Exploring the AR-15: What is the Button on the Right Side of the Lower Receiver?

The AR-15, a semi-automatic rifle widely used in both civilian and military applications, has a variety of buttons and functions on its lower receiver. One of the most common questions that arises is regarding the button located on the right side of the lower receiver. This article aims to clarify the purpose of this button, whether it is the magazine release or the forward assist.

Understanding the AR-15's Lower Receiver Buttons

The lower receiver of the AR-15 is a significant component, housing several vital components including the magazine well, trigger, and the buffer tube. It is also the location where various buttons are situated, each serving a unique function. Among these buttons, the one located on the right side is a common point of confusion for many users. Let's explore the two most likely possibilities for this button.

The Magazine Release Button

The magazine release button is one of the most frequently used parts of the AR-15 system. It is typically located near the magazine well, either to the front or to the side. This button's primary function is to release the magazine, allowing it to be inserted or removed from the rifle.

"The button that means 'If you don't know what this is, you have no business touching this weapon.'"

This is often used as a humorous reference to the safety of the rifle. However, the button's primary function is crucial for the user to be able to load or unload the magazine when necessary.

The Forward Assist Button

Another common button located on the right side of the AR-15 lower receiver is the forward assist. This button, which often appears at an angle facing backward, is a safety feature that helps push the bolt forward if it encounters resistance during loading.

Introduced in the M16 version, the forward assist was intended to help users manually push the cartridge into the chamber when the rifle had become fouled or dirty. However, it has largely become a relic in modern AR-15 rifles. In fact, it is rarely used and often omitted by manufacturers during the construction of the lower receiver.

Despite its lack of utility in appropriate cleaning and maintenance, the forward assist remains a feature in some models of AR-15 rifles.

Conclusion: Identifying the Button on the Right Side

To conclude, the button on the right side of the AR-15 lower receiver is most likely the magazine release button. The forward assist button, while potentially present, is less common and not as essential in modern AR-15 configurations. Proper identification of these buttons is crucial for both the functionality and safety of the rifle.

Understanding the AR-15's components, including these buttons, can greatly enhance your experience and familiarity with the firearm. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help ensure that the magazine release button operates smoothly while rendering the forward assist button, if present, unnecessary for everyday use.