Cleaning and reassembling a Ruger 10/22 rotary magazine can be tricky, especially when it comes to re-tensioning the spring. This guide provides a step-by-step approach, along with essential Ruger 10/22 care tools, to ensure your magazines function flawlessly.
Disassembly begins by removing the 9/64″ end bolt. To prevent the nut on the opposite end from launching across the room as the spring releases, hold it firmly in place with your finger while unscrewing the bolt. In most cases, a simple cleaning with a cloth and solvent will suffice.
Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. First, place the metal “post box” onto the magazine body. Insert and hold the bolt in place. Next, position the orange splined drum and spring assembly onto the bolt, rotating it until the cartridge guide aligns with the magazine’s metal feed lips. Loosely thread the nut onto the protruding spring end and rotate until the spring arm engages the nut recess. Finally, align the end plate and nut, ensuring the nut is captured.
The crucial step is properly tensioning the rotary spring. While holding the bolt fully seated, use the end plate as a lever to rotate and tension the spring. Important: Avoid pushing the nut against the bolt during this process, as it will prematurely thread and prevent achieving the necessary 2-3 rotations for optimal tension. Some sources recommend 3-4 rotations. Only after achieving the correct pre-tension should you fully tighten the end plate against the magazine body and secure the bolt.
Comparing the tension of a cleaned magazine to an untouched one by manually depressing the loading bar can help determine the appropriate number of rotations. Two rotations are often sufficient.
While a 9/64″ Allen wrench is the primary tool required, having a clean workspace and proper lighting are also essential Ruger 10/22 care tools for this task. Taking your time and following these steps will ensure your Ruger 10/22 magazines remain reliable and feed ammunition consistently.
