How to Remove Cartridges From Semi Auto Magazines

Semi automatic weapons, such as handguns, are commonly chambered to fire rounds like .22 long rifle, 9mm and .45 caliber. Semi automatic handguns are used by law enforcement agencies, military personnel and civilians, and are produced by various manufacturers. Cartridge ammunition typically is fed into the weapon by a magazine inserted into the grip of the weapon. Removing and unloading a magazine is often necessary, especially when cleaning a weapon.

• 1

  Hold the handgun by the grip with the barrel pointed toward the ground in a safe direction. Keep your finger off and away from the trigger.

• 2

  Press the magazine release on the side of the handgun near the trigger guard. Slide the loaded magazine out the end of the grip and place it on a flat work surface. Pull the slide of the handgun back to eject any ammunition and inspect the firing chamber to ensure it is empty.

• 3

  Hold the magazine with the open end and feeder up and the base plate at the bottom. Position the magazine so the narrow flat side, or back, rests in the "V" between your thumb and index finger and your fingers wrap around the narrow rounded front of the magazine.

• 4

  Place the thumb of your free hand on the ammunition cartridge at the top of the magazine. Push the cartridge down to depress the spring in the bottom of the magazine. Slide the cartridge forward and out of the magazine.

• 5

  Repeat the process with each individual ammunition cartridge until the magazine is completely unloaded.