Bolt catch

[Robespierre]

How does the bolt catch of a rifle lock the bolt back on an empty mag? and how does it "know" that the mag is empty?

And I know there are several different systems, so an explanation of any of them would be welcome.

 

[eternal24k]

Re: Bolt catch

the mag follower pushes up on the bolt catch like a lever, which then obstructs the path of travel for the bolt. For the AR15 the catch meets the bolt face.

 

[MaximumVelocity]

Re: Bolt catch

Eternal is right, when the last round leaves the mag, the follower pushes up on the bolt catch and it stops the forward momentum of the BCG.

 

[justwoody1]

Re: Bolt catch

^^this. pretty much the same for most guns.

 

[Robespierre]

Re: Bolt catch

Thanks for the information. It helps.