As a firearm noob, i've got some simple questions about maintenance , storing, and transporting handgun magazines.

 

 

 

Is it poor practice to store magazines fully loaded? ( 15 rd )

 

Do you need to lubricate your magazines?

 

Is it illegal in NJ to transport a loaded magazine ? ( Gun and ammo/mags in separate lock box while transporting correct? )

 

and lastly, could anybody recommend me a speed loaded for a 9mm ? Anybody own the HKS one?

 

 

Thanks

 

-Alec

Welcome!

 

I store my HD mags loaded, but use my HD gun at the range, and bring the magazines with me, giving them some use when I go.

 

I do not lube my magazines.

 

It is not illegal to transport loaded magazines, and I normally load my magazines for static steel the night before.

 

I do not use a loader, and my thumbs hate me.

 

Hope this helps!

Is it poor practice to store magazines fully loaded? ( 15 rd )

 

Not a problem. What wears out mag springs is cycling them (tension/compression). I've had loaded mags stored 10 years plus, that function just fine.

 

Do you need to lubricate your magazines?

 

You need to keep them clean. If you feel the need to lube, use a dry lube that won't migrate.

 

Is it illegal in NJ to transport a loaded magazine ? ( Gun and ammo/mags in separate lock box while transporting correct? )

 

Nothing in the statutes so you should be GTG. Most of us err on the side of caution, though, and transport empty.

 

could anybody recommend me a speed loaded for a 9mm ? Anybody own the HKS one?

 

The HKS one is OK, but I like the Uplula one better - and I have both.

 

Adios,

 

Pizza Bob

UPlula - but i would not call any of them "speed loaders" - at least not like this http://www.hornetproducts.com/ViewProduct.asp?ModelNumber=UCL

Ditto on what PB said on the cycling thing. Thats what wears out springs.

 

The only way i believe transporting loaded mags is illegal is if they are also inserted into the gun at the time of transport. The key is to have them separate.

 

I do occasionally use some dry lube (hornady 1-shot or otis dry lube spray) on some mags that are stiff or have metal on metal movement (metal body/metal follower)

 

get a UpLula loader, its the single best accessory you can have in your range bag. Hands down!

+1 Uplula. Had it for years, I don't come to the range without it.

You don't need to lube your mags, although I would highly recommend disassembling and cleaning them with a bit of CLP and a nylon brush. Sometimes the factory leaves some weird oily-gritty gunk in them.