Author Topic: Reversible mag release? (Read 554 times)

huntswithdogs · « **on:** April 07, 2005, 09:21:17 AM »

Guys,

I want to buy a 1911. My problem is though, I'm left handed and while shooting I trip the mag release. 2 shots, slap the mag back in or bend over to pick it up! Not something that you want happening if you really need to be using a pistol for defense.

I know that a lot of the newer 1911s are coming with ambi safties,but can you change the release around or buy a replacement?

HWD

williamlayton · « **Reply #1 on:** April 08, 2005, 12:01:24 AM »

NOT a person that has ever done this but my readings have given some answers to your question.
I have read that the mag release can be reversed, this is a job for a Smith I would think.
Smaller mag releases are available as well as larger.
Those are the two thoughts that I have.
pistolsmith have good forums on this kind of work and they are friendly folks, but I am sure that someone here will have better answers for you than I.
Blessings

Mikey · « **Reply #2 on:** April 08, 2005, 02:24:26 AM »

huntswithdogs - Yes to both your questions. There are amidexterous safeties and magazine release button availalbe. Check a Brownells catalog, they should have something. Also, maybe some of the other posters can direct us better. HTH. Mikey.

Iowegan · « **Reply #3 on:** April 08, 2005, 05:25:49 PM »

Smith & Alexander make a nice Ambi magazine release. It works great for left handers. The problem is, it works from either side and would not resolve the problem you are having. They also cost about $100.

Does the 1911 you were shooting have an extended mag release? If so, changing to a standard release would probably fix your problem. I used to do range instruction for 1911s and had to help left handed shooters develop techniques to deal with the 1911. Start by gripping the gun with your left hand then wrapping the right fingers over the left fingers. Both thumbs should be on the right side of the gun pointed up and forward and not touching the slide. Center the trigger on your finger print. This keeps your trigger finger away from the frame and the mag release. You should see a half inch of daylight between the mag release and your finger. When your finger print is centered on the trigger, you will be able to squeeze the trigger without pulling the muzzle right. Too much finger in the trigger guard is sure to cause marksmanship problems as well as mag release problems.

Lloyd Smale · « **Reply #4 on:** April 10, 2005, 12:03:31 AM »

im right handed and once had a 1911 set up that way because it was slightly faster to dump a mag. Problem was that in compition id forget which gun i had so i just went back to the standard configuration. Theres an easy fix for your problem Just install a stiffer spring in the button brownells sells them i believe.