How long bullets can be in a magazine?

Question
Dear Mr. Pakieser:

  This might be a trivial question. I have a CZ-85B 9mm, how long can bullets sit in the magazine and not damage the spring?
Should the bullets be removed so the spring can be allowed to "decomress" to it longevity?
Or is this a non-issue and I am concerned over nothing?

Sincerely,

JG  

Answer
The issue of "spring wear" is one of some debate.  I remember when I was in the Army, it was standard practice to "download" magazines - we carried 5 rounds in the M1911, and 10 rounds in Beretta.  I've been told this was more due to ammunition accountability that spring wear.

If your gun seems to be jamming a lot, the magazine is likely the cluprit.  You can either replace the magazine (easiest solution) or rebuild the one you have.  Aftermarket "rebuild kits" for magazines, particularly hicap mags, are available as well.  These usually include a new spring, follower, and floorplate.  

When storing a gun, I always unload the magazines.  There is certainly no harm in periodically unloading the mags.  One thing you might want to try is get another set of mags, and rotate them periodically.  

For my Glock, which I carry every day, I have two magazines which are always fully loaded, 24/7.  I do periodically check the function of the mags when shooting on the range.  I try to get to the range once a month.

I should also add it's a good practice to rotate your carry ammunition as well.  The stress of a round being chambered and unloaded over time can cause the round to be damaged, which could lead to problems.  I shoot up all of my carry ammo every couple of months or so, and replace it with fresh rounds.  I also make sure I inspect ammo before loading, to make sure I don't have an unseated primer or other problem.

I hope this info helps. Please LMK if I can do anything else for you.

Erik Pakieser