Quick Tip: Installing the AR Magazine Catch

Caleb from Brownells back again and today, I'm going to walk you through how to install the magazine catch assembly on an AR-15 lower receiver, and we're going to do it without any specialized tools. This is something every AR builder should know how to do, so let's get right into it.

First, we're going to take the magazine catch assembly. You'll see it has a threaded post. We're going to insert this post into the appropriate slot on the lower receiver—it's the rectangular hole, pretty straightforward, just like fitting the square peg into the square hole when you were a kid playing with blocks.

Now, flip the receiver over. You'll see the post sticking out. Next, we're going to slide the spring over the post on this side, and then we'll attach the button. Notice that the button has one serrated side and one flat side; the serrated side should be facing outward.

Hold the button down with your thumb to keep tension on it, and then flip the receiver back to the other side. Here, you'll start screwing the threaded post into the button by turning it clockwise. If it doesn't catch the thread immediately, rotate it counterclockwise a bit—you'll feel it click when it's ready, then go clockwise.

Keep screwing until the post is almost touching the receiver, ensuring not to press it against the receiver. You want to screw it in just enough so that it's flush or just below the surface of the button.

To make sure the button is well-seated, push it in far enough so that the post can turn more, and continue threading it until it's flush with the button. For this part, I recommend using a piece of polymer or a nylon punch to push the button without scratching it, a pen cap works just fine. This will prevent any damage to the finish of your receiver or the button.

And that's pretty much it! Just do a quick function check by pressing the button to ensure it springs back correctly. You can also insert a magazine to make sure it locks in place and releases smoothly.

So there you have it—a simple, tool-free method to install your AR-15 magazine catch. No need for over-complication, just a straightforward process that anyone can follow.

Thanks for joining me today. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to drop a comment below. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more handy tips and tutorials. Catch you in the next video!