Why do you need to press the button on the side of your JC Higgins model 60 after every shot?

The button on the side of the JC Higgins Model 60 is a magazine release that allows you to eject the spent cartridge and chamber a new round after each shot. This feature is necessary because the Model 60 is a semi-automatic rifle, which relies on this mechanism to cycle the action and ensure the firearm operates smoothly. Pressing the button ensures that the action resets properly, allowing for reliable feeding and firing with each trigger pull.