It is a common question, so we want to show you the difference between a magazine and clip. Magazines and clips are both used to store ammunition, but there are some key differences between the two.
Magazines are typically spring-loaded and they feed ammunition into the chamber of a gun. Clips, on the other hand, are typically flat and used for feeding ammunition into the magazine of a firearm.
The picture above demonstrates the differences between the two.
Many inexperienced shooters (and even some long-time gun enthusiasts) are confused by the distinction between a “clip” and a “magazine.” They might use the terms interchangeably or simply refer to magazines as “clips”.
It is important that we speak in correct terms. To do otherwise makes us look and sound foolish and ignorant. Professionals, enthusiasts, and weapons experts are well-versed in the real usage of each word. So, I’m attempting to assist new shooters learn the facts and dispelling firearm misconceptions and myths.
The last thing you want to do is sound like an ignorant anti-gunner – and that is what you sound like to most when you misuse these terms.
Detachable magazines
Magazines are loaded prior to shooting. Loading several detachable magazines at once will allow a shooter to reload quickly.
Magazines are inserted directly into the firearm and remain in place while the weapon is firing.
When the magazine is empty, the shooter will:
- press the magazine release
- remove the empty magazine
- insert another fully loaded magazine into the firearm
Clips
Clips can make the loading of a magazine faster and easier. In some instances, a clip is actually required to allow the firearm to function properly. An example of this is the M1 Garand.
Clips can be used to reload many fixed and detachable magazines quickly.
Stripper clips are pre-loaded, often in bandoliers, clip pouches, and/or ammo cans. In order to use with a fixed magazine, the clip is usually:
- Placed into a slot with the bolt open
- Rounds are pressed down upon and get “stripped” off the “clip” and into the fixed magazine of the firearm
- The clip can either be removed or in some instances, closing the bolt will remove the clip and load a round into the chamber at the same time.
Clips are reusable many times in most instances. However, stripper clips can lose tension or become weakened from metal fatigue and wear over time.
In the British military, a stripper clip is often referred to as a “charger”, or “charger clip” instead of a stripper clip. It is a commonwealth military term.
Using a clip to load a detachable magazine
You can see the basic steps for loading a detachable magazine by using a stripper clip and a device known as a stripper clip guide or charger loading spoon.
Simply press the rounds into the magazine and they will strip off of the clip. Repeat as many times as needed. Using this method, you could reload a 30 round magazine in a matter of seconds.
If you are having a hard time stripping the rounds off by hand, you can invert the magazine and place the rounds against a hard surface to load the magazine.
Detachable vs Fixed Magazines
Most modern firearms make use of detachable magazines. However, depending on the design of the firearm, some modern guns, and many older designs use fixed magazines.
Examples of guns with fixed magazines are:
- M1 Garand
- SKS (there are some exceptions with the SKS-M and SKS-D models)
- Most bolt action rifles (especially older milsurp models)
- Lever action firearms
- Most shotguns (which make use of a tubular magazine under the barrel)
Many of these guns, particularly military and police models would make use of clips in order to expedite the reloading process. However, many guns with fixed magazines don’t even use stripper clips, and are loaded one round at a time. Hunting rifles, lever actions, and pump shotguns are a good example of this.
Prior to 1958, the primary US service rifle did not make use of a detachable magazine. The M-14 was the first standard military service rifle to make use of detachable magazines. However, the BAR, M1/M2 Carbine, Thompson, and other firearms did make use of detachable magazines. The M16 and subsequent rifles/carbines all make use of detachable magazines.
Up to that point, detachable magazines were seen as a liability. Additionally, magazines are seen as sort of “disposable”. While they can be reloaded and reused, they are often left on the battlefield during combat. Magazines usually come in a variety of different sizes depending on your needs.
Most magazines can be reused over and over so long as they are taken care of. However, springs and guides may need to be replaced or lubed and cleaned from time to time. Take care not to dent a magazine. Bent or cracked feed lips can also create feeding issues with your firearm. Mark bad magazines for disposal or to be fixed as needed.
Conclusion
In summary, the difference between a magazine and a clip is:
- A magazine is a device used to store ammunition in a firearm.
- A clip is used to feed ammunition into the magazine of a firearm.
- Magazines are either fixed or detachable.
- Clips are always removable.
I hope this helps to clear up any confusion that you may have had on the topic. Please feel free to share this article with anyone who may need help learning the difference.