Abstract: A modified handgun or pistol provided with a magazine catch operable equally conveniently by a right or left-handed shooter in competitive shooting. The magazine catch mechanism includes a lever to draw out the catch. The lever is positioned for operation by the shooter's left thumb in addition to the button release positioned for the right thumb. Although on the opposite side of the gun handle, the lever moves the catch in the same direction as the button. The lever may be mounted in either of two positions for the left-handed shooter and can be added to an existing handgun having the right-handed button release with only minor modification to the gun. The lever is particularly adapted for the Colt 0.45 pistol, however, it is not limited to this particular gun.