SOLGW Lower & FCD Magazine Catch Compatibility Problem

Published on March 15, 2025
Duration: 2:08

This video demonstrates a compatibility issue between a Sons of Liberty Gunworks (SOLGW) lower receiver and a Forward Controls (FCD) magazine catch, specifically when using polymer magazines. The instructor highlights that this is a case of tolerance stacking, where two otherwise functional parts do not work together in a specific combination. The solution presented is to replace the FCD magazine catch with a standard one.

Quick Summary

A common AR-15 compatibility issue arises from tolerance stacking between a Sons of Liberty Gunworks lower receiver and a Forward Controls magazine catch, particularly with polymer magazines. The thicker feed lips of polymer magazines can cause them to not seat properly. The solution is often to replace the FCD magazine catch with a standard one.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Problem Statement
  2. 00:17Initial Testing with Standard Mag Catch
  3. 00:35Reinstalling FCD Mag Catch
  4. 00:48Demonstrating FCD Mag Catch Failure
  5. 01:15Explanation: Tolerance Stacking
  6. 01:32Polymer vs. Aluminum Magazines
  7. 01:51Solution and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes magazine seating issues with a SOLGW lower and FCD magazine catch?

The primary cause is tolerance stacking, where the specific dimensions of the Sons of Liberty Gunworks lower receiver and the Forward Controls magazine catch do not align perfectly, leading to interference when inserting magazines.

Do polymer magazines cause magazine seating problems with AR-15s?

Yes, polymer magazines can exacerbate magazine seating issues because their feed lips are often thicker than those on aluminum magazines, taking up more space and increasing the likelihood of interference with certain lower receiver and magazine catch combinations.

How can I fix a SOLGW lower that won't accept magazines with an FCD magazine catch?

The most straightforward fix is to replace the Forward Controls magazine catch with a standard, mil-spec compliant magazine catch. This often resolves the tolerance stacking issue and allows magazines to seat properly.

Is the FCD magazine catch or SOLGW lower defective if they don't work together?

Not necessarily. This situation is a common example of tolerance stacking, where two parts that are individually within spec may not function correctly when paired together due to slight variations in their manufacturing tolerances.

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