Let’s Talk About Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release is an aftermarket AR-15 component designed to facilitate faster and easier magazine changes. Manufactured by Timber Creek, known for their visually striking and functional AR parts, this extended magazine release aims to improve ergonomics and speed up reloads. It promises compatibility with all AR platform variants and is constructed from CNC machined aircraft grade aluminum.
As an experienced tactical gear specialist, I’m always looking for ways to improve weapon handling and efficiency. Shaving off fractions of a second during a reload can be critical in competitive shooting or tactical situations. The stock magazine release on some of my AR builds felt a little too recessed, requiring me to shift my grip more than I liked to actuate it.
Upon unboxing, the Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release felt lightweight yet robust. The CNC machining appeared clean and precise, and the anodized finish was smooth and consistent. It certainly looked the part, adding a touch of visual flair to my otherwise mil-spec lower receiver.
I’ve previously used extended magazine releases from Strike Industries and Magpul. I chose the Timber Creek offering because of its reputation for quality and its aggressive styling which I thought would complement my current build. My initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-made and potentially very useful upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release at my local shooting range during a training session. I ran a series of drills focused on speed reloads and malfunction clearance. The weather was dry and sunny, providing optimal conditions.
The extended release immediately felt easier to reach and actuate. I didn’t have to shift my grip as much, which resulted in faster and smoother magazine changes. The textured button provided a positive grip, even with slightly sweaty hands.
However, I did notice a slight wobble in the button itself, similar to some user feedback I had seen. Despite this minor issue, the magazine release functioned reliably, dropping magazines cleanly every time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of magazine changes. The anodized finish still looks good, and there’s no evidence of corrosion.
I regularly clean my AR-15 after each range session, and the Timber Creek release requires no special maintenance. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other extended magazine releases, the Timber Creek offering has proven to be quite durable and reliable.
Breaking Down the Features of Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Timber Creek.
- Gun Model: AR-15. This magazine release is designed specifically for the AR-15 platform and compatible variants.
- Additional Features: Compatible with all variances of the AR platform. This ensures broad compatibility across different AR-15 makes and models.
- Gender: Unisex. This is a functional component with no gender-specific design elements.
- CNC Machined Aircraft Grade Aluminum: Provides strength and durability while keeping the weight low. The CNC machining ensures precise dimensions and a clean finish.
- Extended Design: Allows for easier and faster magazine changes by providing a larger and more accessible surface area. This is particularly beneficial for shooters with smaller hands or those wearing gloves.
Performance & Functionality
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release significantly improves reload speed by making it easier to access the magazine release button. The extended button reduces the amount of grip shift required, allowing for faster and more efficient magazine changes. While the button exhibits a slight wobble, it doesn’t negatively impact its functionality.
The primary strength is its improved ergonomics and accessibility. A notable weakness, as highlighted by some users, is the smaller-than-mil-spec button size and resulting play within the receiver. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly extended magazine release.
Design & Ergonomics
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing a good balance of strength and weight. The design is visually appealing, with clean lines and a variety of anodized color options to match different AR builds. In terms of ergonomics, the extended button is easy to reach and actuate.
The installation process is straightforward, and most users should be able to install it themselves with basic tools. However, the aforementioned wobble in the button can be a minor annoyance.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and anodized finish should provide good resistance to wear and corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to ensure a long service life. The design is relatively simple, so there are few parts that could potentially break or fail.
Replacement magazine release springs are readily available if needed. The finish appears durable and resistant to scratching.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release doesn’t come with any accessories, as it is a standalone component. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 lower receivers and magazine catch assemblies. The user can choose from several anodized color options to match their existing AR build.
It works well with aftermarket ambidextrous magazine release systems. The user feedback mentions pairing it with bad levers and ambi safety switches, suggesting good compatibility with other popular upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release
Pros
- – Improved ergonomics and faster magazine changes.
- – CNC machined from durable aircraft-grade aluminum.
- – Compatible with all AR-15 platform variants.
- – Available in a variety of anodized colors.
- – Affordable price point.
Cons
- – Magazine release button is smaller than mil-spec, resulting in some play in the receiver.
- – Some users report a slight wobble in the button.
Who Should Buy Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release?
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release is perfect for:
- Competitive shooters looking to shave off fractions of a second on their reloads.
- Tactical shooters who need faster and more efficient magazine changes in dynamic situations.
- AR-15 enthusiasts looking for a visually appealing and functional upgrade to their rifle.
- Hobbyists who enjoy customizing and upgrading their AR platform.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who prioritize a rock-solid, zero-tolerance fit and finish above all else.
- Users who are extremely sensitive to even the slightest wobble or play in their components.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- An ambidextrous safety selector is a good complement to this upgrade for enhanced weapon manipulation.
- A high-quality magazine catch spring can help ensure reliable magazine release.
Conclusion on Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release
The Timber Creek AR Extended Magazine Release offers a significant improvement in ergonomics and reload speed for AR-15 users. While it’s not without its minor flaws, such as the slight wobble in the button and the smaller-than-mil-spec button size, its benefits outweigh its drawbacks for most users. At a price of $13.33, the value proposition is excellent.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and effective upgrade to their AR-15 magazine release. It’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking to improve their weapon handling and reload efficiency. Upgrade your AR today and experience the difference!