Brownells - AR-15 Magazine Spring and Follower Replacement

Published on November 11, 2008
Duration: 2:49

This guide details the process of replacing the magazine spring and follower in a 30-round AR-15 magazine. It highlights the use of a Brownells Chrome Silicon spring as an upgrade over standard stainless steel springs due to its resistance to taking a set. The procedure involves using a center punch to release the floor plate, removing the old components, installing the new spring onto the follower, and reassembling the magazine.

Quick Summary

Replacing the magazine spring and follower in your AR-15 magazine is a straightforward process. Use a tapered center punch to release the floor plate, then needle-nose pliers to detach the old spring from the follower. Install the new spring, reattach the follower, and reassemble the magazine, ensuring the floor plate's square end aligns correctly with the magazine body.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: Magazine Spring Replacement
  2. 00:09Brownells Chrome Silicon Spring
  3. 00:30Disassembly Process
  4. 00:36Using a Center Punch
  5. 00:52Safety Glasses Reminder
  6. 01:07Removing Old Spring and Follower
  7. 01:24Detaching Spring from Follower
  8. 01:30Installing New Chrome Silicon Spring
  9. 01:48Inserting Spring and Follower into Magazine
  10. 02:02Seating the Assembly
  11. 02:13Reinstalling the Floor Plate
  12. 02:24Securing the Floor Plate with Punch
  13. 02:32Completion

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools are needed to replace an AR-15 magazine spring and follower?

You will need a tapered center punch to release the magazine's floor plate and needle-nose pliers to detach the old spring from the follower. It is also highly recommended to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during the process.

Why is a Chrome Silicon spring recommended for AR-15 magazines?

Chrome Silicon springs are often recommended as an upgrade because they are less likely to 'take a set' and have less 'memory' than standard stainless steel springs. This means they can maintain their tension and shape better over time, potentially leading to more reliable feeding.

How do you remove the old spring from the follower in an AR-15 magazine?

The spring is typically retained on the follower by a small cross piece. You can use needle-nose pliers to gently pry this cross piece outward, allowing you to detach the old spring from the follower.

What is the correct way to reinsert the floor plate on an AR-15 magazine?

The floor plate has a specific orientation. It features a square end that must align with a corresponding square on the magazine body. Once aligned, you can use a center punch to push the floor plate in and snap it into its final secured position.

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