Clip does not equal magazine, unless it feeds a GI M1.
A (box) magazine is different from a clip in that it holds unfired cartridges, is inserted into the weapon, feeds those cartridges through firing cycles, locks the bolt/slide back when empty but a clip ejects itself from the gun rather than staying in it like a magazine.
A slide stop is not a slide realease. The stop stops the slide from coming forward at any time by manually engaging it or when the magazine (or clip) follower automatically activates it after the last round is fired.
When the slide stop is deactivated, it releases the slide to come forward. The fact that the slide stop absolutely can, does and HAS to function as a release as well as a stop really irks some pedantist manual munchers.
Because the manual mentions only the sling shot method to release the slide stop, and the manual calls it a stop, that is the end of the discussion for some.
However, many slide stops have a single name, "stop", but numerous ways to utilize the part both as a stop AND a release, although heaven forbid if someone ever calls it a release, even though everyone knows to which part is being referred. There is no ambiguity in nomenclature nor function.
In truth, when adjusted, the slide stop will release the slide in more ways than it will stop the slide travel.
1. Overhand sling shot method, the most recommended operation is the slowest, longest, most hand-movement intensive and least expensive method to construct a mass manufactured gun. When the stop comes from the factory without any fitting, tuning or custom adjustment, this may be its only release option.
2. Adjusted, a slide stop can release the slide with finger or thumb pressure, a simple, fast, less movement intense method for using the stop as a release.
3. With the adjustment of #2 above, it is also easier to release the slide for an emergency one-handed reload. A definite benefit if ever needed.
4. With the adjustment of #2 above, it is also easier to release the slide when using the gun in the off hand.
5. With the adjustment in #2, releasing the slide can be done with the thumb of the firing hand, a definite plus if the other hand is not available.
6. The slide stop can be adjusted to release on snappy insertion of a loaded mag, eliminating the need for the overhand slingshot method, the thumb method, the finger method, or any other manual method. Simply inserting the loaded mag with enough upward force causes the stop to drop, functioning as an automatic release. Easy, fast, available also for one handed emergency manipulation.
So, yeah, it is first a stop, but it's also a release. It can't function as a release until it has first functioned as a stop. Insert smugness. Yep.
Now, care to discuss the MAG RELEASE, which first functions as a STOP before it can be a release?
Following the same nomenclature based on first use rather than subsequent function, it should be a mag stop, and certain folks should get their shorts in a knot if anyone calls it a mag release. In truth, it cannot function as a release--unless it first has positive function as a stop. So being called a stop is actually more critical to the functioning of the gun than being a release.
But wait, the manual calls it a mag release, so if we just do and say only what the manual tells us to do and say, everything will be fine. The flock of sheep will mostly be controlled and docile, despite ignoring expanded and useful capabilities of the gun and it's part nomenclature.
"It's not a release, it's a stop. The Manual says so on p. Xx."
Oh if I had a penny for every time that is written on gun boards with pedantic rule aficionados, I could easily buy a new Shield without a discount.
Patience grasshoppers. Flexibility. Pedantic recitations of simplified, not incorrect but definitely function challenged Manual directions based on cheap manufacturing and traditional but often inaccurate nomenclature is to be avoided in favor of more helpful, wide ranging discussion. IMO.