[ < Back to lower parts ]
Lower PartsValue Tier

Various

Extended Bolt Catch

Oversized bolt catch paddle for easier activation. Helps with gloves or under stress.

Quick Specs

Price
Contact for price
Weight
N/A
Brand
Various
Category
lower-part

Features

  • Extended paddle
  • Drop-in replacement
  • Steel construction
  • Mil-spec compatible

Compatibility Tags

family: ar-pattern

Overview

Extended bolt catches represent a subtle yet highly effective upgrade to the AR-15 platform, featuring an oversized paddle that makes bolt manipulation significantly easier during reloads, malfunction clearances, and administrative handling. The enlarged surface area provides a larger target for your support-hand thumb, reducing fumbling and missed activation attempts during stressful situations or when wearing gloves.

These drop-in replacements maintain full compatibility with mil-spec AR-15 lower receivers while offering tangible ergonomic improvements. The extended paddle typically adds 50-100% more surface area compared to standard GI bolt catches, making it substantially easier to lock the bolt back during administrative functions or emergency reloads. Steel construction ensures durability and maintains proper engagement with the bolt carrier group under repeated use.

The beauty of extended bolt catches lies in their simplicity - they provide real-world performance benefits without adding complexity, weight, or additional failure points. They're particularly valuable for shooters who frequently wear gloves, those with larger hands, or anyone who has struggled with the small GI bolt catch paddle. This is one of those upgrades that you don't know you need until you try it.

Key Features

  • Oversized paddle with 50-100% larger surface area
  • Drop-in replacement for standard AR-15 bolt catch
  • Steel construction for durability and reliability
  • Easier manipulation with gloves or under stress
  • Mil-spec compatible with all standard lowers
  • Textured surface for positive engagement
  • No permanent modifications required

Pros

  • +Significantly easier to activate than standard bolt catch
  • +Perfect for gloved operation or cold weather use
  • +Larger target reduces missed activation attempts
  • +Simple drop-in installation
  • +Maintains standard reliability with added functionality
  • +Excellent value for meaningful ergonomic improvement

Cons

  • Slightly increased snag potential on gear or clothing
  • May require slight adjustment to support hand placement
  • Not as aggressive as dedicated bolt release levers
  • Some models may require fitting on tight lowers

Detailed Specifications

compatibility
AR-15 / M4 platforms (mil-spec lowers)
Material
Steel
finish
Black oxide / phosphate / anodized (varies by manufacturer)
installation
Drop-in replacement
paddleSize
Extended (varies by model, typically 50-100% larger)
function
Bolt hold-open and release
spring
Uses standard bolt catch spring
roll_pin
Uses standard .093" roll pin

Compatible Platforms

+23 more

Similar Products

Build Your Custom Configuration

Add the Extended Bolt Catch to your build and see how it enhances your platform.

Start Building