How to Repair and Upgrade AR-15 Magazines Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Published on March 20, 2009
Duration: 1:31

Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA provides an expert guide on repairing and upgrading AR-15 magazines. He demonstrates the disassembly process, compares different follower and spring designs, highlighting how newer versions offer improved reliability. The guide covers cleaning the magazine body and reassembling with new components, emphasizing the importance of replacing worn parts for optimal firearm function.

Quick Summary

Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA explains that the magazine spring and follower are critical for AR-15 reliability. He demonstrates how to disassemble the magazine, clean the body, and reassemble it with new components. Newer follower designs often have longer legs for improved function, and replacing worn springs and followers in older magazines is recommended for optimal performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:07AR-15 Magazine Introduction
  2. 00:19Magazine Follower Comparison
  3. 00:32Magazine Spring Comparison & Repair Need
  4. 00:42Magazine Disassembly Process
  5. 00:50Cleaning Magazine Body
  6. 00:55Magazine Reassembly
  7. 01:07Function Testing & Recommendation
  8. 01:19Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components to check for AR-15 magazine reliability?

The critical components for AR-15 magazine reliability are the magazine spring and the follower. Worn or damaged springs can lose tension, and followers with worn legs can cause feeding issues. Replacing these parts can significantly improve your magazine's performance.

How do you disassemble an AR-15 magazine for repair?

To disassemble an AR-15 magazine, first ensure it's unloaded. Then, remove the base plate from the bottom of the magazine. Once the base plate is off, you can carefully pull out the magazine spring and follower assembly.

What are the benefits of upgrading AR-15 magazine followers?

Upgrading AR-15 magazine followers, particularly to newer civilian designs, can enhance reliability. These newer designs often feature longer legs, which are engineered to improve the feeding of ammunition into the rifle's chamber more consistently.

When should you replace AR-15 magazine springs and followers?

It's advisable to replace AR-15 magazine springs and followers when they show signs of wear, such as a compressed spring or a follower with damaged legs. This is especially important for older GI magazines to ensure consistent and reliable feeding.

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