I’ve always liked shooting single action pistols but when it came to anything beyond target shooting the magazine release became an issue. As a left handed shooter it is difficult to become effective with most 1911s and the Browning Hi-Powers because they are set up for a right handed shooter with the magazine release on the left side of the gun. I found the motion necessary to push it with my index finger awkward and ruined my grip. Several months ago I found the Cylinder and Slide ambidextrous magazine release and ordered two. One was for my 1911 and the other for my Hi-Power. Since then I’ve shot defensive pistol using them several times and really like them.
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The release completely replaces the original button and is an easy 5 minute install. The way it works is that it adds a small lever to the right side of the frame. Pushing down on the lever, toward the base of the grip, causes the lever to pivot against the frame of the gun and pulls the release toward the right side of the frame, releasing the magazine. Simple, effective design. The release is constructed completely of metal and seems very durable. The lever is small, unobtrusive and does not interfere with holstering. The release is available in a blued finish or hard chrome and can be ordered for a 1911 or a Hi-Power. There is a similar model available for Glocks. Even on the hard chrome model the lever is black.
The release retains a traditional button of the left side of the gun. Although I don’t use it this may be important to some. If you’re a left handed shooter and want to make your Hi-Power or 1911 easier to manipulate try one of these out. For less than $50 it’s a great upgrade.
