Cocking handle
From Gunsopedia
The cocking handle (also known as charging handle) is a device on a firearm which, when operated, results in the hammer being cocked. It allows the operator to pull the bolt to the rear, facilitating any number of the following:
- Ejecting a spent shell casing in order to load a fresh cartridge (in the case of bolt-action weapons).
- Priming the weapon for use by loading the first round from a magazine.
- Clearing a stoppage.
- Verification that the weapon's chamber is clear of any rounds or other obstructions.
- Sending a round into the chamber of the weapon.
These devices vary vastly from weapon to weapon. On most weapons, it consists of a small protrusion or hook from the side of the bolt, but may take the form of a pumped slide or lever.
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