California Bullet Button

Product Description

The California Bullet Button is a magazine release device designed to bring AR-15 pattern rifles into compliance with California assault weapon regulations. It replaces the standard magazine release and requires the use of a tool—typically the tip of a cartridge—to drop the magazine.

This component addresses California’s definition of an assault weapon by requiring a tool to release the magazine rather than allowing removal with the press of a finger. The modification became widely adopted as a compliance method before regulatory changes altered the legal landscape.

Shooters outside California sometimes install a bullet button for training consistency if they move between states, or to familiarize themselves with compliant configurations.

Key Facts

• Product Name: California Bullet Button
• SKU: BB-CA
• Category: Lower Part Accessories
• Compatibility: AR-15 pattern lower receivers

CA Bullet Button Installation and Fit

The California bullet button installs in the magazine release position on AR-15 lower receivers. It replaces the factory magazine release button and threads onto the magazine catch in the same manner as a standard release.

No permanent modifications are required to the lower receiver itself. The button accepts the standard detent and spring that retain the magazine catch. Installation typically requires basic AR-15 assembly tools and familiarity with lower receiver components.

If you need help determining fit for your specific lower or want guidance on installation, send us a message and speak with our gunsmith.

M&P 15 and AR-15 Compatibility

The California bullet button fits the Smith & Wesson M&P 15 and other AR-15 pattern rifles that use mil-spec magazine release components. The threading and dimensions follow the standard AR-15 lower parts spec.

Rifles with proprietary magazine release systems or non-standard lower receivers may not be compatible. Verify your lower uses a threaded magazine catch before ordering. Browse our full selection of lower parts if you need additional components for your build or compliance project.

Current California Regulations

California firearm regulations have evolved significantly. The bullet button was once a widely accepted compliance method, but state law changed to restrict rifles equipped with this device unless they were registered during specific registration windows.

If you are purchasing this component for use in California, confirm current state and local laws before installation. Our team can discuss the regulatory background, but we recommend consulting a California-licensed attorney or reviewing the California Department of Justice guidance for current compliance requirements.

For shooters in Texas and other states, the bullet button may serve as a training aid or be used in states with similar regulatory structures.

Ordering from Western Sport

Order online and it ships straight to your door. Western Sport has been a licensed FFL/SOT dealer since 2007, and everything we sell carries the full manufacturer warranty. Questions before you order? Send us a message.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a California bullet button?

A: A California bullet button is a magazine release device that requires the tip of a cartridge or similar tool to release the magazine on an AR-15 rifle. It was designed to meet California’s former definition of a fixed magazine by preventing release with the shooter’s finger alone. The device threads onto the magazine catch in place of the standard release button.

Q: Does the CA bullet button fit the M&P 15?

A: Yes, the CA bullet button fits the Smith & Wesson M&P 15 and other AR-15 pattern rifles with mil-spec lower receivers. The M&P 15 uses standard AR-15 magazine release threading and dimensions. If you have a different rifle platform or a lower with non-standard components, send us a message to confirm compatibility.

Q: Is the California bullet button still legal in California?

A: California law changed after the bullet button became popular, and rifles equipped with this device are now restricted unless they were registered during specific windows. Current California law requires different compliance methods for most new builds. If you are in California, verify current state regulations and consult legal guidance before purchasing or installing this component.

Q: Can I install a bullet button on my AR-15 in Texas?

A: Yes, you can install a bullet button on an AR-15 in Texas. There is no Texas state law prohibiting this modification. Shooters sometimes install a bullet button for training purposes or to match the configuration of rifles they use in other states. Installation follows the same process as replacing a standard magazine release.

Q: How do I install the California bullet button?

A: The California bullet button installs by threading it onto the magazine catch in place of the factory magazine release button. You will need to remove the pistol grip to access the magazine catch detent and spring, then unscrew the old release and thread on the bullet button.