Double acting adjustable buckle

Abstract

A buckle which is used to removably fasten two pieces of webbing, strap or the like together requires two distinct actions for its opening and thus is “double locking.” A latch member is pivotally supported on a frame by means of a support shaft. A first strap end is fixedly attached to one end of the frame. A second strap end to be attached to the first strap end is removably attached to one end of an adjuster member. The other end of the adjuster member is T-shaped. The frame has a pair of opposing ledge portions which extend opposite the base portion of the frame, opposing slots being formed between these portions. The top of the “T” of the adjuster member fits into the slots to retain the adjuster member to the frame when tension is placed on the second strap end portion thereby providing a first locking action. The latch member has a detent formed thereon which engages a detent on the end of the ledge portion of the frame. The latch member further has side walls with slots formed therein which engage the ends of the top of the “T” of the adjuster member. The adjuster member is thus held to the frame when there is no tension on the straps, to provide the second locking action.