Forward Controls Design EMR-A (Enhanced Magazine Release – Ambidextrous)
EMR-A is a long in development ambidextrous magazine release for .223 and .308 AR receivers.
Original concept and design was complete in 2015. After numerous changes to the mag catch geometry and lever shapes, final design was made into working prototypes in 2017, and first shown in public at Cola Warrior West III. EMR-A is an ergonomic ambidextrous magazine release. The placement of its lever is well thought out to closely mirror the magazine release button on the right side. The portion immediately below the bolt catch’s lower paddle has a lower profile to avoid interference, heretofore a common drawback of popular ambidextrous mag catches, it is also left smooth. The serrated length of the lever is split into a shallow V shaped serrations (80%) that conform to the curvature of the user’s finger, and straight serrations (20%) that form a natural index point, and provide additional traction. We refer to the design as Multi-faceted Control Surface, the difference MCS makes has to be felt to be fully appreciated.
Two lever options are available. Standard and Extended Reach (about 0.09″ longer than standard). Force amplification achieved from a lever means the extended reach lever is easier to reach, it’s also easier to press than the standard lever. For users with small hands or shorter fingers, the extended reach lever makes the EMR-A a joy to use. For duty and defense ARs, we recommend the standard lever.
A 10.9lb rated magazine catch spring is included with each EMR-A. We’ve long considered the standard magazine catch spring to be rather weak (rated at 8.3lb), accidental / unintended mag drops can take place if a user slings his weapon, and has gear and pouches on the vest. A stiffer mag catch spring mitigates these risks, thus it is an integral part in the EMR-A package.
EMR-A is available as a part of bundled products (please see drop down menus for options). EMR-A’s catch is made from CNC machined 4140 steel and black nitride coated, its lever is 7075 aluminum and Type 3 hard coat anodized. The roll pin has a shear strength of 800lbs.
Standard for EMR-A, Nov. 2019 and onward
The LP (low profile) mag catch shaft option reduces the mag catch shaft length by a full revolution, or 0.03. The LP option on the EMR-A (not available for serrated lever EMR-A till mid 2020) reduces the installed height of the right hand mag release button, resulting in a right side mag release button that sits below the mag release fence. This is our latest step to mitigate accidental / unintended mag drop risks.
The LP on the EMR-A will not reduce the EMR-C’s installed height on an AR15/M16 to the point where EMR-C doesn’t constitute accidental/unintended mag drop risks. The LP option’s shorter mag catch shaft aims to reduce the installed height of a TDP spec mag release button (such as our EMR), it isn’t a solution for extended mag releases, the installed height of which would require a drastically shorter shaft to offset. EMR-C is meant for 7.62mm ARs, even though it works on an AR15 / M16, we suggest it be relegated to 7.62mm ARs and gaming ARs, not for defense and duty.
jellis2731 (verified owner) –
Great ambi Mag Release! Great fit and finish! Another awesome product from FCD!
Michael Mock (verified owner) –
Great product, and Rooftop had incredible customer service with lightning quick speed! Make sure you read the description of this one on the FCD website
Cody (verified owner) –
This is a no brainer if you are a South paw. It feels way better than the alternative of pulling the mag with your right hand. also you should buy it from Rooftop. They are awesome.
Alex Utroska (verified owner) –
Right handed, left eye dominant. I think that says it all.
I run my builds as fully ambi as possible, and I love the placement, action, and feel of the FCD ambi mag release. If you are looking for an ambi release.. buy it. Your only regret will be not having done it sooner.
Alex U.
MW –
perfect for lefties.