Incredibly rare and hard to find, this is an early Colt short leg magazine catch. These are the first main type of magazine catch produced after the early prototype-style magazine catches. These have a slightly domed end and a short axle which is noticeably shorter than a standard M16A1 magazine catch.
These were used throughout Colt 601 production and into the Colt 602, but would be a great addition to any early Colt rifle like a 607 or 608.
These are genuine surplus parts in very good condition and will show minimal signs of wear/use and feature an excellent early phosphate finish.
NOTE: In the comparison photo (LEFT) early Colt 601/short leg, (RIGHT) standard M16A1