Configurable rifle magazine

Abstract

A configurable rifle magazine includes a magazine body defining a cartridge-receiving cavity and including a first side wall having a first shoulder-insert-engagement portion and a second side wall opposite the first side wall and having a second shoulder-insert-engagement portion; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall, and including a first cartridge-shoulder contact portion; and a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall, including a second cartridge-shoulder contact portion. In a first magazine configuration for first-size cartridges, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall. In a second magazine configuration for second-size cartridges, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1CONFIGURABLE RIFLE MAGAZINECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 680420, titled CONFIGURABLE RIFLE MAGAZINE, filed August 7, 2024, the contents of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention is generally directed to magazines for rifles. More specifically, the present invention is directed to configurable magazines for receiving multiple cartridge sizes and geometries.BACKGROUND

[0003] Rifle magazines are generally designed to accept only one specific cartridge type that has a particular specification and case geometry or are designed to accept a family of a small number of cartridges sharing a common case geometry. If cartridges not intended for use with a particular rifle magazine are loaded into the magazine, the cartridges may fail to feed into, or eject from, the rifle. Consequently, known rifle magazines remain limited for use with only a single cartridge geometry or for use with a small family of cartridges.SUMMARY

[0004] Unlike known rifle magazines, a magazine body of a single size and configuration may be used with shoulder inserts of varying sizes or orientations allowing the magazine body to be sized for receiving cartridges of varying sizes and geometries.

[0005] Generally, rifle magazines are designed for a specific cartridge or small family of cartridges that are derived from a respective parent case design. Magazines can commonly accept other cartridges outside of their respective parent case design geometry only when they share similar case geometry, including the same case-head diameter, case-body diameter, case body length, and overall cartridge length. Overall cartridge length may be categorized within the standard short action or standard long action cartridge classifications.

[0006] An example of one of these cartridge families would be cartridges based on the .308 Winchester (“WIN”) parent cartridge case design, including: .308 WIN, 243 WIN, .260 REM, 7mm-08 REM, .338 Federal, and .358 WIN. A magazine design that is optimized for .308 WIN is often able to work with cartridges derived from its respective case geometry and achieve standard functional performance.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0007] Cartridges that fall outside of this direct parent cartridge case design, but share similar case geometry, may work in a magazine that is dedicated for .308 WIN. However, use of alternate cartridges in a non-dedicated magazine can result in inherent magazine functional issues. An example of cartridges that fall into this secondary category would be 6.5 Creedmoor, 6mm Creedmoor, and .30 Thompson Center.

[0008] Differences in case-head diameter, case-body diameter, case-body length, and overall cartridge length are accounted for in magazine design as magazines that are designed specifically for standard versus magnum calibers within the overall short-action standardlength cartridge designation (cartridges up to 2.955” overall length) and long-action standard length cartridge designations (cartridges greater than 2.955” overall length up to 3.340” overall length).

[0009] Unlike embodiments of the present disclosure, in known short-action designs, a magazine that is designed for standard short-action cartridges, e.g., the .308 WIN family, cannot typically achieve compatibility with magnum short-action cartridges, e.g., 7mm WSM, 270 WSM, 300 WSM, 325 WSM, and 6.5 PRC, without dedicated geometry fixed into the design by the manufacturing process or secondary part modifications rendering the magazines incompatible with the standard short-action cartridges, e.g., the .308 WIN family. This also holds true for short-action cartridges such as 22-250 REM, which has smaller casebody geometry and shorter cartridge overall length as compared to the .308 WIN, typically requiring a specific and different magazine.

[0010] This same condition is also applicable for known magazines designed to fit long- action cartridges. For example, a long-action family of cartridges, similar to the .308 WIN family for the short-action layout, is derived from the 30-06 Springfield (“SPFLD”) case design geometry for standard long-action cartridges (non-magnum). The 30-06 SPFLD family includes cartridges such as: .270 WIN, 25-06 Remington, 280 Remington, 280 Ackley Improved, and 35 Whelen. Magazines structured for the 30-06 SPFLD family are generally not compatible with magnum long-action cartridges due to geometric differences in casehead diameter, case-body diameter, and case body length. This renders these magazines incompatible with cartridges such as 300 WIN MAG, 338 WIN MAG, 7mm REM MAG, 28 NOSLER, 7mm PRC, 375 RUGER, etc.

[0011] Apart from known magazines designed for the 30-06 SPFLD family not being able to accept the magnum long-action cartridges noted, the magnum long-action calibers often require dedicated magazines in their own right, within specific sub-families or magazines structured for individual calibers based on inherent differences in case geometry.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0012] With known vertical- stacking magazine designs, compatibility is typically achieved across multiple calibers by adjusting four primary magazine parameters such as: feed-lip opening width; feed-lip length; follower shape / contouring; and internal shoulder rib size / location.

[0013] In known magazines designs, the combination of these four primary parameters is generally used to achieve optimized magazine functional performance with each respective cartridge paired with a magazine with the common vertical stacking and rotary magazine designs seen in the industry. Unlike embodiments of the present disclosure, this geometry is typically a dedicated geometry, fixed into the design by the manufacturing process or secondary part modifications, rendering the magazines incompatible with a wider range of calibers and cartridges.

[0014] Such magazines are generally formed from stamped sheet metal and require individualized tooling particularly for the magazine bodies that dictate the feed-lip opening width, the feed-lip length, and internal shoulder rib size / location. In such stamped steel magazines, the portions of the magazine that provide these parameters are structure of the walls of the magazine body, that is, the magazine body provides these features and define the parameters. In polymer magazines, again, the portions of the magazine that define these parameters are unitary with the magazine bodies. This then requires new tooling, that is new molds or different mold inserts, when any one of these parameters are adjusted for different sized / configured cartridges. Embodiments of magazines of the present disclosure overcome these restrictions to some extent and provide magazines bodies that, with selected additional components, are compatible with a wider range of calibers and cartridges, as described herein.

[0015] In embodiments, a magazine body having a forward end wall, a rearward end wall, and two opposing side walls, may receive different selected wall inserts on the opposing side walls to selectively adapt the magazine body and provide a magazine for a specific cartridge. In embodiments, a magazine may be reconfigured, by simple rearrangement of wall inserts, to provide a magazine usable for two differently configured cartridges. For example, the wall inserts may be shoulder inserts that are received in specific receiving locations on the inside surfaces of the side walls. The shoulder inserts may be attached with cooperating structures on the side walls and on the shoulder inserts. In embodiments, a shoulder insert and side wall may have a tongue and groove, dovetailed, or other interlocking mechanical connection and a latching tab to releasably fix the shoulder insert in position on the inside wall surface. In embodiments, a selected shoulder insert may be secured to theAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 magazine body wall by attachment means such as polymer welding, adhesives, or fasteners, including rivets and threaded fasteners. In embodiments, other components, including wall inserts or extensions that can provide different feed lip opening widths, or different feed-lip lengths and may be removably or permanently attached to the magazine body. Additionally, different followers may be provided for different size / configurations of cartridges.

[0016] In embodiments of the present disclosure is a configurable rifle magazine that comprises: a magazine body defining a cartridge-receiving cavity and including a first side wall having a first shoulder-insert-engagement portion and a second side wall having a second shoulder-insert-engagement portion, the second side wall being opposite to the first side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall of the magazine body and attachable to the second side wall of the magazine body, and including a first cartridgeshoulder contact portion; and a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall, including a second cartridge- shoulder contact portion. In a first magazine configuration for receiving a first- size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body; and in a second magazine configuration for receiving a second-size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body.

[0017] In embodiments a rifle magazine body configurable for receiving different sizes of cartridges depending on the selection of specific insert shoulders attached on opposing side walls of the magazine body. The magazine body receiving a base defining a bottom wall securable to the magazine body. A leaf spring extends from the base to a follower. The magazine body and follower define a cartridge-receiving cavity and include a first side wall having a first shoulder-insert-engagement portion and a second side wall having a second shoulder-insert-engagement portion, the second side wall being opposite to the first side wall.

[0018] Another embodiment is a rifle configured to fire a first-size cartridge having a first body diameter and to fire a second-size cartridge having a second diameter that is greater than a first diameter. The rifle includes: a stock; a barrel connected to the stock; a receiver in communication with the barrel and configured to receive a configurable magazine; and a configurable magazine configured to receive a plurality of the first-size cartridges when assembled in a first magazine configuration and configured to receive a plurality of the second-size cartridges when assembled in a second magazine configuration.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0019] Another embodiment of the disclosure is a configurable magazine system that includes: a first magazine body defining a first length and including a first side wall and a second side wall; a second magazine body defining a second length, the second length being longer than the first length, and including a first side wall and a second side wall; and a first shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, a second side wall of the first magazine body, a first side wall of the second magazine body, and a second side wall of the second magazine body; and a second shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, a second side wall of the first magazine body, a first side wall of the second magazine body, and a second side wall of the second magazine body.

[0020] Yet another embodiment is a set of shoulder inserts for a rifle magazine, including a first shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in a cartridge-receiving recess of a magazine body of the rifle magazine. The first shoulder insert includes a first inner side forming a cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion and a first outer side defining a recess configured to receive a portion of the magazine body. The set of shoulders also includes a second shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in the cartridge-receiving recess of the magazine body of the rifle magazine. The second shoulder insert includes a second inner side forming a cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion and a first outer side defining a recess configured to receive another portion of the magazine body.

[0021] Another embodiment is a method for reconfiguring a rifle magazine to accept a plurality of rifle cartridges, comprising following steps: (1) receiving a first magazine body having a first side wall and a second side, with a first shoulder insert attached to a first inner surface of the first side of the magazine body, and a second shoulder insert attached to a second inner surface of the second side wall of the magazine body; (2) removing a base from a bottom end of the magazine body; (3) removing a follower and a spring into the body; (4) removing the first shoulder insert from the first inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; (5) removing the second shoulder insert from the second inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; (6) attaching the first shoulder insert to the second inner surface of the second side wall of the magazine body; (7) attaching the second shoulder insert to the first inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; (8) inserting the follower and the spring into the body; and (9) attaching the base to a bottom end of the magazine body.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0022] Another embodiment is a reconfigurable magazine kit that includes a magazine body including a first side wall and a second side wall opposite the first side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall; a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall; and a set of instructions describing how to attach the first and second shoulder inserts to the magazine body to form a first magazine body configuration, and how to attach the first and second shoulder inserts to the magazine body to form a second magazine body configuration.

[0023] In embodiments, a method of manufacturing ammunition magazines includes utilizing a common magazine body with inserts selected from a set of differently configured inserts to adjust one or more parameters. Such methods may include removably attaching the inserts to the magazine body. Such methods may include attaching a bottom wall or base by snap-in engagement to the magazine body. Such methods may include installing a selected follower from a set of differently configured followers. Such methods may include selecting shoulder inserts from a set of different shoulder inserts, to provide a specific shoulder separation width and location in the magazine body.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The disclosure can be understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] FIG. 1 is view of a shouldered rifle cartridge;

[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art magazine body;

[0027] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of multiple shouldered rifle cartridges of a first type vertically stacked in the magazine of FIG. 2, with ribs properly contacting cartridge shoulders;

[0028] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of multiple shouldered rifle cartridges of a second type vertically stacked in the magazine of FIG. 2, with ribs improperly contacting cartridge shoulders;

[0029] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a configurable magazine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 6 is a front view of a rifle and a configurable magazine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a magazine body of the configurable magazine of FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0032] FIG. 8 is a right-side view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0033] FIG. 9 is a left-side view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0034] FIG. 10 is a top view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0035] FIG. 11 is a cutaway perspective view of the magazine body of FIG. 7 depicting an inner surface of the body, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0037] FIG. 13 is a front view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0038] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0039] FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0040] FIG. 16 is another sectional view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0041] FIG. 17 is yet another sectional view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0042] FIG. 18 is another sectional view of the magazine body of FIG. 7;

[0043] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a follower of the configurable magazine of FIG.5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIG. 20 is a top view of a follower of FIG. 19;

[0045] FIG. 21 is a right-side view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0046] FIG. 22 is a left-side view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0047] FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0048] FIG. 24 is a rear view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0049] FIG. 25 is a left-side view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0050] FIG. 26 is a sectional view of the follower of FIG. 19;

[0051] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a spring of the configurable magazine of FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a base of the configurable magazine of FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] FIG. 29 is a first perspective view of a first shoulder insert of the configurable magazine of FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 30 is a second perspective view of the first shoulder insert of FIG. 29;

[0055] FIG. 31 is a first perspective view of a second shoulder insert of the configurable magazine of FIG. 5, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] FIG. 32 is a second perspective view of the second shoulder insert of FIG. 31 ;

[0057] FIG. 33 is a cutaway perspective view of a left-side of the magazine body of FIG.5 and a first shoulder insert, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0058] FIG. 34 is a left-side view of the magazine body of FIG. 5 in transparency with a first shoulder insert attached, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 35 is a left-side view of the magazine body of FIG. 5 in transparency with a first shoulder insert attached to a left side wall and a second shoulder insert attached to a right side wall, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 36 is a cutaway perspective view of a left-side of the magazine body of FIG. 5 and a second shoulder insert, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 37 is a left-side view of the magazine body of FIG. 5 in transparency with a second shoulder insert attached to a left side wall and a first shoulder insert attached to a right side wall, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 38 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a configurable magazine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 39 is a top view of shouldered rifle cartridges of a first type vertically stacked in the configurable magazine of FIG. 5 in a first magazine configuration;

[0064] FIG. 40 is a top view of shouldered rifle cartridges of a second type vertically stacked in the configurable magazine of FIG. 5 in a second magazine configuration;

[0065] FIGS. 41A through 41F are various views of a magazine base having a magazine latch, which are configured to interface with a select firearm;

[0066] FIGS. 42A through 42G are various views of a magazine base that is configured to interface with a select firearm; and

[0067] FIGS. 43 A through 43G are various views of a magazine base that is configured to interface with a select firearm.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] For the purposes of understanding the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all combinations, modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 1, shouldered rifle cartridge 100 is depicted. Various key areas and reference points that relate to an interface of cartridge 100 with a magazine are depictedAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 and include cartridge case head 102 defining extractor groove 104 and rim 106, case body 108, shoulder 110, neck 112, and bullet 114 inserted into neck 112.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 2, known rifle magazine 120 configured to receive a plurality of vertically- stacked cartridges 100 is depicted. Magazine 120 includes body 122 defining cartridge-receiving cavity 124, left-side shoulder- contacting rib 126 and right-side shouldercontacting rib 128.

[0071] Functional issues of magazine 120, including forward shifting, tilting or misalignment of cartridges 100 can directly lead to feeding issues where cartridges 100 are lodged within magazine 120, requiring the magazine to be removed from the firearm and emptied prior to being used again. Embodiments of the present disclosure generally prevent such issues.

[0072] FIG. 3 depicts a stack of .308 WIN cartridges installed into a magazine 120 having dedicated shoulder contact ribs 126, 128 to properly retain the cartridge stack from shifting forward in magazine 120. As contact ribs 126 and 128 are sized and positioned for the .308 WIN family of cartridges, they render short-action magnum calibers (Example: 7mm WSM, 270 WSM, 300 WSM, 325 WSM, and 6.5 PRC) incompatible with magazine 120.

[0073] FIG. 4 depicts an interference condition seen when trying to utilize a dedicated .308 WIN magazine, such as magazine 120, with a magnum cartridge, such as a 300 WSM cartridge, depicted as cartridge 100a, which possesses a longer body 108a, different length / forward shoulder 110a position and larger body 108a diameters. As depicted, rib 126 contacts shoulder 110a in a region of interference, Ri, and rib 128 contacts shoulder 110 in another region of interference, Ri. This interference condition would prevent the 300 WSM cartridge 100a from feeding and would lead to it becoming lodged within magazine 120.

[0074] As described below with respect to the figures, embodiments of the present invention include magazines that utilize interchangeable shoulder inserts to expand upon the number of cartridge types that may be used for one magazine, without creating the interference conditions as described above.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 5, an embodiment of configurable magazine 150 for storing and feeding ammunition is depicted. In this embodiment, configurable magazine 150 is a detachable, double vertical-stacking magazine including body 152, a pair of magazine shoulder inserts 154, including first shoulder insert 154a and second shoulder insert 154b, follower 156, spring 158 (or other spring element, e.g., configured as a leaf spring) and base 160 defining a bottom wall of the magazine. In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 as depicted in FIG. 5 may be configured to accept long-action cartridges of varyingAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 dimensions, including both standard and magnum cartridges. Other embodiments of configurable magazine 150 may be configured to accept multiple types of short- action cartridges, including standard and larger magnum cartridges, as described further below, and in particular with respect to FIG. 38. Short-action magazine 150 configured to accept shortaction cartridges will generally have the same configuration and features as long-action magazine 150, though the sizing and dimensions may vary, and often be smaller.

[0076] In some examples, at least one of body 152 and base 160 may define one or more exterior surface features configured to interface with a selected firearm. For example, at least one of body 152 and base 160 may include at least one of a general shape, surface profiles, detents, and protrusions that mechanically engage one or more corresponding features of the selected firearm. The mechanical engagement may include an interference fit or a friction fit; engagement of a mechanical lever, arm, or similar feature; or other mechanical engagements as known in the art. In this way, body 152 and base 160 may be configured to operate with a selected firearm. In some examples, body 152 and base 16 may be configured to operate with more than one selected firearm by inclusion of multiple different exterior surface features.

[0077] In embodiments, configurable magazine 150 configured for short- action cartridges may be compatible with, or accommodate, short-action cartridges up to a 2.955” overall length. Configurable magazine 150 configured for long-action cartridges may be compatible with, or accommodate, long-action cartridges greater than 2.955” overall length up to 3.340” overall length.

[0078] Although this particular embodiment of configurable magazine 150 is depicted as a detachable, tubular, double vertical-stacking magazine, it will be understood that in other embodiments, configurable magazine 150 may include other types of magazines and stacking configurations. In one such embodiment, configurable magazine 150 is an integral or fixed magazine that is integral to a rifle. In some embodiments, configurable magazine 150 includes a single-stack magazine, or another stacking configuration. In some embodiments, configurable magazine 150, may be a box, or revolving magazine, rather than a tubular magazine.

[0079] Referring also to FIG. 6, magazine 150 is sized and configured to fit into, or be received by, rifle 162. Although depicted as a bolt-action rifle, it will be understood that rifle 162 may include any of a variety of types and styles of rifles, including bolt- action, singleshot, lever-action, semi-automatic, automatic, break action, pump action, and so on. For the sake of illustration, rifle 162 is depicted as a bolt- action rifle that includes receiver 164, trigger 166, barrel 168 and stock 170.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0080] Still referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, and as will be explained further below with respect to the other figures, in an assembled configuration, shoulder inserts 154 are configured to be received into body 152, spring element 158 is adjacent to, and may be attached to, base 160 and to follower 156, exerting a spring force onto follower 156, with follower 156 and spring 158 being received into body 152, and with base 160 attached to a bottom portion of body 152.

[0081] Magazine 150 is configured to be received by receiver 164 of rifle 162. When magazine 150 is loaded with cartridges to form a cartridge stack, and configurable magazine 150 is received into rifle 162, cartridges 100 are fed to the rifle chamber for firing.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5 again, and also to FIGS. 7-18, an embodiment of magazine body (or tube) 152 is depicted.

[0083] In an embodiment, and as depicted, body 152 includes first or left wall 172, second or right side wall 174, third or front side wall 176, fourth or rear side wall 178, upper end 180, lower end 182, front end 184 and rear end 186. The four side walls 172, 174, 176 and 178 of body 152 define cartridge-receiving cavity 188. Magazine body 152 defines length L, width W and height H.

[0084] In an embodiment, body 152 may be formed as a single, integrally-formed unit, though in other embodiments, magazine body 152 may be an assembly formed of multiple portions assembled together.

[0085] Regarding materials, in an embodiment, body 152 may be formed of a plastic or polymeric material. In other embodiments, body 152 may comprise metal, or a combination of metal and polymeric materials.

[0086] First or left side wall 172 may be generally planar and rectangular as depicted and includes inside surface 190 and top edge 191. Inside surface 190 of first side wall 172 includes structure for removably receiving a shoulder insert 154, as described further below. First side wall 172 and inside surface 190 extend between front end 184 and rear end 186, and between upper end 180 and bottom end 182. Top edge 191 extends along upper end 180 between front end 184 and rear end 186.

[0087] Second side wall 174 may be generally planar and rectangular as depicted and includes inside surface 192 and top edge 193. Inside surface 192 of second side wall 174 includes structure for removably receiving a shoulder insert 154 as described further below. Second side wall 174 and inside surface 192 extend between front end 184 and rear end 186, and between upper end 180 and bottom end 182, at front end 184.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0088] Front side wall 176 extends between first side wall 172 and second side wall 174, and between upper end 180 and bottom end 182. In an embodiment, front side wall 176 forms cartridge gate 194 (or recess).

[0089] Rear side wall 178 extends between first side wall 172 and second side wall 174, and between upper end 180 and bottom end 182, at rear end 186.

[0090] Upper end 180 of body 152 includes first or left feed lip 200 extending lengthwise on a top portion of first side wall 172 and second or right feed lip 202 extending lengthwise, opposite first feed lip 200, on a top portion of second side wall 174. Each of first feed lip 200 and second feed lip 202, in an embodiment, converges and curves inward toward a center of body 152. The first and second feed lips define a feed- lip width WF and a feed-lip length LF.

[0091] Bottom end 182 may include a plurality of recesses 206 on first and second side walls 172, 174, as well as rear side wall 178, for receiving portions, such as projections 318 (see FIG. 28) of removable base 160. In an embodiment, projections 318 fitting into recesses 206 form a snap fit for connecting base 160 to body 152.

[0092] Referring specifically to FIGS. 11 and 5, a perspective partial cutaway view of magazine 150 depicts surface 190 of first or left side wall 172 with various structures for removably receiving a first shoulder insert 154a. In this embodiment, surface 190 of first side wall 172 of body 152 defines shoulder-receiving recess 208a and shoulder-tab receiving hole 210a, also referred to as a locking pocket, located near bottom end 182. In an embodiment, body 152 may define a shoulder-tab receiving recess (not depicted) in top edge 191. In an embodiment, shoulder-receiving recess 208a defines a pair of parallel channels on either side of first shoulder- insert-engagement portion 21 la, to receive a pair of shoulderinsert portions, though other embodiments forming other shapes are contemplated. First or left side wall 172 and surface 190 include first shoulder-insert-engagement portion 211a with first edge 213a and second edge 215a. First shoulder-insert-engagement portion 21 la is configured for engagement with, and connection to, first shoulder insert 154a or second shoulder insert 154b. In an embodiment, raised first shoulder-insert-engagement portion 211 defines a pair of vertically extending dovetail channels on either side of the raised portion, depicted as first channel 217a and second channel 219a.

[0093] Referring also to FIGS. 7, 8, 12 and 35, second or right side wall 174 also includes various structures for removably receiving a second shoulder insert 154b. In this embodiment, surface 192 of second side wall 174 of body 152 defines a shoulder-receiving recess 208b and shoulder-tab receiving hole 210b, or locking pocket, located near bottom end 182. In an embodiment, body 152 may include a shoulder-tab receiving recess (not depicted)Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 in top edge 193. In an embodiment, shoulder-receiving recess 208b defines a pair of parallel channels to receive a pair of should-insert portions, though other embodiments forming other shapes are contemplated.

[0094] Second or right side wall 174 and its inner surface 192 also includes structures for removably receiving a first shoulder insert 154a, such structures being substantially the same as those described above with respect to first or left side wall 172 and its surface 190. Inner surface 192 is formed as a mirror image of inner surface 190, such that its surface, structures and recesses are substantially the same, just positioned in mirror image.

[0095] More specifically, surface 192 of second side wall 174 of body 152 defines a shoulder-receiving recess and shoulder-tab receiving hole 210b located near bottom end 182 (see also FIG. 8). In an embodiment, body 152 may define a shoulder-tab receiving recess (not depicted) in a top edge of second side wall 174. In an embodiment, shoulder-receiving recess 208b defines a pair of parallel channels to receive a pair of shoulder-insert portions, though other embodiments forming other shapes are contemplated. Second or right side wall 174 and surface 192 include a second raised shoulder-engagement portion 21 lb (see also FIG. 37), substantially the same as raised first shoulder- insert-engagement portion 211a of left side wall 172, with first and second edges substantially the same as first edge 213 and second edge 215 of left side wall 172. The second shoulder-engagement portion is configured for engagement with first shoulder insert 154a or second shoulder insert 154b. In an embodiment, the raised shoulder engagement portion of right side wall 174 and inner surface 192 defines a pair of vertically extending dovetail channels on either side of the raised portion, substantially the same as first channel 217 and second channel 219 of left side wall 172.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 16-18, several sectional views of magazine body 152 are depicted. Referring to FIG. 16, a sectional, front-to-rear view of body 152 near rear end 186 of body 152 depicts left and right side walls 172, 174 in cross section, with left feed lip 200 and right feed lip 202.

[0097] Left feed lip 200 includes first or left feed surface 220 and right feed lip 202 includes second or right feed surface 222. Left feed lip surface 220 forms a minor circular arc and is opposite right feed lift surface 222, which also forms a minor circular arc with equal curvature. Feed lip surfaces 220 and 222 are sized and configured to contact portions of a cartridge 100 (see FIG. 1) inserted into magazine 120. The circular curvature of left and right feed lips 200, 202 may be defined by a circle that has diameter D, as depicted, sized according to dimensions of a selected cartridge 100 for magazine 120. In an embodiment, DAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 may be approximately 0.54 inches; in another embodiment, D may be 0.544 inches; in yet another embodiment, D may be in a range of 0.5 to 0.6 inches. It will be understood that diameter D may be sized to accommodate various cartridge 100 dimensions.

[0098] Still referring to FIG. 16, in an embodiment, a width Wbl between inside surface 190 of first side wall 172 and inside surface 192 of second side wall 174 is approximately 0.83 inches, or in another embodiment is approximately 0.829 inches. In yet another embodiment, width Wbl is in a range of 0.78 to 0.88 inches.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 17, another sectional, front-to-rear view of body 152 depicts left and right side walls 172, 174 in cross section, with left feed lip 200 and right feed lip 202. As compared to FIG. 16, this cross-sectional view is further from rear end 186 (refer also to FIG. 12). As depicted in FIG. 17, in an embodiment, a distance between inside surfaces 190 and 192 is slightly narrower, with width Wb2 being approximately 0.76 inches. In another embodiment, width Wb2 is in a range of 0.7 to 0.8 inches. A slight narrowing of the interior magazine width in a back-to-front direction may be advantageous for cartridge feed operation.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 18, another sectional, front-to-rear view of body 152 depicts left and right side walls 172, 174 in cross section, with left feed lip 200 and right feed lip 202.

[0101] Referring now to FIGS. 19-26, as well as exploded magazine FIG. 5, an embodiment of follower 156 is depicted. As depicted in FIG. 5, follower 156 is located inside magazine body 152, above base 160, and is adjacent to spring 158. In operation, spring 158 exerts a bottom- to-top force on follower 156 and any cartridges 100 stacked in magazine body 152 on follower 156.

[0102] Follower 156 may be formed of a plastic or polymeric material. In other embodiments, follower 156 may include metal, or a combination of metal and polymeric materials. Follower 156 may include the same material as the material of body 152.

[0103] In the embodiment depicted, follower 156 includes main portion or body 230 having top side 232 with top surface 234, bottom side 236 with bottom surface 238, front end 240, rear end 242, first or right side 244 and second or left side 246. In an embodiment, body 230 generally forms a relatively thin rectangular shape, as depicted, with multiple cut-outs and side structures as described further below.

[0104] In an embodiment, a left- side of the body 230 at the top side 232 forms ridge, projection or raised portion 250 that extends longitudinally from front end 240 to rear end 242 and includes surface 252 (which is a portion of top surface 234). Next to longitudinally- extending projection 250 is longitudinally extending flat surface 254 (which is a portion ofAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 top surface 234). When cartridges 100 are loaded in magazine 150, a cartridge 100 is adjacent to, and contacts, surface 252, while another cartridge 100 may be adjacent to, and contact surface 254, so as to vertically offset the two cartridges 100 in a vertically-stacked embodiment of magazine 150.

[0105] Front end 240, in an embodiment, includes tabs or wing portions 260 and 262 that project from comers of front end 240 and that may be thinner than a central portion of main body 230.

[0106] Rear end 242 includes a plurality projections or tabs, including rear tabs 264 and rear-side tabs 266. Tabs 264 and 266 may engage with magazine body 152, such as receiving into slots or channels of inside surfaces of body 152 in order to guide and restrain movement of follower 156 in magazine body 152.

[0107] Right side 244 defines a plurality of recesses 270, including 270a, 270b and 270c. In an embodiment, recesses 270 are configured to accept portions of inward-projecting structures of magazine body 152. Right side 244 also includes a pair of side projections 272, including 272a and 272b, extending both longitudinally and latitudinally.

[0108] Left side 246 defines a plurality of recesses 280, including 280a, 280b and 280c.In an embodiment, recesses 280 are configured to accept portions of inward-projecting structures of magazine body 152. Left side 246 also includes a pair of side projections 282, including 282a and 282b extending both longitudinally and latitudinally.

[0109] In an embodiment, follower 156 may also define a pair of notches, including notches 284 and 286 located near a front-to-rear center of follower 156.

[0110] Referring specifically to the bottom view of FIG. 23 and the sectional view of FIG. 26, follower 156 defines central spring-receiving cavity 288, front cavity 290 and rear cavity 292. Spring-receiving cavity 288 is configured to receive an end portion of spring 158.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 27, an embodiment of spring 158 in an uncompressed position is depicted. In an embodiment, spring 158 comprises a four-portion leaf spring with top portion 294, first intermediate portion 296, second intermediate portion 298 and bottom portion 300. In an embodiment, the four portions 294, 296, 298 and 300 are integrally formed from a single piece of material, such as a metal spring material, or other material appropriate for a spring.

[0112] Top portion 294 is configured to be received by spring-receiving cavity 288 of follower 156. In an embodiment, top portion 294 may be connected to follower 156 via aAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 snap fit, friction fit, or other means. Bottom portion 300 is configured to be received by a cavity of base 160, as described below.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 28, an embodiment of base 160 of magazine 150 is depicted. Base 160 includes front end 302, rear end 304, first or right side 306, second or left side 308 and bottom side 310. Base 160 defines cavity 312 and defines spring-receiving recess 314.

[0114] Rear end 304 forms a short vertical wall and includes rear-to-front tab 316. Left side 308 forms a short vertical wall and includes left-to-right-projecting side tab 318. Front end 302 forms a short vertical wall, and on an inside surface includes a rearward-projecting tab, not depicted, but substantially the same as the other depicted tabs of rear end 304 and left side 308. Right side 306 forms a short vertical wall and includes a right-to-left-projecting side tab similar to tab 318, though not depicted.

[0115] FIGS. 29-32 depict a pair of magazine shoulder inserts 154, namely, first shoulder insert 154a and second shoulder insert 154b (collectively, shoulder inserts 154). As described briefly above with respect to FIG. 5, and as described further below, shoulder inserts 154 are configurable to be attached to opposite inside surfaces of magazine body 152, such as opposite surfaces 190 and 192.

[0116] Referring specifically to FIGS. 29 and 30, a front perspective view of first shoulder insert 154a, and a rear perspective view of first shoulder insert 154a are depicted. In an embodiment, first shoulder insert 154a includes inner side 330a, outer side 332a, upper end 334a, lower end 336a, first side or edge 338a and second side or edge 340a. First shoulder insert 154a, in an embodiment, also includes flexible arm 342a with locking tab 344a. First shoulder insert 154a defines slot 346a and notch 348a.

[0117] Inner side 330a is an “inward” facing side in that it faces inwardly toward a center of magazine body 152 and toward an opposite side of magazine body 152, as explained further below. Inner side 330a extends in a top-to-bottom or vertical direction between upper end 334a and lower end 336a to define a first shoulder insert height Ha. Inner side 330a also extends in a horizontal, lengthwise direction between first and second ends 338a and 340a, respectively, to define a first shoulder insert length La. A thickness of first shoulder insert 154a, defined between inner side 330a and outer side 332a varies from top to bottom and left to right due to the various projections and recesses formed in the shoulder insert.

[0118] Inner side 330a includes contoured inner surface 350a and cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a at or near second end 340a. In an embodiment cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a forms a vertically-extending (upper-lower) rib, which also extends outwardly and away from inner side 330a (and into cavity 188 of magazine 150 whenAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 installed, see below). In the embodiment depicted, cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a includes cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a, which is also part of contoured inner surface 350a. Portions of cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a and / or portions of cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a may contact a cartridge 100.

[0119] Other structures of first shoulder insert 154a may also be configured to contact portions of a cartridge 100 shoulder, including other portions of upper end 334a. In an embodiment, upper end 334a includes horizontally-extending (front-to-rear) edge 335a, portions of which may also serve as a cartridge-shoulder contact portion. The portion of structure at upper end 334a, whether cartridge-shoulder contract portion 352a or upper end edge 335a, that contacts a cartridge 100 shoulder depends in part on the particular cartridge 100 dimensions loaded into magazine 150.

[0120] In an embodiment, contoured inner surface 350a also includes a relatively flat surface portion 356a which may extend substantially parallel to an inside surface 190 or 192 of magazine body 152 (refer back to FIG. 12).

[0121] In an embodiment, cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a is generally flat and planar, though in other embodiments, may form a non-flat curvature. Cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a extends transversely to surface 356a and inside surfaces 190 and 192 of magazine body 152, such as sloping downwardly (in a top-to-bottom direction) and outwardly and away from surface 356a.

[0122] Slot 346a may be a through slot, extending between inner side 330a and outer side 332a, and configured to receive a portion or structure on an inside surface 190 or 192 of magazine body 152.

[0123] Outer side 332a is an “outward” facing side in that it faces outwardly toward an inside surface 190 or 192 when attached to magazine body 152, as explained further below. Outer side 332a extends in a top-to-bottom or vertical direction between upper end 334a and lower end 336a. Outer side 332a also extends in a horizontal, lengthwise direction between first and second ends 338a and 340a, respectively.

[0124] Outer side 332a includes contoured inner surface 360a, a first projection 362a, second projection 364a and third projection 366a. First projection 362a, in an embodiment, forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336a toward upper end 334a, and includes a substantially flat, planar surface 368a and edge 369a. Second projection 364a also forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336a toward upper end 334a, and includes substantially flat, planar surface 370a and edge 371a. ThirdAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 projection 366a also forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336a toward upper end 334a, and includes substantially flat, planar surface 372a.

[0125] Contoured inner surface 360a includes recess surface 374a, as well as the three rib surfaces 368a, 370a and 372a.

[0126] Outer side 332a defines magazine-receiving recess 380a. Magazine-body- receiving recess 380a includes first receiving channel 382a and second receiving channel 384a. In an embodiment, magazine-body-receiving recess 380a is defined by surface 374a and portions of first and second projections 362a and 364a. First receiving channel 382a is defined by a portion of magazine -body-receiving recess 380a and by first projection 362a; second receiving channel 384a is defined by a portion of magazine-body receiving recess 380a and by second projection 364a. Magazine-receiving recess 380a is configured to receive all or portions of shoulder-engaging portion 21 la of magazine body 152.

[0127] Outer side 332a may define other recesses as depicted, some of which may be the result of a manufacturing process.

[0128] Still referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, flexible arm 342a with locking tab 344a is depicted. In an embodiment, arm 342a extends from, and is connected to shoulder region 386a at first or proximal end 388a of arm 342a. A pair of slots is defined on either side of arm 342a. Locking tab 344a is located at second, free or distal end 390a of arm 342a. In an embodiment, locking tab 344a forms a triangular shape, and extends outwardly and away from recessed surface 374a and other portions of arm 342a.

[0129] Upper end 334a includes top surface 392a, upper securing tab 394a, and raised portion 396a. Upper securing tab 394a projects upwardly and away from surface and is configured to be received in a recess in an upper end 180 of body 152 to secure upper end 334a in magazine body 152.

[0130] First end 338a, in an embodiment, includes protuberance 400a at or near upper end 334a. In an embodiment, protuberance 400a is triangular shaped and forms a triangular comer of first shoulder insert 134b.

[0131] Second end 340a, in an embodiment, forms a substantially flat surface, extending between upper end 334a and lower end 336a.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, a front perspective view of second shoulder insert 154b, and a rear perspective view of second shoulder insert 154b are depicted. In an embodiment, and as depicted, second shoulder insert 154b is substantially the same as first shoulder insert 154a, except second shoulder insert 154b is formed as a mirror image of first shoulder insert 154a. Such a configuration makes it possible to exchange positions of firstAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 and second shoulder inserts 154a, 154b with respect to surfaces 190 and 192 of magazine body 152.

[0133] In an embodiment, second shoulder insert 154b includes inner side 330b, outer side 332b, upper end 334b, lower end 336b, first side or edge 338b and second side or edge 340b. Second shoulder insert 154b, in an embodiment, also includes arm 342b with locking tab 344b.

[0134] Second shoulder insert 154b defines slot 346b and notch 348b.

[0135] Inner side 330b is an “inward” facing side in that it faces inwardly toward a center of magazine body 152 and toward an opposite side of magazine body 152, as explained further below. Inner side 330b extends in a top-to-bottom or vertical direction between upper end 334b and lower end 336b to define a second shoulder insert height Hb, which may be the same as height Ha. Inner side 330b also extends in a horizontal, lengthwise direction between first and second ends 338b and 340b, respectively, to define a second shoulder insert length Lb, which may be the same as length La. A thickness of second shoulder insert 154b, defined between inner side 330b and outer side 332b varies from top to bottom and left to right due to the various projections and recesses formed in the shoulder insert.

[0136] Inner side 330b includes contoured inner surface 350b and cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352b at or near second end 340b. In an embodiment cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352b forms a vertically-extending rib (upper-lower), which extends outwardly and away from inner side 330b (and into cavity 188 of magazine 150 when installed, see below). In the embodiment depicted, cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352b includes cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354b, which is also part of contoured inner surface 350b. Portions of cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352b and / or portions of cartridge-shoulder contact surface 354b may contact a cartridge 100 shoulder.

[0137] Other structures of first shoulder insert 154a may also be configured to contact portions of a cartridge 100 shoulder, including other portions of upper end 334b. In an embodiment, upper end 334b includes horizontally-extending (front-to-rear) edge 335b. The portion of structure at upper end 334a, whether cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352b or upper end edge 335b, that contacts a cartridge 100 shoulder depends in part on the particular cartridge 100 dimensions.

[0138] In an embodiment, contoured inner surface 350b also includes a relatively flat surface portion 356b which may extend substantially parallel to an inside surface 190 or 192 of magazine body 152 (refer back to FIG. 12).Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0139] In an embodiment, cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354b is generally flat and planar, though in other embodiments, may form a non-flat curvature. Cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354b extends transversely to surface 356b and inside surfaces 190 and 192 of magazine body 152, such as sloping downwardly (in a top-to-bottom direction) and outwardly and away from surface 356b.

[0140] Slot 346b may be a through slot, extending between inner side 330b and outer side 332b, and configured to receive a portion or structure on an inside surface 190 or 192 of magazine body 152.

[0141] Outer side 332b is an “outward” facing side in that if faces outwardly toward an inside surface 190 or 192 when attached to magazine body 152, as explained further below. Outer side 332b extends in a top-to-bottom or vertical direction between upper end 334b and lower end 336b. Outer side 330b also extends in a horizontal, lengthwise direction between first and second ends 338b and 340b, respectively.

[0142] Outer side 332b includes contoured inner surface 360b, a first projection 362b, second projection 364b and third projection 366b. First projection 362b, in an embodiment, forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336b toward upper end 334b, and includes a substantially flat, planar surface 368b and edge 369b. Second projection 364b also forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336b toward upper end 334b, and includes substantially flat, planar surface 370b and edge 371b. Third projection 366b also forms a rib-like projection that extends vertically from lower end 336b toward upper end 334b, and includes substantially flat, planar surface 372b.

[0143] Contoured inner surface 360b includes recess surface 374b, as well as the three rib surfaces 368b, 370b and 372b.

[0144] Outer side 332b defines magazine-body -receiving recess 380b. Magazine-body- receiving recess 380b includes first receiving channel 382b and second receiving channel 384b. In an embodiment, magazine-body-receiving recess 380b is defined by surface 374b and portions of first and second projections 362b and 364b. First receiving channel 382b is defined by a portion of magazine -body-receiving recess 380b and by first projection 362b; second receiving channel 384b is defined by a portion of magazine-body recess 380b and by second projection 364b.

[0145] Outer side 330b may define other recesses as depicted, some of which may be the result of a manufacturing process. Magazine-receiving recess 380b is configured to receive all or portions of shoulder-engaging portion 21 lb of magazine body 152.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0146] Still referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, flexible arm 342b with locking tab 344b is depicted. In an embodiment, flexible arm 342b extends from, and is connected to shoulder region 386b at first or proximal end 388b of arm 342b. A pair of slots is defined on either side of arm 342a. Locking tab 344b is located at second, free or distal end 390b of arm 342b. In an embodiment, locking tab 344b forms a triangular shape, and extends outwardly and away from recessed surface 374b and other portions of arm 342b.

[0147] Upper end 334b includes top surface 392b, upper securing tab 394b, and raised portion 396b. Upper securing tab 394b projects upwardly and away from surface and is configured to be received in a recess in upper end 180 of body 152 to secure upper end 334b in magazine body 152.

[0148] First end 338b, in an embodiment, includes protuberance 400b at or near upper end 334b. In an embodiment, protuberance 400b is triangular shaped and forms a triangular comer of second shoulder insert 134b.

[0149] Second end 340b, in an embodiment, forms a substantially flat surfaces, extending between upper end 334b and lower end 336b.

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 33-35, first and second shoulder inserts 154a and 154b are depicted as attached to magazine body 152.

[0151] Referring specifically to FIG. 33, a view of magazine body 152 cut lengthwise, along with first shoulder insert 154a is depicted. As indicated by the arrow, first shoulder insert 154a is moved in an upward direction, from lower end 182 toward upper end 180 to attach first shoulder insert 154a to first or left side 172 of magazine body 152 and inside surface 190. In this configuration, cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352a and cartridgeshoulder contact surface 354a are located rearwardly, which may be suited for use with standard or non-magnum cartridges 100.

[0152] Referring also to FIG. 34, which depicts magazine body 152 in transparency for the sake of illustration, when attached, first shoulder insert 154a is attached to second or left side 172. Referring also to FIG. 30, to assemble first shoulder insert 154a to body 152, a top outer side 332a of first shoulder insert 154a is abutted to inner surface 190 of body 152. A lower end of raised shoulder-engaging portion 21 la of body 152 is aligned with magazinereceiving recess 380a of first shoulder insert 154a, including aligning first edge 213a with first receiving channel 382a and aligning second edge 215a with second receiving channel 384a.

[0153] Once aligned, first shoulder insert 154a is moved in an upwards direction to a final attachment position. As first shoulder insert 154a is moved upward, locking tab 344aAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 slides along inner surface 190, and flexible arm 342a flexes and pivots about pivot region 386a, such that arm 342a bends away from surface 190. First edge 213a and second edge 215a of raised shoulder- insert-engagement portion 21 la are received into first receiving channel 382a and second receiving channel 384a, respectively. In an embodiment, edge 369a of first projection / rib 362a of first shoulder insert 154a is received into channel 215a, and edge 371a of second projection or rib 364a is received into channel 219a. The edges being received into the channels forms a secure dovetail joint between first shoulder insert 154a and magazine body 152. In the final, seated and attached position, locking tab 344a is received into shoulder-tab receiving hole 210a, and upper securing tab 394a is received into a recess (not depicted) in edge 191 of upper end 180. These multiple interlocking connections between first shoulder insert 154a and magazine body 152 forms a secure connection between insert 154a and left side 172 of body 152.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 35, first shoulder insert 154a is attached to first or left side 172 and surface 190 as described above, and second shoulder insert 154b is attached to second or right side 174 and surface 192, with magazine body 152 shown in transparency for the sake of illustration.

[0155] Second shoulder insert 154b, which in the embodiment depicted is formed as a mirror image of first shoulder insert 154a, is attached to second side 174 in a manner substantially similar to the manner in which first shoulder insert 154a is attached to first side 172. More specifically, and referring also to FIG. 32, to attach second shoulder insert 154b to second side 174 and its surface 192 (FIG. 11), second shoulder insert 154b is moved in an upward direction, from lower end 182 toward upper end 180 to attach second shoulder insert 154b to magazine body 152 and inside surface 192.

[0156] When attached, first and second edges of the raised shoulder-engaging portion 21 lb of right side 174 (substantially similar to raised should-engaging portion of left side 172; see FIG. 33) are received into first receiving channel 382b and second receiving channel 384b, respectively, of second shoulder insert 154b. In an embodiment, edge 369b of first projection / rib 362b of first shoulder insert 154a is received into a first channel (similar to channel 215a), and edge 371a of second projection or rib 364a is received into a second channel (similar to channel 219a). The edges being received into the channels forms a secure dovetail joint between second shoulder insert 154b and right side 174 of magazine body 152. In the final, seated and attached position, locking tab 344b is received into shoulder-tab receiving hole 210b, and upper securing tab 394b is received into a recess (not depicted) in upper end 180 of right side 174. These multiple interlocking connections between secondAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 shoulder insert 154b and magazine body 152 forms a secure connection between second shoulder insert 154b and body 152.

[0157] In this first of two configurations, first shoulder insert 154a is attached to inside surface 190 of first side 172 of magazine body 152, and second shoulder insert 154b is attached to inside surface 192 of second side 174. Consequently, cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a with cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a of first shoulder insert 154a and cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352b with cartridge-shoulder contact surface 354b of second shoulder insert 154b are positioned relatively rearwardly toward rear end 186. This first rearward- shoulder-contact configuration of magazine 150 is adapted to accommodate relatively smaller cartridges 100, or “standard” cartridges, rather than larger magnum cartridges 100, which may have larger length, diameter and other dimensions, as mentioned previously, and as further explained and depicted further below. As such, this first configuration may be referred to as a “small-cartridge” configuration, recognizing that a first of small-cartridge configuration can be a long-action, short-action or other magazine size.

[0158] Referring also to FIGS. 5 and 28, when base 160 is attached to body 152, tabs 318 of base 160 are received into recesses 206 of body 152, locking base 160 to body 152. When base 160 is attached or locked to body 152, bottom ends of each of first and second shoulder inserts 154a and 154b are in contact with, or near, base 160, such that shoulder inserts 154a, 154b are further locked into place and cannot move downward and out of position.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 36-37, in a second of two configurations, shoulder inserts 154a and 154b positions are reversed, i.e., first shoulder insert 154a is attached to right side 174 and its surface 192, while second shoulder insert 154b is attached to left side 172 and its surface 192.

[0160] In this second or forward- shoulder-contact configuration, which may also be a“large-cartridge” or “magnum” configuration, cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352b and its cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354a of second shoulder insert 154b is positioned relatively forward within magazine body 152. Similarly, cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352a and its cartridge- shoulder contact surface 354b of first shoulder insert 154a is also positioned relatively forward within magazine body 152. This second shoulder- forward configuration of magazine 150 is adapted to accommodate relatively larger cartridges 100, such as magnum cartridges, rather than standard cartridges 100.

[0161] In this second, magnum or large-cartridge configuration, first shoulder insert 154a is locked to right side 174, with locking tab 344a received into locking-tab receiving hole 210b, upper securing tab 394a received into a recess in edge 193 of upper end 180, and recessAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1380a receives second shoulder-engagement portion 21 lb to form a dovetail joint; second shoulder insert 154b is locked to left side 172, with locking tab 344b received into shouldertab receiving hole 210a, upper securing tab 394b received into another recess in edge 191 of upper end 180, and recess 380b receives second shoulder- insert-engagement portion 21 la to form a dovetail joint.

[0162] Consequently, the interchangeability of first shoulder insert 154a and second shoulder insert 154b allows for a change in the position of cartridge- shoulder contact portions 352a, 352b, to a more forward position, based on the assembly orientation selected. This differs significantly from known magazine designs which fix points of cartridge-shoulder contact of the magazine and cartridge for a single magazine or only include a single contacting rib per side. For removal, locking tab 344a, 344b tab can be depressed moving them inwards towards cartridge-receiving cavity 188 of the magazine body, unlocking the shoulder inserts 154 from the magazine body. Shoulder inserts 154 can then be removed from magazine body 152 by sliding them vertically down the dovetail track formed in part by channels 382 and 384 of shoulder inserts 154 and by shoulder-insert-engagement portions 211 of body 152, after removal of base 160. In some embodiments, magazine body 152 and base 160 may be configured such that shoulder inserts 154 may be removed and repositioned by a consumer or end user. In such an embodiment, base 160 may be removed with relative ease, such as by connecting / disconnecting via a snap fit with enough flexibility in base 160 and / or body 152 to allow removal of base 160. In other embodiments, base 160 may be attached permanently or semi-permanently to body 152 during manufacturing such that a consumer may not reconfigure magazine 150. In such an embodiment, the manufacturer receives the benefit of being able to manufacture magazine 150, each for a particular size cartridge 100, using fewer parts, e.g., using a common body 152 with shoulder inserts 154 in different positions.

[0163] As described above, the embodiments of FIGS. 3-38 are depicted as being sized and configured for long-action cartridges 100, though the principles apply to any type of magazine size, including those sized for short-action cartridges 100.

[0164] For example, FIG. 38 depicts an embodiment of configurable magazine 150 sized to accommodate short-action cartridges 100. In this short-action embodiment, magazine 150 includes magazine body 152-s, first shoulder insert 154a, second shoulder insert 154b, follower 156-s, spring 158 and base 160-s. In an embodiment, magazine body 152-s may have a length and / or other dimension that is less than dimensions of a long-action body 152. Similarly, follower 156-s and base 160-s may have dimensions, particularly length, which areAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 less than dimensions of a long-action follower 156 and long-action base 160. Spring 158 for short-action magazine 150 may be the same or similar to spring 158 for a long-action magazine 150.

[0165] In an embodiment, first shoulder insert 154a and second shoulder insert 154b may be the same in both a short-action magazine 150 and a long-action magazine 150. In other words, shoulder inserts 154a and 154b may be universally inserted into various sizes of magazines, including both long-action and short-action magazines for long- and short-action cartridges 100. In an embodiment, a first pair of shoulder inserts 154a and 154b, as described above, may be sized to be used with a first magazine 150 having a first length, width and height, such as a long-action magazine 150, and may also be used with a second magazine having a second length, width and height, such as a short- action magazine 150, where one or more of the second length, width or height differs from the corresponding first length, width, or height. In an embodiment, a magazine-body set including first shoulder insert 154a, second shoulder insert 154b, a first magazine 150 having first dimensions and configured for a first cartridge size, and a second magazine 150 having second dimensions and configured for a second cartridge size may be provided.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, an embodiment of magazine 150 in a first configuration holding first-sized cartridges 100 and the same magazine 150 in a second configuration holding second-sized cartridges 100 are respectively depicted. In the embodiment depicted, magazine 150 is adapted for short- action cartridges, including both standard (first configuration) and magnum cartridges (second configuration).

[0167] Referring specifically to FIG. 39, magazine 150 is depicted in transparency so that positions of shoulder inserts 154 are more easily shown. In this first configuration, first shoulder insert 154a is attached to first or left side 172, such that cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a is more generally rearward; second shoulder insert 154b is attached to second or right side 174, such that cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352b is also more generally rearward. This configuration is suited for a short-action cartridge 100 of a first size that may be generally shorter or have a smaller diameter, i.e., a “standard” short- action cartridge, as compared to a second-sized, larger cartridge 100, such as a “magnum” short-action cartridge.

[0168] As depicted, cartridge-shoulder contact portions 352a, 352b contact shoulder portion 400-1 of a first standard cartridge 100 and shoulder portion 400-2 of a second cartridge, along tangent line CL. In this configuration, cartridges 100 will be held properly in place in magazine body 152 and fed without interference through cartridge gate 194.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0169] In contrast, and referring to FIG. 40, first shoulder 154a insert and second shoulder insert 154b have exchanged positions such that second shoulder insert 154b is attached to first or left side 172, such that cartridge-shoulder contact portion 352b is more generally forward; first shoulder insert 154a is attached to second or right side 174, such that cartridge- shoulder contact portion 352a is also more generally forward. This configuration is suited for a cartridge 100 of a second size that may be generally longer and / or have a larger diameter or other larger dimensions, i.e., a “magnum” cartridge, as compared to a first-sized, smaller cartridge 100, such as a “standard” cartridge.

[0170] As depicted, and with this particular large-diameter cartridge, cartridge- shoulder contact portions 352a, 352b are forward of contact shoulder portion 400-3 of a second magnum cartridge 100-3. However, edge 335b of second shoulder insert 154b is in contact with shoulder portion 400-3 at a point on line CL, acting as a cartridge-shoulder contact portion. In some examples, edge 335a of first should insert 154a may similarly contact a shoulder portion of another cartridge. In this configuration, large-sized magnum cartridges 100 will be held properly in place in magazine body 152 and fed without interference through cartridge gate 194.

[0171] In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 is sized and configured to be compatible with a plurality of different cartridges. In one such embodiment, interchangeable first and second shoulder inserts 154a, 154b combined with a long-action body 152 and corresponding long-action base 160 is compatible with 11 different rifle cartridges, including standard and magnum long-action cartridges. In other embodiments, the number of compatible types of rifle cartridges per configurable magazine 150 may be more or less than 11. In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 may be compatible with 5 to 20 different types of cartridges. In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 may be compatible with 10 to 15 different types of cartridges.

[0172] In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 is compatible with any or all of the following rifle cartridges in the first or standard configuration: .30-06 SPFLD (Springfield); .270 WIN (Winchester); .25-06 REM (Remington); .280 REM and .280 ACKLEY IMPROVED. In the second or magnum configuration, this same long-action configurable magazine when in the second or magnum configuration is compatible with the following rifle cartridges: .300 WIN MAG (magnum), .338 WIN MAG, 7MM REM MAG, 28 NOSLER, 7MM PRC, and .375 RUGER.

[0173] In one short-action embodiment, interchangeable first and second shoulder inserts 154a, 154b combined with a short-action body 152-s and corresponding short-action baseAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1160-s is compatible with 14 different rifle cartridges, including standard and magnum shortaction cartridges. In an embodiment, configurable magazine 150 is compatible with any or all of the following rifle cartridges in the first or standard configuration: .308 WIN, .243 WIN, .260 REM, 7MM-08 REM, .338 FEDERAL, .358 WIN, 6.5MM CREEDMOOR, 6MM CREEDMOOR and .22-250 REM. In the second or magnum configuration, this same shortaction configurable magazine when in the second or magnum configuration is compatible with the following rifle cartridges: 7MM WSM (Winchester Short Magnum), .270 WSM, .300 WSM, .325 WSM and 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge).

[0174] As described in detail above, a pair of shoulder inserts 154 may be repositioned to create two different configurations with one magazine body 152, or four different configurations with two magazine bodies 152, and so on. Consequently, embodiments of the present disclosure include methods of configuring a magazine to receive two different size rifle cartridges. In one embodiment, a method for configuring a magazine to receive a first plurality of first-size cartridges includes some or all of the following steps: (1) receiving a first magazine body 152 having a first side 172 and a second side 174; (2) attaching a first shoulder insert 154a to a first inner surface 190 of the first side 172 of the magazine body 152; (3) attaching a second shoulder insert 154b to a second inner surface 192 of the second side 174 of the magazine body 152; (4) inserting a follower 156 and a spring 158 into the body 152; and (5) inserting attaching a base 160 to a bottom end 182 of the magazine body. Optionally, the method may include permanently or semi-permanently fixing at least one of the first shoulder insert 154a, second shoulder insert 154b, and base 160 to first magazine body 152.

[0175] In another embodiment, a method for reconfiguring a rifle magazine to accept a plurality of rifle cartridges includes some or all of the following steps: (1) receiving a first magazine body 152 having a first side 172 and a second side 174, with a first shoulder insert 154a attached to a first inner surface 190 of the first side 172 of the magazine body 152, and a second shoulder insert 154b attached to a second inner surface 192 of the second side 174 of the magazine body 152; (2) removing a base 160 from a bottom end 182 of the magazine body; (3) removing a follower 156 and a spring 158 into the body 152; (4) removing the first shoulder insert 154a from the first inner surface 190 of the first side 172 of the magazine body 152; (5) removing the second shoulder insert 154b from the second inner surface 192 of the first side 172 of the magazine body 152; (6) attaching the first shoulder insert 154a to the second inner surface 192 of the second side 174 of the magazine body 152; (7) attaching the second shoulder insert 154b to the first inner surface 190 of the first side 172 of the magazineAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 body 152; (8) inserting the follower 156 and the spring 158 into the body 152; and (9) attaching the base 160 to a bottom end 182 of the magazine body. In some examples, the method may include removing base 160 without tools by deflecting one or more sides of magazine body 152 to disengage projections 318 and / or rear-to-front tab 316 from corresponding recesses 206. In some examples, removing the first shoulder insert 154a and the second shoulder insert 154b may include using a tool to disengage locking tab 344a and 344b from respective shoulder- tab receiving hole 210a and 210b. In other examples, the first shoulder insert 154a and the second shoulder insert 154b may be configured for toolless removal to facilitate removing the first shoulder insert 154a and the second shoulder insert 154b in the field.

[0176] In another embodiment, a reconfigurable magazine kit may include: a magazine body 152 including a first side 172 and a second side 174 opposite the first side; a first shoulder insert 154a attachable to the first side 172 and attachable to the second side 174; a second shoulder insert 154b attachable to the first side 172 and attachable to the second side 174; and a set of instructions describing how to attach the first and second shoulder inserts 154 to the magazine body to form a first magazine body configuration, and how to attach the first and second shoulder inserts 154 to the magazine body to form a second magazine body configuration. In some examples, the reconfigurable magazine kit may include a third shoulder insert and a fourth shoulder insert each attachable to the first side 172 and attachable to the second side 174, the third shoulder insert and the fourth shoulder insert having different dimensions than the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert.

[0177] In some examples, a configurable rifle magazine may include a body and / or a base that define one or more exterior surface features configured to interface with a selected firearm. FIGS. 41A through 41F are various views of a magazine base 460 having a magazine latch 462 configured to interface with a select firearm. Magazine base 460 may be the same as or substantially similar to magazine base 160 described above in reference to FIG. 28, except for the differences described herein. For example, magazine base 460 includes front end 402, rear end 404 having rear-to-front tab 416, first or right side 406 having left-to-right-projecting side tabs 418a and 418b, second or left side 408 having left-to- right-projecting side tabs 420a and 420b, and bottom side 410, which defines cavity 412 and spring-receiving recess 414.

[0178] Magazine base 460 also include a coupler 422. Coupler 422 includes an interface surface 424 configured to receive a force from a tool or finger of a user to actuate coupler 422. Coupler 422 also include a locking portion 426 operable coupled to interface surfaceAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1424, locking portion 426 configured to engage a corresponding recess of the select firearm, e.g., a recess defined by a receiver of the select firearm. When actuated, the force applied to interface surface 424 may urge coupler 422 from a locking configuration toward an unlocking configuration (or release configuration) for decoupling magazine base 460 from the selected firearm.

[0179] In some examples, locking portion 426 includes a tapered face 428 that enables magazine base 460 to engage the corresponding recess without actuation of interface surface 424. For example, engagement of tapered face 428 with a portion of the selected firearm may cause actuation of coupler 422.

[0180] In some examples, coupler 422 may include a spring member 430, such as a coil spring, that is configured to urge coupler 422 toward a locking configuration. Additionally, coupler 422 may include retaining members 432a and 432b that retain coupler 422 with magazine base 460. For example, coupler 422 defines respective slots 434a and 434b into which at least a portion of respective retaining member 432a and 432b extend such that coupler 422 may translate along a single axis a select distance approximately equal to the length of the respective slots 434a and 434b. In this way, spring member 430 urges coupler 422 away from magazine base 460, toward a locking configuration, retaining members 432a and 432b retain coupler 422 with magazine base 460.

[0181] FIGS. 42A through 42G are various views of a magazine base 560 that is configured to interface with a select firearm. Magazine base 560 may be the same as or substantially similar to magazine base 160 and / or 460 described above in reference to FIG. 28 and FIGS. 41A through 41F, except for the differences described herein. For example, magazine base 560 includes front end 502, rear end 504 having rear-to-front tab 516, first or right side 506 having left-to-right-projecting side tabs 518a and 518b, second or left side 508 having left-to-right-projecting side tabs 520a and 520b, and bottom side 510, which defines cavity 512 and spring-receiving recess 514.

[0182] In some examples, an exterior surface of at least one of front end 502, rear end 504, first or right side 506, second or left side 508 may include at least one of a general shape, surface profiles, detents, and protrusions that mechanically engage one or more corresponding features of the selected firearm. The mechanical engagement may include an interference fit or a friction fit; engagement of a mechanical lever, arm, or similar feature; or other mechanical engagements as known in the art. In this way, base 560 may be configured to operate with a selected firearm. In some examples, base 560 may be configured to operateAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 with more than one selected firearm by inclusion of multiple different exterior surface features.

[0183] FIGS. 43 A through 43G are various views of a magazine base 660 that is configured to interface with a select firearm. Magazine base 660 may be the same as or substantially similar to magazine base 160, 460, and / or 560 described above in reference to FIG. 28 and FIGS. 41A through 42G, except for the differences described herein. For example, magazine base 660 includes front end 602, rear end 604 having rear-to-front tab 616, first or right side 606 having left-to-right-projecting side tabs 618a and 618b, second or left side 608 having left-to-right-projecting side tabs 620a and 620b, and bottom side 610, which defines cavity 612 and spring-receiving recess 614.

[0184] In some examples, an exterior surface of at least one of front end 602, rear end 604, first or right side 606, second or left side 608 may include at least one of a general shape, surface profiles, detents, and protrusions that mechanically engage one or more corresponding features of the selected firearm. The mechanical engagement may include an interference fit or a friction fit; engagement of a mechanical lever, arm, or similar feature; or other mechanical engagements as known in the art. In this way, base 660 may be configured to operate with a selected firearm. In some examples, base 660 may be configured to operate with more than one selected firearm by inclusion of multiple different exterior surface features.

[0185] The embodiments above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.Additional embodiments are within the claims. In addition, although aspects of the present invention have been described with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.

[0186] Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the invention may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the invention may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the invention may comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art.

[0187] Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in theAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.

[0188] The following clauses illustrate example subject matter described herein.

[0189] Clause 1. A configurable rifle magazine, comprising: a magazine body defining a cartridge-receiving cavity and including a first side wall having a first shoulder-insert- engagement portion and a second side wall having a second shoulder-insert-engagement portion, the second side wall being opposite to the first side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall of the magazine body and attachable to the second side wall of the magazine body, and including a first cartridge- shoulder contact portion; and a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall of the magazine body and attachable to the second side wall of the magazine body, including a second cartridge- shoulder contact portion, wherein in a first magazine configuration for receiving a first-size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body, and wherein in a second magazine configuration for receiving a second-size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body.

[0190] Clause 2. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 1, further comprising a follower received into the cartridge-receiving cavity of the magazine body, and a spring element received into the cartridge -receiving cavity of the magazine body and configured to exert a spring force onto the follower.

[0191] Clause 3. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 1 or 2, further comprising a base removably connected to a lower end of the magazine body, the base configured to retain the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert in a direction from an upper end of the magazine body to the lower end of the magazine body.

[0192] Clause 4. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 3, wherein the base connects to the magazine body via a snap fit, with tabs of the base being received by openings in the lower end of the magazine body.

[0193] Clause 5. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 4, wherein the first shoulder-insert-engagement portion is formed on an inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body and includes a first raised portion defining a first channel configured to receive a portion of the first shoulder insert or the second shoulder insert.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0194] Clause 6. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 5, wherein an outer side of the first shoulder insert defines a recess configured to receive the first shoulder- insertengagement portion or the second shoulder-insert-engagement portion.

[0195] Clause 7. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 6, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the recess of the first shoulder insert receives the first shoulder- insert-engagement portion and the first channel of the first shoulder-insert-engagement portion receives an edge of the first shoulder insert, such that a connection between the first shoulder-insert-engagement portion of the first side wall and the first shoulder insert forms a dovetail joint.

[0196] Clause 8. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 6 or 7, wherein in the second magazine configuration, the recess of the first shoulder insert receives the second shoulder- insert-engagement portion and a second channel of the second shoulder- insert-engagement portion receives an edge of the second shoulder insert, such that a connection between the second shoulder-insert-engagement portion of the second side wall and the first shoulder insert forms a dovetail joint.

[0197] Clause 9. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 8, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a first flexible arm having a first end attached to a first pivot region of the first shoulder insert and a second, free end having a first locking tab, and the second shoulder insert includes a second flexible arm having a second end attached to a second pivot region of the second shoulder insert and the second, free end having a second locking tab.

[0198] Clause 10. The configurable rifle magazine of clause 9, wherein the first side wall defines a first shoulder-tab receiving hole and is configured to receive at least one of the first locking tab or the second locking tab.

[0199] Clause 11. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 10, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.

[0200] Clause 12. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 11, where each of the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert is removable from the magazine body.

[0201] Clause 13. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 12, wherein the first cartridge- shoulder contact portion is a first portion of a first vertically- extending rib of the first shoulder insert, and the second cartridge- shoulder contact portion is a second portion of a second vertically-extending rib of the second shoulder insert.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0202] Clause 14. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 13, wherein the first cartridge- shoulder contact portion is a first portion of a first horizontallyextending rib of the first shoulder insert, and the second cartridge- shoulder contact portion is a second portion of a second horizontally-extending rib of the second shoulder insert.

[0203] Clause 15. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 14, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a securing tab at an upper end of the first shoulder insert, the securing tab configured to be received into a recess of the magazine body.

[0204] Clause 16. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 15, wherein the second-size cartridge has a larger case body diameter as compared to a case body diameter of the first-size cartridge.

[0205] Clause 17. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 16, wherein the second-size cartridge is a magnum cartridge.

[0206] Clause 18. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 17, wherein the magazine body is configured to receive short-action cartridges.

[0207] Clause 19. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 17, wherein the magazine body is configured to receive long-action cartridges.

[0208] Clause 20. The configurable rifle magazine of any one of clauses 1 through 19, wherein the magazine body comprise a polymeric material.

[0209] Clause 21. A rifle configured to fire a first-size cartridge having a first body diameter and to fire a second-size cartridge having a second diameter that is greater than a first diameter, comprising: a stock; a barrel connected to the stock; a receiver coupled to the barrel and configured to receive a configurable magazine; and the configurable magazine configured to receive the first- size cartridge when assembled in a first magazine configuration and configured to receive the second-size cartridge when assembled in a second magazine configuration.

[0210] Clause 22. The rifle of clause 21, wherein the configurable magazine includes a magazine body, a first shoulder insert, a second shoulder insert and a base.

[0211] Clause 23. The rifle of clause 22, wherein the first shoulder insert is attachable to a first inner surface of the magazine body or a second inner surface of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attachable to the first inner surface of the magazine body or the second inner surface of the magazine body.

[0212] Clause 24. The rifle of clause 23, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first inner surface and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0213] Clause 25. The rifle of clause 23 or 24, wherein in the second magazine configuration, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface and the first shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface.

[0214] Clause 26. The rifle of any one of clauses 21 through 25, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the configurable magazine is compatible with standard cartridges.

[0215] Clause 27. The rifle of any one of clauses 21 through 26, wherein in the second magazine configuration, the configurable magazine is compatible with magnum cartridges.

[0216] Clause 28. The rifle of clause 27, wherein the standard cartridges and the magnum cartridges are short- action cartridges.

[0217] Clause 29. The rifle of clause 27, wherein the standard cartridges and the magnum cartridges are long-action cartridges.

[0218] Clause 30. The rifle of any one of clauses 21 through 29, wherein the configurable magazine is configured to accept vertically-stacked cartridges.

[0219] Clause 31. A configurable magazine system, comprising: a first magazine body defining a first length and including a first side wall and a second side wall; a second magazine body defining a second length, the second length being longer than the first length, and including a third side wall and a fourth side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, the second side wall of the first magazine body, the third side wall of the second magazine body, and the fourth side wall of the second magazine body; and a second shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, a second side wall of the first magazine body, a third side wall of the second magazine body, and a fourth side wall of the second magazine body.

[0220] Clause 32. The configurable magazine system of clause 31, wherein the first magazine body is configured to receive short-action cartridges, and wherein the second magazine body is configured to receive long-action cartridges.

[0221] Clause 33. The configurable magazine system of clause 31 or 32, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.

[0222] Clause 34. The configurable magazine system of any one of clauses 31 through 33, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion and the second shoulder insert includes a second cartridge-shoulder-engagement portion.

[0223] Clause 35. The configurable magazine system of clause 34, wherein when the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the first magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the first magazine body, the first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion is directly opposite the second shoulder insert across aAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 cartridge-receiving recess of the first magazine body, such that the first magazine body is in a first configuration.

[0224] Clause 36. The configurable magazine system of clause 34 or 35, wherein when the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the first magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the first magazine body, the first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion is directly opposite the second shoulder insert across a cartridge-receiving recess of the first magazine body, such that the first magazine body is in a second configuration.

[0225] Clause 37. A set of shoulder inserts for a rifle magazine, comprising: a first shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in a cartridgereceiving recess of a magazine body of the rifle magazine, the first shoulder insert including: a first inner side forming a first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion; and a first outer side defining a first recess configured to receive a first portion of the magazine body; and a second shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in the cartridgereceiving recess of the magazine body of the rifle magazine, the second shoulder insert including: a second inner side forming a second cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion; and a second outer side defining a second recess configured to receive a second portion of the magazine body.

[0226] Clause 38. The set of shoulder inserts of clause 37, wherein each of the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert comprises a polymeric material.

[0227] Clause 39. The set of shoulder inserts of clause 37 or 38, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.

[0228] Clause 40. A method for reconfiguring a rifle magazine to accept a plurality of rifle cartridges, comprising following steps: receiving a magazine body having a first side wall and a second side wall, with a first shoulder insert attached to a first inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body and a second shoulder insert attached to a second inner surface of the second side wall of the magazine body; removing a base from a bottom end of the magazine body; removing a follower and a spring into the magazine body; removing the first shoulder insert from the first inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; removing the second shoulder insert from the second inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; attaching the first shoulder insert to the second inner surface of the second side wall of the magazine body; attaching the second shoulder insert to the first inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body; inserting the follower and the spring into the magazine body; and attaching the base to the bottom end of the magazine body.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1

[0229] Clause 41. A reconfigurable magazine kit, comprising: a magazine body including a first side wall and a second side wall opposite the first side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall; a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall and attachable to the second side wall; and a set of instructions describing how to attach the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert to the magazine body to form a first magazine body configuration, and how to attach the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert to the magazine body to form a second magazine body configuration.

[0230] Clause 42. A method of assembling a magazine, the method comprising: providing a magazine body having a forward wall, a rearward wall, and two opposing side wall walls, the magazine body having receiving structure for one or more inserts for adjusting a magazine parameter; selecting at least one insert with a desired magazine parameter and installing the at least one insert in the magazine body, selecting and inserting a follower and spring into the magazine body, and installing a base at a bottom of the magazine body, the spring engaging the base.

[0231] Clause 43. The method of clause 42, wherein selecting the at least one insert comprises selecting a first shoulder insert and a second shoulder insert providing a desired shoulder parameter.

[0232] Clause 44. The method of clause 42 or 43, wherein installing the at least one insert comprises installing the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert by engaging respective dovetail structures on each of the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert with the magazine body.

[0233] Clause 45. The method of any one of clauses 42 through 44, wherein providing a magazine body comprises selecting an injection molded magazine body.

[0234] Clause 46. The method of any one of clauses 42 through 45, wherein installing the at least one insert comprises fixing the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert by permanent attachment means to the magazine body.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A configurable rifle magazine, comprising: a magazine body defining a cartridge-receiving cavity and including a first side wall having a first shoulder-insert-engagement portion and a second side wall having a second shoulder-insert-engagement portion, the second side wall being opposite to the first side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall of the magazine body and attachable to the second side wall of the magazine body; and a second shoulder insert attachable to the first side wall of the magazine body and attachable to the second side wall of the magazine body, wherein in a first magazine configuration for receiving a first-size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body, and wherein in a second magazine configuration for receiving a second- size cartridge, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the magazine body.

2. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, further comprising: a follower received into the cartridge-receiving cavity of the magazine body; and a spring element received into the cartridge-receiving cavity of the magazine body and configured to exert a spring force onto the follower.

3. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, further comprising a base removably connected to a lower end of the magazine body, wherein the base is configured to retain the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert in the magazine body.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO14. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, further comprising a base removably connected to a lower end of the magazine body via a snap fit, wherein one or more tabs of the base are configured to mechanically couple to one or more corresponding recesses defined by the lower end of the magazine body.

5. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder-insert- engagement portion is formed on an inner surface of the first side wall of the magazine body and includes a first raised portion defining a first channel configured to receive a first portion of the first shoulder insert or a second portion of the second shoulder insert.

6. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 5, wherein an outer side of the first shoulder insert defines a first recess configured to receive the first shoulder- insert-engagement portion or the second shoulder-insert-engagement portion.

7. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 6, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the first recess of the first shoulder insert receives the first shoulder-insert- engagement portion and the first channel of the first shoulder-insert-engagement portion receives a first edge of the first shoulder insert, such that a connection between the first shoulder-insert-engagement portion of the first side wall and the first shoulder insert forms a dovetail joint.

8. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 6, wherein in the second magazine configuration, the first recess of the first shoulder insert receives the second shoulder-insert- engagement portion and a second channel of the second shoulder- insert-engagement portion receives a first edge of the first shoulder insert, such that a connection between the secondAttorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 shoulder-insert-engagement portion of the second side wall and the first shoulder insert forms a dovetail joint.

9. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a first flexible arm having a first fixed end attached to a first pivot region of the first shoulder insert and a first free end having a first locking tab, and the second shoulder insert includes a second flexible arm having a second fixed end attached to a second pivot region of the second shoulder insert and a second free end having a second locking tab.

10. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 9, wherein the first side wall defines a first shoulder-tab receiving hole configured to receive at least one of the first locking tab or the second locking tab.

11. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.

12. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, where each of the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert is removable from the magazine body.

13. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder insert comprises a first cartridge- shoulder contact portion defined by a first portion of a first vertically-extending rib of the first shoulder insert, and wherein the second shoulder insert comprises a second cartridge-shoulder contact portion defined by a second portion of a second vertically-extending rib of the second shoulder insert.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO114. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder insert comprises a first cartridge- shoulder contact portion defined by a first portion of a first horizontally-extending rib of the first shoulder insert, and wherein the second shoulder insert comprises a second cartridge-shoulder contact portion defined by a second portion of a second horizontally-extending rib of the second shoulder insert.

15. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a securing tab at an upper end of the first shoulder insert, the securing tab configured to be received into a recess of the magazine body.

16. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the second-size cartridge has a larger case body diameter as compared to a case body diameter of the first-size cartridge.

17. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 16, wherein the second-size cartridge is a magnum cartridge.

18. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the magazine body is configured to receive short- action cartridges.

19. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the magazine body is configured to receive long-action cartridges.

20. The configurable rifle magazine of claim 1, wherein the magazine body comprise a polymeric material.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO121. A rifle configured to fire a first-size cartridge having a first body diameter and to fire a second-size cartridge having a second diameter that is greater than a first diameter, comprising: a stock; a barrel connected to the stock; a receiver coupled to the barrel and configured to receive a configurable magazine; and the configurable magazine configured to receive the first-size cartridge when assembled in a first magazine configuration and configured to receive the second-size cartridge when assembled in a second magazine configuration.

22. The rifle of claim 21, wherein the configurable magazine comprises the configurable rifle magazine of any one of claims 1 through 20.

23. The rifle of claim 22, wherein the first shoulder insert is attachable to a first inner surface of the magazine body or a second inner surface of the magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attachable to the first inner surface of the magazine body or the second inner surface of the magazine body.

24. The rifle of claim 23, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the first shoulder insert is attached to the first inner surface and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO125. The rifle of claim 23, wherein in the second magazine configuration, the first shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface and the first shoulder insert is attached to the second inner surface.

26. The rifle of claim 21, wherein in the first magazine configuration, the configurable magazine is compatible with standard cartridges, and wherein in the second magazine configuration, the configurable magazine is compatible with magnum cartridges.

27. The rifle of claim 26, wherein the standard cartridges and the magnum cartridges are short- action cartridges.

28. The rifle of claim 26, wherein the standard cartridges and the magnum cartridges are long-action cartridges.

29. The rifle of claim 21, wherein the configurable magazine is configured to accept vertically- stacked cartridges.

30. A configurable magazine system, comprising: a first magazine body defining a first length and including a first side wall and a second side wall; a second magazine body defining a second length, the second length being longer than the first length, and including a third side wall and a fourth side wall; a first shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, the second side wall of the first magazine body, the third side wall of the second magazine body, and the fourth side wall of the second magazine body; andAttomey Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 a second shoulder insert attachable to any of the first side wall of the first magazine body, the second side wall of the first magazine body, the third side wall of the second magazine body, and the fourth side wall of the second magazine body.

31. The configurable magazine system of claim 30, wherein the first magazine body is configured to receive short-action cartridges, and wherein the second magazine body is configured to receive long-action cartridges.

32. The configurable magazine system of claim 30, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.

33. The configurable magazine system of claim 30, wherein the first shoulder insert includes a first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion and the second shoulder insert includes a second cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion.

34. The configurable magazine system of claim 33, wherein when the first shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the first magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the first magazine body, the first cartridge-shoulder- engagement portion is directly opposite the second shoulder insert across a cartridgereceiving recess of the first magazine body, such that the first magazine body is in a first configuration.

35. The configurable magazine system of claim 33, wherein when the first shoulder insert is attached to the second side wall of the first magazine body and the second shoulder insert is attached to the first side wall of the first magazine body, the first cartridge-shoulder-Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO1 engagement portion is directly opposite the second shoulder insert across a cartridgereceiving recess of the first magazine body, such that the first magazine body is in a second configuration.

36. A set of shoulder inserts for a rifle magazine, comprising: a first shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in a cartridge-receiving recess of a magazine body of the rifle magazine, the first shoulder insert including: a first inner side forming a first cartridge- shoulder-engagement portion; and a first outer side defining a first recess configured to receive a first portion of the magazine body; and a second shoulder insert configured to be attached to the rifle magazine and located in the cartridge-receiving recess of the magazine body of the rifle magazine, the second shoulder insert including: a second inner side forming a second cartridge-shoulder-engagement portion; and a second outer side defining a second recess configured to receive a second portion of the magazine body.

37. The set of shoulder inserts of claim 36, wherein each of the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert comprises a polymeric material.

38. The set of shoulder inserts of claim 36, wherein the first shoulder insert is formed as a mirror image of the second shoulder insert.Attorney Docket No. 4204.0435WO139. A reconfigurable magazine kit, comprising: the configurable rifle magazine of any one of claims 1 through 20; and a set of instructions describing how to attach the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert to the magazine body to form a first magazine body configuration, and how to attach the first shoulder insert and the second shoulder insert to the magazine body to form a second magazine body configuration.

Images