5903 mag release button stiff

[BruceHT]

I recently acquired a 3rd gen 5903 mfg 1989. The 3 older mags that came with it release easily. The new mec-gar 15 round mags i just bought do not. The button is hard to press. Is that normal for any new mags on this gun or just new mec-gar mags? Will they work in over time or would anyone suggest an extended release button?

Thank you
Bruce

 

[jsbethel]

Jack First has the 745 catch nut in stock if you go for an extended version.

 

[BMCM]

So if I'm reading you right...
Factory mags drop fine but aftermarket mags stick, is that correct?
Do both mags snap in just as easily or do the MecGar mags require more force?
If so, I'd surmise the catch slot on the aftermarket mags is out of spec.

Cheers
Bill

 

[stansdds]

Magazine catch slot might be slightly mislocated or the magazine spring is very stiff. Lock the slide back and try the MecGar mags, if the magazine release tension is normal under this condition, I'd say its just the tension of the fresh springs in the new magazines. One thing to do with new magazines before using them is the fully load them and let them sit loaded for at least 24 hours. This allows the spring to take its initial set. It's not necessary to do this will all new magazines or magazine springs, but sometimes it does help them to work correctly. Go ahead, ask me how I know.

 

[MP-5]

Maybe some judicious filing on the top edge of the magazine slots?

 

[Alk8944]

If you are not aware the magazine catch tension can be adjusted. Depress the small plunger under the catch button and the button can be unscrewed or screwed deeper to adjust tension. The OPs photo looks like the catch button is screwed down pretty tight!

 

[gwpercle]

And smooth off any sharp edges on the new magazine ...
Compare old to new catch and make sure everything is smooth and burr-less and polished .
New magazines sometimes have rough edges that need removing ... check all the edges !
Good Luck ,
Gary

 

[adrianolsen]

If the mag,s are fine, sometimes the mag catch nut gets canted or the mag. Catch spring gets rusty