Short answer: an extended or enhanced magazine release is a bigger button that replaces the small mil-spec one on the right side; a modular release such as Battle Arms' EMMR lets you swap finger pads by size; an ambidextrous catch adds a paddle on the left so your trigger finger can drop the magazine. Most fit any lower that takes a mil-spec magazine catch. The trade-off is that a bigger button is also easier to press by accident.
The four types
Enhanced and extended buttons
These replace only the button that threads onto the magazine catch. Forward Controls Design and Seekins make slightly larger, textured buttons; ODIN Works describes its XMR as much larger than a mil-spec button. ODIN redesigned its Gen III release to clear KNS anti-rotation trigger pins while still working with the Magpul B.A.D. lever, so check clearance if your lower uses those pins.
Modular releases
Battle Arms Development's Enhanced Modular Magazine Release (EMMR) uses a dovetail to hold interchangeable finger pads in medium and large sizes, and the kit includes the button, extension, screw and hex wrench.
Ambidextrous magazine catches
An ambi catch replaces the catch itself and adds a paddle on the left side. Battle Arms says its EMC-AMBI fits AR-15 lowers that use a mil-spec magazine catch, with an enlarged paddle offset from the bolt catch, and works with its own and mil-spec buttons. CMMG also sells an ambidextrous catch. For fully ambidextrous lowers, see ambidextrous AR-15 lowers and controls.
Installing a magazine release
With the magazine catch spring in place, press the button in and turn the catch's threaded shaft into it until the catch sits flush with the left side of the lower, then test with an empty magazine: it should lock in and drop free. The full sequence is step 1 of our lower assembly guide; for modular and ambi parts, follow the maker's instructions.
Magazine releases, with today's prices
Lowest price across the stores we track:
Forward Controls Design enhanced magazine release button
Pros
- Larger, dimpled button
- Mil-spec fit
Cons
- Button only
Enhanced button
Seekins Precision billet magazine release button
Pros
- Billet replacement button
Cons
- Button only
Enhanced button
ODIN Works Gen III extended magazine release
Pros
- Much larger than mil-spec, per ODIN
- Clears KNS pins
Cons
- Easier to press by accident
Extended
Battle Arms Development EMMR, medium
Pros
- Interchangeable finger pads
- Kit includes screw and wrench
Cons
- Bigger pad, bigger target
Modular
Strike Industries modular magazine catch
Pros
- Modular magazine catch
Cons
- Check fit with your lower
Modular catch
Battle Arms Development ambidextrous magazine catch
Pros
- Left-side paddle
- Fits mil-spec catch lowers, per BAD
Cons
- Catch replacement, more work than a button
Ambidextrous
CMMG ambidextrous magazine catch
Pros
- Adds a left-side release
Cons
- Catch replacement
Ambidextrous
Compare all lower parts, or see the lower parts kit guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do extended magazine releases fit any AR-15?
Most fit any lower that uses a mil-spec magazine catch. Check clearance with anti-rotation trigger pins and with your magazines.
Is an extended magazine release worth it?
If you find the stock button hard to reach, yes. The trade-off is that it is easier to press by accident.
How do I install an AR-15 magazine release?
With the spring on the catch, press the button in and thread the catch shaft into it until it sits flush, then test with an empty magazine.
What is an ambidextrous magazine catch?
A replacement catch with a paddle on the left side, so you can drop the magazine with your trigger finger.
Do I need special magazines for an ambi catch?
No. They work with standard AR-15 magazines; test with yours after installing.
