Magazine Release Types

Type 1 : Rear Latch - One of the most common types of magazine retaining and release mechanisms. The rear latch is simple in design and provides the user with access to the release from either side of the weapon. The main disadvantage, however, is that the access is limited to the use of the individuals non-firing hand only. The magazine is grasped and the thumb of the non-firing hand is used to activate the release.

Type 2 : Side Latch (Lever Type) Right Hand Biased - A spring loaded, fixed pivotal lever which is provided with an engaging tooth that locks into a slot machined into the magazine. This mechanism has the advantage of being accessible by the trigger finger of the firing hand when placed around the pistol grip. The user can simultaneously drop the magazine with the firing hand while obtaining a new magazine with the non-firing hand (fastest method of magazine replacement). The release can also be actuated by the thumb of the firing hand (right hand user) or the thumb of the non-firing hand (left hand user). This design limits the access of the release to the left handed user (right hand user in a "weak hand" position).

Type 3 : Transversely Operable Side Latch, Push Button (Right Hand Biased) - This design is used on the M16A2, M4 Carbine, FNC and other weapons that use the NATO 5.56, 30 Round magazine (M16 Type). Like Type 2 it is accessible by the trigger finger of the right handed shooter with his firing hand placed around the pistol grip. It has similar disadvantages as the actuating button is found on the right side of the weapon.

Type 4 : Modified Transversely Operable Side Latch - This mechanism provides similar access to the release as found with Type 1. The primary means of retaining the magazine is that of a transverse latch (type used on M16A2 and M4). When depressed, the paddle of this design moves the shaft of the catch towards the left releasing the magazine. The magazine can also be released by depressing the button on the right side of the weapon. Access to the release is also limited to the use of the non-firing hand. This design is not truly ambidextrous. Other configurations utilize a rocking lever attached to the catch (left side of receiver) that "cams" the catch away from the magazine when depressed. The depression surface of this release type is generally oriented forward making access to the trigger finger of the left handed user impossible. This forward orientation also creates a "fork" which is prone to accidental release and snagging by foliage and equipment.

Type 5 : Side Latch (Lever Type) Left Hand Biased - This type of release is similar to Type 2 but is found on the left side of the weapon. Its location forward limits access to the thumb of the non-firing hand (right handed shooter) or the thumb of the firing hand (left handed shooter).

Type 6 : Improved Transversely Operable Side Latch, Ambidextrous Release - This design incorporates the best features of several release types giving the user a complete range of options for magazine release. The release can be actuated by the trigger finger, as well as the thumb of the non-firing hand of right or left handed users. Design features correct problems that exist with the standard magazine catch (Type 3) issued with M16A2 and M4 type weapons. The low profile and streamline design are not prone to snagging or accidental release. This type can be used with MMHs (Multiple Magazine Holders) and high capacity drums like the Beta "C-Mag". The Ambi-CatchTM is the best magazine release available for M16A2 and M4 type weapons.

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