2011 Extended Magazine Release Upgrade: Faster Reloads for USPSA & IPSC Competition

Why USPSA Competitors Are Upgrading Their 2011 Magazine Release

A reload in USPSA competition should take under two seconds. For top-level Limited and Open Division shooters, sub-1.5-second reloads are the standard. The single biggest bottleneck in most shooters' reload speed isn't the magazine insertion — it's the magazine release.

Factory 2011 magazine release buttons are designed for general use: adequate reach, moderate surface area, conservative spring tension. For a casual range session, they work fine. For a 32-round field course where you're executing three standing reloads under time pressure, "fine" isn't good enough.

An extended magazine release gives you a larger activation surface, reduced reach distance, and more consistent actuation — shaving tenths of a second off every reload.

What Makes a Competition Magazine Release Different

Extended Reach and Surface Area

The Boss Components 1911/2011 Extended Magazine Release extends further from the frame than stock, reducing the distance your thumb needs to travel. The wider, textured surface area means you don't need to hunt for the button — your thumb finds it on the first attempt, every time.

This matters most under match stress. When adrenaline degrades fine motor control, the difference between a flush-mounted stock button and an extended competition release is the difference between a clean reload and a fumbled one.

Colour-Coded Options for Quick Identification

Available in 7 colour options including black, silver, red, blue, gold, purple, and green, the extended mag release lets you colour-match your 2011 build or use a contrasting colour for tactile reference. Some shooters prefer a bright-coloured release as a visual anchor during reload practice — your brain learns to associate the colour with the correct thumb placement.

Drop-In Compatibility

Fits all standard 1911 and 2011 pattern frames: STI, Staccato (P, XC, XL), Bul Armory (SAS II, Trophy), Atlas, SVI, and classic 1911 frames. No fitting, no gunsmithing — remove the old one, install the new one, function check, and you're match-ready.

Installation in Under 5 Minutes

Tools required: 1/16" hex wrench for grip panels, a small punch

Step 1: Clear the pistol completely. Remove the magazine and lock the slide back.

Step 2: Remove the left grip panel to expose the magazine release mechanism.

Step 3: Push the magazine release inward from the left side. You'll see the magazine release lock spring — depress it with your punch and slide the release button out from the right side.

Step 4: Insert the new extended magazine release from the right side, ensuring the lock spring clicks into the detent groove.

Step 5: Function check with an empty magazine: the magazine should drop free cleanly when you press the release. Verify from multiple grip positions.

Step 6: Reinstall the grip panel using your 1911 Hex Grip Screw & Bushing Kit.

Pairing Your Magazine Release with the Right Base Pads

An extended magazine release only helps if your magazines drop free reliably. The right base pads add weight to the magazine bottom, ensuring gravity-assisted drops even with a worn or tight magazine well.

For USPSA Limited Division (IPSC Standard), pair with:

For USPSA Open Division (IPSC Open), pair with:

For MBX magazine users: MBX 2011 Brass Base Pad ($44.99). For SVI: SVI 2011 Brass Base Pad ($44.99).

Complete Your 2011 Competition Setup

The magazine release works best as part of a complete controls upgrade. These are the complementary modifications that create a cohesive competition package:

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this mag release work with my Staccato XC?

Yes. The Boss Components extended magazine release fits all 1911/2011 pattern frames including every Staccato model (P, C2, XC, XL), STI, Bul Armory SAS II and Trophy, Atlas Gunworks, and SVI Infinity.

Do I need to change my mag release spring?

No. The extended magazine release uses your existing factory spring. Spring tension remains identical to stock — only the button surface and reach change.

Is this legal in USPSA Limited Division?

Yes. Extended magazine releases are explicitly permitted modifications in USPSA Limited, Limited 10, Open, Single Stack, and Carry Optics. For IPSC, they're legal in Standard, Open, and Classic divisions. Reference the current USPSA rulebook at uspsa.org.

Red, black, or silver — which colour is most popular for competition?

Black and red are the two most popular choices among USPSA competitors. Black for a clean, professional look; red for high-visibility contrast that aids in reload training. The choice is purely aesthetic — all colours use identical materials and construction.

Can I install this myself or do I need a gunsmith?

This is a true drop-in part. No fitting, filing, or specialised tools required. Installation takes under 5 minutes. If you can remove a grip panel and use a punch, you can install this yourself.

Stop Losing Time on Reloads

At $39.99, the 1911/2011 Extended Magazine Release is the highest-ROI upgrade for reload speed on your 2011. Drop-in installation, 7 colour options, and universal compatibility with every major 2011 manufacturer. Pair it with matching brass base pads for magazines that drop free every time.

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