Firearm Safety
Firearm safety is an important topic that is relevant to many firearm owners around the world.
One aspect of Firearm Safety is the proper care and maintenance of the firearm. A malfunctioning firearm can cause safety issues.
Many firearm owners do not regularly shoot their firearm let along regularly clean and service it.
These firearms are left in the safe for extended periods of time with the magazines loaded which means the spring is under constant tension.
On the other hand, some firearm owners who carry handguns for self-defense have it holstered, and dust and cloth particles may enter the magazine. In some cases, these Everyday Carry firearms are also not shot in a regular basis.
Here are some thoughts on keeping your firearm loaded for extended periods of time without emptying the magazines to check if it still feeds properly.
How long can you keep your firearm loaded?
It is generally recommended to rotate your handgun magazines every few months to ensure that the springs stay in good condition. Keeping a magazine loaded for an extended period of time can cause the spring to become weak, which can lead to feeding issues.
There is no hard and fast rule for how long you can keep a magazine loaded, as it will depend on the specific design of the magazine and the caliber of the rounds it holds. Some experts recommend rotating your magazines every three to six months, while others suggest doing it every six to twelve months. Ultimately, it is important to pay attention to the condition of your magazines and replace them if they show any signs of wear or damage.
Also remember that Every Day Carry (EDC) firearms may collect a considerable amount of dust and fluff from clothing that could potentially cause the magazine to jam and malfunction.
In addition to rotating your magazines, it is also a good idea to regularly practice loading and unloading them to ensure that you are proficient in handling them. This will not only help you maintain your shooting skills, but it will also help to prevent any issues that may arise from not using your magazines regularly.
In conclusion, it is important to regularly rotate your handgun magazines to ensure that the springs remain in good condition. While there is no set time frame for how long you can keep a magazine loaded, it is generally recommended to do so every few months. By taking good care of your magazines and practicing with them regularly, you can ensure that they are always ready to use when you need them.