Why Does The Military Use 5.56 Stripper Clips And Should You?

Published on May 17, 2023
Duration: 9:57

This guide details how to load AR-15 pattern magazines using 5.56mm stripper clips and a spoon speed loader, a technique still relevant for modern polymer magazines like Magpul PMAGs and FTE Gen 3. The video, presented with expert authority, demonstrates that while older technology, stripper clips with speed loaders offer a faster and neater alternative to loading loose rounds, especially for long-term storage or rapid reloads. Proper terminology, like distinguishing clips from magazines, is emphasized for credibility.

Quick Summary

Modern polymer AR-15 magazines like Magpul PMAGs are compatible with military 5.56mm stripper clips and spoon loaders. This method offers faster, neater magazine loading compared to loose rounds, proving useful for storage and rapid reloads, despite being older technology.

Chapters

  1. 00:16M27 IAR Replica Overview
  2. 00:34Stripper Clips and Winchester Ammo
  3. 01:25Clip vs. Magazine Definition
  4. 02:26Ammunition Packaging and History
  5. 03:11Loading Ammunition with Clips
  6. 03:42Using the Spoon Speed Loader
  7. 04:23USMC Magazine Policy Changes
  8. 05:02Testing Clips in New Mags
  9. 05:38Loading New Mags with Clips
  10. 06:25Function Test
  11. 07:01M27 IAR Replica and Ammo Specs
  12. 07:46Reloading Time Test
  13. 08:11Old Tech in New Mags
  14. 09:03Ammo Storage and Ideal Use
  15. 09:18Call to Action and 2A Support

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still use military stripper clips with modern AR-15 magazines like Magpul PMAGs?

Yes, modern polymer magazines such as Magpul PMAGs and FTE Gen 3 are designed to work with stripper clips and spoon loaders. While the fit might be slightly tighter due to increased material, the functionality remains, making it a viable method for loading.

What is the advantage of using stripper clips for loading 5.56mm ammunition?

Stripper clips, especially when used with a spoon speed loader, offer a faster, neater, and more organized way to load magazines compared to handling loose rounds. This method is efficient for bulk storage and quick reloads.

What is the difference between a clip and a magazine in firearms?

A clip holds cartridges together for easier loading into a firearm's magazine or action. A magazine is a spring-loaded device that stores and feeds ammunition into the firearm's chamber. Using correct terminology is important for credibility.

What type of 5.56mm ammunition is commonly issued with stripper clips?

Military-issued 5.56mm ammunition, including common types like M193, M855, and M855 A1, is frequently packaged in stripper clips. Winchester M193, for example, is a 55-grain full metal jacket round often found this way.

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