Local AR-15 Gunsmith

[outrider58]

I did not know of Hanover Armory; thanks for the heads up.
While I understand a new upper would perhaps be more efficient, I would like to use my present upper.
White Oak is a possibility, however, I was looking for something closer to home.

In all likelihood, Your upper will not work unless it is a 'slick side'. No brass deflector and no forward assist.

 

[cbrussell]

I found a picture of one that has the forward assist and brass deflector. However, I am not certain about the operation. Definitely something I need to look into.
http://www.dlsports.com/ar15_side_charging_handle/pics_011606_ar15_side_charging_handle_1_small.jpg

 

[SkiPatrolDude]

I did not know of Hanover Armory; thanks for the heads up.
While I understand a new upper would perhaps be more efficient, I would like to use my present upper.
White Oak is a possibility, however, I was looking for something closer to home.

Unfortunately this reasoning doesn't make it any less of a bad idea.

 

[Magnumite]

I had a reciprocating side charger. ARStoner from MidwayUSA. Before I invested too much thought I would try it. The challenge is keeping the bolt tight. Red loctite did it after 2 or three applications. I pipe or fine thread may have been more efficient. But I don’t care to put loctite where parts move. I did but I didn’t care to shoot it left handed.

If were to build one now it would be a nonreciprocating charging handle. Upper receiver and BCG kits started out around $425 at one time. I found the good, larger ambi charging handles gave just about the same utility.