For most users of the AR-15 weapon platform, the magazine release button is an often overlooked part of their setup, even though it is essential to weapon functionality. While its use and function may seem commonplace to even the most novice of modern shooters, its inclusion in the initial design of the AR-15 was revolutionary. As opposed to the single feed, clip-fed, or even AK-47 style magazine of the time, the introduction of the magazine (and mag release) on the AR-15 platform offered simplicity and ease of use. The overall design and placement of the mag release on an AR-15 hasn’t changed in the roughly 60 years since its inception, and for good reason. Located on the right side of the receiver, near the trigger, and positioned in a way that it can easily be reached by an outstretched trigger finger, the mag release button makes reloading quicker, easier, and more reliable. While the location and function of the magazine release button haven’t changed much in the years since there have been attempts to update and modernize the button itself to provide even more functionality to the end-user.

Upgraded Functionality For The Mag Release Button

The function of the magazine release button is fairly straightforward; a magazine is locked into the receiver with ammunition and compressing the button allows the magazine to “drop” and another to be reloaded. While it may seem like an unimportant piece of the overall weapon, the mag release is integral to the proper operation of the AR-15 weapon system. Many modern shooters are content with the OEM button that comes built-in, however, as sport shooting has become more commonplace, accessory manufacturers have introduced upgraded versions of the mag release button that offer additional features which can provide a better and more personalized fitment. While some have introduced color options and even different textures and sizes to allow for customization of the button itself, very few have added new functionality. RailScales, while often recognized for their namesake G10 AR-15 MLOK Rail panels, have also introduced additional products such as their CSMR Mag Release button, with the goal of improving the overall shooting experience.

Enhance Your Next AR-Build 

The Concentric Spring Magazine Release, or CSMR, by RailScales has a number of additional features that should be taken into consideration by anyone looking to enhance their AR-15 build. Unlike most out-of-the-box AR-15 mag releases, the CSMR features two bosses on the backside to help keep the spring concentric during compression, and a raked 8º face for more natural finger placement. Keeping the spring concentric during compression helps eliminate the crunchy feel when depressing, a common problem that can lead to unreliable mag drops and in some cases can even cause the weapon to jam or malfunction. For most, this would be a relatively mild annoyance at the gun range. Those in the line of service, whether in law enforcement or the military, are looking for any advantage that makes reloading their AR-15 faster and more reliable. An enhanced mag release button won’t make up for training, but for those who are already proficient in the AR-15 system, RailScales has designed a solution with their CSMR button that can give a subtle advantage over an OEM mag release button. 

Aesthetic Appeal With A Performance Boost

The CSMR button not only provides additional functionality to a commonly overlooked piece of the overall AR-15 system but also offers some aesthetic upgrades as well. Offered in popular industry colors of Black and FDE, the RailScales button is also available in two textures. For those who want to stick with a more original look and feel their MilSpec version still offers concentric compression and an 8º angled face while maintaining the classic mag button look. The Apex version gives some added grip and texture, creating a more reliable and natural indexing point for the trigger finger. While this may not be the first build piece most shooters look to upgrade, the RailScales CSMR button is an immediate and noticeable improvement over the standard mag release.