Care and feeding of magazines

88usnret

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Is there any tech data on the length of time a mag can be left loaded without negetively affecting the spring tension/functioning of the magazine? General rules of thumb you guys use? Any info will be appreciated-Thx. Steve.
 
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IIRC FBI SRT changes out all springs on their 1911s every 1500 rounds.

They also rotate mags to let springs rest.

That is overkill and I will gladly take their throwaways.

I carried the same mags and mag springs on duty for several years, about 10K before I changed out only because I felt it was time (no issues)

as long as the springs are current issue, they should last if you care for them (not exposed to humid environment without cleaning)

mag spring compression issues have been floating on the net for years.

mags and mag springs are just important as the care of your firearm. Maintain them when you maintain your firearm. They should last you but if they start to rust or feel soft (springs)...time to replace.

many used to load -1 to capacity just to ensure they are not fully compressed for long periods. Me, if it takes 7, I will put 7...if it takes 13, I will put 13.
 
Springs do not take a set, what wears them out is cycles. The most common problem with leaving mags loaded for an extended period is that sooner or later the feed lips can start to spread from the constant tension.
 
I suspect you'll be seeing a few more comments on this. According to a bunch of folks - engineers etc. the full compression isn't the problem. Its the load unload/reload cycle on the spring. I've seen on this and other sites where mags loaded from WWII are still fully functional. This should be another interesting thread.
 

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