How do you release the magazine on an AR-15?

To release the magazine on an AR-15, press the magazine release button on the right side of the lower receiver while holding the rifle with your firing hand. The magazine should drop free, either from gravity or with a slight tug.

What is the magazine release button on an AR-15?

The magazine release button is a small circular button located on the right side of the AR-15 lower receiver, just above the trigger guard. Pressing it disengages the mag catch and releases the magazine.

Why won’t my AR-15 magazine drop free?

If your AR-15 mag doesn’t drop free, it could be due to a tight magwell, dirty mag catch, cheap or swollen magazines, or too much tension on the catch spring. Cleaning the magwell or trying different mags often solves the issue.

Can I upgrade my AR-15 magazine release?

Yes. You can upgrade to extended or ambidextrous magazine releases for faster reloads and better ergonomics. MountsPlus.com offers several great options like the Phase 5 Extended Mag Release and Strike Industries AMBI release.

Are AR-15 magazine release upgrades legal?

In most U.S. states, yes. However, certain states with restrictive gun laws may limit magazine capacity or modifications. Always check your local laws before installing any aftermarket parts.

Can I install an AR-15 magazine release myself?

Yes. Installing a mag release is a simple DIY project requiring minimal tools. You’ll need a punch or small screwdriver to install or swap out the magazine catch, spring, and button.

How to Release Magazine on AR-15 – Pro Tips & Upgrades | Mounts Plus

**Timber Creek Outdoors AR Extended Magazine Release** $15.99

**Magpul Enhanced AR Magazine Release** $18.95

**BATTLE ARMS Mod2 AR-15 Enhanced Modular Magazine Release Kit** $37.41

**Battle Arms Development AR-15 Enhanced Magazine Release - Black** $12.91

**Battle Arms Development EMMR-L Black | Enhanced Modular Magazine Release for AR15 & AR10** $28.55

**Armaspec B2 Extended Mag Release Blk** $26.44

How to Release the Magazine on an AR-15 (The Right Way)

It’s one of the first things you learn when running an AR—but it’s also one of the most overlooked: how to release the magazine on an AR-15 correctly. Sounds simple, right? Press a button, mag drops. But if you're running drills, under stress, or dealing with aftermarket parts, that one-second move can go sideways fast if your gear or your technique is off.

In this guide, I’ll break it down step-by-step, throw in a few real-world tips, and show you a few upgrade options that’ll seriously improve your reload speed and consistency—especially if you’re running gloves or competing under time.

🧠 Quick Answer: How Do You Release a Mag on an AR-15?

Hold the rifle with your firing hand on the pistol grip.
With that same hand, press the magazine release button located on the right side of the lower receiver—just above the magwell.
Let gravity (or a tug) do the rest. The mag should drop free—if it doesn’t, you may have a tight magwell, out-of-spec mag, or debris.

That's the basic version. But if you're looking to speed things up—or your setup isn’t dropping mags smoothly—keep reading.

⚙️ Anatomy of an AR-15 Magazine Release

Before you start upgrading parts or blaming your mags, it helps to know what's actually going on mechanically.

The AR-15 mag release system includes:

Magazine Catch: Internal part that holds the mag in place.
Magazine Release Button: The external button you press.
Magazine Catch Spring: Provides tension to keep the mag locked.

These parts work together to grip the mag. Pressing the button moves the catch out of the way so the mag can drop.

🚀 Want Faster Mag Drops? Upgrade These Parts:

Speed reloads can make or break your performance—whether you’re on the range or in a competition.

🔘 Extended Magazine Releases

Standard AR mag release buttons are functional—but small. If you’re wearing gloves or under stress, they can be hard to hit consistently.

💡 Recommended:

Troy Ambidextrous Magazine Release – Perfect for lefties or quick-access reloads.
Phase 5 Extended Magazine Release – Aggressive texture, oversized surface for lightning-fast actuation.

🔄 Ambidextrous Mag Releases

If you’re a southpaw—or want full support-side control—ambidextrous mag releases are a game changer. They let you drop mags with either hand, without shifting your grip.

💡 Recommended:

Strike Industries AMBI Magazine Release – Slick design, great for 3-gun shooters.

🧽 Troubleshooting Mag Release Problems

If your mag doesn’t drop cleanly, here’s what to check:

Is your mag swollen or cheap polymer? Try a different brand.
Is there grit in the magwell or catch? Clean it out.
Is your mag catch installed too tight? You can back off the tension slightly by re-threading the button.

And remember—some aftermarket lowers have tighter tolerances. Always check your setup with a few different mags before blaming your gear.

🛠️ How to Install an AR-15 Magazine Release

Tools Needed:

Punch or small screwdriver
Flat surface

Steps:

Place the mag catch through the receiver.
Insert the spring.
Screw the mag release button onto the threaded catch.
Press the button in (with a tool) and rotate the mag catch until it sits flush.

🔥 Pro Tips for Faster Reloads

Tilt the rifle slightly to the right when dropping a mag—helps gravity do the work.
Practice dry reloads with snap caps or dummy rounds.
Upgrade to an enhanced trigger guard for better finger clearance during reloads.
Pair your mag release upgrade with a bolt catch upgrade for maximum speed.

🛒 Featured Products at Mounts Plus

Product	Why It Matters
Phase 5 Extended Mag Release	Oversized paddle, easy to hit fast
Troy Ambi Mag Release	Works both sides—perfect for tactical reloads
Strike Industries AMBI	Smooth function, sleek look

If you're upgrading your mag release, it's a great time to consider a complete AR-15 lower parts kit to ensure all your controls and springs are in top shape. Pairing your mag release upgrade with an enhanced AR-15 bolt catch can make your reloads even faster and more reliable. Upgrading to an extended AR-15 trigger guard can improve finger clearance, especially when performing speed reloads. For left-handed shooters or anyone wanting faster manipulations, adding AR-15 ambidextrous controls is a must-have upgrade. Looking for more ways to customize your rifle? Check out our complete lineup of AR-15 parts and accessories to dial in your build.

🧩 FAQ: AR-15 Magazine Release

Q: Can I use any mag with my AR-15?
A: Most AR-15s accept STANAG-style mags, but tolerances vary. Always test your mags for fit.

Q: Are extended mag releases legal everywhere?
A: They’re legal in most free states. But always check your local laws—especially if you’re in a restrictive state.

Q: Can I install a mag release myself?
A: Yes—it’s a beginner-level DIY mod. No gunsmith needed.

Final Thoughts

Releasing a magazine on an AR-15 is simple in theory—but with the right upgrades and clean technique, it becomes second nature. Whether you're shooting for fun, competition, or defense, those split seconds matter. Dial in your gear, drill your reloads, and if you're looking to level up—Mounts Plus has everything you need to make it smooth, fast, and reliable.

👉 Shop AR-15 Magazine Releases & Accessories Now