Thankfully, not since I returned home from Vietnam. Over there four spare mags was all I could manage with all the other gear I carried. A total of thirty-six rounds for my .45 semi-auto.

Every police officer I have had dealings with (friendly or business) has carried two spare reloads. Speed loaders, speed strips, dump pouches, Mags, you name it, they all carried at least two.

Now to answer your first question: Two spares because sometime, the person may have to do a tactical reload and wouldn't it be a shame if he couldn't do two and thus lost his life?

Muss Muggins, the OP asked for tips and this is my tip and my choice for me and others.

Taking my own advice I'm in real trouble if I ever have to use my Llama .32 auto as I only have one spare mag for it. Hopefully I am never in a position where I even need the ammo carried in the gun all the time.

Ps: I am not offended by your inquiry.