The gas defeating charging handle (GDCH) has a proprietary design feature that incorporates an O-ring seal to prevent gas from escaping from the most prominent point of egress. This seal mitigates the amount of gas that is blown back into the shooter's face, creating a more comfortable and enjoyable shooting experience. In addition to significantly redirecting blow back, the GDCH offers ambidextrous and oversized levers for a smooth process when charging or clearing a rifle. It is completely manufactured in-house and is machined from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum. Shooters can utilize the GDCH with all common chamberings for the AR-15 platform.