It is the little things like that I love on their set. Steve's catstronaut coffee mug is always my favorite...perhaps eclipsed only by Keith's Chick-Fil-A AR15 magazines. 😉
I’m a Righty pistol shooter, Lefty for rifles.. The standard Radian is a fantastic ambi charging handle. I’ve installed them on every AR I’ve ever built.
I'm not being a dick I'm just trying to understand. Don't you pull the charging handle with 2 fingers whether you're righty or lefty? Even if you're a lefty you will still operate the latch on a mil-spec charging handle. Right? Or am I missing something.
No problem! On a mil-spec charging handle, the “charging handle latch” can only be actuated/ disengage on it’s left side. (Using a two-finger charging-stroke provides more leverage on the mil-spec CH) These Radian Ambi-CH’s have a really cool and innovative, “pivoting design” that allows the CH’s latch (on the left-side) to be actuated/ disengaged by pulling back on the handle from only one side, especially just the right side, even with one finger.. another advantage is to allow easier, one-handed CH manipulation if you run an optic that rides very close to the charging handle.
@@The_Expert It has to have the aluminum inside, all the working bits and bearing surfaces are aluminum. They have diagrams showing the aluminum support structure as part of their marketing. If those diagrams were not accurate, they would be on the hook with consumer protection rules violations.
@@marine6680 i think people under estimate how much polymer has improved in the last few decades, I have both but honestly I like the plastic more because it's a softer feel even though iv sanded down all the edges on the aluminum one.
@@whatsmolly5741 Very much so… And a high quality polymer supported by a rigid metal skeleton is a very tough combination with reduced weight and other beneficial properties. There will always be applications that no polymer will be suitable for, and metal will be required, but that list shrinks every year. And combined material/composite material designs are helping with this as well, gaining benefits of both the metal and polymer.
@@marine6680 I was using a t bone latch less handle for a while and it's just a thin bolt and the rest is plastic. Also unintentionally had to test out the strength of the raptor lt because of a stuck round and I was very scared I was going to destroy it but it held up to a hammer, not a mallet like an actual hammer and almost my full weight... and I never even got the round out I had to take the barrel off.
The Raptor LT is not really for weight savings. It’s for cost savings. Instead of machining the aluminum handles, they put molded plastic over an aluminum shank. Should be about as strong, but it’s less expensive. I saw something once about how the LT might even technically be the strongest, but people perceive the regular raptor as being higher quality
its so the shots are consistent. videographer here. The frames are sensitive and to have to readjust if its off by a few inches thus his sensitivity. it's annoying af but still funny. his hands say he's a former hand model. lol
I have the Freedom Bone from Axts before they became Radian. It is the exact same or very similar to the Radian SD which does a great job with gas when shooting suppressed. The entire line are all much smoother and sturdier than a mil-spec charging handle.
SL is the move in my opinion since the others snagged on my gear quite a bit. But since I’m considering a 12.5 build I may snag the SL SD since I eventually want to run a can on it 👀
Great VDO. Bought a Radian Raptor last night for my son's PWS 6.5 CR. Not many options for the AR-10. PWS comes stock with a Raptor, He purchased it used and it had a different aftermarket CH. Fairly certain only the standard model is manufactured for AR-10s. As you well know, no need to worry about 'gas-face' with piston operation.
The quality of your videos are outstanding. Couldn’t be more clear on their differences. Now I finally know which one I should buy for my AR. Greetings from Italy 🇮🇹
Great info. I had considered these when they came out , but shooting that platform left handed for 38 years , i figured I'll just mess up the technique that i am so used to. Probably good for people who just recently learned the A R though.
The LT is a polymer over mold. Inside the polymer is aluminum. While on paper the all aluminum version is technically stronger, from a practical standpoint, the LT is not going to be a weak point in your build. It will work just fine on a hard use rifle.
@@mrhamburger6936 Well, be that as it may… The CHs in question, are very nice. The LT is my favorite ambi CH, sized right and the price isn’t crazy. Their ambi safety is also great. No screws to work loose.
Thanks Caleb, for a clear explanation. I would consider one of these CH if I planned to ever use a suppressor on my carbine. My interest in that, for all it does to reduce muzzle blast, which is not significant IMO, is not worth the expense and trouble of the form four and another 13 month wait on the Treasury Dept/BATFE procedure. One observation I can make about large t handles, like the BCM gunfighter I upgraded on my LWRC M6A3, is that it’s much easier to manually cycle the bolt on one side, like the instructors teach, but when allowing to hang free when slung crossbody, the t handle does poke you in the gut/solar plexus/somewhere. This is mitigated by wearing an ammo vest/carrier of any kind or by keeping a hand or two on the weapon most of the time. An ex army vet teaching a class I attended a few years ago, when asked about the use of the sling, told us to use it, don’t set your rifle down and walk away. Won’t do you any good if it’s not in your hands or very close.
I have 10 originals (2 from when they were AXTS), 9 LTs and one SL. I will only buy LTs from now on since I have not found the LT to be less durable at all. An added benefit is that the poly feels much nicer on a cold morning.
Great video thanks for the info. Those are hard choices to make fortunately I have enough AR-15s. But now I have to buy three more AR-10s to utilize all the charging handles
Which one is right for me? Whichever one I can get my hands on lol. I run the standard because we can’t have suppressors in California, but when I move out of here in a few months I will be doing the suppressor paperwork and then grab the suppressor raptor charging handle, but if you’re not running suppresses I prefer the standard one.
Another great video These are the best charging handle On the market in my opinion. Runs the standard in all my rifles I switched from A mil spec at the range and could immediately tell differences For $99 it’s a great upgrade
I bought one of the ones with the holes cut in for gas to escape. I read mixed reviews online some saying it does nothing. Figured I was gunna try a raptor anyway myswell try it, so hopefully when my bolt shows up I can find out
I have the original radian raptor I just bought. It’s a shame that the right arm wobbles up and down a little bit, but it’s still 100% functional. Do they do this on purpose? I’m not going through the hassle of exchanging it where I bought it. It works and that’s fine.
I own a aero precision/radian raptor charging handle after my cheap charging handle would bind and was just a geneeal pain in the ass to charge my .308, it was a night and day difference. I initially thought it was because it was an ar308 thing, being it was my first, that was just harder to charge I can do it 1 handed now. They are expensive I payed $90 after shipping, but I'd buy one straight out the gate if I had to do it over.
I've been looking for one for LR 308 for over a year. Radian has been out of stock of everything. If they've got some now, it's news to me. I've made do with what I've got.
Very educating at least for me. I do have a question for you regarding the type that will be suitable for my M&P AR-15 22 sport. I like to upgrade my charging handle that comes with the firearm from S&W, ( which was made cheaply ) which one according to your opinion should I be buying?
As a Southpaw I think I'm deciding to not get radian at all and stick with the badass. I don't like the fact it has one side bigger and another shorter unless it can be switched. Don't like Orthodox specific catering. Just me though.
When it comes to the AR-15 charging handle do you use the index and middle finger to grab both “sides” of the charging handle or do you just grab one “side” with your index finger and thumb? I think it’s personal preference but some people say that you SHOULD ONLY grab it by both sides evenly. A topic for smith busters maybe?
Every "milspec" instance of AR use I've seen is the two finger "pinch". I prefer a one handed, left side hook with the crease of the finger. It's easier to do with the rifle up and in the firing position.
That's the beauty of an Ambi handle. There are several ways to operate it. You can use the back of your thumb or pull with the edge of your palm facing toward you. I got the LT in case something happens to my hands and I still need to charge the rifle. A standard CH only has a couple ways to engage
I waited forever to get my hands on one of the FDE .308 versions and too my knowledge the stock still hasn’t really returned on those. Ended up shelling out about the same amount for the Geissele super charging handle, but the color is not what I would have preferred.
I love them myself. I don't have one. I would like one but, I just can not afford one. man they are expensive for what they are. I can't believe how much people charge, for a charging handle.
Eh, that’s debatable. I used the standard charging handle in the MIL for 6 years, I bought a rifle eventually and replaced it with a Radian and it was a game changer. Makes manipulation of the weapon a breeze when fixing malfunction’s and loading and charging the weapon.
Using a standard charging handle sucks if your a left handed shooter, have a magnified optic or both. If you are neither of those, you cant argue that the latch system on the Radian is not easier to manipulate than the standard mil-spec. It's a matter of if that additional ease and ergonomics is worth the cost to YOU. Just because you think it's not worth it does not make it not worth it.
@@CalebSavant I suppose I do see your point regarding the optic getting in your way or gas blowing in your face. I just never considered it but to each their own. Hey maybe a video idea would be comparing it to milspec charging handle to convince folks like me it is a considerable upgrade. But for me if I'm spending 100 bucks it's going towards ammo, trigger upgrades, grips/stocks, optics etc. The charging handle quickly falls down the list.
@@samuelneil2691 yup, I totally understand your point! We actually covered it a bit in our build series we did on our webpage (unfortunately I cannot link it due to the chance of UA-cam pulling the video)
I've heard that the SD Raptors are life changing, and that they also don't make a difference. I'm building a 12.5 with a CGS Helios, from actual users, is it worth the extra couple of bucks?
I don’t know if they make a difference but they sure look cool. But if you are shooting with a can do everything you can to dissipate that gas. It’s super nasty and turns a fun day into a chore. No matter what you have a nasty gun to clean so why make it even worse by also picking debris out of your eyes and face.
No, it’s a very minor difference between the standard and SD, both of which are beat by a mil spec charging handle. You can see this in the silencer co charging handle video where they use a radian SD. I personally use Geissele, they’re about the same price, on more heavy duty builds I use the Armageddon GMS 15 EVO, but that’s a very heavy duty steel charging handle, The reason I got that is in case I need to kickstart my rifle, and it stops almost all gas leakage from the ejection port. Mind you that charging handle adds a good few ounces to your AR
I've shot both the SD and standard back to back on two 10in sbrs both suppressed. The difference was night and day. Can't speak for any other brand besides radian tho
Question: unless you damage your charging handle, what is the purpose of replacing your existing handle. As an example, I have an Sig. why would I want to replace the factory handle?
I've been interested in an ambi charging handle, but haven't been too convinced that paying around 40 to 80 dollars more (depending on model) is worth it. I don't have any suppressors (and won't be in a position to be able to get one for a while), so the gas-reducing feature on it probably wouldn't make as much of a difference for me unless my rifle is way over gassed which I can always take care of that by adjusting the gas block.
Being left handed I thought an ambi charging handle would improve weapons manipulation. It didn't. Your point about suppressors and over gassed is legitimate but like you said there are other ways of fixing it. I can see it being beneficial to some but ambi handles just don't seem worth it.
I wasn't either but I got one for $67 anyway. I got it in case something happens to one of my hands so it can be charged in multiple ways. Right, left, with your palm, the back of your thumb.... Lots of options. They have a real smooth action too. I would say its an upgrade that is worth it. ( plus it looks really cool)
Looking to get the Raptor SD with the Talon safety switch with it. One question any performance difference with SD vs. Standard if not using a surpressor?
@@CalebSavant I mean, I'm game to see that in a 3 minute video as well. Can even make it into a joke, "oh no, Timmy just exploded again. We're gonna need another Timmy!"
A Breek Arms Warhammer is probably the best charging handle you can buy (other than maybe a PRI Gas Buster) since it's only $40 and it's really great. It's what Ian and Karl used for their WWSD rifle.
Sometimes radian sells LT blems from there own website. Also they sell a safety and charging handle combo that is right around $100. Decent deal for a great charging handle and ambi safety.
I think they handle new colors and handles and stock on these items now as well as the differences between A.R. 10 and A.R. 15 it would be great to hear an updated video that deals with those choices as well because from a distance the ones on your table look identical
I have read reports from some users on Gunnit who say that the latches on original models are TOO easy to manipulate: they are prone to being accidentally activated when the gun is carried on a sling, moving the bolt out of battery. The SL version reduces the risk of this scenario slightly.
I understand a larger wing on the charging handle but I never understood why it needs to be ambidextrous. You always pull with two fingers so it doesn't matter what side operates the latch.
The two finger pull method is only good if your not running a magnified optic, most users pull from one side or the other. I am primarily a left handed rifle shooter and only use one side of the latch, and it's opposite from everyone else.
I need a Radian Raptor because I want to stop using both fingers (I shoot long guns left-handed) and also want to clear the forward assist. So, no, we don't ALL use both fingers, and certainly not by choice.
Caleb I am familiar with Radian Raptors, but thanks for going down the list and what the differences are for all. My question, what do you think of the Breek Arms Warhammer Ambidextrous Charging Handle? I am liking it and, have been trying it out on two of my ARs for about 1 year now and for the money... No problems at half the price of most Raptors... It is a little thin, but strong. Thoughts?
I was thinking about filling mine in with some epoxy or black hot glue to make it feel solid, I like it but I haven't ran it enough to know if it is durable.
@@CalebSavant I do too, especially on lighter weight builds! I try to run the 2 as light "as able." Also, thanks for the follow up! Makes me want to order another item from Brownell's and keep up "Smyth Busters!" I watch most, comment on a few, hit "LIKE" on all!
@@SW-ii5gg They seem solid to me, though I haven't been able to run mine as "hard" as I'd like to, but on the one with the most usage.. no problems. Interesting thought about using epoxy or black hot glue... I don't think it is necessary, they "hold" tough as nails, for over 1 year, now, and at 1/2 the price of Raptors! But, let me know if the epoxy or black hot glue helps!
How have I never noticed the AT4 just casually hanging out in the safe in the background before?
It is the little things like that I love on their set. Steve's catstronaut coffee mug is always my favorite...perhaps eclipsed only by Keith's Chick-Fil-A AR15 magazines. 😉
That’s the power of grey. Hence the inspiration name of the greyman ideology.
When peace isn't an option.
_emotional support missile_
I noticed that too 👌
My Aero build has a Radian Raptor.
I dig it.
I’m a Righty pistol shooter,
Lefty for rifles..
The standard Radian is a fantastic ambi charging handle. I’ve installed them on every AR I’ve ever built.
I'm not being a dick I'm just trying to understand. Don't you pull the charging handle with 2 fingers whether you're righty or lefty? Even if you're a lefty you will still operate the latch on a mil-spec charging handle. Right? Or am I missing something.
No problem! On a mil-spec charging handle, the “charging handle latch” can only be actuated/ disengage on it’s left side. (Using a two-finger charging-stroke provides more leverage on the mil-spec CH) These Radian Ambi-CH’s have a really cool and innovative, “pivoting design” that allows the CH’s latch (on the left-side) to be actuated/ disengaged by pulling back on the handle from only one side, especially just the right side, even with one finger.. another advantage is to allow easier, one-handed CH manipulation if you run an optic that rides very close to the charging handle.
Same
@@CalebSavant - Thanks, Caleb 👍🏼
Love the Smith-Busters series, btw
Although they’re polymer for the LT option, they still have skeletonized aluminum shanks that are in of core of handle
That's what I thought too. Has anyone done a video where they cut into the handle and look at whats inside? Might be a tootsie role.
@@The_Expert
It has to have the aluminum inside, all the working bits and bearing surfaces are aluminum. They have diagrams showing the aluminum support structure as part of their marketing. If those diagrams were not accurate, they would be on the hook with consumer protection rules violations.
@@marine6680 i think people under estimate how much polymer has improved in the last few decades, I have both but honestly I like the plastic more because it's a softer feel even though iv sanded down all the edges on the aluminum one.
@@whatsmolly5741 Very much so… And a high quality polymer supported by a rigid metal skeleton is a very tough combination with reduced weight and other beneficial properties.
There will always be applications that no polymer will be suitable for, and metal will be required, but that list shrinks every year. And combined material/composite material designs are helping with this as well, gaining benefits of both the metal and polymer.
@@marine6680 I was using a t bone latch less handle for a while and it's just a thin bolt and the rest is plastic. Also unintentionally had to test out the strength of the raptor lt because of a stuck round and I was very scared I was going to destroy it but it held up to a hammer, not a mallet like an actual hammer and almost my full weight... and I never even got the round out I had to take the barrel off.
I grabbed up the polymer version and have been hard as hell on it and it's still trucking. Well worth its price!
I like it because it is easier on the fingers. A lot of metal ones feel like cheese traders after a handful of times
@@themightycrixus1131 You have bitch hands.
The Raptor LT is not really for weight savings. It’s for cost savings. Instead of machining the aluminum handles, they put molded plastic over an aluminum shank. Should be about as strong, but it’s less expensive. I saw something once about how the LT might even technically be the strongest, but people perceive the regular raptor as being higher quality
I could see that being the case being that the aluminum underneath is protected and encased by sturdy polymer.
He handles them so slowly and delicately as if they’re made of cheap glass and could shatter at any moment. 😂
Serial killer vibes
I agree. What a fricking nerd. That is how you have to handle them out in the field.
It’s not his stuff. He’d get canned if there’s one scratch on that.
@@T_D_B_ 😂😂😂😂😂
its so the shots are consistent. videographer here. The frames are sensitive and to have to readjust if its off by a few inches thus his sensitivity. it's annoying af but still funny. his hands say he's a former hand model. lol
I have the Freedom Bone from Axts before they became Radian. It is the exact same or very similar to the Radian SD which does a great job with gas when shooting suppressed.
The entire line are all much smoother and sturdier than a mil-spec charging handle.
SL is the move in my opinion since the others snagged on my gear quite a bit. But since I’m considering a 12.5 build I may snag the SL SD since I eventually want to run a can on it 👀
Great VDO. Bought a Radian Raptor last night for my son's PWS 6.5 CR. Not many options for the AR-10. PWS comes stock with a Raptor, He purchased it used and it had a different aftermarket CH. Fairly certain only the standard model is manufactured for AR-10s. As you well know, no need to worry about 'gas-face' with piston operation.
The quality of your videos are outstanding. Couldn’t be more clear on their differences. Now I finally know which one I should buy for my AR. Greetings from Italy 🇮🇹
Radian Raptors, are a MUST HAVE‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
Standard Raptors on all of my ARs. I wouldn't use anything else at this point.
I love this channel straight to the point no BS
Great info. I had considered these when they came out , but shooting that platform left handed for 38 years , i figured I'll just mess up the technique that i am so used to. Probably good for people who just recently learned the A R though.
The LT is a polymer over mold. Inside the polymer is aluminum. While on paper the all aluminum version is technically stronger, from a practical standpoint, the LT is not going to be a weak point in your build. It will work just fine on a hard use rifle.
@@mrhamburger6936 Is there a reason?
@@mrhamburger6936 I haven’t had to deal with their CS personally.
@@mrhamburger6936 Well, be that as it may… The CHs in question, are very nice.
The LT is my favorite ambi CH, sized right and the price isn’t crazy.
Their ambi safety is also great. No screws to work loose.
I like the standard Radian Raptor, I also like the Strike Industries charging handle!
I’m All For The Strike Industries I’ve Got Them In All My AR’s and There Less Than 20.00 When I Got Mine a Couple Years Ago 😀😊😀
I'm a sucker for strike industries grips. Perfect angle for me. Have never ran their CH.
Strike industries CH are great quality and very affordable!
Dont forget they're made in Taiwan. You get Japanese craftsmanship and get to say FU chy-na by supporting Taiwan.
Thanks Caleb, for a clear explanation. I would consider one of these CH if I planned to ever use a suppressor on my carbine. My interest in that, for all it does to reduce muzzle blast, which is not significant IMO, is not worth the expense and trouble of the form four and another 13 month wait on the Treasury Dept/BATFE procedure. One observation I can make about large t handles, like the BCM gunfighter I upgraded on my LWRC M6A3, is that it’s much easier to manually cycle the bolt on one side, like the instructors teach, but when allowing to hang free when slung crossbody, the t handle does poke you in the gut/solar plexus/somewhere. This is mitigated by wearing an ammo vest/carrier of any kind or by keeping a hand or two on the weapon most of the time. An ex army vet teaching a class I attended a few years ago, when asked about the use of the sling, told us to use it, don’t set your rifle down and walk away. Won’t do you any good if it’s not in your hands or very close.
Minute Man Prep did a torture test by rough racking it with his boot and the Raptor worked as intended while a few other brands failed.
Great video! Always wondered what the difference between the standard Raptor and the Raptor LT was.
Aaandddd this definitely helped and answered all the questions I had. Thanks
Have the Standard & SD and they both great charge handles
They make great Charging Handles for sure!
Step One: Get a Radian Raptor charging handle. Step 2: wonder why you did not get one a long time ago! Huge upgrade.
I have 10 originals (2 from when they were AXTS), 9 LTs and one SL. I will only buy LTs from now on since I have not found the LT to be less durable at all. An added benefit is that the poly feels much nicer on a cold morning.
i want to see more of that AT4 launcher in the back ground
This is perfect, as a fairly new AR15 owner, ive always wondered if its worth it to swap out the charging handle.
Yes, yes, that French Gentleman with the Dapper Hair, Caleb Savant is his name.
I have personally experienced more gas to the face from the radian CH's versus say an older BCM/VLTOR CH.
YYMV
Great video thanks for the info. Those are hard choices to make fortunately I have enough AR-15s. But now I have to buy three more AR-10s to utilize all the charging handles
Which one is right for me? Whichever one I can get my hands on lol. I run the standard because we can’t have suppressors in California, but when I move out of here in a few months I will be doing the suppressor paperwork and then grab the suppressor raptor charging handle, but if you’re not running suppresses I prefer the standard one.
Have one for almost a year, and it is glorious!
Have had a Radian Raptor charging handle on my SPR for about 4 years now. I got the standard, in FDE.
Another great video
These are the best charging handle
On the market in my opinion.
Runs the standard in all my rifles
I switched from
A mil spec at the range and could immediately tell differences
For $99 it’s a great upgrade
Tac Ops and Tac Ops 1 FTW!!!
I love you and your dads videos 💯🇺🇸
I bought one of the ones with the holes cut in for gas to escape. I read mixed reviews online some saying it does nothing. Figured I was gunna try a raptor anyway myswell try it, so hopefully when my bolt shows up I can find out
I would recommend going with the Geissele Airborne or the Geissele Super Charging Handle.
Thanks for showcasing these charging handles. They are very nice!
SL all day
Best CH in the game. Hands down.
I’m are we gonna ignore the freaking rpg in the background 😂
Great vid thanks so much. Helps a lot.
I have the original radian raptor I just bought. It’s a shame that the right arm wobbles up and down a little bit, but it’s still 100% functional. Do they do this on purpose? I’m not going through the hassle of exchanging it where I bought it. It works and that’s fine.
Regular Radian Raptor is the best charging handle to me. I have it on all rifles.
Best one out there is the. Raptor by Radian…Geiselle has a close 2nd with theirs if you ask me tho!
I need a charging handle that is wider to make it easier to operate under the rear of a scope.
I own a aero precision/radian raptor charging handle after my cheap charging handle would bind and was just a geneeal pain in the ass to charge my .308, it was a night and day difference. I initially thought it was because it was an ar308 thing, being it was my first, that was just harder to charge I can do it 1 handed now. They are expensive I payed $90 after shipping, but I'd buy one straight out the gate if I had to do it over.
I'm good with my Breeks Warhammer ❤
Personally I like the LWRC Handel extra thick pens and ambi too. For little less than radian.
Omg I’ve spent more than a hour trying to put that thing in backwards
Have a few already. BCM makes the war fighter, which is about the same. However the raptor is like 2/3 the price.
I've been looking for one for LR 308 for over a year. Radian has been out of stock of everything. If they've got some now, it's news to me. I've made do with what I've got.
Very educating at least for me. I do have a question for you regarding the type that will be suitable for my M&P AR-15 22 sport.
I like to upgrade my charging handle that comes with the firearm from S&W, ( which was made cheaply ) which one according to your opinion should I be buying?
As a Southpaw I think I'm deciding to not get radian at all and stick with the badass. I don't like the fact it has one side bigger and another shorter unless it can be switched. Don't like Orthodox specific catering. Just me though.
Great video, and by the way that's a really nice shirt! 🙂👍
Thank you for the video. Very informational.
When it comes to the AR-15 charging handle do you use the index and middle finger to grab both “sides” of the charging handle or do you just grab one “side” with your index finger and thumb? I think it’s personal preference but some people say that you SHOULD ONLY grab it by both sides evenly. A topic for smith busters maybe?
Every "milspec" instance of AR use I've seen is the two finger "pinch". I prefer a one handed, left side hook with the crease of the finger. It's easier to do with the rifle up and in the firing position.
That's the beauty of an Ambi handle. There are several ways to operate it. You can use the back of your thumb or pull with the edge of your palm facing toward you. I got the LT in case something happens to my hands and I still need to charge the rifle. A standard CH only has a couple ways to engage
According to Radian the LT has the same strength as the standard raptor
Do the same thing with the Bravo Co (BCM) gunfighter charging handles!
I waited forever to get my hands on one of the FDE .308 versions and too my knowledge the stock still hasn’t really returned on those. Ended up shelling out about the same amount for the Geissele super charging handle, but the color is not what I would have preferred.
Need the Radian CH with the SOLGW logo engraved!
All my ARs run the radian raptor.
Ditto‼️‼️‼️
I love them myself. I don't have one. I would like one but, I just can not afford one. man they are expensive for what they are. I can't believe how much people charge, for a charging handle.
You can find the polymer version for 50 bucks if you look around.
This is one of those tacticool upgrades. Not really necessary at all but fun for people that just like upgrading various things on their rifle
Eh, that’s debatable. I used the standard charging handle in the MIL for 6 years, I bought a rifle eventually and replaced it with a Radian and it was a game changer. Makes manipulation of the weapon a breeze when fixing malfunction’s and loading and charging the weapon.
Using a standard charging handle sucks if your a left handed shooter, have a magnified optic or both. If you are neither of those, you cant argue that the latch system on the Radian is not easier to manipulate than the standard mil-spec. It's a matter of if that additional ease and ergonomics is worth the cost to YOU. Just because you think it's not worth it does not make it not worth it.
@@CalebSavant He Hath Spoken 🙏🏽
@@CalebSavant I suppose I do see your point regarding the optic getting in your way or gas blowing in your face. I just never considered it but to each their own. Hey maybe a video idea would be comparing it to milspec charging handle to convince folks like me it is a considerable upgrade. But for me if I'm spending 100 bucks it's going towards ammo, trigger upgrades, grips/stocks, optics etc. The charging handle quickly falls down the list.
@@samuelneil2691 yup, I totally understand your point! We actually covered it a bit in our build series we did on our webpage (unfortunately I cannot link it due to the chance of UA-cam pulling the video)
Badger Ordinance and Daniel’s Defense are my 2 favorite charging handles, in that order. Beefy and comfortable in the hand.
Bought a Radian before, not a fan. Bear creek arsenal and BCM makes a better handle IMO.
Are you sure you meant Bear Creek? The BCM is great too though.
Bear Creek Arsenal???
You must have gotten a fake Radian Raptor from EBay or Amazon.
I've heard that the SD Raptors are life changing, and that they also don't make a difference. I'm building a 12.5 with a CGS Helios, from actual users, is it worth the extra couple of bucks?
I have an SD SL Raptor on my 11.5" BCM and I love it. I bought is for the gas cuts as I will suppress it. I think they're worth it.
I don’t know if they make a difference but they sure look cool. But if you are shooting with a can do everything you can to dissipate that gas. It’s super nasty and turns a fun day into a chore. No matter what you have a nasty gun to clean so why make it even worse by also picking debris out of your eyes and face.
No, it’s a very minor difference between the standard and SD, both of which are beat by a mil spec charging handle. You can see this in the silencer co charging handle video where they use a radian SD. I personally use Geissele, they’re about the same price, on more heavy duty builds I use the Armageddon GMS 15 EVO, but that’s a very heavy duty steel charging handle, The reason I got that is in case I need to kickstart my rifle, and it stops almost all gas leakage from the ejection port. Mind you that charging handle adds a good few ounces to your AR
Silencerco makes a gas defeating charging handle that might be worth looking into
I've shot both the SD and standard back to back on two 10in sbrs both suppressed. The difference was night and day. Can't speak for any other brand besides radian tho
Question: unless you damage your charging handle, what is the purpose of replacing your existing handle. As an example, I have an Sig. why would I want to replace the factory handle?
I just put extended latches on mine work great.
I've been interested in an ambi charging handle, but haven't been too convinced that paying around 40 to 80 dollars more (depending on model) is worth it. I don't have any suppressors (and won't be in a position to be able to get one for a while), so the gas-reducing feature on it probably wouldn't make as much of a difference for me unless my rifle is way over gassed which I can always take care of that by adjusting the gas block.
Being left handed I thought an ambi charging handle would improve weapons manipulation. It didn't.
Your point about suppressors and over gassed is legitimate but like you said there are other ways of fixing it.
I can see it being beneficial to some but ambi handles just don't seem worth it.
I wasn't either but I got one for $67 anyway. I got it in case something happens to one of my hands so it can be charged in multiple ways. Right, left, with your palm, the back of your thumb.... Lots of options. They have a real smooth action too. I would say its an upgrade that is worth it. ( plus it looks really cool)
do any of yall find the right side wobble a little more than the left?
Looking to get the Raptor SD with the Talon safety switch with it. One question any performance difference with SD vs. Standard if not using a surpressor?
He handles these handles like they'll explode if he's too rough with them. 🤣
nope, but if I move them too fast the camera man will explode lol.
@@CalebSavant I mean, I'm game to see that in a 3 minute video as well. Can even make it into a joke, "oh no, Timmy just exploded again. We're gonna need another Timmy!"
It's hard to justify spending $100+ on a charging handle with the options just on Brownell's
A Breek Arms Warhammer is probably the best charging handle you can buy (other than maybe a PRI Gas Buster) since it's only $40 and it's really great. It's what Ian and Karl used for their WWSD rifle.
If you shop around you can find aluminum radians for $60 and the LT versions for $45. The SD are really only for people shooting suppressed.
@@2amichaelj Where? Used on ebay?
Sometimes radian sells LT blems from there own website. Also they sell a safety and charging handle combo that is right around $100. Decent deal for a great charging handle and ambi safety.
The war hammer feels cheap compared to the radian. I’ve had both and the radian just feels more robust.
Thank you for this video.
whats funny is the LT isnt really lighter. Its literally like .01 ounces lighter than the original raptor
Do one on choosing an geiselle trigger
I didn't get the LT because when i walk through fires I need my charging handle not to melt.
Another great feature is to run short stroke gas piston. 🤷🏻♂️
I think they handle new colors and handles and stock on these items now as well as the differences between A.R. 10 and A.R. 15 it would be great to hear an updated video that deals with those choices as well because from a distance the ones on your table look identical
I don’t get it. What is the difference between a radian raptor charging handle and other charging handles? Are they all just metal?
I'm curious as to what the argument would be for the SL model, wouldn't that just make it harder to quickly grab the charging handle
I have read reports from some users on Gunnit who say that the latches on original models are TOO easy to manipulate: they are prone to being accidentally activated when the gun is carried on a sling, moving the bolt out of battery. The SL version reduces the risk of this scenario slightly.
@@Athonite huh, yeah i can see that. it would suck to go to pull the trigger and get nothing lol
Less likely to snag.
I need one for my Mpx he didn’t go over that
Mine is branded with a lion and the name armalite on it
I need someone to add an explanation of the competition radian charging handle please.
The Ruger SFAR (.308/7.62x51) takes the AR15/M16 version, NOT the AR10/SR25 version, correct?
Nice, but my N95 masks have long been repurposed for use when I ’choot’ suppressed.
Where's the titanium?
Caleb, do you recommend using an adjustable gas block when supressing and AR as well as the Radian Raptor SD?
Very helpful!
Well, the choice is to buy a bunch of upgrades for guns, or just buy more guns. Not really that hard of a decision
I understand a larger wing on the charging handle but I never understood why it needs to be ambidextrous. You always pull with two fingers so it doesn't matter what side operates the latch.
The two finger pull method is only good if your not running a magnified optic, most users pull from one side or the other. I am primarily a left handed rifle shooter and only use one side of the latch, and it's opposite from everyone else.
The ambidextrous is also very useful if your in a prone shooting position.
I need a Radian Raptor because I want to stop using both fingers (I shoot long guns left-handed) and also want to clear the forward assist. So, no, we don't ALL use both fingers, and certainly not by choice.
@Caleb Savant Same here. Ambidextrous is essential if you're left-handed, especially for home defense.
What about the Raptor Competition? What’s the difference between it and standard beside pretty red or blue colors?
Caleb I am familiar with Radian Raptors, but thanks for going down the list and what the differences are for all. My question, what do you think of the Breek Arms Warhammer Ambidextrous Charging Handle? I am liking it and, have been trying it out on two of my ARs for about 1 year now and for the money... No problems at half the price of most Raptors... It is a little thin, but strong. Thoughts?
I like it! It is thin but pairs well on lightweight builds.
I was thinking about filling mine in with some epoxy or black hot glue to make it feel solid, I like it but I haven't ran it enough to know if it is durable.
@@CalebSavant I do too, especially on lighter weight builds! I try to run the 2 as light "as able." Also, thanks for the follow up! Makes me want to order another item from Brownell's and keep up "Smyth Busters!" I watch most, comment on a few, hit "LIKE" on all!
@@SW-ii5gg They seem solid to me, though I haven't been able to run mine as "hard" as I'd like to, but on the one with the most usage.. no problems. Interesting thought about using epoxy or black hot glue... I don't think it is necessary, they "hold" tough as nails, for over 1 year, now, and at 1/2 the price of Raptors!
But, let me know if the epoxy or black hot glue helps!
@@GmanGSW it seems well built, especially for the price, if I try the fill in I will try to remember to get back to you on it.
Why are the ambi wings different sizes?
good video
THANKS
The raptors I have, have the same length latch on each side didn't see it here for some reason?
Does the SL charging handle help with blowback even without a suppressor?