Forward Controls Design EMR-A Ambidextrous Magazine Release

The Forward Controls Design EMR-A (Enhanced Magazine Release – Ambidextrous) is one of the most thoughtfully engineered ambidextrous magazine releases available for the AR platform. Designed from the ground up for duty, defensive, and hard-use rifles, the EMR-A provides intuitive magazine release capability from either side of the rifle while minimizing the risk of accidental magazine drops.

Unlike many ambidextrous magazine releases that prioritize size over ergonomics, the EMR-A features carefully sculpted controls, premium materials, and enhanced spring tension to deliver fast, positive manipulation without compromising reliability.

Features

• Fully ambidextrous magazine release
• Available with Standard or Extended Reach lever
• Multi-Faceted Control Surface (MCS) for enhanced grip
• Low-profile lever design minimizes interference with the bolt catch
• Heavy-duty 10.9 lb magazine catch spring included
• Billet 4140 steel magazine catch
• 7075-T6 aluminum release lever
• Black Nitride and Type III hard coat anodized finishes
• Compatible with AR-15 and AR-10 platforms
• Made in the USA

Specifications

• Platform: AR-15 / AR-10
• Magazine Catch: Billet 4140 Steel
• Lever Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
• Magazine Catch Finish: Black Nitride
• Lever Finish: Type III Hard Coat Anodized
• Included Spring: 10.9 lb Enhanced Magazine Catch Spring

Purpose-Built Ergonomics

The EMR-A wasn't adapted from an existing magazine release—it was designed specifically to provide true ambidextrous operation without sacrificing ergonomics.

The left-side lever closely mirrors the position of the factory magazine release button, making operation feel natural regardless of which hand is manipulating the rifle. The lower portion of the lever is intentionally slim to prevent interference with the bolt catch, while the upper control surface features Forward Controls Design's Multi-Faceted Control Surface (MCS).

The MCS combines shallow V-shaped serrations with straight indexing serrations to provide exceptional grip and tactile feedback under stress, with gloves, or in adverse conditions.

Standard vs. Extended Reach

The EMR-A is available with two lever options to accommodate different hand sizes and shooting styles.

• Standard Lever: Recommended for duty, defensive, and general-purpose rifles.
• Extended Reach Lever: Approximately 0.09" longer, providing additional leverage and easier activation for shooters with smaller hands or shorter fingers.

Both options maintain the same robust construction and intuitive control layout.

Enhanced Reliability

Forward Controls Design includes a 10.9 lb magazine catch spring with every EMR-A—significantly stronger than the typical mil-spec spring.

The increased spring tension helps reduce the likelihood of accidental magazine releases caused by slings, gear, barricades, or body armor pressing against the magazine release button. It's a small detail that makes a meaningful difference on rifles intended for serious use.

Premium Construction

Every major component of the EMR-A is built to withstand years of hard use.

The magazine catch is precision machined from 4140 steel and finished in Black Nitride, while the ambidextrous lever is CNC machined from lightweight 7075-T6 aluminum and protected with a Type III hard coat anodized finish. The two are joined by a heavy-duty roll pin with an 800-pound shear strength, ensuring exceptional durability.

Our Thoughts

There are plenty of ambidextrous magazine releases on the market, but very few feel as refined as the EMR-A.

Forward Controls Design clearly spent years perfecting the ergonomics, and it shows. The control placement feels natural, the serrations provide outstanding traction, and the enhanced spring tension adds confidence that your magazine stays locked in place until you intentionally release it.

For most shooters, we recommend the Standard Lever. It offers excellent accessibility while minimizing the chance of accidental activation. The Extended Reach option is a fantastic alternative for shooters with smaller hands or anyone looking for the lightest possible activation.

If you're building a premium AR with fully ambidextrous controls, the Forward Controls Design EMR-A is one of the finest magazine releases available.

Shipping Information

As a small business committed to maintaining operational efficiency and competitive pricing, OSA operates on a just-in-time inventory model rather than stocking every product in-house.

Please allow 5–7 business days for order processing before shipment.

Thank you for supporting Ocean State Armory!