ATTACHMENT KIT FOR A FIREARM, AS WELL AS A FIREARM EQUIPPED WITH THE ATTACHMENT KIT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to EP Application Serial No. 24179951.9, filed on Jun. 4, 2024, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

Exemplary fields of technology for the present disclosure relate to an attachment kit for a firearm, as well as to a firearm equipped with the attachment kit.

BACKGROUND

U.S. Pat. No. 11,519,693 B2 discloses an attachment for a firearm. The attachment can be pushed onto a firearm by means of a guiding system. Also provided is a clamping screw, by means of which a guiding structure of the guiding system is adjustable in relation to the second guiding structure of the guiding system and in this way the attachment can be secured on the firearm.

The attachment known from U.S. Pat. No. 11,519,693 B2 has the disadvantage that it is often inexactly positioned in the longitudinal extent of the guiding structure.

U.S. Pat. No. 11,307,000 B2, U.S. Pat. No. 10,948,266 B2 and U.S. Pat. No. 9,551,550 B2 each disclose an attachment for a firearm. The attachment can be pushed onto a firearm by means of a guiding system. Also provided is a securing element, which extends in a transverse direction in relation to the attachment and is used for securing the attachment on the firearm.

The attachments known from U.S. Pat. No. 11,307,000 B2, U.S. Pat. No. 10,948,266 B2 and U.S. Pat. No. 9,551,550 B2 have the disadvantage that they can often only be insufficiently stably fastened to the firearm.

The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a firearm with attachment kit, as well as an attachment kit for a firearm, by means of which the attachment can be attached to a body of the firearm in an improved way.

This object is achieved by an attachment kit and a firearm according to the claims.

The invention relates to an attachment kit for a firearm. The attachment kit comprises:

• • an attachment, wherein the attachment can be received on a body of the firearm removably in a removal direction aligned parallel to guiding structures, wherein a first counter guide and a second counter guide are formed on the attachment, wherein the attachment has a front side, aligned in the removal direction, and a rear side, aligned counter to the removal direction,
  • wherein the first counter guide matches a first guiding structure of the body of the firearm and the second counter guide matches the second guiding structure of the body of the firearm, wherein a securing element receptacle is formed in the attachment;
  • a securing element, which is received in the securing element receptacle of the attachment and extends in the transverse direction from the side of the first counter guide to the side of the second counter guide of the attachment, wherein the securing element has a front side, aligned in the removal direction, and a rear side, aligned counter to the removal direction.

The securing element and the securing element receptacle are formed as complementary in shape in such a way that the securing element is received in the securing element receptacle such that it can only be displaced in the transverse direction and, in an inserted state of the securing element, is prevented from twisting with respect to the attachment and, in an inserted state, is designed for form-fitting engagement in a securing groove of the body of the firearm and is designed for securing the attachment against displacement in the removal direction relative to the body of the firearm.

The attachment according to the invention has the advantage that the attachment can be positioned exactly on the body of the firearm in the removal direction. At the same time, the features according to the invention allow the attachment to be held securely on the body of the firearm. In addition, the configuration according to the invention allows the attachment to be easily removed from the body of the firearm as required. By means of the measure that the securing element extends in the transverse direction from the side of the first counter guide to the side of the second counter guide of the attachment it can be achieved that it has increased stability and can be received stably in the attachment. Consequently, forces acting on the securing element can be transferred well to the attachment, and consequently a firm fit of the attachment on the body of the firearm can be achieved.

When it is said that the securing element is received in the securing element receptacle such that it can only be displaced in the transverse direction and, this means avoiding significant displacements—except in the transverse direction—that bring the securing element out of engagement with the securing groove of the body of the firearm. If, due to any tolerances, the securing element has slight inner width in relation to the securing element receptacle in the longitudinal direction or in the vertical direction or else with respect to twisting, it is nevertheless considered to be only displaceable in the transverse direction.

It may be provided in particular that the securing groove is arranged on a underside of the body of the firearm. It may also be provided that the securing groove is facing the attachment. In addition, it may be provided that the securing groove is integrated in the outer shell of the body of the firearm.

The firearm according to the invention may preferably be a pistol, but it may also be a rifle, carbine, submachine gun, shotgun, etc. Firearms are guns that can be carried and used by one person.

For example, the attachment may be a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly may comprise one or more light sources and for example emit light and/or LASER light in the visible and/or in the non-visible range (e.g. infrared).

The attachment may also be a sound suppressor or a compensator or a muzzle flash suppressor. The attachment may also be some other accessory such as a shot counter, a training module, a target and/or training aid, a sound recording device, image recording or camera system or thermal camera system, a communication and/or tracking device or an energy source such as a battery pack. The attachment may in turn have a guiding structure for receiving another attachment or be designed as an adapter from one guiding structure to another.

The attachment may also be a sighting device. In particular, the attachment may be a rifle scope. In particular, the attachment may be a red dot sight. The attachment may also be a laser aiming device.

The attachment may also be a grip. The attachment may also be a shoulder stock. Reference to an attachment may also mean other attachments not mentioned or an accessory or a component part for a firearm that is permanently connected to the firearm.

It may also be provided that on the attachment a first wing is formed and a second wing is formed, wherein a receiving space is formed between the first wing and the second wing, wherein the first counter guide is formed on the first wing and the second counter guide is formed on the second wing, wherein the first counter guide and the second counter guide are facing the receiving space, wherein, in the inserted state of the securing element, the securing element reaches both into the first wing and into the second wing and spans the receiving space. By means of this measure it can be achieved that the securing element can be securely received in the attachment. Consequently, forces acting on the securing element can be transferred well to the attachment, and consequently a firm fit of the attachment on the body of the firearm can be achieved.

It may also be provided that that part of the body of the firearm on which the counter guides are formed is received in the receiving space.

In addition, it may be provided that a cross section of the securing element receptacle and a cross section of the securing element form a loose fit for the displaceability of the securing element in the transverse direction. This measure allows the securing element to be stably received in the securing element receptacle and at the same time displaceable in the transverse direction.

Furthermore, it may be expedient if the securing element has a spring-clastic snap-in element with a snap-in lug, wherein, in the inserted state of the securing element, the snap-in lug engages in a snap-in lug recess formed in the securing element receptacle of the attachment. This has the advantage that this measure allows the attachment to have as few components as possible and at the same time the attachment can be easily fastened to the body of the firearm. On the one hand, this allows the simplest possible configuration of the firearm to be achieved. In addition, by means of this measure easy changing or removal of the attachment can be achieved.

In addition, it may be provided that the snap-in lug is formed as a hump on which a flank aligned in the transverse direction and an opposing flank have a flank angle between 10° and 80°, in particular between 15° and 70°, preferably between 20° and 60°, so that the securing element can be removed from the attachment in a non-destructive manner by applying external force to the securing element in the transverse direction. This has the advantage that this measure allows the attachment to be easily removed from the body of the firearm. It may be provided in particular that the securing element is pushed out of the attachment in the transverse direction by means of a disassembling tool.

In a first embodiment, it may be provided that the flanks of the hump have a rounded shaping. In a second embodiment, it may be provided that the flanks of the hump have a flat shaping.

In an alternative embodiment, it may be provided that the snap-in lug has a wedge-shaped shaping with a securing surface, wherein the securing surface is aligned normal to the transverse direction and is facing a securing element head of the securing element and that a securing counter-surface matching the securing surface is formed in the attachment, wherein the securing element cannot be removed from the attachment in a non-destructive manner when force is applied to the securing element in the transverse direction. This type of attachment can be used especially if the attachment is normally to remain on the body of the firearm and detachment of the attachment is not required. In other words, the flank aligned in the removal direction may have a flank angle of 90°. The opposing flank may have a flank angle of less than 90°, and consequently form a wedge surface. In addition, the flank aligned in the removal direction may also have a flank angle of greater than 90°, and consequently also have an undercut, which is formed for example as a barb.

It may also be provided that the snap-in element is formed as an arm projecting freely from the securing element, wherein the snap-in lug is arranged at one end of the freely projecting arm. This has the advantage that by means of this measure a simple way of realizing the snap-in element can be achieved. It may be provided in particular that the securing element is formed from an elastically deformable material. It may be provided in particular that the securing element or at least the main body of the securing element is formed from a plastics material.

It may also be provided that the securing element has a securing element head, wherein the securing element is pushed into the attachment in the transverse direction in relation to the removal direction in such a way that the securing element head is last to come into a butting position against the attachment. It may be provided in particular that the securing element head has a shaping that projects with respect to the rest of the securing element, so that the securing element head can be used as a stop for limiting the extent to which the element can be pushed in. It may also be provided that in the attachment there is formed a securing element head receptacle that is complementary in shape to the securing element head and is used for receiving the securing element head in the inserted state.

It may also be provided that the snap-in element or the projecting arm is arranged in the region of the securing head.

It may also be provided that the freely projecting arm is arranged on the securing element on a side facing away from the securing element head and the free projection is facing the securing element head.

In an alternative embodiment variant, it may be provided that the snap-in element is arranged directly on the securing element head and has the free projection in the direction of the side facing away from the securing element head.

It may additionally be provided that the snap-in lug protrudes with respect to the snap-in element into a side of the snap-in element facing away from the first counter guide and second counter guide. This has the advantage that this measure allows the snap-in lug to act in a direction normal to the removal direction in the attachment. Consequently, by means of this measure easy and exact positioning of the securing element in the attachment can be achieved. In the case of the pistol, the snap-in lug may protrude downwards.

Also advantageous is a specific embodiment according to which it may be provided that the securing element has a substantially polygonal, in particular rectangular, cross section with a front broad side arranged on the front side and a rear broad side arranged on the rear side and a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the first butting surface is formed as recessed with respect to the front broad side. This has the advantage that the recess allows the securing element to be further secured against displacement in the transverse direction or against slipping out in the transverse direction. It may be provided in particular that the butting surface is arranged normal to the removal direction. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the cross section has a triangular shaping or some other polygonal shaping. Any other shaping that deviates from circular shaping and can therefore be used for transferring moments may also be implemented. This may be for example a keyhole-shaped shape, or else a cam-shaped or oval shaping.

It may be provided in particular that a butting surface ledge is formed by the depression of the butting surface with respect to the front broad side.

According to a development, it is possible that in the region of the bottom surface an elevation protruding with respect to the front broad side and the first butting surface is formed and that in the securing element receptacle a recess formed as complementary in shape to the elevation is arranged. This has the advantage that increased dimensional stability of the securing element in the securing element receptacle can be achieved by the elevation or by the matching depression. In addition, by means of this measure it can be achieved that, seen in cross section, the securing element is formed non-symmetrically, so that an incorrect insertion of the securing element can be prevented.

It may also be provided that the securing element comprises a main body formed as one part, which extends with respect to the removal direction in a transverse direction from the side of the first counter guide to the side of the second counter guide of the attachment. This has the advantage that it can thereby have increased stability. Furthermore, by means of this measure it can be achieved that the securing element can have increased dimensional accuracy.

It may also be provided that the snap-in lug is integrally formed on the main body as one part. This has the advantage that the securing element can be easily produced.

In an alternative embodiment variant, it may be provided that the main body is formed from a first material and that the snap-in lug is formed from a second material. For example, the snap-in lug may be formed from a spring steel, which may be insert-moulded in a plastics material of the main body.

In a further alternative embodiment variant, the snap-in lug may be formed from an clastic material and a different material than the main body and be insert-moulded or inlaid in it.

The snap-in lug may for example also be design as a plunger or as a ball detent.

It may also be provided that on the front side of the securing element there is formed a first butting surface, which is designed for butting against the securing groove, and that on the rear side of the attachment there is formed a second butting surface, which is designed for butting against a counter-butting surface of the body of the firearm, wherein the second butting surface of the attachment is arranged on an elastic component, wherein the elastic component is formed from an elastically deformable plastic. This measure allows the exact positioning of the attachment relative to the body of the firearm to be improved. In addition, by means of this measure it can be achieved that the attachment has a firm fit on the body of the firearm. In particular, this measure thus allows any unwanted relative movement of the attachment relative to the body of the firearm in the mounted state of the attachment to be reduced or prevented.

It may also be provided that the securing element comprises a holding element receptacle for receiving a holding element. Consequently, the securing element can be easily secured.

It may be provided in particular that the holding element receptacle is arranged in an end face of the main body of the securing element. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the holding element is coupled to the main body of the securing element by means of some other form-fitting connection.

It may also be provided that the holding element is received in the holding element receptacle by means of a form-fitting connection in the form of a snap-in connector, in particular that a releasable connection is formed by means of the snap-in connector. This has the advantage that the holding element can be easily coupled to the holding element receptacle.

In one embodiment variant, it may be provided that the snap-in connector is formed by a resilient element which engages in a corresponding recess in the holding element receptacle being arranged on the holding element.

In a further embodiment variant, it may be provided that the recess of the holding element receptacle is resiliently formed, at least in some regions, and a pin with a shaped projection is formed on the holding element. When pushing the pin of the holding element into the holding element receptacle, the resiliently formed regions of the holding element receptacle can be forced back and a form-fitting connection can be achieved when the holding element is pushed far enough into the holding element receptacle and the resiliently formed regions spring back into their initial position.

It may also be provided that arranged in the securing element is an unlocking hole, which is used for inserting a tool for unlocking the snap-in connector. This measure allows the snap-in connector to be designed such that it forms a stable connection between the holding element and the holding element receptacle. By means of the tool, the snap-in connector can be displaced from its stable position to release this stable connection for disassembly. It may also be provided that in the attachment there is formed an unlocking recess matching the unlocking hole, wherein, in the inserted state of the securing element, this unlocking recess can be formed in line with the unlocking hole to allow accessibility to the unlocking hole by means of a tool in the form of a disassembling pin to be ensured.

It may additionally be provided that the holding element is coupled to the holding element receptacle by means of a screw connection. This measure has the advantage of allowing a stable connection which can also be easily released again.

The holding element may for example be formed as a securing screw, which has an external thread, wherein a matching internal thread may be formed in the holding element receptacle. In an alternative embodiment, it may also be provided that the holding element is formed as a securing nut and that the holding element receptacle is formed as a threaded pin, which may be arranged on the securing element. In particular, the threaded pin may be formed directly adjoining the main body of the securing element.

It may also be provided that a second elevation is formed on the rear side of the securing element. The second elevation may be formed as protruding with respect to the rear broad side of the securing element. It may be provided in particular that the second elevation extends from the top surface of the securing element about half way to the bottom surface of the securing element. The second elevation allows the securing groove to be approximately filled up.

It may also be expedient that the first guiding structure comprises a first guiding lug and that the second guiding structure comprises a second guiding lug and that the first counter guide comprises a first guiding recess and that the second counter guide comprises a second guiding recess. Especially with a guiding structure formed in such a way, good pushing on or good reception of the attachment on the body of the firearm can be achieved. It may be provided in particular that the guiding lugs extend in the removal direction.

It may also be provided that an insertion bevel is formed in the region of the securing element receptacle on the pushing-in side. When inserting the securing element, the insertion bevel can match up with the snap-in lug, or it can be used for raising the snap-in lug for easier insertion of the securing element.

The guiding structure may for example be formed on the frame of a pistol below the barrel. The guiding structure may for example also be formed on the slide of a pistol above the barrel. The guiding structure may however also be formed on the receiver or handguard of a long gun (e.g., rifle, shotgun, etc.) at the top, side or bottom. The guiding structure may for example be formed as a dovetail rail. One type of dovetail rail may be, for example, a Picatinny or Weaver rail. However, other designs, for example a T-slot, are also possible.

The guiding structure may also be connected to a component part or an accessory that can be connected to the firearm or be formed on an equipment part such as, for example, a helmet, etc.

According to the invention, a firearm is also formed. The firearm comprises:

• • a body of the firearm, wherein a first guiding structure and a second guiding structure, which extend in a removal direction, are formed on the body of the firearm,
  • wherein on the body of the firearm there is formed a securing groove, which extends in a transverse direction in relation to the removal direction between the side of the first guiding structure and the side of the second guiding structure,
  • an attachment, wherein the attachment is received on the body of the firearm removably in the removal direction, wherein a first counter guide and a second counter guide are formed on the attachment, wherein the attachment has a front side, aligned in the removal direction, and a rear side, aligned counter to the removal direction,
  • wherein the first counter guide interacts with the first guiding structure of the body of the firearm and the second counter guide interacts with the second guiding structure of the body of the firearm, wherein a securing element receptacle is formed in the attachment;
  • a securing element, which is received in the securing element receptacle of the attachment and extends in the transverse direction from the side of the first counter guide to the side of the second counter guide of the attachment, wherein the securing element has a front side, aligned in the removal direction, and a rear side, aligned counter to the removal direction.

The securing element and the securing element receptacle are formed as complementary in shape in such a way that the securing element is received in the securing element receptacle such that it can only be displaced in the transverse direction and, in an inserted state of the securing element, is prevented from twisting with respect to the attachment and, in an inserted state, engages with a form fit in the securing groove. The attachment is secured against displacement in the removal direction relative to the body of the firearm.

Furthermore, it may be expedient if on the front side of the securing element there is formed a first butting surface, which butts against the securing groove, and if on the rear side of the attachment there is formed a second butting surface, which butts against a counter-butting surface of the body of the firearm. This measure allows the exact positioning of the attachment relative to the body of the firearm to be improved. In addition, by means of this measure it can be achieved that the attachment has a firm fit on the body of the firearm. In particular, this measure thus allows any unwanted relative movement of the attachment relative to the body of the firearm in the mounted state of the attachment to be reduced or prevented.

Also advantageous is a specific embodiment according to which it may be provided that the body of the firearm comprises a frame of a pistol, wherein the first guiding structure and the second guiding structure are arranged on the frame. Mounting attachments may be necessary, especially on the frame of a pistol. The mounting system has to meet certain requirements here due to the confined space.

It may also be provided that the second butting surface of the attachment and/or the counter-butting surface of the body of the firearm is arranged on an elastic component. This has the advantage that the elasticity of the elastic component allows prestressing to be achieved, whereby on the one hand secure abutment of the first butting surface on the securing groove can be achieved and, in addition, manufacturing tolerances can be compensated.

It may additionally be provided that the second butting surface of the attachment is arranged on the elastic component, wherein the elastic component is formed from an elastically deformable plastic. This has the advantage that the elasticity of the elastic component allows prestressing to be achieved, whereby on the one hand secure abutment of the first butting surface on the securing groove can be achieved and, in addition, manufacturing tolerances can be compensated.

It may be provided in particular that the first guiding structure and the second guiding structure are arranged in front of the trigger guard and below the barrel on the frame.

It may also be provided that the removal direction extends parallel to a longitudinal extent of the firearm.

According to a development, it is possible that the counter-butting surface is formed on a trigger guard of the frame. This has the advantage that the trigger guard can have sufficient stability to enable it to be suitable as a counter-butting surface.

The attachment kit may also be referred to as an accessory for the firearm or a component part of the firearm depending upon its use.

For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

They respectively show in a greatly simplified, schematic representation.

FIG. 1 an exploded view of a first exemplary embodiment of a firearm with an attachment in a perspective view;

FIG. 2 a longitudinal representation in the area of the attachment of the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm according to the section line II-II from FIGS. 1 and 3;

FIG. 3 a cross-sectional representation in the area of the attachment of the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm according to the section line III-III from FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 an exploded view of the attachment of the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm in a further perspective view;

FIG. 5 a longitudinal representation in the area of the attachment of a second exemplary embodiment of the firearm;

FIG. 6 a cross-sectional representation in the area of the attachment of the second exemplary embodiment of the firearm;

FIG. 7 an exploded view of the attachment of the second exemplary embodiment of the firearm in a further perspective view;

FIG. 8 an exploded view of the attachment of a third exemplary embodiment of the firearm in a further perspective view;

FIG. 9 a sectional representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a securing element with a holding element and a holding element receptacle and a first embodiment of a snap-in connector; and

FIG. 10 a sectional representation of a further exemplary embodiment of a securing element with a holding element and a holding element receptacle and a second embodiment of a snap-in connector.

As an introduction, it should be noted that in the differently described embodiments the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component designations, it being possible for the disclosures contained throughout the description to be applied analogously to the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component designations. The positional indications chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, left, right, side, etc., refer to the state of use of the firearm.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a first exemplary embodiment of a firearm 1 in the example of a pistol in a perspective view. Further views and details of the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 are shown in FIGS. 2 to 4.

As can be seen from FIG. 1, it may be provided that the firearm 1 comprises a slide assembly 2. It may also be provided that the firearm 1 comprises a frame assembly 3. In the representation according to FIG. 1, the slide assembly 2 and the frame assembly 3 are shown in a state of use.

It may be provided in particular that, in the state of use of the firearm 1, the slide assembly 2 is coupled to the frame assembly 3.

The slide assembly 2 may comprise a barrel 4. The frame assembly 3 may comprise a frame 5. A muzzle of the barrel 4 is at the front. The slide assembly 2 is arranged at the top of the frame assembly 3.

Generally speaking, the frame 5 may be a part of a body of the firearm 6.

It may be provided in particular that the frame 5 is formed as an injection-moulded part of plastic.

As can be further seen from FIG. 1, it may be provided that a first guiding structure 7 and a second guiding structure 8, which are used for receiving an attachment 9, are formed on the frame 5 below the barrel 4.

It may also be provided that a first counter guide 10 and a second counter guide 11 are formed on the attachment 9. The first counter guide 10 can interact with the first guiding structure 7 of the body of the firearm 6. The second counter guide 11 can interact with the second guiding structure 8 of the body of the firearm 6.

The attachment 9 is received on the body of the firearm 6 removably in a removal direction 12. In the present exemplary embodiment of the pistol, the removal direction 12 lies parallel to a longitudinal direction 13 of the body of the firearm 6, which is aligned parallel or at least approximately parallel to the barrel 4.

The positional indications chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the position of the firearm 1 shown in FIG. 1. This position may also be referred to as the position of use. In this case, front or a front side is on the left side of FIG. 1, and consequently on the side of the muzzle opening of the barrel 4. Rear or a rear side is correspondingly on the side opposite from the muzzle opening of the barrel 4. The underside is at the bottom and an upper side is at the top. A transverse extent or transverse direction 14 extends in the width of the firearm 1 transversely to the longitudinal direction 13. A vertical extent or vertical direction 15 extends from top to bottom.

However, in other embodiments the removal direction 12 may also assume a different position, for example vertically in relation to the barrel 4. The positional indications left and right refer to a position as shown in FIG. 1. Here, the left side is facing the viewer and the right side is facing away from the viewer.

The firearm 1, in particular the slide assembly 2 and the frame assembly 3, may of course comprise other common components known to a person skilled in the art, such as for instance a trigger, etc., reference being made here to general specialist knowledge, and these components are therefore not described separately for the sake of clarity.

It may also be provided that the first guiding structure 7 comprises a first guiding lug 16 and that the second guiding structure 8 comprises a second guiding lug 17 and that the first counter guide 10 comprises a first guiding recess 18 and that the second counter guide 11 comprises a second guiding recess 19.

As can be seen from FIG. 1, it may be provided that the first guiding structure 7 and the second guiding structure 8 are formed symmetrically with respect to a median plane of the firearm 1.

The first counter guide 10 and the second counter guide 11 may also be formed symmetrically with respect to a median plane of the attachment 9. It may be provided in particular that the first guiding structure 7 and the first counter guide 10 are formed as complementary in shape to each other. It may also be provided that the second guiding structure 8 and the second counter guide 11 are formed as complementary in shape to each other.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the guiding lugs 16, 17 or the matching guiding recesses 18, 19 may be formed as a dovetail guide.

It may be provided in particular that, from a detached position as shown in FIG. 1, the attachment 9 can be pushed onto the firearm 1 counter to the removal direction 12. In this case, the first guiding structure 7 and the first counter guide 10 can be pushed into each other and the second guiding structure 8 and the second counter guide 11 can be pushed into each other. By pushing the guiding structures 7, 8 into the counter guides 10, 11 that are complementary in shape, a form-fitting connection between the attachment 9 and the firearm 1 can be achieved.

It may also be provided that a securing groove 20, which extends in the transverse direction 14, is formed on the body of the firearm 6. The securing groove 20 may be arranged below the guiding structures 7, 8.

In addition, in the attachment 9 there may be formed a securing element receptacle 21, into which a securing element 22 can be inserted. The securing element 22 can interact with the securing groove 20 and form a form-fitting barrier preventing the attachment 9 from being pulled off the body of the firearm 6 in the removal direction 12. Consequently, by means of the securing element 22, the attachment 9 can be secured or fixed on the body of the firearm 6 with respect to the longitudinal direction 13. To make it clearer, the securing element 22 is shown enlarged in FIG. 1.

It may also be provided that an attachment kit 57 which comprises the attachment 9 and the securing element 22 is formed. The attachment kit 57 can be used for various types of firearms 1, since the guiding structures 7, 8 are often standardized, and consequently have the same shaping on different firearms 1.

In addition, in FIG. 2 the attachment 9 is shown in the state in which it is fitted and secured on the body of the firearm 6 in a sectional representation according to the section line II-II from FIGS. 1 and 3.

Furthermore, the attachment 9 and the securing element 22 are shown in FIG. 4 in a second perspective view.

The further description of the individual components of the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 is carried out on the basis of joint consideration of FIGS. 1 to 4.

As can be seen from FIGS. 1 to 4, it may be provided that a main body 58 of the securing element 22 is formed as bar-shaped and has a longitudinal extent in the transverse direction 14. The securing element receptacle 21 may be formed as complementary in shape to the main body 58 of the securing element 22. It may be provided in particular that the securing element receptacle 21 extends in the transverse direction 14 through the attachment 9. The securing groove 20 may extend from the first guiding structure 7 to the second guiding structure 8.

It may be provided in particular that the main body 58 of the securing element 22 has a substantially rectangular cross section. It may be provided in particular that the main body 58 of the securing element 22 is received with a form fit in the securing element receptacle 21 and thereby engages with a form fit in the securing groove 20 in the fitted state, whereby the attachment 9 is secured against displacement in the removal direction 12.

It may also be provided that the securing element 22 has a securing element head 23. It may be provided in particular that the securing element head 23 adjoins the main body 58. The securing element head 23 can be used as a stop for limiting the extent to which the securing element 22 can be pushed into the securing element receptacle 21.

As seen with respect to the removal direction 12, the attachment 9 may have a front side 24 and a rear side 25. When pushing the attachment 9 onto the body of the firearm 6, the rear side 25 of the attachment 9 may be facing the body of the firearm 6 here. The front side 24 of the attachment 9 may be facing away from the body of the firearm 6. The securing element 22 may also have a front side 26 and a rear side 27. The orientation of the securing element 22 with respect to the front side 26 and rear side 27 is the same as the orientation of the attachment 9. As can be seen particularly well from FIG. 2, it may be provided that on the front side 26 of the securing element 22 there is formed a first butting surface 28, which butts against the securing groove 20. It may be provided in particular that the first butting surface 28 butts against a front surface 29 of the securing groove 20.

It may also be provided that on the side of the securing element 22 opposite from the securing element head 23 in the transverse direction 14 there is formed a butting surface ledge 30. It may be provided in particular that the butting surface ledge 30 rises up or protrudes with respect to the first butting surface 28 in the direction of the front side 26 of the securing element 22.

The butting surface ledge 30 can consequently be used as a safeguard for the securing element 22 preventing it from being displaced out of the fitted state in the transverse direction 14.

It may be provided here in particular that the securing element 22 is inserted into the attachment 9 from a pushing-in side 31 thereof. In the inserted state, the securing element head 23 may be arranged on the pushing-in side 31 of the attachment 9. It may be provided in particular that a securing element head receptacle 32 is formed on the pushing-in side 31 of the attachment 9, which is formed as a recess. In the fitted and secured state of the securing element 22, the securing element head 23 may be arranged in the securing element head receptacle 32, so that the securing element head 23 does not protrude with respect to the attachment 9.

It may be provided in particular that the securing element 22 has on the front side 26 a front broad side 33. It may also be provided that the securing element 22 has on the rear side 27 a rear broad side 34. It may also be provided that the securing element 22 has a top surface 35. The top surface 35 may be arranged with respect to the vertical direction 15 on the upper side of the securing element 22. It may also be provided that the securing element 22 has a bottom surface 36. The bottom surface 36 may be arranged with respect to the vertical direction 15 on an underside of the securing element 22.

It may be provided in particular that the securing element head 23 is formed as protruding at least with respect to the front broad side 33, the rear broad side 34, the top surface 35 or the bottom surface 36. In the present exemplary embodiment, it may be provided that the securing element head 23 is formed as protruding with respect to the front broad side 33, the rear broad side 34, the top surface 35 and the bottom surface 36.

It may be provided in particular that the first butting surface 28 is arranged on the front broad side 33 of the securing element 22 or is formed as recessed in relation to the front broad side 33. It may be provided in particular that the butting surface 28 is aligned normal to the removal direction 12.

As can be seen particularly well from FIGS. 1 and 2, it may be provided that an elevation 37 is formed on the front side 26 of the securing element 22. The elevation 37 may be formed as protruding with respect to the front broad side 33. It may be provided in particular that the elevation 37 extends approximately from the bottom surface 36 to half the vertical extent of the securing element 22. Matching the elevation 37 in the securing element receptacle 21 of the attachment 9 there may be formed a depression 38 which extends in the transverse direction 14. It may be provided in particular that the elevation 37 and the depression 38 do not extend over the complete extent of the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14, but only over a partial region. It may be provided in particular that the elevation 37 is formed as protruding with respect to the first butting surface 28.

Furthermore, it may also be provided that the elevation 37 is formed as protruding with respect to the butting surface ledge 30. The formation of the elevation 37 and the matching depression 38 makes it possible to avoid incorrect insertion of the securing element 22 in the securing element receptacle 21. This is a so-called poka-yoke mechanism. In addition, the elevation 37 can give the securing element 22 improved torsional stability, whereby the robustness of the securing element 22 can be improved.

It may also be provided that on the securing element 22 there is formed a snap-in element 39, which may have a snap-in lug 40. It may be provided in particular that, in the fitted state of the securing element 22, the snap-in lug 40 engages in a snap-in lug recess 41 arranged in the securing element receptacle 21. It may be provided in particular that the snap-in element 39 is integrally formed on the main body 58 as one part.

It may be provided in particular that the snap-in lug 40 is formed as protruding with respect to the bottom surface 36. It may also be provided that the snap-in lug 40 is formed as a hump on which a flank aligned in the transverse direction and an opposing flank have a flank angle 52 between 10° and 80°, in particular between 15° and 70°, preferably between 20° and 60°.

The snap-in lug 40 may however also be arranged on the side or top of the securing element 22. It may be provided here that the snap-in lug recess 41 is also correspondingly arranged at a different location.

With respect to the extent of the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14, the snap-in lug 40 may be arranged in the vicinity of the securing element head 23, opposite from the securing element head 23 or else in the middle of the main body 58 of the securing element 22.

The snap-in element 39 may be realized by the spring elasticity of the material of the securing element 22. It may be provided in particular that the snap-in element 39 is formed as an arm projecting freely from the securing element 22. In the first exemplary embodiment, this is realized by a clearance 42 being formed in the securing element 22 and arranged above the snap-in lug 40.

It may be provided in particular that the snap-in lug 40 in the first exemplary embodiment has a hump-like or rounded shape.

The snap-in lug 40 makes it possible for the securing element 22 to be secured against displacement in the transverse direction 14 relative to the attachment 9. The snap-in element 39 can consequently be used as a captively retaining device for the securing element 22. The butting surface ledge 30 and the snap-in element 39 can both act to secure the securing element 22 against displacement in the transverse direction 14.

It may be provided in particular that the clearance 42 or the formation of the snap-in element 39 allows the snap-in lug 40 to be forced back spring-elastically in the vertical direction 15 when force is applied to the snap-in lug 40. By means of the hump-like formation of the snap-in lug 40 it can be achieved that, when displacing the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14, the snap-in lug 40 comes into a butting position against a corresponding counter surface on the attachment 9 and is thereby forced spring-elastically upwards. By means of the hump-like formation of the snap-in lug 40, this forced displacement can be achieved both when pushing the securing element 22 into the attachment 9 and when removing the securing element 22 from the attachment 9.

As can be seen particularly well from FIGS. 1 and 3, it may be provided that the snap-in element 39 in the form of the arm projecting freely from the securing element 22 has a free projection, which is facing the securing element head 23.

Furthermore, a securing hole 67 may also be provided for inserting a securing plug 68 or some other locking element by means of which the snap-in element 39 can be secured in its snapped-in position.

It may also be provided that a second butting surface 43 is formed on the rear side 25 of the attachment 9. It may be provided in particular that the second butting surface 43 is arranged on an elastic component 44. The elastic component 44 may for example be formed as a rubber-like component. It may be provided in particular that the elastic component 44 is formed as a structurally independent component, which is arranged between the attachment 9 and the body of the firearm 6. In further embodiment variants, it may also be provided that the clastic component 44 is integrally formed on the attachment 9 as one part. It may also be provided that on the body of the firearm 6 there is formed a counter-butting surface 45, against which the second butting surface 43 butts. It may be provided in particular that the counter-butting surface 45 is arranged on a front side of a trigger guard 46 of the body of the firearm 6.

With reference to FIG. 1, the mounting of the attachment 9 on the body of the firearm 6 and its detachment are now described. The clastic component 44 may in this case be fitted on the attachment 9. In a first method step, the attachment 9 can be pushed onto the body of the firearm 6 counter to the removal direction 12. As already described, the guiding structures 7, 8 in this case interact with the counter guides 10, 11. The attachment 9 can in this case be pushed onto the body of the firearm 6 until the second butting surface 43 butts against the counter-butting surface 45. By exerting pressure, the clastic component 44 can be slightly compressed in order to be able to push the attachment 9 a little further onto the body of the firearm 6.

Then, the securing element 22 can be inserted into the securing element receptacle 21 from the pushing-in side 31. The securing element 22 can in this case be pushed into the securing element receptacle 21 in the transverse direction 14. The butting surface ledge 30 can in this case slide on the front surface 29 of the securing groove 20. When the securing element 22 has been pushed correspondingly far into the securing element receptacle 21, the snap-in lug 40 on the attachment 9, in particular on the pushing-in side 31, can come into a butting position and be pushed upwards by the spring elasticity of the snap-in element 39. When pushing the securing element 22 further into the securing element receptacle 21, the snap-in lug 40 can come to lie in the snap-in lug recess 41, and consequently be forced down again by the spring-clastic return of the snap-in element 39. The securing element 22 can in this case be pushed so far into the attachment 9 in the transverse direction 14 until the securing element head 23 comes into a butting position in the securing element head receptacle 32. In the inserted state, the first butting surface 28 can come into a butting position against the front surface 29 of the securing groove 20.

For removing the securing element 22 from the securing element receptacle 21, a force can be applied, for example by means of a disassembling tool, to the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14 on the opposite side from the pushing-in side 31. This allows the securing element 22 to be forced out of the securing element receptacle 21 in the transverse direction 14. In this case, the snap-in lug 40 can be forced upwards again against the spring elasticity of the snap-in element 39 when sliding out of the snap-in lug recess 41 and the other mechanisms can also take place in the reverse order for pushing in.

In FIG. 4, the attachment kit 57 comprising the attachment 9 and the securing element 22 is shown in a perspective view.

As can be further seen from FIG. 4, it may be provided that an insertion bevel 53 is formed in the region of the securing element receptacle 21 on the pushing-in side 31. When inserting the securing element 22, the insertion bevel 53 can match up with the snap-in lug 40, or it can be used for raising the snap-in lug 40 for easier insertion.

It can also be seen from FIG. 4 that it may be provided that on the attachment 9 a first wing 54 is formed and a second wing 55 is formed. Between the first wing 54 and the second wing 55, a receiving space 56 may be formed, wherein the first counter guide 10 is formed on the first wing 54 and the second counter guide 11 is formed on the second wing 55.

Furthermore, the first counter guide 10 and the second counter guide 11 may be facing the receiving space 56. Furthermore, the securing element 22 may be dimensioned in relation to the attachment 9 such that, in the inserted state of the securing element 22, the securing element 22 reaches both into the first wing 54 and into the second wing 55 and spans the receiving space 56.

In FIGS. 5 to 7, a second and possibly independent exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 is shown, wherein in turn the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 4 are used for the same parts. In order to avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 4.

The second exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 may in principle have a similar construction to the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 and also have the same components. A separate description of all the components is consequently not given.

As can be seen particularly well from FIG. 5, it may be provided that a second elevation 47 is formed on the rear side 27 of the securing element 22. It may be provided in particular that the second elevation 47 is formed as protruding with respect to the rear broad side 34 of the securing element 22. It may be provided in particular that the second elevation 47 extends from the top surface 35 of the securing element 22 approximately half way to the bottom surface 36 of the securing element 22. The second elevation 47 allows the securing groove 20 to be approximately filled up.

This embodiment also allows the attachment to be fastened to the guiding structure without support on a counter-butting surface 45.

It may also be provided that the snap-in lug 40 of the snap-in element 39 has a wedge-shaped shaping on one side and a securing surface 48 on the second side. The securing surface 48 may be aligned normal to the transverse direction 14 and facing the pushing-in side 31. It may also be provided that in the snap-in lug recess 41 there is formed a securing counter surface 49, against which the securing surface 48 can butt in the fitted state of the securing element 22. In the case of such an exemplary embodiment, the orientation of the securing surface 48 has the effect that, when force is applied to the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14, it cannot be removed from the securing element receptacle 21 in a non-destructive manner. The snap-in element 39 can in this case be arranged freely projecting on the securing element head 23.

The clearance 42 can also provide the movability of the snap-in element 39 in the vertical direction 15.

As can be seen from FIG. 6, it may be provided that in the attachment 9 there is formed an unlocking hole 64, through which the snap-in element 39 can be displaced out of its snapped-in position into a release position by means of a tool. Consequently, also in the case of this exemplary embodiment it is possible to create a way of being able to remove the securing element 22 from the securing element receptacle 21 in a non-destructive manner.

In FIG. 8, a third and possibly independent exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 is shown, wherein in turn the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 4 are used for the same parts. In order to avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 4.

The third exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 may in principle have a similar construction to the first exemplary embodiment of the firearm 1 and also have the same components. A separate description of all the components is consequently not given.

As can be seen from FIG. 8, it may be provided that the securing element 22 comprises, in particular in the main body 58, a holding element receptacle 59, arranged on the end face, for receiving a holding element 60. It may be provided in particular that, instead of the snap-in element 39, the holding element 60 is formed as a securing screw 50, which is used for securing the securing element 22 in the transverse direction 14. It may be provided in particular that the securing screw 50 is received on the attachment 9 and screwed to the securing element 22 on the side opposite from the pushing-in side 31. It may be provided in particular that the securing screw 50 is screwed into a threaded receptacle 51 opposite from the securing element head 23, and thereby forms a screw connection.

In an alternative embodiment of a screw connection that is not shown, the securing screw 50 can penetrate the securing element 22 along the longitudinal extent and be screwed tight by means of a locknut.

This exemplary embodiment is also designed in such a way that the securing element 22 itself is formed as one part and extends with respect to the removal direction 12 in a transverse direction 14 from the side of the first counter guide 10 to the side of the second counter guide 11 of the attachment 9.

The exemplary embodiments are shown with reference to a pistol, wherein the guiding structure 7, 8 is arranged on the frame 5 below the barrel 4; the attachment may of course also be connected to another type of firearm 1, in particular a rifle, carbine, submachine gun, shotgun, etc. All of these types of firearm 1 have a body of the firearm 6, on which the securing element 22 can be arranged.

The guiding structure 7, 8 may of course also be arranged at another position on the firearm 1, for example on the upper side, underneath or on the side of the receiver, above, below or on the side of the handguard. However, the guiding structure 7, 8 may also be arranged on another component part of, or accessory connected to, the firearm 1, for example on a rifle scope or its mounting device, on a suppressor, on an adapter from one guiding structure to another or on some other component or accessory.

The guiding structure 7, 8 may be for example a toothed dovetail-shaped or T-slot-shaped guide rail. For example, the Picatinny or Weaver rail is mentioned here, the operating principle being independent of the exact dimensions.

In FIG. 9, a further and possibly independent exemplary embodiment of the securing element 22 is shown, wherein in turn the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 8 are used for the same parts. In order to avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 8.

In FIG. 9, the securing element 22 is shown in a perspective sectional representation.

As can be seen from FIG. 9, it may be provided that the securing element 22 comprises a holding element receptacle 59 for receiving a holding element 60. It may be provided in particular that the holding element receptacle 59 is formed in the main body 58 of the securing element 22. It may be provided in particular that the holding element receptacle 59 is arranged in an end face in the main body 58 of the securing element 22. The securing element 22 may have been pushed into the securing element receptacle 21 from the pushing-in side 31. The holding element 60 may have been pushed into the securing element receptacle 21 from the side opposite from the pushing-in side 31 and interact with the securing element 22 and be used for securing the securing element 22.

As can be further seen from FIG. 9, it may be provided that the holding element 60 is received in the holding element receptacle 59 by means of a form-fitting connection in the form of a snap-in connector 61. By means of the snap-in connector 61, a releasable connection can be formed between the holding element 60 and the holding element receptacle 59.

It may be provided in particular that the snap-in connector 61 is formed by a resilient element 62 which engages in a corresponding recess 63 in the holding element receptacle 59 being arranged on the holding element 60. The connection between the resilient element 62 and the recess 63 may be form-fitting, so that a release of the holding element 60 from the securing element 22 is prevented.

It may also be provided that arranged in the securing element 22 is an unlocking hole 64, which is used for inserting a simple tool, such as for example a disassembling pin, for unlocking the snap-in connector 61. Of course, a corresponding recess 63 which matches the unlocking hole 64 may also be formed in the attachment 9. For unlocking the snap-in connector 61, the tool can be pushed into the unlocking hole 64 in order to force the resilient element 62 from its snapped-in position as shown in FIG. 9 into a release position. The holding element 60 is then released for removal from the holding element receptacle 59. It may be provided in particular that the unlocking hole 64 opens into the recess 63.

In FIG. 10, a further and possibly independent exemplary embodiment of the securing element 22 is shown, wherein in turn the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 9 are used for the same parts. In order to avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding FIGS. 1 to 9.

In FIG. 10, the securing element 22 is shown in a perspective sectional representation.

As can be seen from FIG. 10, it may be provided that on the holding element 60 there is formed a shaped pin 65, which has a rotationally symmetrical shaping, wherein different diameter ranges are realized over its axial extent, whereby a shaped projection is formed. Furthermore, the holding element receptacle 59 may have resiliently formed regions 66, which during pushing in are forced back by the shaped pin 65 and form a form-fitting connection with the shaped pin 65.

In particular, it may be provided in the case of this exemplary embodiment that the unlocking hole 64 is arranged as passing through the securing element head 23 and through the main body 58 in the longitudinal extent of the securing element 22. By means of a tool, the holding element 60 can be pushed out of the holding element receptacle 59.

Furthermore, the shaped pin 65 may have an undercut, which is formed for example as a barb. This makes loosening of the form-fitting connection more difficult.

The exemplary embodiments show possible embodiment variants, it being noted at this stage that the invention is not restricted to the embodiment variants thereof specifically represented, but rather that various combinations of the individual embodiment variants with one another are also possible and, on the basis of the teaching for technical action provided by the present invention, this possibility of variation is within the ability of a person skilled in the art working in this technical field.

The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings should be used to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the different exemplary embodiments shown and described can represent independent inventive solutions per se. The object on which the independent inventive solutions are based can be found in the description.

All of the indications of ranges of values in the present description should be understood as meaning that they include any and all subranges thereof; for example, the indication 1 to 10 should be understood as meaning that all of the subranges on the basis of the lower limit 1 and the upper limit 10 are included, i.e. all of the subranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, for example 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

For the sake of good order, it should finally be pointed out that, for better understanding of the construction, elements have sometimes been represented not to scale and/or enlarged and/or reduced in size.