, completely locking the barrel into firing position.

In an embodiment, a portion of the prong 805 is coiled with a spring such that it creates a tension and by default pushes the barrel release pin 804 in an outward or locked position. FIG. 8F illustrates a flare gun barrel in a partially unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 8F, in an unlocked position, the barrel release pin 804 is pulled back to disengage from the barrel 801 such that a substantial portion of prong 805 is inserted further into the cylindrical cavity of pin guide 806. In an embodiment, the barrel release pin is pulled back manually using first cylindrical portion 810, which has its two exposed ends protruding from either side of the toothed portion 812. These ends are also exposed to the flare gun user by protruding from either side of the receiver (not shown) through an oval cavity. The toothed portion 812 serves a purpose. When relocking the barrel into place, the toothed portion briefly disengages the barrel release pin (via releasing rectangular portion 820) so it does not need to be manually pulled for barrel relocking. In embodiments, the pin guide 806 provides the space required to facilitate a horizontal movement of the prong 805 and the barrel release pin 804 to lock/unlock the barrel 801. In embodiments, the pin guide is used to prevent the user from pulling back the release pin too far, which would cause it to interfere with the other components of the assembly, such as the trigger and hammer. In an unlocked position shown in FIG. 8F, the barrel 801 is disengaged from the barrel release pin 804 by moving the first cylindrical portion 810 out of the toothed portion 812, such that it is free to rotate.

FIG. 8G illustrates an unlocked and vertically rotated flare gun barrel in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 8F as the barrel 801 is disengaged from the barrel release pin 804 it is unlocked and can freely rotate. FIG. 8G illustrates a position wherein the barrel 801 has been released and rotated in a vertical direction. In an embodiment, an extractor 803 is coupled to the barrel 801 such that the flare casings are ejected out of the extractor 803 as the barrel 801 is released.

FIG. 8H illustrates an alternate view of a flare gun barrel in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 8H, the flare gun 800 comprises a barrel release pin 804 comprising a prong 805 such that a spring is coiled around a section of prong 805 that fits into the pin guide. The presence of spring creates a tension in the barrel release pin 804 such that it is constantly pushed in an outward or locked position and such that force must be used to move the pin

FIG. 8I illustrates an alternate view of the flare gun barrel in an unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 8I, the barrel release pin 804 is in an unlocked or pulled up position such that it is disengaged from the barrel 801 which can freely rotate.

In an embodiment, the present specification discloses a mechanically powered extractor system that can operate with flare guns comprising either vertically or horizontally rotating barrels. FIG. 9A illustrates a mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 9A, the flare gun 900 comprises a barrel 901 in a locked position such that it is engaged with a barrel release pin 904 and it rests against a receiver 902. In an embodiment, a novel extractor system 903 is coupled to the barrel 901 such that when the barrel 901 is in a locked or closed position as shown in FIG. 9A, the extractor system is also in an inactive position.

FIG. 9B illustrates an alternate view of the mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 9B, as the barrel 901 is unlocked and rotated, the extractor 903 pushes against the surface of the receiver 902. In an embodiment, as the extractor 903 is pushed by the surface of the receiver 902, it slides along a plane and starts extending in an outward direction and as the barrel 901 is fully rotated or opened up, the extractor 903 also extends outwards as shown in FIG. 9C. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9C, the extractor 903 is extended in an outward direction and in this position extracts and/or ejects the spent flare casings.

While the embodiments described in FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C disclose a vertical barrel flare gun, in alternate embodiments, the mechanically powered extractor system of the present specification can also be implemented in horizontal barrel flare guns.

FIG. 10 illustrates an isolated view of a mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 10, in an embodiment, the extractor 1000 comprises a proximal section 1001 and a distal section 1002. In an embodiment, the distal section 1002 comprises a curved portion 1003 such that as the barrel is rotated this curved shape of the distal portion of the extractor allows it to slide and extend in an outward direction. It achieves this by the curve 1003 coming into contact with the body of the flare gun (when the flare gun is rotated) which subsequently shifts it towards the proximal side of the barrel (not shown). In an embodiment, the proximal section 1001 is coupled to a semi-circular shaped section 1004 that allows the extractor system to engage with a barrel of the flare gun. In an embodiment, the extractor 1000 comprises an elongated hole 1005 that serves as the plane along which the extractor 1000 slides as it moves from a locked position to an open position and vice versa.

FIG. 11 illustrates the cavity positioned under the barrel that accommodates the mechanically powered extractor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 11, the barrel 1101 comprises a cavity 1102 in which the extractor depicted in FIG. 10 is accommodated. In an embodiment, the extractor 1000 depicted in FIG. 10 can just slide in to engage with the cavity 1102.

FIG. 12A illustrates a barrel and a mechanically powered extractor in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 12A, the barrel 1201 comprises a cavity 1202 such the extractor 1203 is accommodated in this cavity. In embodiments, the semi-circular shaped portion 1204 of the extractor 1203 provides support to keep the extractor engaged with the barrel 1201. Additionally, this semi-circular portion 1204 is the contact point for the flare casing rim, which it pushes to eject and/or extract the flare. FIG. 12B illustrates a barrel and the mechanically powered extractor in an unlocked position after the barrel is rotated. In an unlocked position, as the barrel 1201 is rotated, the extractor 1203 is pushed by the surface of the receiver and it slides and extended in an outward direction as shown in FIG. 12B.

In an alternative embodiment, the extractor system 1203 extends in an outward direction as the barrel 1201 is rotated through a normal mechanical action. In this embodiment, as the barrel 1201 is in a locked position, a proximal portion of the frame of the flare gun abuts against the extractor 1203 with some force, pushing the extractor 1203 slightly in a direction toward the distal portion of the flare gun barrel 1201. As the barrel 1201 is released, the extractor 1203 is pushed towards the proximal end of the barrel 1201 through its curved region coming into contact with the frame of the flare gun. This causes the extractor 1203 to extend slightly in an outward direction, releasing the spent flare casing out of the barrel 1201.

Since flare guns are commonly used around water such as in marine applications, they suffer from rust problems. In conventional firearms, since the hammer mechanism comprises several dynamic parts, it is highly prone to rust which significantly impairs the performance of the device. In an embodiment, the present specification discloses a compact and reliable hammer arrangement for the flare guns that has greater rust resistance is thus more reliable for the marine applications.

FIG. 13A illustrates a hammer in a down or un-cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 13A, the hammer 1301 is shown resting on the firing pin housing 1303 such that the firing pin (not shown in FIG. 13A) which is coupled to the firing pin housing 1303 is pressed by the hammer 1301. In the above position, the trigger 1302 is in a depressed or released position and the hammer 1301 is in an un-cocked position. The image shown in FIG. 13A depicts the flare gun firing assembly completely before or after a flare is fired. In an embodiment, the hammer 1301 comprises a gear like structure 1305 that is coupled to the trigger such that as the hammer structure moves clockwise, the trigger 1302 moves counter clockwise.

FIG. 13B illustrates a hammer is a semi-cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 13B, in a semi-cocked position, the hammer 1301 is pulled back such that the flare gun can be loaded/unloaded. In an embodiment of the present specification, as the hammer 1301 is pulled back in a semi-cocked position, a first notch of the hammer structure 1305 rests on the trigger which supports the hammer 1301 in this position. Further, in an embodiment, the trigger motion is prevented by the firing pin block 1303 which prevents the trigger 1302 and the hammer 1301 from moving. If the trigger 1302 is pulled counter clockwise, the hammer 1301 initially moves in the opposite direction initially, but eventually enough space is created between the hammer structure 1305 and the trigger 1302 and the hammer is released in the counter clockwise direction towards the firing pin 1304 which is coupled to the firing pin housing 1303. In a semi-cocked position, as the trigger 1302 is released, the hammer 1301 shoots forward but it does not have enough momentum to trigger the flare.

FIG. 13C illustrates the hammer is a fully cocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 13C, in a fully cocked position, the hammer 1301 is pulled back further such it gains momentum to strike the firing pin 1304 and set off the flare. In an embodiment of the present specification, in a fully cocked position, a second notch of the hammer structure 1305 rests on the trigger which supports the hammer 1301 in this position. Any trigger motion is prevented by the firing pin block 1303 which prevents the trigger 1302 and the hammer 1301 from moving. In an embodiment, as the trigger 1302 is pulled counter clockwise, the hammer 1301 is released and it strikes the firing pin 1304 to set the flare.

The hammer mechanism disclosed in the above embodiments of the present specification is superior (in a flare gun application) to conventional systems. In conventional firearms, since the hammer mechanism comprises several dynamic parts, this section of the flare gun is highly prone to rust which significantly impairs the performance of the device. As the hammer structure disclosed in above embodiments comprise very few crucial parts which do not require extremely accurate tolerances, this system provides a very compact and reliable arrangement for flare guns that can better resist rust and are therefore better suited for marine applications. Additionally, because the firing pin is coupled in its own separate housing, it is less likely to come into contact with rust. In conventional systems, the firing pin is integrated within the hammer (a form of striker), which is more easily exposed to rust inducing elements such as water.

The hammer/trigger mechanisms in conventional firearms usually have an additional sear mechanism (to provide a lighter trigger pull and to make it semi-automatic, automatic, etc.). The system disclosed in the present specification does not require an additional sear because a semi/automatic system is not necessitated. Also, in the present specification, the length of the trigger achieves greater mechanical leverage which ensures that the trigger pull is still light. Conventional automatic firearm systems also rely on a bolt to cycle rounds, but this is not needed in the system disclosed in above embodiment.

The above examples are merely illustrative of the many applications of the system of present invention. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, it should be understood that the present invention might be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present examples and embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.

In the description and claims of the applications, each of the words “comprise” “include” and “have”, and forms thereof, are not necessarily limited to members in a list with which the words may be associated.

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