Please forgive a dumb newbie question

[RolandW]

I've been looking everywhere. When installing the fully loaded magazine, is it OK to insert it with the bolt closed and then pull the charging handle back and let it go to chamber the first round (as I understand is common practice with an AR-15) or must you use only the procedure in the manual? It says to load with bolt locked open and then release it. Thank you.

 

[jackcachenc]

From Army training circular for M16 series. AR is civilan version of M16.

" Tap upward on the bottom of the magazine to ensure it is seated
Note: The magazine may be loaded with the bolt assembly open or closed."

 

[RolandW]

So the same holds true for the M&P 15-22: open or closed are both OK?
In one video I found for basic AR-15 operation, it sounded like it takes a bit more force to latch the mag into position with the bolt closed. Is that because the first round is being pressed up under the closed bolt (against the mag spring tension)? Appreciate the help. I've never shot an M16/AR-15.

 

[swood0580]

To answer your ?. Yes you can insert a loaded mag into your 15-22 and pull to chargeing handle to load the round with no problems to your 15-22. you can either load it pull chargeing handle or drop the bolt either is fine.

 

[RolandW]

Thanks a million. Didn't want to bend something. I wonder why they don't mention the closed-bolt method in the S&W manual. My guess is it's more common than opening the bolt first when inserting the first mag.

 

[OKFC05]

I wonder why they don't mention the closed-bolt method in the S&W manual.

The gun will work either way if the shooter completely seats the mag.

The standard manual of arms for any semi-auto is to load on an open bolt so the magazine will seat easily without having to compress 1/2 cartridge depth against the closed bolt.

When you don't get the magazine fully seated, it drops and does not feed the second round, which is very funny to everyone except the person holding the gun. I see it a lot on the range.

 

[Majorlk]

My guess is it's more common than opening the bolt first when inserting the first mag.

Actually it's not. Most experienced shooters that I know, especially handgunners, load to an open bolt for the reason the previous poster listed.

 

[RolandW]

Ah, so my intuition about the mechanics and increased difficulty of closed-bolt mag insertion was correct, but my guess about its prevalence was not. I suppose one out of two isn't bad for a beginner. Thanks, guys.

 

[Majorlk]

Ah, so my intuition about the mechanics and increased difficulty of closed-bolt mag insertion was correct, but my guess about its prevalence was not. I suppose one out of two isn't bad for a beginner. Thanks, guys.

Yup, 50 percent ain't too shabby.

Welcome to the learning club.

 

[Meeker]

Tap (bottom of the mag to maker sure seated,)
Rack (Pull bolt back, release to chamber a round,)
Attack (disengage safety and engage enemy with live weapon)

 

[chuck s]

The rifle doesn't care. It doesn't matter either way.

A magazine change (vs initially charging the rifle) should be done before the rifle is empty anyway, during a lull in the firing. The bolt will be closed as there's a live cartridge in the chamber. No need to cycle the bolt in this case.

-- Chuck