A firearm action assembly having an action mechanism with an improved charging handle. The charging handle uses a rod member to engage the action for “cocking” the action mechanism. At an open end of the rod member is a handle which is secured to the edge of the action in a dormant state. Releasing of the lock is through the use of either of two finger members which are swivelly secured to each other. Pulling on either of these finger members operates the other which moves the other finger member.