RETRACTABLE BAYONET

Abstract

A retractable bayonet that can be removably coupled to a firearm or used alone. The retractable bayonet includes a housing having a first side, a second side, an internal channel, a slot having first and second ends, and first and second opening; a blade configured to be displaced between a retracted position and an extended position along the internal channel within the housing; and a fastener secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot. When the blade is in the retracted position, the fastener is positioned at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening. When the blade is in the extended position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening. With one-handed operations, the bayonet can be extended or retracted when not in use.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to bayonets that can be removably fixed to a rifle or other firearm or used alone, and more particularly to retractable bayonets that can be removably fixed to a rifle or other firearm or used alone.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typical firearms do not include additional or back up means of self-defense, particularly when hand-to-hand combat becomes necessary. Typical firearms are also limited in the number or type of accessories that can be mounted thereto due to the limited surface area of the firearm. Conventional out-the-front (“OTF”) knives include a handle and a blade that slides parallel with the handle to deploy. However, such OTF knives are not configured to be mounted to a firearm. Additionally, the inside of the handles of such OTF knives can be difficult to clean.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved retractable bayonet that can be easily mounted to a firearm, easily cleaned, and provide additional means for mounting accessories.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed generally to inventive retractable bayonets and firearms with removably mountable retractable bayonets. Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a retractable bayonet featuring a housing or carriage, a blade that moves in parallel with the housing, and a fastener that locks the blade in an extended position or a retracted position when not in use. The retractable bayonet can be used alone or when removably mounted to a firearm. Applicant has recognized and appreciated that an Armalite AR-15 or any suitable firearm can benefit from having a removably coupled retractable bayonet when hand-to-hand combat becomes necessary. The retractable bayonet includes a housing, a blade configured to be repositioned or displaced between a retracted position and an extended position along an internal channel within the housing, and a fastener configured for a user to deploy the blade from the retracted position to the extended position with a simple one-handed operation. When the blade is not in use, the fastener is also configured for the user to retract the blade from the extended position to the retracted position with a simple one-handed operation. Additionally, the housing features multiple mounting options such that the blade can be positioned on the firearm to custom fit the barrel and/or the preference of the user.

Generally, in one aspect, a retractable bayonet is provided. The retractable bayonet comprises a housing comprising a first side and a second side, opposite the first side, and an internal channel extending between the first and second sides; a slot arranged within the first side of the housing, the slot having first and second ends; first and second openings arranged within the second side of the housing; a blade positioned within the housing and configured to be displaced between a retracted position and an extended position along the internal channel within the housing; and a fastener secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot. When the blade is in the retracted position, the fastener is positioned at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening, and when the blade is in the extended position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening.

According to an embodiment, the housing is configured to be removably secured to a firearm.

According to an embodiment, the first side is parallel to a mark side of the blade.

According to an embodiment, the second side is parallel to a pile side of the blade.

According to an embodiment, the first and second sides of the housing are arranged in parallel to each other.

According to an embodiment, the slot is defined by continuous straight edges that extend between the first and second ends.

According to an embodiment, the first opening is arranged in parallel with the first end of the slot and the second opening is arranged in parallel with the second end of the slot.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is configured to extend outwardly through the slot.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is spring-loaded.

According to an embodiment, the fastener comprises a knob.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is configured to rotate to lock when in the retracted position or the extended position.

According to an embodiment, the internal channel extends longitudinally along an inside surface the housing.

Generally, in another aspect, a system comprising a removably retractable bayonet is provided. The system comprises a firearm having a mounting platform; and a retractable bayonet removably securable to the mounting platform of the firearm. The retractable bayonet of the system comprises a housing comprising a longitudinal top side and first and second lateral sides extending from the longitudinal top side, the longitudinal top side and the first and second lateral sides at least partially defining an internal cavity; an extension configured to engage the mounting platform of the firearm, the extension comprising a plurality of channels, and the extension extending from the first lateral side; a recess arranged longitudinally within the second lateral side of the housing; an internal channel extending along an inside surface of the longitudinal top side and within the internal cavity of the housing; a blade configured to be displaced within the internal channel; and a cross-bolt assembly configured to engage the recess and the plurality of channels of the extension to removably secure the retractable bayonet to the firearm.

According to an embodiment, the plurality of channels are substantially perpendicular to the recess within the second lateral side of the housing.

According to an embodiment, the retractable bayonet of the system further comprises a slot arranged within the first lateral side of the housing, the slot having first and second ends; first and second openings arranged within the second lateral side of the housing; and a fastener secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot. When the blade is in a first position, the fastener is positioned at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening, and when the blade is in a second position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is configured to extend outwardly through the slot.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is spring-loaded and configured to rotate to lock when in the first position or the second position.

According to an embodiment, the first opening is arranged in parallel with the first end of the slot and the second opening is arranged in parallel with the second end of the slot.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is spring-loaded.

According to an embodiment, the fastener is configured to rotate to lock when in the retracted position or the extended position.

It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. It should also be appreciated that terminology explicitly employed herein that also may appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference should be accorded a meaning most consistent with the particular concepts disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing will be apparent from the following more particular description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a retractable bayonet in a closed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a mark side elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a pile side elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an end elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a retractable bayonet in an extended configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a mark side elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a pile side elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is an end elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is an end elevational view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the retractable bayonet shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a mark side elevational view of the housing of the retractable bayonet shown in isolation, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a pile side elevational view of the housing of the retractable bayonet shown in isolation, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the retractable bayonet, taken generally along line 17-17 in FIG. 15, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the retractable bayonet, taken generally along line 18-18 in FIG. 15, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the housing of the retractable bayonet shown in isolation, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a schematic perspective view of the retractable bayonet removably secured to a firearm in a retracted configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view of the retractable bayonet removably secured to a firearm in an extended configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A description of example embodiments of the invention follows. The example embodiments include a retractable bayonet and systems including a firearm having a mounting platform and a retractable bayonet removably securable to the mounting platform of the firearm. Example embodiments of the retractable bayonet include a housing or carriage, a blade that moves in parallel with the housing, and a fastener configured to secure or fix the blade in an extended position or a retracted position. The housing or carriage includes a slot within a first side of the housing, the slot having first and second ends, and the housing or carriage further includes first and second openings within a second side of the housing, opposite the first side of the housing. The blade is configured to be repositioned or displaced between a retracted position and an extended position along an internal channel within the housing or carriage. The fastener is secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot of the housing or carriage. When the blade is in the retracted position, the fastener is position at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening of the housing. When the blade is in the extended position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening of the housing. The retractable bayonet can be used alone or in combination with a firearm.

Embodiments of systems having the retractable bayonet mounted to a firearm include an extension on the housing of the retractable bayonet, where the extension is configured to engage the mounting platform of the firearm, the extension comprising a plurality of channels. The housing of the retractable bayonet in such systems further includes a recess arranged longitudinally within a lateral side of the housing and an internal channel extending along an inside surface of a longitudinal top side of the housing. The blade is configured to be displaced within the internal channel of the housing. Such systems further include a cross-bolt assembly configured to engage the recess and the plurality of channels of the housing of the retractable bayonet and the mounting platform of the firearm. The cross-bolt assembly enables the retractable bayonet to be removably secured to the firearm.

Applicant has recognized and appreciated that a firearm can benefit from having a removably coupled retractable bayonet when hand-to-hand combat becomes necessary. The user can deploy the blade from a retracted position to an extended position with a simple one-handed operation using the fastener. When the blade is not in use, the user can also use the fastener to retract the blade from the extended position to the retracted position with a simple one-handed operation. Applicant has further recognized and appreciated that the housing can incorporate multiple mounting options such that the blade can be positioned on the firearm to custom fit the barrel of a firearm and/or the preferences of the user.

These embodiments are merely illustrative and should not limit the claims included herein. A particular goal of utilization of the embodiments and implementations herein is to provide a retractable bayonet that can be used alone or when removably mounted to a firearm. The retractable bayonet can further provide means for mounting additional accessories. Any suitable mounting platforms can be used to mount the retractable bayonet to a firearm and mount additional accessories to the retractable bayonet. In embodiments, the same mounting platform can be used for mounting to the firearm and for mounting accessories. In other embodiments, different mounting platforms can be used for mounting the retractable bayonet to the firearm and for mounting accessories to the retractable bayonet. Example mounting platforms include Weaver-style rails, Picatinny-style rails, Modular (e.g., M-Lok)-style rails, KeyMod slots, dovetail rails, quick-detach or standard sling mounts, and any equivalents. This disclosure should not be limited by the specific embodiments depicted and described.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout, there are shown perspective and elevational views of an example embodiment of a retractable bayonet in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. FIGS. 1-7 show multiple views of an example retractable bayonet in a retracted or closed configuration. FIGS. 8-14 show multiple corresponding views of an example retractable bayonet in an extended or open configuration. FIGS. 15-19 show multiple views of an example housing or carriage of a retractable bayonet in isolation. FIG. 20 shows a view of an example system having a firearm and a removably mounted retractable bayonet where the bayonet is in a retracted or closed configuration. FIG. 21 shows a view of an example system having a firearm and a removably mounted retractable bayonet where the bayonet is in an extended or open configuration. In the figures, retractable bayonet 100 broadly comprises housing 102, slot 104, openings 106A, 106B, blade 108, and fastener 110 as further described herein.

Housing 102 comprises longitudinal top side 102T, first lateral side 102Si, second lateral side 102S2, longitudinal bottom side 102B. Longitudinal top side 102T, first lateral side 102S₁, second lateral side 102S₂, and longitudinal bottom side 102B define cavity C therein. In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., housing 102 extends longitudinally between end 103A and end 103B. The first lateral side 102S₁ is parallel to the mark side of blade 108 of retractable bayonet 100. The second lateral side 102S₂ is parallel to the pile side of blade 108 of retractable bayonet 100. In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., first lateral side 102S₁ is arranged in parallel with second lateral side 102S2. However, it should be appreciated that alternate geometries are contemplated. Housing 102 can be approximately 177.8 mm, or 7 inches, in longitudinal length between end 103A and end 103B. Housing 102 can be approximately 38.1 mm, or 1.5 inches in width. Housing 102 can be made of a precipitation-hardened aluminum alloy or any suitable alternative. In an embodiment, housing 102 can be made of a tempered grade precipitation-hardened aluminum alloy, i.e., 6061-T6 (solutionized and artificially aged). In another embodiment, housing 102 can be made of a 6063 aluminum alloy, i.e., 6063-T5 or 6063-T6. It should be appreciated that any suitable material or materials can be used for housing 102 to achieve a tensile strength of at least 140, or at least 190, or at least 290 MPa and a yield strength of at least 97 MPa, or at least 160 MPa, or at least 240 MPa. In embodiments, housing 102 can also have a black anodized finish or any suitable finish. An example suitable finish is a hard anodized matte black coating after machining pursuant to military specification MIL-A-8625, Type III (i.e., hard anodizing). As described herein, retractable bayonet 100 is durable and lightweight, weighing less than approximately 0.4535 Kg, or 1 pound in example embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 2 for example, first lateral side 102S₁ of housing 102 includes first plurality of apertures 112. In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., there are six apertures of first plurality of apertures 112 however, it should be appreciated that any number of apertures is contemplated. In the embodiment depicted, first plurality of apertures 112 includes first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 112A and 112B where first sub-plurality of apertures 112A is arranged in a proximate half of housing 102 closer to end 103A and second sub-plurality of apertures 112B is arranged in a distal half of housing 102 closer to end 103B. First sub-plurality of apertures 112A can include any number of apertures and second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can include any number of apertures. As shown in the FIGS., first sub-plurality of apertures 112A includes three apertures and second sub-plurality of apertures 112B includes three apertures.

At least one aperture of first sub-plurality of apertures 112A can be defined as a rounded rectangular aperture. In an example embodiment, the at least one aperture is obtained by taking the convex hull of four equal circles of radius 1.524 mm, or 0.06 inch, and placing the centers of each of the four equal circles at the corners of a rectangle and connecting the centers of the top-most equal circles and the bottom-most equal circles with longer side lengths of approximately 25.654 mm, or 1.01 inches, and connecting the centers of the left-most and right-most equal circles with shorter side lengths of approximately 4.826 mm, or 0.19 inch. In the embodiment depicted in the FIGS., the shorter side lengths that connect the centers of the left-most and right-most equal circles of the at least one aperture of first sub-plurality of apertures 112A are arranged at angle Θ (i.e., approximately Π/3 radians, or 60 degrees) relative to the longitudinal line L₁ of slot 104 (shown in FIG. 15). The longer side lengths connecting the centers of the top-most and the bottom-most equal circles are arranged in parallel to each other and in parallel to longitudinal line L₁ of slot 104. The shorter side lengths connecting the centers of the right-most and the left-most equal circles are arranged in parallel to each other.

In the embodiment depicted in the FIGS., first sub-plurality of apertures 112A includes three apertures 112A₁, 112A₂, and 112A₃ that are substantially identical in shape, for example, the shape discussed above. As shown in FIG. 2, apertures 112A₁ and 112A₂ can be arranged between slot 104 and longitudinal top side 102T of housing 102 and aperture 112A₃ can be arranged between slot 104 and longitudinal bottom side 102B.

Each of second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can also be defined as a rounded rectangular aperture as discussed with respect to the apertures of first sub-plurality of apertures 112A. Each of second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can be substantially equivalent or identical in shape to each of the apertures of first sub-plurality of apertures 112A. Additionally, second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can be arranged as a plurality of apertures that represent a mirrored plurality of first sub-plurality of apertures 112A with respect to central axis A_l that is perpendicular to longitudinal line L₁ (shown in FIG. 15). Thus, two apertures of second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can be arranged between slot 104 and longitudinal top side 102T of housing 102 and a single aperture of second sub-plurality of apertures 112B can be arranged between slot 104 and longitudinal bottom side 102B.

As shown in FIG. 3, second lateral side 102S2 of housing 102 of retractable bayonet 100 includes second plurality of apertures 114. In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., there are nine apertures of second plurality of apertures 114 however, it should be appreciated that any number of apertures is contemplated. In the embodiment depicted, second plurality of apertures 114 includes first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 114A and 114B and central aperture 115. First sub-plurality of apertures 114A can include any number of apertures and second sub-plurality of apertures 114B can include any number of apertures. First sub-plurality of apertures 114A is arranged in the proximate half of housing 102 closer to end 103A and fastener 110 and second sub-plurality of apertures 114B is arranged in a distal half of housing 102 closer to end 103B, opposite end 103A.

Each aperture of first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 114A and 114B can also be defined as a rounded rectangular aperture as discussed with respect to the apertures of first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 112A and 112B. In the example embodiment depicted in the FIGS., first sub-plurality of apertures 114A includes apertures 114A₁ and 114A₃ which are substantially similar in shape to apertures 112A₁ and 112A₃ (shown in FIG. 2). However, since second lateral side 102S2 of housing 102 does not include a slot, such as slot 104, each of apertures 114A₁ and 114A₃ can be larger in height than apertures 112A₁ and 112A₃, respectively. First sub-plurality of apertures 114A also includes aperture 114A₂ which is substantially similar in shape to aperture 112A₂ but aperture 114A₂ is smaller in longitudinal length than aperture 112A₂ yet aperture 114A₂ is larger in height than aperture 112A₂.

Each of second sub-plurality of apertures 114B can also be defined as a rounded rectangular aperture as discussed with respect to the apertures of first sub-plurality of apertures 114A. Each of second sub-plurality of apertures 114B can be substantially equivalent or identical in shape to each of the apertures of first sub-plurality of apertures 114A. Additionally, second sub-plurality of apertures 114B can be arranged as a plurality of apertures that represent a mirrored plurality of first sub-plurality of apertures 114A with respect to central axis A₁ that is perpendicular to longitudinal line L₁.

Due to the angled and mirrored nature of first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 114A and 114B, there is sufficient space for central aperture 115 between first and second sub-pluralities of apertures 114A and 114B. In the embodiment depicted, central aperture 115 is triangular in shape but, it should be appreciated that any suitable shape is contemplated.

As shown in FIG. 15, slot 104 is arranged within first lateral side 102S₁ of housing 102 of retractable bayonet 100 and includes first end 105A and second end 105B. In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., slot 104 is defined by continuous straight edges 105C and 105D that each extend between first end 105A and second end 105B which are rounded. Ends 105A and 105B of slot 104 can each be defined by radius R₁ that can be approximately 4.216 mm, or 0.166 inch. Longitudinal line L₁ extends along slot 104 and passes through first and second ends 105A and 105B. In an embodiment, slot 104 can be approximately 152.4 mm, or 6 inches, between end 105A and end 105B.

As shown in FIG. 16, openings 106A and 106B are arranged within second lateral side 102S₂ of housing 102 of retractable bayonet 100. Second plurality of apertures 114 is arranged between openings 106A and 106B. Due to the configuration of fastener 110 described herein, opening 106A is arranged in parallel with first end 105A of slot 104 and opening 106B is arranged in parallel with second end 105B of slot 104. In other words, opening 106A is arranged opposite end 105A of slot 104 in housing 102 and opening 106B is arranged opposite end 105B of slot 104 in housing 102. In an embodiment, each of openings 106A and 106B can be defined by radius R₂ that can be approximately 4.089 mm, or 0.161 inch.

Longitudinal bottom side 102B includes third plurality of apertures 116 (shown in FIG. 7). In the embodiment shown in the FIGS., there are four apertures in third plurality of apertures 116 however, it should be appreciated that any number of apertures is contemplated. Each aperture of third plurality of apertures 116 can be embodied as a rounded rectangular Modular Lock (or M-Lok) slot. In the embodiment depicted, each aperture of third plurality of apertures 116 can be approximately 32.004 mm, or 1.260 inches in longitudinal length and approximately 7 mm, or 0.276 inch in width. Each aperture of third plurality of apertures 116 can be spaced apart from an adjacent aperture of third plurality of apertures 116 by approximately 8.001 mm, or 0.315 inch. The ends of each aperture of plurality of apertures 116 can be defined by radius R₃ that can be approximately 2.286 mm, or 0.09 inch or approximately 2.38 mm, or 0.094 inch. It should be appreciated that in alternate embodiments, third plurality of apertures 116 can be replaced by a Picatinny rail system or any suitable alternative.

Internal channel 120 extends at least partially and, in some embodiments, the full longitudinal length of housing 102. In the embodiments depicted, internal channel 120 extends inward within cavity C and in parallel alongside the inside surfaces of first lateral side 102S₁ and second lateral side 102S₂. Internal channel 120 is formed within protrusion 122. At its widest point, protrusion 122 can be approximately 9.525 mm, or 0.375 inch. At its narrowest point, protrusion 122 can be approximately 4.902 mm, or 0.193 inch. Internal channel 120 can be rectangular in shape and approximately 4.902 mm, or 0.193 inch in width. Internal channel 120 can also be approximately 2.382 mm, or 0.0938 inch in height and approximately 177.8 mm, or 7 inches, in longitudinal length between end 103A and end 103 of housing 102. Internal channel 120 is configured to receive blade 108. Thus, it should be appreciated that the dimensions discussed herein can be modified to accommodate different blades. It should also be appreciated that the shapes can be modified accordingly.

Blade 108 can be embodied as a blade that is approximately 152.4 mm, or 6 inches in length. Blade 108 can be made of S35VN stainless steel or any suitable alternative. In an example embodiment, the stainless steel is available from Crucible Industries of Syracuse, N.Y. and comprises carbon, chromium, vanadium, molybdenum, and niobium. In an embodiment, the stainless steel comprises more than 1% carbon, approximately 14% chromium, approximately 3% vanadium, approximately 2% molybdenum, and approximately 0.5% niobium. In an example embodiment, blade 108 is approximately 4.762 mm, or 0.1875 inch in thickness.

As described herein, when blade 108 is in a retracted or closed position as shown in FIGS. 1-7, blade 108 can be fully enclosed within housing 102. In an extended or open position as shown in FIGS. 8-14, blade 108 can be configured to protrude from housing 102 such that retractable bayonet 100 measures approximately 330.2 mm, or 13 inches in longitudinal length from the tip of extended blade 108 to end 103A of housing 104. In embodiments, blade 108 is hardened to achieve 59 on the Hardness Rockwell Scale C. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable hardness is contemplated.

Fastener 110 is used to reposition or displace blade 108 between the retracted position shown in FIGS. 1-7 and the extended position shown in FIGS. 8-14 with a simple one-handed operation as described herein. It should be appreciated that a first one-handed operation can be used to displace or reposition blade 108 from the retracted position to the extended position and a second one-handed operation can be used to displace blade 108 from the extended position to the retracted position. In embodiments, the first and second one-handed operations are the same one-handed operation except the first one-handed operation occurs in a first direction and the second one-handed operation occurs in a second direction, opposite the first direction. Fastener 110 is connected to blade 108 either directly or indirectly by or via any suitable means, for example, a bracket. As shown in FIG. 12, Fastener 110 can be made of stainless steel or any suitable alternative.

Fastener 110 comprises a handle or knob, a body, and a plunger or any suitable equivalents. In embodiments, the handle or knob is configured to extend outwardly through slot 104 such that a user can easily access or grab a hold onto it. The handle or knob can take any suitable shape. The handle is connected to the body and the plunger of fastener 110. The distal end of the plunger part of fastener 110 is configured to rest in opening 106A when the blade is in the retracted or closed position. Referring to FIG. 3, plunger P is shown in opening 106A. The distal end of the plunger part of fastener 110 is configured to rest in opening 106B when the blade is in the extended or open position. Referring to FIG. 10, plunger P is shown in opening 106B. The plunger part of fastener 110 can be spring-loaded in embodiments to ensure the distal end of the plunger part of fastener 110 is urged into opening 106A or opening 106B when they are aligned respectively. Thus, when the plunger part of fastener 110 is aligned with opening 106A, the resilient element within fastener 110 can urge the plunger part into opening 106A. When the plunger part of fastener 110 is aligned with opening 106B, the resilient element within fastener 110 can urge the plunger part into opening 106B.

Using the handle or knob of fastener 110, a user can pull the fastener in a lateral direction from housing 102 to release the plunger of fastener 110 from opening 106A or opening 106B. For example referring to FIG. 6, to reposition or displace blade 108 from the retracted or closed position, a user can pull the knob of fastener 110 in direction D1 to release the plunger of fastener 110 from opening 106A in second lateral side 102S₂. Once the plunger is released from opening 106A, the user can push fastener 110 in direction D2 along slot 104 to the extended position at the end of the slot 104. With reference to FIG. 13, to reposition or displace blade 108 from the extended position, a user can pull the knob of fastener 110 in direction D1 to release the plunger of fastener 110 from opening 106B in second lateral side 102S₂. Once the plunger is released from opening 106B, the user can push fastener 110 in direction D3, opposite direction D2 (in FIG. 6), along slot 104 to the retracted position at the opposite end of slot 104.

Pulling of the fastener in direction D1 in FIGS. 6 and 13 retracts the plunger against the bias of an integral resilient element, such as a spring, such that the plunger is pulled out of opening 106A or opening 106B. Once plunger is pulled out of opening 106A or opening 106B, fastener 110 is free to slide within slot 104. Of course, when starting at the retracted or closed position shown in FIG. 6, since fastener 110 is at end 105A of slot 104, there is only one direction to slide within slot 104 when the plunger is disengaged from opening 105A, and that direction is away from end 105A towards end 105B in direction D2. Similarly, when starting at the extended or open position shown in FIG. 13, since fastener 110 is at end 105B of slot 104, there is only one direction to slide within slot 104 when the plunger is disengaged from opening 105B, and that direction is away from end 105B towards end 105A in direction D3.

Thus, if blade 108 is in the retracted position shown in FIGS. 1-7 and a user pulls fastener 110 outwardly to release the plunger of fastener 110 from opening 106A, the user is then free to slide fastener 110 and thereby blade 108 forwardly along slot 104 until fastener 110 hits the opposite end of slot 104. When fastener 110 hits the opposite end of slot 104, the user can release the handle or knob of fastener 110 and the resilient element within fastener 110 can urge the plunger into opening 106B. Similarly, if blade 108 is in the extended position shown in FIGS. 8-14 and a user pulls fastener 110 outwardly to release the plunger of fastener 110 from opening 106B, the user is then free to slide fastener 110 and thereby blade 108 rearwardly along slot 104 until fastener 110 hits the opposite end of slot 104. When fastener 110 hits the opposite end of slot 104, the user can release the handle of knob of fastener 110 and the resilient element within fastener 110 can urge the plunger into opening 106A. In embodiments, when the plunger of fastener 110 is resting in opening 106A or opening 106B, the handle of fastener 110 can be rotated to lock. It should be appreciated that in alternate embodiments fastener 110 can be replaced with buttons or any suitable alternative. It should also be appreciated that fastener 110 can alternatively include a suitable mechanism configured to retract plunger P without requiring the user to pull the handle in direction D1.

As shown schematically in FIGS. 20 and 21, the retractable bayonet 100 can be removably mounted to a firearm 200. Firearm 200 includes mounting platform 202 configured to receive extension 150 of housing 102 of retractable bayonet 100 for the securement or mounting. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, extension 150 extends upwardly from first lateral side 102S₁ and longitudinal top side 102T of housing 102. Extension 150 can be correspondingly shaped with the mounting platform 202. For example, when mounting platform 202 is embodied as a picatinny rail, extension 150 can be shaped to receive the protruding portion of the profile of the mounting platform 202. Housing 102 includes recess 154 to receive a lip or extension of mounting platform 202 or a portion of cross-bolt assembly 180 described further below, for example, a detachable mount clamp . Recess 154 is a groove arranged longitudinally within second lateral side 102S2 of housing 102. In the FIGS., recess 154 extends continuously between ends 103A and 103B of housing 102 and is parallel with longitudinal line L₁.

As further shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, plurality of channels 152 are arranged in extension 150 and longitudinal top side 102T of housing 102, each channel extending in a direction that is perpendicular to recess 154 and longitudinal line L₁. The center of each channel is spaced apart from the center of an adjacent channel by distance D of approximately 20.015 mm, or 0.788 inch. Each channel of plurality of channels 152 is configured to receive detachable cross bolt 182 of cross-bolt assembly 180. While FIGS. 15, 16, 20, and 21 show cross-bolt assembly 180 including two detachable cross bolts 182, it should be appreciated that any number of detachable cross bolts and corresponding parts are contemplated. Additionally, it should be appreciated that detachable cross bolts 182 can be applied to any of the channels of plurality of channels 152. For example, FIG. 20 shows detachable cross bolts 182 disposed in two adjacent channels of plurality of channels 152 proximate a center of housing 102. In contrast, FIG. 21 shows detachable cross bolts 182 in two channels of plurality of channels 152 that are not adjacent to each other where one detachable cross bolt 182 of the detachable cross bolts is arranged at a first end of housing 102 and the other of the detachable cross bolts is arranged at a second end of housing 102 opposite the first end. It should be appreciated that any arrangement is contemplated. Due to the multiple mounting options, the housing 102 and blade 108 can be positioned forward or further back on firearm 200 to custom fit the barrel B and/or the preferences of the user. The farther forward the retractable bayonet 100 is mounted, the larger the portion of blade 108 is that is exposed beyond the barrel when in the extended or open configuration described herein. Similarly, the farther back the retractable bayonet 100 is mounted, the smaller the portion of blade 108 is that is exposed beyond the barrel when in the extended or open configuration.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, cross-bolt assembly 180 can include a first detachable cross bolt 182 arranged in the third channel from the left of plurality of channels 152 and a second detachable cross bolt 182 arranged in the second channel from the right of plurality of channels 152. FIGS. 15 and 16 include cross-bolt assembly 180 for illustration purposes even though no firearm is depicted.

Detachable cross bolts 182 can be secured with detachable mount clamps 184 and detachable mount thumb nuts 186 or any suitable alternatives. As shown in FIG. 16, each of detachable mount clamps 184 is configured with a central opening to receive the end of detachable cross bolt 182 on the other side of the channel and extension 150. Detachable mount clamps 184 are on second lateral side 102S₂ of housing 102. The bottom longitudinal side of each detachable mount clamp 184 is configured to engage the top of recess 154 in housing 102. Thus, it should be appreciated that the bottom longitudinal side of each detachable mount clamp can include a lip or any suitable equivalent to engage recess 154. Once detachable mount clamps are positioned on detachable cross bolts, detachable mount thumb nuts 186 can be threaded on the ends of the detachable cross bolts. As shown in FIG. 16, each of detachable mount thumb nuts 186 includes a central opening to receive the end of detachable cross bolt 182.

Example suitable detachable cross bolts are manufactured by Weaver and available from Numrich Gun Parts Corporation located in Kingston, N.Y., part number 1858850. The detachable cross bolts 182 depicted include a threaded portion at the end of the bolt that extends to the other side of the channels 152. This threaded portion is configured to mate with a correspondingly threaded portion of detachable mount thumb nut. The detachable cross bolts 182 depicted also include a central body portion that is thicker and longer than the threaded portion to extend within the channels 152 and a head portion that is thicker than the central body portion to rest on the outside of the channels on the first lateral side 102S₁ of housing 102. Example suitable detachable mount clamps are manufactured by Weaver and available from Numrich Gun Parts Corporation located in Kingston, N.Y., part number 1858860. Example suitable detachable mount thumb nuts are manufactured by Weaver and available from Numrich Gun Parts Corporation located in Kingston, N.Y., part number 1858880. The details of the components of cross bolt assembly 180 are merely illustrative and should not limit the claims included herein. It should be appreciated that any suitable alternatives are contemplated.

Unless otherwise specified, the dimensions described herein can vary at least as follows. For example, dimensions described in tenths of an inch can vary at least ±0.02 of an inch, dimensions described in hundredths of an inch can vary at least ±0.010 of an inch, and dimensions measured in thousandths of an inch can vary at least ±0.005 of an inch; and any angles specified can vary at least ±1 degree.

It should be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of”

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A retractable bayonet, comprising: a housing comprising a first side and a second side, opposite the first side, and an internal channel extending between the first and second sides;a slot arranged within the first side of the housing, the slot having first and second ends;first and second openings arranged within the second side of the housing;a blade positioned within the housing and configured to be displaced between a retracted position and an extended position along the internal channel within the housing; anda fastener secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot;wherein when the blade is in the retracted position, the fastener is positioned at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening, and when the blade is in the extended position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening.

2. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to be removably secured to a firearm.

3. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the first side is parallel to a mark side of the blade.

4. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the second side is parallel to a pile side of the blade.

5. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the first and second sides of the housing are arranged in parallel to each other.

6. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the slot is defined by continuous straight edges that extend between the first and second ends.

7. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the first opening is arranged in parallel with the first end of the slot and the second opening is arranged in parallel with the second end of the slot.

8. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the fastener is configured to extend outwardly through the slot.

9. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the fastener is spring-loaded.

10. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises a knob.

11. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the fastener is configured to rotate to lock when in the retracted position or the extended position.

12. The retractable bayonet of claim 1, wherein the internal channel extends longitudinally along an inside surface the housing.

13. A system comprising a removable retractable bayonet, comprising: a firearm having a mounting platform; anda retractable bayonet removably securable to the mounting platform of the firearm, the retractable bayonet comprising: a housing comprising a longitudinal top side and first and second lateral sides extending from the longitudinal top side, the longitudinal top side and the first and second lateral sides at least partially defining an internal cavity;an extension configured to engage the mounting platform of the firearm, the extension comprising a plurality of channels, and the extension extending from the first lateral side;a recess arranged longitudinally within the second lateral side of the housing;an internal channel extending along an inside surface of the longitudinal top side and within the internal cavity of the housing;a blade configured to be displaced within the internal channel; anda cross-bolt assembly configured to engage the recess and the plurality of channels of the extension to removably secure the retractable bayonet to the firearm.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of channels are substantially perpendicular to the recess within the second lateral side of the housing.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the retractable bayonet further comprises: a slot arranged within the first lateral side of the housing, the slot having first and second ends;first and second openings arranged within the second lateral side of the housing; anda fastener secured to the blade and configured to slidingly engage with the slot;wherein when the blade is in a first position, the fastener is positioned at the first end of the slot and engaged with the first opening, and when the blade is in a second position, the fastener is positioned at the second end of the slot and engaged with the second opening.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the fastener is configured to extend outwardly through the slot.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the fastener is spring-loaded and configured to rotate to lock when in the first position or the second position.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the first opening is arranged in parallel with the first end of the slot and the second opening is arranged in parallel with the second end of the slot.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein the fastener is spring-loaded.

20. The system of claim 15, wherein the fastener is configured to rotate to lock when in the retracted position or the extended position.