How to Load an AR15/M16 Magazine Using Stripper Clips

This instructable will demonstrate how to load an AR15/M16 magazine using the GI issued (formerly GI issued) stripper clips and the filler/guide tool.

I used a 20 round magazine because its easier to take pictures of with everything attached to it, but the process is the same for 30 round magazines.

I can't stress enough firearm safety, and because of that you will notice there are no firearms present in any of my photos. If you play with firearms or ammunition your playing with your life.

Step 1: What Your Going to Need

Gather everything you going to need for the reload. Most of these stripper clip kits come with a GI issue style bandolier to keep everything in, but below are all of the major components your going to need to load your magazine using the stripper clip.

Step 2: Load the Clips

Take your ammunition out of the box and load 10 rounds into the stripper clip by gently bending down the brass tab on the end of the clip.

Using the groove on the cartridge as a guide slide all 10 rounds down into the clip.

Step 3: Prepare to Load the Magazine

Attach the stripper loading tool (sometimes called loading guide) along the "spine" of the empty magazine.... it would be pointless to load a loaded magazine =)

Take your first loaded stripper clip and slide it into the loading tool already attached to the magazine.

Step 4: Load You Magazine.

Place you hand around the magazine and (as shown) use your thumb to push the rounds into the magazine.

Once your last round is inside of the magazine remove the clip. Repeat the process until your magazine is full then remove the tool and your ready to go!

Proper technique may take a magazine or two in order to master, but with a little patience and a little practice you can get really quick at doing this.

My first instructable, so be kind!

Comments

[rustygray]

Really great Instructable, As a veteran and shooter I know this process all too well.

That is why I invented and patented the Rapid magazine Loader USPTO 8,453,366.

[Defenis]

I can see the patents and basic design diagrams anything available for purchase?

[MillennialDIYer]

Stripper clips are way too unappreciated. Though once you start using them, you have zero patience for calling magazines "clips". This should have been featured!

[Southpaw69]

I know I'm very late to this party, but would this work with PMags?

[PGTampa]

It will work with PMag's and I've just confirmed that this weekend with a couple different capacity/generations. Use with confidence!

[gpay10]

Very good and usable info, straight and to the point. I tossed my plastic "speed loader" and bought the setup you showed, way faster and no more feed jams! thank you!

[twarfield]

That's cool

[mr. grim]

where did you get the tracers at?

[daelans]

naw jk. i was actually trying to see if i could find something on a marine kit, cause im trying to get, or at least look like, the marine loadout for my airsoft.

[daelans]

aw thats boring, i thought for sure a stripper clip had something to do with a ... y'know...

[penguin27388]

Don't use wolf. if you are shooting a lot or fast (dumping out a 30 rounder) the casing will melt to the breech.... now i use federal after that happen twice. also do NOT buy POF (patriot ordinance factory). there gun are terrible.

[PGTampa]

I shoot a lot and fast.. never happened to me, but maybe its because I don't use JV firearms.

In the spirit of "be nice" I'm just going to say.. I think you are mistaken in your claim. Check your firearms owners manual and the labels on your ammo.

[mr.smashy]

LOL "JV firearms".

[bellwolf]

FYI...some rifle companies will void the warranty if you use cheap ammo like wolf. The case has a coating on it that will coat the chamber and is next to impossible to clean once it is in there.

[PGTampa]

Once again.. in the spirit of "be nice" im. Just going to say.. I think you are mistaken in your claim. Check your firearms owners manual and the labels on your ammo.

Nothing is impossible to clean.

[bellwolf]

I agree nothing is impossible to clean given the right cleaning gear, cleaning solutions, etc. However, the owners manual for my particuliar AR15 does specifically mention ammo such as "wolf" and several other cheap brands of ammo will void the warrenty. People just need to be careful, be informed, and then do what they want.

[PGTampa]

Personally - if I found out that any brand of NEW ammunition would void my warranty I would be shopping for another firearm manufacturer and NOT anther brand of ammunition.

[PGTampa]

I'm no advocate of any particular ammo but I've never had any trouble with wolf personally, but like with anything YMMV. I do, however, suggest you try and back up your claims when making a blanket statement about a brand or arms company.

[rdl]

Great post (I guess I'm used to 5.56mm coming on stripper clips already, with point protectors, level A pack...). The 550 cord is great. Maybe I should make a post about my personal M1 Garand (.308) and the en-bloc clips, and "avoiding m1 thumb"

[brandon borick]

how did you get it in 308 iv only ever seen 30-06 or is it costume