Dumb 1911 question. :o)

[Dryft]

Hey y'all,

I know this is probably the work of a thirty second Google search, but since I value your opinions...

Can the magazine release on a 1911 be switched to the right side? Or, if not switched, is there an alternate solution?

This occurred to me in the car earlier. Yes, I was looking where I was going and obeying the speed limit!

Thanks, and thank you for not making too much fun of me for this one.


Dryft.

 

[rcmodel]

No, it can't be switched.

If you are left handed, the alternate solution is to push it with your trigger finger.

Cylinder & Slide does mike this goofy thing if you just can't adapt.
http://www.cylinder-slide.com/index.php?app=ccp0&ns=prodshow&ref=CS0121B

rc

 

[MaterDei]

Yes it can be switched. Many lefties use their trigger finger to engage the release. In fact, some righties install ambi mag releases so that they can do the same.

http://www.smithandalexander.com/guides.html#mag-release
http://www.bulletworks.com/Mag_catch.html

 

[bigfatdave]

I want a kit to put a Walther/HK style paddle release on mine

 

[Dryft]

Thanks folks!

I like the look of the Smith & Alexander one - though Cylinder & Slide have always had a fond place in my heart. Shame that one is unavailable.

So it's doable, if absolutely needed. Cool.

Thanks again!

 

[MedWheeler]

I don't own a 1911, but I am a southpaw. I do carry other "right-handed" pistols, and use the middle finger to depress the magazine release on each one.

I rented a 1911 to try out at the range once, and that method worked fine there as well.

Many makers do offer a "reversible" magazine release set-up, but most do not.
Also, more makers are marketing guns with ambidextrous magazine releases and safeties. The Rock Island Armory ones are a decent starting point for an entry-level 1911; been looking closely at them for a while now. Just not ready to take the plunge into a new caliber, and I don't want a 1911 in 9mm.