I bought my rifle new in 2012, and it has run perfectly for many thousands of rounds.
Today, I installed an ambi mag release, and removing the bolt release was necessary to install new parts.
While I drifted out the roll pin, I retained the bolt catch with my thumb and carefully lifted it out.
To my surprise, no plunger or spring underneath.
Normal, or did the factory fail to install them for a reason?

Installed a plunger and spring from my AR parts kit, and the bolt catch works well on the bench, and has (as expected) a noticeably tighter (proper) feel.

Thoughts?

Didn't disassemble mine but when pressed and released, it springs back. Did yours even function?

I think mine only has a spring in the channel under the bolt catch which interfaces with a little nub on the back of the bolt catch/paddle

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D V C

No problems, ever.