Two quick questions about magazines

[Alex45ACP]

When referring to handgun magazines, what does the term "drop-free" mean? Also, are LE marked magazines functionally any different from regular magazines?

[Old Fuff]

The term "drop-free" means the magazine and/or magazine-pistol combination are designed so that the magazine will fall free when the release latch/botton is pushed. The purpose is to facilitate faster reloading. In some places, particularly in Europe it is prefered that the magazine not drop out so that it won't hit the ground and perhaps be damaged.

During the period of time that the federal AWB was in place civilians were prohibited from owning new magazines that held more then 10 rounds. Law enforcement agencies were not so restricted. A "LEO Only magazine is one manufactured between 1994-2004 that held over 10 rounds and is marked to the effect, "LEO Only." High capacity magazines manufactured before the ban was enacted (1994) and after it expired (2004) have always been legal, but some states may have laws that still prohibit them. Other then the obvious there is no functional difference between the two styles of magazines.

[TarpleyG]

Fuff,

Reading your post may lead some to draw the conclusion that they are still restricted federally. Just thought I would elaborate--there is no restriction on mag capacity on the federal level now. Your state may have something though. And, it is perfectly legal to own the "LEO only" mags now.

Greg

[Alex45ACP]

Thanks for the info.

[Old Fuff]

>> High capacity magazines manufactured before the ban was enacted (1994) and after it expired (2004) have always been legal, but some states may have laws that still prohibit them. <<

I thought I was clear, but maybe not. Well anyway, it's clear now.

[Alex45ACP]

Luckily, I don't live in a state where I have to worry about that nonsense :D