shep854
Member
A lot of military training varies with the trainer. In the Marine Corps, I was trained to use the left thumb to release the bolt carrier. That is the method illustrated in the ‘Guidebook For Marines’.
Bolt catch/release questions
- Thread starter ARVOL
- Start date
Rastoff
US Veteran
Actually the pictures in the referenced book show using the right thumb by reaching over the top. It's a mystery to me why they would pick this pic to show that. The narrative doesn't specify any particular way. It just says to press the bolt release after inserting the magazine. I don't think I would ever use this method, but like I said, there are many ways to do this.
shep854
Member
Good catch, Rastoff! �� I looked at my ‘97 edition and that is indeed an awkward way to do it. I’m looking for my early ‘70s copy to see what it illustrated.
The left thumb was definitely used both to lock the bolt back and release it during Inspection Arms—FWIW... ��
The left thumb was definitely used both to lock the bolt back and release it during Inspection Arms—FWIW... ��
MichiganScott
Member
Depending on my position, I either slap the side of the rifle or wrap my hand around the mag well and use my thumb. As Rastoff said, either way is acceptable. It just depends on your training.
