Is there a preferred method of actuating the bolt release on an AR15? Not just for sending the bolt home, but locking it back too.

I've had thoughts of replacing my lower on my rifle with a full ambi lower, but I don't know what the track record is on those.

I'd like to avoid using the BAD lever if I can. Thanks in advance!

I have a scope mounted on mine so to lock back I'll drop the mag and reach under the mag well with my strong hand while pulling the charging handle with my left. To release the bolt I just slap the release with my weak hand.

As a southpaw, I'm pleased that the standard bolt-release button is on the "proper" side for me to let it fly home.

 

As far as locking it back, I use my left hand to pull back on the charging handle and reach under the receiver with my right hand (wrapped around the front of the magwell) to depress the tit on the bottom of the bolt-release with the tip of my middle finger.

 

No need for a "full ambi" lower. Just add a Norgon Ambi Mag Release (approx $90) to a standard lower and you're good to go!

As a southpaw, I'm pleased that the standard bolt-release button is on the "proper" side for me to let it fly home.

 

As far as locking it back, I use my left hand to pull back on the charging handle and reach under the receiver with my right hand (wrapped around the front of the magwell) to depress the tit on the bottom of the bolt-release with the tip of my middle finger.

 

No need for a "full ambi" lower. Just add a Norgon Ambi Mag Release (approx $90) to a standard lower and you're good to go!

So far I have a Troy mag release, raptor charging handle, and BAD selector. I like that method a lot. I'll need to try it out.

The way Ive seen most common is to reach around the magwell and hit it with the right index finger/ middle combo.

 

No idea if that is "correct" as I'm a righty.

Use your trigger finger. This ensures trigger is off the trigger when you let the bolt fly home. 

On an ar a hard shoulder bump can send the bolt forward. Other than that its whatever your more comfortable with. Trial and error. As in most weaponry manipulation. Try the bump.