Slide Lock Ambidextrous Charging Handle by Mega

@hotairbill Less moving parts means less breakage. Some of the newer latches handle a lot differently, and can take more abuse. The method people use to charge the weapon has changed with modern combat tactics, and often, the factory latch cannot take the strain.
Besides, options are nice. And people like to pimp their guns.

@MichaelZWilliamson Thanks for the explanation but I've got to admit that I still don't get it. Guess I never have. Time for me to Google those new "modern combat tactics" and try again to figure out why I might need a different charging handle.

@J.E.Walker There's a big difference in strength between 7075Al vs 6061 Al. We've seen the MilSpec frequently breaks during 3 gun comp.

@MichaelZWilliamson The old fashioned handle has 4 parts, it is hard to imagine fewer to operate the new one. Please advise. As to these "modern combat tactics" you mention, I need enlightenment. I have been retired from the Army for few years, but I do remember that you grasp the charging handle, pull briskly to the rear and release. Please let me know what has changed so I may stay up to date. Thanks Bill B

@uisconfruzed Okay... thanks for that. I was not aware it was an issue.

@hotairbill With modern armor, you shoot facing the enemy, not in profile. Typically, troops will slap the charging handle with the left hand instead of pulling it with the right. Other designs enclose the back of the handle so the latch can't overtravel and break, and/or have bigger latches so they're easier to engage.
Since this is a friction lock, not requiring manual unlocking, it will likely also reduce breakage.
I'm not rushing out to buy one--I have Vltor Gunfighter latches on all mine. But it's worth examining.

@J.E.Walker I'm only aware of it happening during high speed training and 'blading' the handle. After a friends broke I went ahead and got thr Ranier Raptor- I like this non lock design, add gas busting and I'll have the wants, I shoot with a can.
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@hotairbill $60 does seem a bit steep to me, but I guess there's metallurgic and precision machining concerns to deal with. I'll stick with the standard option, as I'm low speed-high drag, though I'm sure these will find a ready market.