How Long Can You Leave Your AR-15 Magazines Loaded? The Definitive Answer

Published on February 14, 2023
Duration: 4:43

This video definitively answers how long AR-15 magazines can be loaded, demonstrating that magazines loaded for 17 years (since 2005) with 55-grain soft point ammunition still functioned reliably. While best practice dictates rotating duty ammunition, the test shows that long-term storage in magazines does not inherently degrade their feeding capability, provided they are stored properly. The speaker, Dave Timm from Guns and Tactics, emphasizes that while rotation is ideal, loaded magazines found in storage can likely still be used.

Quick Summary

AR-15 magazines can be left loaded for extended periods, with a 17-year test demonstrating continued reliability. Magazines loaded since 2005 fed rounds without issue, dispelling concerns about spring compression or feed lip spreading. While rotating ammunition is a best practice, loaded magazines found in storage can likely still be used if properly stored.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: How Long Can Mags Stay Loaded?
  2. 00:12The Question: Ammunition Storage in Magazines
  3. 00:22Speaker Introduction: Dave Timm, Guns and Tactics
  4. 00:36Backstory: Patrolman Gear and Go Bags
  5. 00:53Duty Ammo and Go Bag Magazines
  6. 00:59Best Practice: Rotating Duty Ammunition
  7. 01:05Loaded for Years: Finding Old Gear
  8. 01:14The Test: 17-Year-Old Loaded Magazines
  9. 01:18First Magazine Feed Test
  10. 01:48Test Results: Functionality After 17 Years
  11. 01:57Steel vs. Polymer Feed Lips Discussion
  12. 02:02Best Practices for Ammunition Storage
  13. 02:17Magazine Identification: Center Industries GI Mags
  14. 02:26Conclusion and Call to Action
  15. 02:40Q&A Series and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can AR-15 magazines safely be left loaded?

In a practical test, AR-15 magazines loaded with ammunition for 17 years (since 2005) continued to function reliably, feeding rounds into the rifle without issue. This suggests that long-term storage does not inherently degrade magazine feeding capabilities.

What happens to magazine springs and feed lips when left loaded for a long time?

Concerns about magazine springs permanently compressing or feed lips spreading due to prolonged loading were not observed in a 17-year test. The tested magazines maintained their integrity and reliably fed ammunition.

Is it necessary to rotate ammunition in loaded AR-15 magazines?

While rotating duty ammunition every year or two is considered a best practice, a 17-year test demonstrated that loaded magazines can remain functional. However, proper storage in a cool, dry place is crucial for ammunition longevity.

Can old loaded magazines still be used?

Yes, if you find loaded magazines that have been stored for a long time, they can likely still be used. A test showed magazines loaded since 2005 functioned perfectly. It's always advisable to test them before critical use.

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