How to Switch Your Glock Mag Release

If your Gen4 or Gen5 Glock’s magazine release button is stiff, or you simply want to reverse it for left-handed operation, you’ll need to disassemble the frame. The process is straightforward, but requires a specific tool and attention to a small, critical spring. Here’s the exact procedure, based on hundreds of builds at Glockmod.

Tools You’ll Need for the Job

You don’t need a full armorer’s bench. A quality set of Glock tools, specifically a 3/32″ punch, is non-negotiable. The magazine release spring is under tension and a flimsy punch will bend, making reassembly a nightmare. A small flathead screwdriver or a dedicated Glock disassembly tool helps with the trigger mechanism housing pin. Have a clean, well-lit workspace—that small spring is a notorious “launcher.” For those looking to upgrade, Glockmod stocks extended and oversized magazine releases that offer a more positive click and easier manipulation without modifying the frame.

Step-by-Step Disassembly Process

First, ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. Remove the slide and magazine. Depress the trigger to decock the striker. Using your 3/32″ punch, drive out the trigger mechanism housing pin (the rear pin) from right to left. You only need to push it out far enough to clear the frame on the left side; do not remove it completely. This allows the trigger mechanism housing to tilt up slightly, relieving tension on the magazine release spring. Now, from the opposite side of the frame, use the punch to push the magazine release button inward. The button, spring, and spring cup will come free. Control the spring with your finger—it will try to escape.

Installing a New or Reversed Release

If you’re simply reversing the factory button for left-handed use, note the orientation of the spring cup—the cupped side faces the magazine release. Insert the spring into the cup. From the opposite side of the frame you want the button on, insert the spring and cup into the well. Compress the assembly with your thumb and slide the magazine release button onto the bar from the outside, engaging the notch on the magazine release bar. You’ll feel it click into place. For an aftermarket extended release, the process is identical. Many shooters find the Vickers Tactical or Glock OEM extended release offers a significant improvement in speed and leverage.

Reassembly and Function Check

With the new release installed, carefully lower the trigger mechanism housing back into position, ensuring the magazine release spring seats correctly in its channel on the housing. Re-insert the trigger mechanism housing pin, tapping it flush. The final, critical step is the function check. Insert an empty magazine. The release should offer positive resistance when pressed and the magazine should drop free cleanly. Cycle the release at least a dozen times to ensure smooth operation. If the button feels gritty or binds, the spring is likely not seated properly in its channel on the trigger housing. A properly installed release is one of the simplest reliability upgrades you can perform.

FAQ: Glock Magazine Release

How do I switch my Glock mag release?

You need to partially remove the rear trigger housing pin to relieve spring tension, then push the existing magazine release button inward from the opposite side to disassemble it. Install the new or reversed button by compressing the spring and cup, sliding the button onto the bar from the outside, and reassembling the frame. Always perform a function check with an empty magazine afterward.

How do I switch my Glock mag release side?

To switch sides for left-handed operation, follow the standard disassembly process. Once the original button is removed, reinstall the identical parts from the opposite side of the frame. The spring cup always faces the button, and the button must engage the notch on the magazine release bar. This is a standard feature on Gen4 and Gen5 models.

How do I reverse a Glock mag release?

Reversing the release is the same as switching sides. The procedure requires a 3/32″ punch to remove the rear frame pin, allowing you to decompress and remove the magazine release assembly. Simply reinstall the assembly from the other side of the frame, ensuring the spring is correctly seated against the trigger mechanism housing.

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Last updated: March 27, 2026