The Ruger American rifle platform, while generally praised for its accuracy and affordability, occasionally suffers from magazine-related feeding problems. These issues, ranging from occasional failures to complete malfunctions, can significantly impact shooting performance. This comprehensive guide delves into common Ruger American magazine issues, offering practical solutions and preventative maintenance strategies to ensure smooth, reliable feeding.
Identifying the Problem: Common Ruger American Magazine Issues
Before diving into fixes, accurately identifying the source of the problem is crucial. Several factors can contribute to magazine malfunctions in Ruger American rifles:
1. Magazine Follower Issues:
- Bent Follower: A bent magazine follower can impede smooth cartridge feeding. Inspect the follower for any bends or damage. A slightly bent follower might be gently straightened with pliers, but severe damage necessitates replacement.
- Follower Binding: Sometimes, the follower can bind against the magazine body, hindering its movement. This often occurs due to dirt, debris, or wear and tear. Thorough cleaning is often the solution.
- Weak Follower Spring: A weakened spring may not provide sufficient upward pressure on the follower, leading to inconsistent feeding. Replacing the magazine spring is often necessary in these cases.
2. Magazine Body Issues:
- Loose or Damaged Magazine Body: A damaged or poorly fitting magazine body can cause misalignment, leading to feeding problems. Inspect the magazine for cracks, warping, or excessive wear. Replacement is often the only viable solution for damaged magazine bodies.
- Rough Interior Surfaces: Rough or burred surfaces inside the magazine can snag cartridges, leading to feeding issues. Careful polishing of these surfaces can resolve the problem.
3. Cartridge Issues:
- Damaged Cartridges: Occasionally, damaged or improperly seated cartridges can cause feeding malfunctions. Ensure all cartridges are in perfect condition before loading the magazine.
- Incorrect Ammunition Type: Using ammunition that is not compatible with your rifle can result in feeding problems. Always consult your owner’s manual for recommended ammunition types.
Troubleshooting and Solutions: Practical Steps to Fix Ruger American Magazine Problems
Once you've identified the potential problem, here are practical steps to resolve common Ruger American magazine issues:
1. Thorough Cleaning and Inspection:
- Disassemble the magazine: Carefully disassemble the magazine to inspect all components for damage, dirt, or debris.
- Clean thoroughly: Use a suitable cleaning solvent and brush to thoroughly clean all parts of the magazine. Pay particular attention to the follower and the interior surfaces of the magazine body.
- Reassemble and test: After cleaning, carefully reassemble the magazine and test its functionality in your rifle.
2. Addressing Follower Issues:
- Straightening the follower: If the follower is slightly bent, carefully straighten it using pliers. Be gentle to avoid damaging the follower.
- Replacing the follower: If the follower is severely damaged or the spring is weak, replace it with a new follower and spring. Ruger replacement parts are readily available.
- Lubrication: Applying a small amount of gun lubricant to the follower and spring can improve its smooth operation.
3. Addressing Magazine Body Issues:
- Polishing rough surfaces: If the interior surfaces of the magazine body are rough, carefully polish them using fine grit sandpaper or a polishing compound.
- Replacing the magazine: If the magazine body is damaged, replacing it is the best course of action.
4. Checking Ammunition:
- Inspect cartridges: Carefully inspect all cartridges for any signs of damage or improper seating.
- Verify ammunition type: Double-check that you're using the correct type of ammunition for your Ruger American rifle.
Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Ruger American Magazines Running Smoothly
Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding magazine-related problems. Here are some essential steps:
- Regular cleaning: Regularly clean your magazines to remove dirt, debris, and any build-up of residue.
- Proper storage: Store your magazines in a dry, clean environment to prevent corrosion and damage.
- Inspect regularly: Periodically inspect your magazines for signs of wear and tear.
By following these troubleshooting steps and implementing preventative maintenance, you can significantly improve the reliability and performance of your Ruger American rifle's magazines, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable shooting experience. Remember, if you are unsure about any repair procedure, it's always best to consult a qualified gunsmith.
