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7/1/2004 11:48:56 AM EDT
I just completed my first AR with an Eagle Arms lower, Colt upper, and DPMS lower parts kit. I have 3 mags; one that was marked "England", one "Okay Ind.", and one PMI 40 rounder. I am not very familiar with these rifles.

I assembled the rifle, and everything seems to function correctly. I have not fired it yet. The problem is inserting mags: only the OK mag will latch in with the action closed. The England mag will go in with the action open, then seems to work all right. The PMI mag will go in with the action open, but the bolt will not close.

Do the mags need to be tweaked? Do I need to adjust the magazine catch? Should I fire it with the mag that works, and see if it improves after being broken in a bit? PMI is the only aftermarket that will work in my Mini14. I have always considered them to be good quality.

Any advice will be appreciated. Thank you
7/1/2004 12:17:56 PM EDT
[#1]
get some USGI mags
7/1/2004 5:27:46 PM EDT
[#2]
The Okay Ind is your only USGI mag, all others are not.

Experence around here is that the best mags to use are USGI mags.

Get them used and just refinish them if you must have them now.  Or just wait until after sept 14, 2004 and then buy as many standare cap mags as you like.
7/2/2004 3:51:15 PM EDT
[#3]
I just scored two, new in the wrapper dated 1991 for $15 each at the local pawn shop. My buddy's colt works fine with a steel 40 rounder. I wonder why?
7/2/2004 8:44:20 PM EDT
[#4]
Hello fellow Oregonian, Like they have said before use USGI mags they will not fail you. Refinishing them is easy and I like to do it, Im gonna post a how 2 thread here in a few days, good luck!

Justin
7/3/2004 12:35:49 AM EDT
[#5]

Quoted:
Hello fellow Oregonian.....



That sounds about as bizzare as Floridian.... (Just an Observation) No Harm Intended

DeHamma,

If you want to get you headspacing checked you can prabably go to a near by gunsmith. I did just for the peace of mind that my AR was safe to shoot. Some will argue that it isn't necessary with a new bolt and barrel extension.

If your mag catch completely realeases your mags consistantly and if they slip in with ease I would just let it be.

I also recommend USGI mags, I am not sure why your PMI mags aren't going in with the bolt closed it must Have something to do with the design of those particular mags. I understand that it is handy to have mags that work in both of your rifles(AR/Mini-14), but I would get a few USGI just for your AR.

If you do get USGI mags, you can tweak them a bit with better grade springs and "Green Followers". This also is not necessary. I haven't came across a bent one yet, but I am told that sometimes the lips need shaping if they have ever been crushed, I don't think that is a common occurance, you'll be alright.

Welcome to the board!
7/3/2004 2:39:08 AM EDT
[#6]
The brit mag IMHO is useless, the PMI, eh, once again, IMHO I'd rate it "so so", The Okay Ind. as others have mentioned are USGI and you will find they will serve you well. You scored at the pawnshop and I am sure in your local there are more deals to be had for USGI mags.

Sounds like you did a solid job with building your AR and I'm betting you are goung to have tons of fun with it. Since you've built it, man, show it off! PIX!!!
7/3/2004 10:39:40 AM EDT
[#7]
I will post pics, but first I need to get film developed, then scan them. I'm digitaless! (I also don't have a cell phone or a DVD player!) Low tech, I guess.
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