The PURPOSE of the AR CARRY HANDLE

Published on October 6, 2025
Duration: 2:05

The AR-15 carry handle's primary purpose was not for carrying, but to house the rear sight and protect the original top-mounted charging handle. Colt's later design moved the charging handle, but the carry handle persisted for the sight. Using it to carry the rifle is discouraged due to poor balance.

Quick Summary

The AR-15 carry handle was originally designed by Eugene Stoner to protect the top-mounted charging handle and house the rear sight. While Colt later moved the charging handle, the carry handle persisted for the sight. Carrying the rifle by the handle is discouraged due to poor balance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: AR Carry Handle Misconception
  2. 00:18Eugene Stoner's Original Design Intent
  3. 00:33Early Charging Handle & Carry Handle Role
  4. 00:46Colt's Design Changes & Carry Handle Function
  5. 01:18Why Not to Use It As a Carry Handle

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original purpose of the AR-15 carry handle?

Eugene Stoner designed the AR-15 carry handle primarily to protect the original top-mounted charging handle and to house the rear sight. It wasn't intended for carrying the rifle.

Did Colt change the function of the AR-15 carry handle?

Yes, Colt moved the charging handle to the rear of the receiver. However, the carry handle remained on subsequent designs mainly to provide a platform for the elevated rear sight.

Is it okay to carry an AR-15 using the carry handle?

No, it's generally discouraged. The rifle's center of gravity is off when carried this way, causing it to tilt forward and making it an inefficient method of transport.

Who designed the AR-15 and its carry handle?

The AR-15 and its initial design features, including the carry handle's purpose, were conceived by Eugene Stoner during his time at Armalite.

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