US20160370138A1

US20160370138A1 - Spring-adjustment assembly of firearm magazine

Info

Publication number: US20160370138A1
Application number: US15/155,800
Authority: US
Inventors: Albert ZAMM
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-06-17
Filing date: 2016-05-16
Publication date: 2016-12-22
Also published as: CA2930014A1

Abstract

An apparatus includes a firearm magazine configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, a firearm. An ammunition spring is received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine. A spring-adjustment assembly is mounted to the firearm magazine, and is also interactable with the ammunition spring once (A) the firearm magazine is received by, and coupled to, the firearm, and (B) the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm. The spring-adjustment assembly remains with the firearm magazine so that the spring-adjustment assembly is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document relates to the technical field of (and is not limited to) a firearm magazine having an internal spring and a spring-adjustment assembly for the internal spring, and/or method therefor, and/or a firearm magazine including an attachable telescopic spring-decompression mechanism, or a firearm magazine including a spring-adjustment assembly (spring-decompression mechanism) configured to remain (stay) mounted to (affixed to) the firearm magazine, and interacting with a magazine spring contained in the firearm magazine.

BACKGROUND

A firearm is a portable gun or a barreled weapon that launches one or more projectiles (bullets) often driven by an explosive force. Modern firearms are usually described by caliber (bore diameter or, in the case of shotguns, gauge), type of action employed (muzzle, breech, lever, bolt, pump, revolver, semi-automatic, automatic, etc.), and/or the means of deportment (hand-held or mechanical mounting).

SUMMARY

It will be appreciated that there exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) at least one problem associated with the existing firearm magazines (also called the existing technology). After much study of the known systems and methods with experimentation, an understanding of the problem and its solution has been identified and is articulated as follows:
Firearms magazines that require loading firearm cartridges generally have a strong spring within the magazine allowing each successive cartridge to be positioned at the mouth of the magazine, ready for firing. In order to charge a magazine by hand, cartridges already in the magazine may be pushed downward to make a space for the next cartridge to be inserted. Speed of loading is often necessary, particularly in combat situations, target practice, etc. In other situations also, such as hunting, time is valuable and a device for rapid magazine charging is useful. With small cartridges, it may be very difficult to charge a magazine quickly using human hands only. Therefore, numerous different devices, such as speed loaders, are used in order to load ammunition into the firearm magazine. Moreover, these devices (speed loaders) are frequently misplaced and/or lost altogether, and result in inconvenience and/or additional expense for users of firearm magazines, or unwanted injury when manually loading ammunition into the magazine without the device (the known speed loader or known ammunition loader).
To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a first major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus includes (and is not limited to) a firearm magazine having an ammunition spring. A spring-adjustment assembly is configured to selectively reduce the spring tension in the ammunition spring in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly permits relatively easier loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine. The spring-adjustment assembly is mounted to the firearm magazine in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly is not removable from the firearm magazine once the firearm magazine is securely coupled to the firearm.
To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a second major aspect) an apparatus. The apparatus includes a firearm magazine configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, a firearm. An ammunition spring (also called an internal spring) is received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine. A spring-adjustment assembly is mounted to the firearm magazine, and is also cooperative (interactable) with the ammunition spring once (A) the firearm magazine is received by, and coupled to, the firearm, and (B) the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm. The spring-adjustment assembly remains with the firearm magazine so that the spring-adjustment assembly is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm.
To mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology, there is provided (in accordance with a third major aspect) a method. The method is for using a firearm magazine configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, a firearm, and in which an ammunition spring is received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine. The method includes mounting a spring-adjustment assembly to the firearm magazine so that the spring-adjustment assembly is interactable with the ammunition spring once the firearm magazine is received by, and coupled to, the firearm, and once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm. The spring-adjustment assembly remains with the firearm magazine so that the spring-adjustment assembly is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm.
Other aspects are identified in the claims.
Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments may now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings.
This Summary is provided to introduce concepts in simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the disclosed or claimed subject matter, and is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the disclosed or claimed subject matter, and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The figures and the description that follow more particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The non-limiting embodiments may be more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B depict views (FIG. 1 depicts a perspective rear view, FIG. 2A depicts a side view, and FIG. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view) of a prior art embodiment of a known firearm magazine for a firearm;

FIGS. 3 to 15 depict views (FIGS. 3 to 8 depict side views, FIGS. 9 to 11 and 13 depict perspective views, and FIGS. 12, 14 and 15 depict cross-sectional schematic views) in accordance with a first embodiment of an apparatus including a firearm magazine, an ammunition spring and a spring-adjustment assembly; and

FIGS. 16 to 21 depict views (FIGS. 16 and 17 depict side views, FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view, FIG. 19 depicts an exploded view, FIG. 20 depicts a partial side view, and FIG. 21 depicts a cross-sectional schematic view) in accordance with a second embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 3.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, but well-understood, elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

102 firearm magazine
103 magazine floor
104 internal well
105 ammunition portal
106 ammunition spring
107 spring portal
108 spring-adjustment assembly
109 lip portion
110 first section
111 first engagement groove, or spaced-apart first engagement grooves
112 second section
113 oppositely-positioned second engagement groove, or second engagement grooves
114 retention cutout
115 edge portion
116 retention clip
117 channel
118 first hollow tube
119 receiver section
120 ammunition limiter
122 catch-release button, or oppositely-positioned catch-release buttons
124 catch-release button housing, or oppositely-positioned catch-release button housings
126 retention opening, or oppositely-positioned retention openings
128 rail element, or oppositely-positioned rail elements
129 cover, or oppositely-positioned covers
130 second hollow tube
131 groove, or oppositely-positioned interior facing grooves
132 protrusion, or oppositely-positioned protrusions
133 bottom wall
134 post member
135 peripheral side wall
136 post attachment
137 internal channel
138 belt clip
140 footing assembly
142 latch, or oppositely-positioned latches
144 spring assembly
146 base assembly
148 plate assembly
150 connector
900 firearm
901 known firearm magazine
902 bullets
903 downwardly-extending handle
904 known internal well
905 pistol
906 known magazine spring
908 known magazine floor

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims (in which the claims may be amended during patent examination after filing of this application). For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a”. The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. It should be understood that the invention is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims, and that the invention is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described.
FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B depict views of a prior art embodiment of a known firearm magazine 901 for usage with a firearm 900. FIG. 1 depicts a perspective rear view of an embodiment of the firearm 900 (which is depicted as a pistol). FIG. 2A depicts a side view of an embodiment of a known firearm magazine 901 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view through a cross-sectional line A-A of the known firearm magazine 901 of FIG. 2A.
Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, the firearm 900 (such as, a pistol 905, etc.) is configured to securely receive (at least in part) a known firearm magazine 901, and entirely release the known firearm magazine 901 (also called a prior art magazine). The known firearm magazine 901 is configured to receive a plurality of bullets 902 (preferably, in a single file manner, one after the other) within or into a known internal well 904 (also called a prior art internal well) that is defined by the known firearm magazine 901. The firearm 900 includes a downwardly-extending handle 903 configured to operatively receive (securely receive) the known firearm magazine 901. This is done in such a way that the known firearm magazine 901 may dispense the bullets 902 into a firing chamber (known and not depicted) of the firearm 900 (one at a time).
A known magazine spring 906 (also called a prior art magazine spring or internal spring) is positioned in the known firearm magazine 901. Once positioned, the known magazine spring 906 is configured to urge the bullets 902 contained in the known firearm magazine 901 toward an exit portal of the known firearm magazine 901 (and then into the firearm 900). When the firearm magazine 901 is not received in the firearm 900, a detent mechanism (known and not depicted, which is a catch that prevents motion until released) prevents the bullets 902 from exiting the firearm magazine 901. The known magazine spring 906 is configured to make contact with a known magazine floor 908 (also called a prior art magazine floor, or the floor 908). The floor 908 is positioned at the bottom section of the firearm magazine 901. The known magazine spring 906 pushes against the known magazine floor 908 in such a way that the known magazine spring 906 urges the bullets 902 contained in the known firearm magazine 901 toward the exit portal of the known firearm magazine 901.
FIGS. 3 to 15 depict views in accordance with a first embodiment of an apparatus including a synergistic combination of a firearm magazine 102, an ammunition spring 106 and a spring-adjustment assembly 108. FIGS. 3 to 8 depict side views of the first embodiment of the apparatus. FIGS. 9 to 11 and 13 depict perspective views of embodiments of the apparatus of FIG. 6. FIGS. 12, 14 and 15 depict cross-sectional schematic views of embodiments of the apparatus of FIG. 6.
The firearm magazine 102 is combined with the spring-adjustment assembly 108. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 may be called an attachable telescopic spring decompression mechanism, or a built-in ammunition loader. More specifically, the firearm magazine 102 includes a built-in ammunition loader configured to facilitate loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine 102, and to increase capacity of the ammunition carried by the firearm magazine 102 (where applicable and permitted by law and/or gun regulations). The apparatus includes an ammunition loader configured to load ammunition into the firearm magazine 102, in which the ammunition loader is built (integrated) into, or configured to be built into (as a retrofit kit), the firearm magazine 102.
In general terms, the apparatus includes (and is not limited to) a firearm magazine 102, and a spring-adjustment assembly 108 (also called an ammunition loader) that is mounted to the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not removable from the firearm magazine 102 once the firearm magazine 102 is securely coupled to (received by) the firearm 900.
Preferably, the firearm magazine 102 has an ammunition spring 106. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is configured to selectively reduce the spring tension in the ammunition spring 106 in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 permits relatively easier loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is mounted to the firearm magazine 102 in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not removable from the firearm magazine 102 once the firearm magazine 102 is securely coupled to the firearm 900.
Preferably, the apparatus provides a telescopic construction. Once the user presses a button, the spring-adjustment assembly 108, in use, extends (extends downwardly) from the firearm magazine 902 and away from the firearm 900. In this manner, the spring tension of the ammunition spring 106 is relaxed (released or decompressed, at least in part) in order to allow relatively easier loading of ammunition (bullets) into the firearm magazine 102 (because there is relatively less spring tension in the ammunition spring 106). The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is configured to selectively release, at least in part, spring tension in the ammunition spring 106 in order to allow relatively easier loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine 102.
Once the firearm magazine 102 has been loaded with fresh ammunition, the spring tension of the ammunition spring 106 is increased as a result. That is, the spring tension is increased by pressing upwardly on a lower part of the spring-adjustment assembly 108. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 remains secured to the firearm magazine 102 with a pair of oppositely-positioned catch-release buttons 122 (hereafter referred to as the catch-release buttons 122), so that the spring tension may be increased (to provide proper operation of the firearm 900 once the firearm magazine 102 is received by the firearm 900).
Generally, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 includes a series of tubes shaped according to the shape of the firearm magazine 102, with attachments to accommodate functionality, safety, and comfort of the user. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 provides, once assembled, a telescopic extension to the firearm magazine 102.
The spring-adjustment assembly 108 provides at least one or more benefits to a user of the firearm 900. Firstly, for instance, the ammunition may be loaded into the firearm magazine 102 in a relatively faster and/or more efficient way without the need for additional tools. Secondly, for instance, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is coupled to the firearm magazine 102 while any one of the following conditions may exist (states of operation): (A) the firearm magazine 102 is operatively received in the firearm 900, or (B) the firearm magazine 102 is not operatively received in the firearm 900 (that is, the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900). In this manner, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not inadvertently lost or misplaced. In sharp contrast, known ammunition loaders are very easily lost simply because these known devices do not remain (fail to remain) coupled to the firearm magazine 102 while the firearm magazine 102 is inserted into the firearm 900. For instance, if the firearm 900 is deployed during a firelight situation, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 allows for improved and convenient utilization of the firearm 900 under these extreme conditions.
Thirdly, for the case where it is required to (A) constantly hold the ammunition inside the firearm magazine 102 until required on a standby basis (such as, military application and/or law enforcement application, etc.), and/or (B) store the firearm 900 and the firearm magazine 102 until required (for instance, when the user is off duty or on leave, etc.). In this case, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 causes the ammunition spring 106 to be conveniently decompressed, and, therefore, the life and durability of the ammunition spring 106 may be significantly prolonged as a result of utilizing (employing) the spring-adjustment assembly 108.
Fourthly, where permitted by law, and/or where necessary, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 may be used as an ammunition-capacity extension. Therefore, a few more rounds of ammunition may be loaded, if so required or desired.
Fifthly (in accordance with an embodiment), a belt clip 138 (as depicted in FIG. 16) may be added to the spring-adjustment assembly 108, so there may not be a need for a magazine pouch for receiving the firearm magazine 102, and/or the firearm magazine 102 may be carried on a belt of the user, preferably without any additional equipment required for storage of the firearm magazine 102 (if so desired).
The firearm magazine 102 is combined with the spring-adjustment assembly 108 (also called an attachable telescopic spring decompression mechanism, or a spring decompression mechanism). The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is configured to provide firearm users with a relatively safer and relatively faster ability for loading ammunition into the firearm magazine 102, especially so for environments where speed and efficiency matters (and no other ammunition loading devices are readily available).
Preferably, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is permanently attached to the firearm magazine 102. In this manner, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 cannot be misplaced or lost (this reduces or eliminates the need to carry additional ammunition-loading tools, such as speed loaders, etc.).
Once the firearm magazine 102 is fully removed from the firearm 900, and with the press of a button (by the user), a portion of the spring-adjustment assembly 108 extends downwardly from the firearm 900, thereby releasing tension of the ammunition spring 106 allows the user to (A) insert ammunition into the firearm magazine 102 relatively easier and/or relatively faster, with less possibility for inadvertently hurting (pinching) the fingers of the user, and (B) fill the firearm magazine 102 to fullest capacity possible. Preferably, in many cases, by using the spring-adjustment assembly 108, the loading of the firearm magazine 102 is not performed without some sort of ammunition loading device (known and not depicted), preferably to a full capacity of the firearm magazine 102 (if desired).
After the ammunition (the bullets 902) is loaded into the firearm magazine 102, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is pushed (movable) upwardly from the bottom of the firearm magazine 102. This is done in such a way that tension is applied to the ammunition spring 106, and the ammunition spring 106 is returned to the required spring tension for proper operation of the firearm 900 (once the firearm magazine 102 is loaded into the firearm 900).
Referring to the first embodiment (as depicted in FIGS. 3 to 15) and also referring to the second embodiment (as depicted in FIGS. 16 to 21), the apparatus includes (and is not limited to) a synergistic combination of a firearm magazine 102, an ammunition spring 106 and a spring-adjustment assembly 108.
The firearm magazine 102 is configured to be selectively securely receivable (directly or indirectly) by the firearm 900. The firearm magazine 102 is also configured to be selectively removable (directly or indirectly) from the firearm 900. The firearm magazine 102 defines, at least in part, an internal well 104. The internal well 104 is configured to receive a plurality of bullets 902 therein.
The ammunition spring 106 is received, at least in part, in the internal well 104 of the firearm magazine 102. The ammunition spring 106 is in contact, at least in part, (either directly or indirectly) with a magazine floor 103 of the internal well 104 of the firearm magazine 102. The ammunition spring 106 is configured to apply pressure to (either directly or indirectly) the plurality of bullets 902 received in the internal well 104. This is done in such a way that the ammunition spring 106, in use, pushes against (directly or indirectly) the magazine floor 103 and urges (either directly or indirectly) the plurality of bullets 902 towards the internal well 104 of the firearm magazine 102.
The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is configured to: (A) selectively compress (directly or indirectly) the ammunition spring 106, and (B) selectively decompress (directly or indirectly) the ammunition spring 106 relative to the magazine floor 103 of the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is also configured to selectively decompress (directly or indirectly) the ammunition spring 106. This is done in such a way that a bullet 902 is relatively easier to insert in the internal well 104 of the firearm magazine 102 once: (A) the firearm magazine 102 is selectively removed (directly or indirectly) from the firearm 900, and (B) the spring-adjustment assembly 108 has selectively decompressed the ammunition spring 106. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is configured to selectively compress (either directly or indirectly) the ammunition spring 106. This is done in such a way that the ammunition spring 106 provides relatively more pressure (directly or indirectly) against the plurality of bullets 902 housed in the firearm magazine 102, and the ammunition spring 106 urges (directly or indirectly) the plurality of bullets 902 towards the internal well 104 of the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is securely affixed (directly or indirectly) to the firearm magazine 102 while the firearm magazine 102 is selectively securely received (directly or indirectly) by the firearm 900. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is securely affixed (directly or indirectly) to the firearm magazine 102 while the firearm magazine 102 is selectively removed from the firearm 900.
A technical advantage of the apparatus is that the user is not able to misplace the spring-adjustment assembly 108 because the spring-adjustment assembly 108 remains securely coupled to the firearm magazine 102, whether the firearm magazine 102 is received by, or is not received by the firearm 900. In this manner, the firearm magazine 102 may be refilled with fresh bullets 902 at any time by the user, as needed, simply because the spring-adjustment assembly 108 remains with the firearm magazine 102 at all times.
In sharp contrast to the apparatus, the prior-art ammunition loader systems may be easily lost or misplaced, and the user may then be required to manually insert the bullets 902 into the firearm magazine 102, which is not convenient for the user and/or the user may become inadvertently hurt while loading the firearm magazine 102 by using the prior-art ammunition loader systems.
In view of the foregoing (in summary), the firearm magazine 102 is configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, the firearm 900. The ammunition spring 106 is received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is mounted to the firearm magazine 102, and the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is also interactable with the ammunition spring 106 once (A) the firearm magazine 102 is received by, and coupled to, the firearm 900, and (B) the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 remains with the firearm magazine 102 so that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900.
In accordance with an embodiment, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is interactable with the ammunition spring 106 once the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900. This is done in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 selectively decompresses the ammunition spring 106 so that a bullet 902 is relatively easier to insert into the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 selectively compresses, in use, the ammunition spring 106 so that the bullet 902 received by the firearm magazine 102 is ready for utilization by the firearm 900 once the firearm magazine 102 is received by, and coupled to, the firearm 900.
In accordance with an embodiment, there is provided a method for using the firearm magazine 102 configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, the firearm 900, and in which the ammunition spring 106 is received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine 102. The method includes (and is not limited to) mounting a spring-adjustment assembly 108 to the firearm magazine 102 so that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is interactable with the ammunition spring 106 once the firearm magazine 102 is received by, and coupled to, the firearm 900, and once the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 remains with the firearm magazine 102 so that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine 102 is removed from the firearm 900.
In accordance with an embodiment, there is provided (for the retrofit market) the apparatus, in which the apparatus includes (and is not limited to) a spring-adjustment assembly 108 configured to selectively reduce spring tension of an ammunition spring 106 of a firearm magazine 102 of a firearm 900 (this is done in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 permits relatively easier loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine 102. The spring-adjustment assembly 108 is mountable to the firearm magazine 102 in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is not removable from the firearm magazine 102 once the firearm magazine 102 is securely coupled to the firearm 900.
Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 6, the firearm magazine 102 includes (defines) an ammunition portal 105 (also called a first open-end section), and also defines a spring portal 107 (also called a second open-end section) that is spaced apart from the ammunition portal 105. The ammunition portal 105 is configured to receive a bullet 902 (as depicted in FIG. 6). This is done in such a way that the bullet 902 may enter an internal well 104 extending through the firearm magazine 102. The internal well 104 extends between the ammunition portal 105 and the spring portal 107. In addition, the ammunition portal 105 is also configured to provide (dispense) the bullet 902 from the internal well 104 to the firearm 900 (as depicted in FIG. 14). The spring portal 107 is configured to receive the ammunition spring 106 (as depicted in FIGS. 4 to 6).
The firearm magazine 102 includes a lip portion 109 (also depicted in FIG. 9) that is positioned proximate to the spring portal 107. The lip portion 109 may be called a peripheral edge. The lip portion 109 extends externally from the firearm magazine 102 (away from the interior of the internal well 104).
The spring-adjustment assembly 108 includes a first section 110 and a second section 112 that are configured to be (A) selectively movable relative to each other, and (B) selectively securely lockable to each other. The first section 110 may be called a first housing or a top housing. The second section 112 may be called a second housing or a bottom housing.
The first section 110 is configured to slide onto the firearm magazine 102 from a top section of the firearm magazine 102 toward a bottom section of the firearm magazine 102. The first section 110 defines a channel 117 (also depicted in FIG. 9) extending therethrough (that is, the channel 117 extends through the first section 110, between opposite ends of the first section 110). The first section 110 includes an edge portion 115 (also depicted in FIG. 9) extending into the interior of the channel 117 (that is, extending into the interior of the first section 110). The channel 117, defined by the first section 110, is configured to slidably receive the firearm magazine 102, and this is done in such a way that the first section 110 is movable from the ammunition portal 105 to the spring portal 107 of the firearm magazine 102.
As depicted in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the lip portion 109 (of the firearm magazine 102) eventually makes (is configured to make) interference contact with the edge portion 115 (of the first section 110) once the first section 110 is moved along an exterior surface of the firearm magazine 102 from the ammunition portal 105 to the spring portal 107. The first section 110 is no longer movable toward the spring portal 107 once the lip portion 109 makes interference contact with the edge portion 115.
The spring-adjustment assembly 108 also includes the second section 112. The second section 112 is configured to receive and to support an end portion of the ammunition spring 106 (as depicted in FIGS. 4 to 6).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 6, the first section 110 and the second section 112 are selectively coupled (either directly or indirectly) to each other. This is done in such a way that the first section 110 and the second section 112 are not movable relative to each other.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8, the firearm magazine 102 has been loaded with a plurality of bullets 902 (manually by the user by way of the ammunition portal 105). Since the spring tension in the ammunition spring 106 is relaxed as a result of using the spring-adjustment assembly 108 (as depicted in FIG. 12), the user may have a relatively easier time of inserting the bullet 902 into the firearm magazine 102. The firearm 900 includes, for instance, a pistol 905 having a downwardly-extending handle 903, etc. Returning to FIGS. 7 and 8, the firearm magazine 102 is configured to be securely received into the downwardly-extending handle 903 of the pistol 905, and to be selectively removable from the downwardly-extending handle 903. The ammunition spring 106 contacts the bottom-most bullet 902 and also contacts the second section 112 of the spring-adjustment assembly 108. The ammunition spring 106 biases the plurality of bullets 902 toward the ammunition portal 105 in such a way that the bullets 902 may be fed into the firearm 900 (on an as-needed basis) once the firearm magazine 102 is operatively received in the downwardly-extending handle 903 (as depicted in FIG. 8).
Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, the spring-adjustment assembly 108 includes the first section 110 (as depicted in FIG. 9), and the spring-adjustment assembly 108 includes the second section 112 (as depicted in FIG. 10). The second section 112 includes a synergistic combination of a first hollow tube 118, a second hollow tube 130, a post member 134, and a receiver section 119. The first hollow tube 118 is configured to be slideable into the interior of the first section 110 (as depicted in FIG. 9). The first section 110 defines a pair of spaced-apart first engagement grooves 111 (hereafter referred to as the first engagement groove 111) that are formed in the channel 117. The first engagement grooves 111 are formed in the interior of the first section 110. The first engagement grooves 111 are configured to interact with a pair of oppositely-positioned rail elements 128 (hereafter referred to as the rail elements 128 or also called a slide rail, etc.) provided by the first hollow tube 118 (as depicted in FIG. 10). This is in such a way that the first hollow tube 118 is slideable (up or down) along the interior of the first section 110.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 9, the first section 110 also defines a retention cutout 114. The retention cutout 114 is configured to cooperate with a retention clip 116 of the first hollow tube 118 of the second section 112 (as depicted in FIG. 10). This is done in such a way that the first section 110 is selectively lockably engageable with (and disengageable from) the first hollow tube 118. The retention cutout 114 and the retention clip 116 are configured to selectively engage with each other (this is done in such a way that the first section 110 is securely coupled to the first hollow tube 118).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 9, the first section 110 also provides a pair of oppositely-positioned covers 129 (hereafter referred to as the covers 129) that are positioned on opposite lateral sides of the first section 110. The covers 129 are configured to cover the catch-release buttons 122 provided by the first hollow tube 118 (as depicted in FIG. 10).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the catch-release buttons 122 (also called a latch) are configured to selectively latch (connect) with, and to de-latch (disconnect) from, a pair of oppositely-positioned retention openings 126 (hereafter referred to as the retention openings 126) defined by a pair of oppositely-positioned catch-release button housings 124 (hereafter referred to as the catch-release button housings 124) that are provided by the receiver section 119 (as depicted in FIG. 10). This is done in such a way that the ammunition spring 106 may be selectively decompressed (as depicted in FIG. 12) or compressed (as depicted in FIG. 14). The ammunition spring 106 may be selectively decompressed (as depicted in FIG. 12), in which the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is placed in an open position (the ammunition spring 106 is decompressed). The ammunition spring 106 may be selectively compressed (as depicted in FIG. 14), in which the apparatus is placed in a closed position (the ammunition spring 106 is compressed).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the post member 134 is securely received in, and mounted to or affixed to, the receiver section 119 (also called a base assembly). This is done in such a way that the post member 134 extends away (upwardly) from the receiver section 119. The post member 134 is received (slidably received), at least in part, in the hollow interior of the second hollow tube 130. The second hollow tube 130 is received (slidably received), at least in part, in the hollow interior of the first hollow tube 118. The second hollow tube 130 is received (slidably received), at least in part, in the hollow interior of the firearm magazine 102 (as depicted in FIGS. 12 and 14).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the second section 112 includes the first hollow tube 118. The retention clip 116 of the first hollow tube 118 (of the second section 112) is configured to cooperate with the retention cutout 114 of the first section 110 (as depicted in FIG. 9). The first hollow tube 118 includes an ammunition limiter 120 (also called a bullet stop). The ammunition limiter 120 extends, at least in part, from the first hollow tube 118 and into the interior of the firearm magazine 102 (as depicted in FIG. 13). The ammunition limiter 120 may permanently extend (or detachably extend) from the first hollow tube 118. The ammunition limiter 120 is configured to limit travel (position) of a bullet 902 that is held in the firearm magazine 102 (as depicted in FIG. 15). This is done so that the firearm magazine 102 may be in compliance with any required law or firearm regulation. For instance, the law or regulations may require a limit of 10 rounds per firearm magazine 102, etc. By removing the ammunition limiter 120, where required and or permitted, the ammunition limiter 120 may be used as a magazine-capacity extension, etc.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the rail elements 128 are positioned on opposite sides of the first hollow tube 118. The rail elements 128 are configured to slide engage with the first engagement grooves 111 of the first section 110 (as depicted in FIG. 9).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the second section 112 includes the second hollow tube 130. The second hollow tube 130 is configured to be slide received in the interior of the first hollow tube 118. The second hollow tube 130 provides a pair of oppositely-positioned protrusions 132 (hereafter referred to as the protrusions 132, and also called a slide element). The protrusions 132 are positioned on opposite sides of the second hollow tube 130. The first hollow tube defines a pair of oppositely-positioned interior facing grooves 131 (hereafter referred to as the grooves 131) that are positioned on opposite sides of the first hollow tube 118. The protrusions 132 are slide engageable with the grooves 131 of the first hollow tube 118. Preferably, the rail element 128 and the grooves 131 are aligned against each other.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the second section 112 includes the post member 134. The post member 134 is configured to be slidable along the interior of the second hollow tube 130. The post member 134 provides the magazine floor 103 (spring floor). The magazine floor 103 is configured to be movable in such a way that the magazine floor 103 compresses the ammunition spring 106 once the second section 112 is pushed upwardly. The magazine floor 103 is configured to be movable in such a way that the magazine floor 103 decompresses the ammunition spring 106 once the second section 112 is pushed downwardly (in an extended position).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 10, the second section 112 includes the receiver section 119. The receiver section 119 defines a bottom wall 133 surrounded by a peripheral side wall 135. The receiver section 119 defines an open top section configured to receive, at least in part, the post member 134.
The second section 112 provides a post attachment 136. The post attachment 136 is configured to securely attach to the post member 134. The post attachment 136 extends (upwardly) from the bottom wall 133. The post member 134 defines an internal channel 137 configured to receive the post attachment 136. The open top section of the receiver section 119 is also configured to receive, at least in part, the second hollow tube 130.
The receiver section 119 includes the catch-release button housings 124. The catch-release button housings 124 extend outwardly from the opposite sides of the peripheral side wall 135 (also called an upstanding side wall). Each of the catch-release button housings 124 defines the retention openings 126.
The catch-release buttons 122 of the first hollow tube 118 are configured to interact (that is, latch to, and de-latch from) the retention openings 126 defined by the catch-release button housings 124 provided by the second section 112. For the case where the catch-release buttons 122 are latched (selectively connected) to the retention openings 126 defined by the catch-release button housings 124, the ammunition spring 106 becomes (and stays) compressed. For the case where the catch-release buttons 122 are de-latched (selectively disconnected) from the retention openings 126 defined by the catch-release button housings 124, the ammunition spring 106 becomes (and remains) compressed.
The receiver section 119 defines a pair of oppositely-positioned second engagement grooves 113 (hereafter referred to as the second engagement grooves 113). More specifically, the peripheral side wall 135 defines the second engagement grooves 113 that are each placed on opposite sides of the peripheral side wall 135. The second engagement grooves 113 are configured to slidably receive, at least in part, the rail elements 128 of the first hollow tube 118.
Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12, the firearm magazine 102 has been disconnected or removed from the firearm 900 (as depicted in FIG. 7). The first section 110 and the second section 112 are positioned in a spring-decompression position, in which the ammunition spring 106 is placed in a relatively decompressed state. In the spring-decompression position, the catch-release buttons 122 have been selectively de-latched (selectively disconnected) from the retention openings 126 defined by catch-release button housings 124 (as depicted in FIG. 10), and the second section 112 has been moved away from the first section 110 (this is done in such a way that the components of the second section 112 are not covered and may be accessible to the user). This is done in such a way that, in the spring-decompression position, the first section 110 and the second section 112 are spaced apart from each other. In the spring-decompression position, the user may insert the bullet 902 into the ammunition portal 105 of the firearm magazine 102 with relative ease and comfort (as depicted in FIG. 12).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, the first section 110 and the second section 112 are positioned in a spring-compression position, in which the ammunition spring 106 is placed in a relatively compressed state (in comparison to, or relative to, the spring-decompression position as depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12). As depicted in FIG. 13, the firearm magazine 102 is disconnected or removed from the firearm 900. In the spring-compression position, (A) the catch-release buttons 122 have been selectively latched (selectively connected) to the retention openings 126 defined by the catch-release button housings 124 (as depicted in FIG. 10), and (B) the second section 112 has been moved toward the first section 110 (this is done in such a way that the components of the second section 112 are covered and not accessible to the user). This is done in such a way that, in the spring-compression position, the first section 110 and the second section 112 are relatively closer to each other (preferably, in direct contact with each other). In the spring-compression position, the user will find it relatively more difficult to attempt to insert the bullet 902 into the ammunition portal 105 of the firearm magazine 102 (for the case where the firearm magazine 102 is disconnected from the firearm 900, as depicted in FIG. 13).
As depicted in the embodiment of FIG. 14, the firearm magazine 102 is inserted into the firearm 900, and the firearm magazine 102 is configured to dispense the bullet 902 into the interior mechanisms of the firearm 900, with assistance from the ammunition spring 106.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 15, the ammunition limiter 120, in use, limits the number of bullets 902 that are received in the firearm magazine 102.
FIGS. 16 to 21 depict views in accordance with a second embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 3. FIGS. 16 and 17 depict side views of the second embodiment of the apparatus. FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 17. FIG. 19 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 17. FIG. 20 depicts a partial side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 17. FIG. 21 depicts a cross-sectional schematic view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 17.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 16, the first section 110 further includes a belt clip 138 configured to be selectively attached to a clothing item (such as a belt) of the user.
Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18, the combination of the firearm magazine 102 and the spring-adjustment assembly 108 is received in the downwardly-extending handle 903 of the firearm 900.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 19, the second section 112 further includes a footing assembly 140, a pair of oppositely-positioned latches 142 (hereafter referred to as the latches 142), a spring assembly 144, a base assembly 146, a plate assembly 148 and a connector 150. The connector 150 is configured to securely connect the base assembly 146 to the plate assembly 148. The footing 140 and the base assembly 146 are configured to house the latches 142 that are positioned on opposite sides of the footing assembly 140. The spring assembly 144 is positioned between the latches 142. The spring assembly 144 is configured to urge the latches 142 toward a latched position, in which the first section 110 remains securely connected with the footing assembly 140. To disconnect the first section 110 from the footing assembly 140, the user depresses the latches 142 in such a way that the spring assembly 144 no longer urges the latches 142 toward an un-latched position, in which the first section 110 may then be movable away from the footing assembly 140.
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 20, the firearm magazine 102 has been disconnected from the firearm 900. The first section 110 has been de-latched from the footing assembly 140, in which the ammunition spring 106 becomes decompressed (so that a bullet 902 may be inserted into the interior of the firearm magazine 102). The post member 134 remains connected with the footing assembly 140. The magazine floor 103 of the post member 134 remains slide coupled with the second hollow tube 130. It is preferred that the user does not de-latch the first section 110 from the footing assembly 140 while the firearm magazine 102 remains operatively received in the firearm 900 (as depicted in FIG. 18).
Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 21, the first section 110 has been latched to the footing assembly 140, in which the ammunition spring 106 becomes compressed within the firearm magazine 102.
It will be appreciated that the description and/or drawings identifies and describes embodiments of the apparatus (either explicitly or non-explicitly). The apparatus may include any suitable combination and/or permutation of the technical features as identified in the detailed description, as may be required and/or desired to suit a particular technical purpose and/or technical function. It will be appreciated, that where possible and suitable, any one or more of the technical features of the apparatus may be combined with any other one or more of the technical features of the apparatus (in any combination and/or permutation). It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that technical features of each embodiment may be deployed (where possible) in other embodiments even if not expressly stated as such above. It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that other options would be possible for the configuration of the components of the apparatus to adjust to manufacturing requirements and still remain within the scope as described in at least one or more of the claims. This written description provides embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables the person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The patentable scope is defined by the claims and not by the written description and/or the drawings. The written description and/or drawings are provided to help understand the scope of the claims. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood that the scope of an invention is provided by the independent claim(s). It is understood, for this document, that the phrase “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising.” The foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a spring-adjustment assembly being configured to selectively reduce spring tension of an ammunition spring of a firearm magazine of a firearm in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly permits relatively easier loading of ammunition into the firearm magazine; and

the spring-adjustment assembly being mountable to the firearm magazine in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly is not removable from the firearm magazine once the firearm magazine is securely coupled to the firearm.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

the spring-adjustment assembly is interactable with the ammunition spring once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm in such a way that the spring-adjustment assembly selectively decompresses the ammunition spring so that a bullet is relatively easier to insert into the firearm magazine; and

the spring-adjustment assembly selectively compresses, in use, the ammunition spring so that the bullet received by the firearm magazine is ready for utilization by the firearm once the firearm magazine is received by, and coupled to, the firearm.

3. An apparatus, comprising:

a firearm magazine being configured to be selectively received by, and coupled to, a firearm; and

an ammunition spring being received, at least in part, in the firearm magazine; and

a spring-adjustment assembly being mounted to the firearm magazine and also being interactable with the ammunition spring once the firearm magazine is received by, and coupled to, the firearm, and once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm; and

whereby the spring-adjustment assembly remains with the firearm magazine so that the spring-adjustment assembly is not inadvertently lost or misplaced once the firearm magazine is removed from the firearm.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

a button is configured to cause a portion of the spring-adjustment assembly to extend downwardly from the firearm, and to release tension of the ammunition spring, and to allow relatively easier insertion of ammunition into the firearm magazine.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

the spring-adjustment assembly is movable upwardly, after ammunition is loaded in the firearm magazine, from a bottom of the firearm magazine in such a way that tension is applied to the ammunition spring, and the ammunition spring is returned to a required spring tension for proper operation of the firearm once the firearm magazine is loaded into the firearm.

7. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein:

the firearm magazine includes:

an ammunition portal; and

a spring portal being spaced apart from the ammunition portal; and

the ammunition portal is configured to receive a bullet in such a way that the bullet enters an internal well extending through the firearm magazine; and

the internal well extends between the ammunition portal and the spring portal; and

the ammunition portal is also configured to provide the bullet from the internal well to the firearm; and

the spring portal is configured to receive the ammunition spring; and

a lip portion that is positioned proximate to the spring portal; and

the lip portion extends externally from the firearm magazine away from the interior of the internal well.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein:

the spring-adjustment assembly includes:

a first section and a second section configured to be selectively movable relative to each other, and selectively securely lockable to each other; and

the first section is configured to slide onto the firearm magazine from a top section of the firearm magazine toward a bottom section of the firearm magazine; and

the first section defines a channel extending therethrough; and

the first section includes an edge portion extending into the interior of the channel.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein:

the channel defined by the first section is configured to slidably receive the firearm magazine in such a way that the first section is movable from the ammunition portal to the spring portal of the firearm magazine; and

the lip portion of the firearm magazine is configured to make interference contact with the edge portion of the first section once the first section is moved along an exterior surface of the firearm magazine from the ammunition portal to the spring portal; and

the first section is no longer movable toward the spring portal once the lip portion makes interference contact with the edge portion; and

the second section is configured to receive and to support an end portion of the ammunition spring.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

the second section includes:

a first hollow tube configured to be slideable into the interior of the first section; and

the first section defines a first engagement groove that is formed in the channel formed in the interior of the first section; and

the first engagement groove is configured to interact with a rail element provided by the first hollow tube in such a way that the first hollow tube is slideable along the interior of the first section.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:

the first section defines a retention cutout; and

the retention cutout is configured to cooperate with a retention clip of the first hollow tube of the second section in such a way that the first section is selectively lockably engageable with, and disengageable from, the first hollow tube; and

the retention cutout and the retention clip are configured to selectively engage with each other in such a way that the first section is securely coupled to the first hollow tube.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein:

the first section provides a cover for covering a catch-release button being provided by the first hollow tube; and

the catch-release button is configured to selectively latch with, and to de-latch from, a retention opening defined by a catch-release button housing that is provided by a receiver section of the second section in such a way that the ammunition spring is any one of selectively decompressed and compressed.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the second section includes:

a post member securely received, at least in part, in, and mounted to, the receiver section of the second section in such a way that the post member extends away from the receiver section; and

the post member is received, at least in part, in the hollow interior of a second hollow tube.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein:

the second hollow tube is received, at least in part, in the hollow interior of the first hollow tube; and

the second hollow tube is received, at least in part, in a hollow interior of the firearm magazine.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein:

the second section includes the first hollow tube; and

the retention clip of the first hollow tube is configured to cooperate with the retention cutout of the first section; and

the first hollow tube includes an ammunition limiter; and

the ammunition limiter is configured to limit travel of the bullet that is held in the firearm magazine.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein:

the second section includes the second hollow tube; and

the second hollow tube is configured to be slide received in the interior of the first hollow tube; and

the second hollow tube provides a protrusion; and

the protrusion is positioned on the second hollow tube.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein:

the first hollow tube defines a groove; and

the protrusion is slide engageable with the groove.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein:

the second section includes the post member; and

the post member is configured to be slidable along the interior of the second hollow tube; and

the post member provides a magazine floor; and

the magazine floor is configured to be movable in such a way that the magazine floor compresses the ammunition spring once the second section is pushed upwardly; and

the magazine floor is configured to be movable in such a way that the magazine floor decompresses the ammunition spring once the second section is pushed downwardly in an extended position.

19. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein:

the second section includes:

a footing assembly;

a latch;

a spring assembly;

a base assembly;

a plate assembly; and

a connector; and

the connector securely connects the base assembly to the plate assembly; and

the footing and the base assembly are configured to house the latch; and

the spring assembly is positioned relative to the latch; and

the spring assembly is configured to urge the latch toward a latched position, in which the first section remains securely connected with the footing assembly.

20. An apparatus, comprising:

a firearm magazine being configured to be selectively securely receivable by a firearm; and

the firearm magazine being configured to be selectively removable from the firearm; and

the firearm magazine defining an internal well; and

the internal well being configured to receive a plurality of bullets therein; and

an ammunition spring being received in the internal well of the firearm magazine; and

the ammunition spring being in contact, at least in part, with a magazine floor of the internal well of the firearm magazine; and

the ammunition spring being configured to apply pressure to the plurality of bullets received in the internal well in such a way that the ammunition spring, in use, pushes against the magazine floor and urges the plurality of bullets towards the internal well of the firearm magazine; and

a spring-adjustment assembly being configured to selectively compress the ammunition spring, and to selectively decompress the ammunition spring relative to the magazine floor of the firearm magazine; and

the spring-adjustment assembly being configured to selectively decompress the ammunition spring in such a way that a bullet is relatively easier to insert in the internal well of the firearm magazine once:

the firearm magazine is selectively removed from the firearm; and

the spring-adjustment assembly has selectively decompressed the ammunition spring; and

the spring-adjustment assembly being configured to selectively compress the ammunition spring in such a way that the ammunition spring provides relatively more pressure against the plurality of bullets housed in the firearm magazine, and the ammunition spring urges the plurality of bullets towards the internal well of the firearm magazine; and

the spring-adjustment assembly being securely affixed to the firearm magazine while the firearm magazine is selectively securely received by the firearm; and

the spring-adjustment assembly being securely affixed to the firearm magazine while the firearm magazine is selectively removed from the firearm.