Overloaded Magazines

Published on April 27, 2025
Duration: 1:12

This video provides a practical demonstration of how overloading a firearm magazine can lead to seating issues. The instructor highlights that while it might seem possible to fit an extra round, doing so can prevent the magazine from properly engaging with the firearm, potentially causing malfunctions. The core takeaway is to always check magazine capacity and avoid overfilling to ensure reliable firearm operation.

Quick Summary

Overloading firearm magazines, such as a Magpul PMAG, by adding an extra round beyond its capacity can prevent it from seating properly in the firearm. This can lead to malfunctions and make it seem like the gun has an issue when the problem is the magazine. Always verify magazine capacity and avoid overfilling.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Magazine Overloading
  2. 00:07Common Issue with Various Magazines
  3. 00:14The Problem of Loading Magazines Too Full
  4. 00:21Example: Overloading a Magpul PMAG
  5. 00:31Consequences: Firearm Not Seating Properly
  6. 00:41Bolt Locked Open vs. Standard Seating
  7. 00:46Simple Solution: Remove Extra Round
  8. 00:57Reminder: Check Your Magazines
  9. 01:07Conclusion and Safety Reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if you overload a firearm magazine?

Overloading a firearm magazine, such as a Magpul PMAG, by adding an extra round beyond its capacity can prevent it from seating properly in the firearm. This can lead to malfunctions and make it seem like the gun has an issue when the problem is the magazine.

Can you fit an extra round into a standard capacity magazine?

Yes, it is often possible to physically force an extra round into a magazine beyond its designed capacity. However, this is not recommended as it can compromise the magazine's ability to feed rounds reliably and can cause the magazine to not seat correctly in the firearm.

How can overloading a magazine affect firearm operation?

An overloaded magazine may not seat fully into the firearm's magazine well, preventing the bolt from closing or the firearm from being ready to fire. This can be mistaken for a firearm malfunction, but the root cause is the overfilled magazine.

What is the best practice for loading firearm magazines?

The best practice is to load firearm magazines only to their stated capacity. Avoid forcing extra rounds into the magazine. Always check that the magazine seats correctly and locks into place before attempting to chamber a round.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from CMMG

View all →