Description
A 1911's mag release is one of those small parts that gets taken for granted until it doesn't work the way you want it to. Ed Brown built this extended release to fix that exact problem, stretching the button out an extra .060 inches over the factory piece so you can hit it cleanly without shifting your grip or fumbling around during a reload. It's a small change that makes a noticeable difference once it's installed.
Why the Extended Magazine Release Earns Its Keep
The added length means less hunting for the button mid-reload, which matters whether you're at a match or just running drills at the range. The button itself carries machine cut checkering at 40 lines per inch, giving your thumb something to grab onto instead of sliding off a smooth, slick surface. Ed Brown also machined in a positive stop so the release can't be pushed in too far and hang up your magazine, a detail that keeps things running smoothly under pressure.
Stainless Construction Built to Last
This version is machined from solid stainless bar stock and heat treated, so it holds up to years of use without the checkering wearing smooth or the button loosening up. Overall length comes in at .935 inches, and the stainless finish matches nicely with stainless slides and frames while resisting the corrosion that can creep into carry guns over time. It's a straightforward upgrade that looks good and works even better.
Fitting the Extended Magazine Release to Your 1911
This release is designed to fit single stack 1911 frames including Government, Commander, and Officer's models, and it's built as a drop-in replacement using your existing magazine catch spring and lock. If those parts are worn or you're rebuilding the frame anyway, Ed Brown's rebuild kits carry fresh springs and locks to go along with it. The shape stays low profile enough that it won't snag holsters built for tactical carry, so you're not giving up concealment or retention to gain speed.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ed Brown
- Manufacturer Part Number: 855-E
- UPC: 800732855011
- Model Fitment: 1911 Government, Commander, Officer's
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Hand Orientation: Right-hand
- Overall Length: .935 inches
- Button Extension: +.060 inches over standard length
- Checkering: 40 LPI machine cut
- Construction: Machined from solid bar stock, heat treated
- Frame Compatibility: Single stack 1911 frames
- Country of Origin: Made in USA
What’s Included
- Ed Brown Extended Magazine Release button (855-E)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this extended magazine release fit my Commander or Officer's frame, or is it just for the Government model?
It's built to fit all single stack 1911 frames, so Government, Commander, and Officer's models are all covered. The design stays consistent across sizes since the magazine catch geometry on single stack 1911s is standardized. Just keep in mind this is for single stack guns, not double stack or 2011-style frames.
Do I need to buy a new spring or catch lock to install this magazine release?
No, it's designed to work with your factory magazine catch spring and lock already in the gun. If those parts happen to be worn out or you're doing other work on the frame at the same time, Ed Brown sells rebuild kits that include fresh springs and locks. But for a straightforward swap, your existing hardware will do the job.
Will the extended button make my magazine release stick out too far and interfere with my holster?
It's built to keep a low enough profile that it won't interfere with tactical style holsters, so most carry setups won't have an issue. The extension is only .060 inches over standard, which is enough to improve reach without turning the button into a snag point.
What's the difference between this stainless version and the blued Ed Brown extended magazine release?
The two are functionally identical, same .060 inch extension, same 40 LPI checkering, same positive stop. The only real difference is finish, so it comes down to matching the release to a stainless or blued frame and slide.





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