AU2025256071B1 - Gravity-fed firearm magazine speed loader - Google Patents

Abstract

14 A gravity-fed firearm magazine speed loader is disclosed, comprising a hopper that funnels loose rimmed cartridges into an elongate feeding channel through a constriction entrance which engages cartridge rims to achieve adjacent parallel alignment. The feeding channel narrows to tip the cartridges by their bullet ends into a longitudinal alignment and terminates in an outlet configured for attachment to a separable magazine adapter. The adapter defines a channel aligned with the outlet and includes a loading interface oriented at an angle toward a backstop adjacent a widened entrance. As cartridges exit the channel in longitudinal alignment, they contact the backstop, pivot, and fall under gravity into a spring-loaded containment channel of a magazine in adjacent parallel alignment. The system enables smooth, reliable transfer of rimmed cartridges while accommodating various magazine types via interchangeable adapters.

Description

Gravity-Fed FirearmMagazine Gravity-Fed Firearm Magazine Speed Speed loader loader

Field of the Field of theInvention Invention

[0001]

[0001] The present disclosure The present disclosurerelates relatestotoammunition ammunition handling handling devices, devices, and and more more

specifically specifically to to a purely gravity-fed a purely gravity-fedapparatus apparatusforfor reliably reliably aligning aligning andand loading loading rimmed rimmed

cartridges cartridges into into aa firearm firearm magazine efficiently and magazine efficiently without manual and without manualmanipulation manipulation or or

powered mechanisms. powered mechanisms.

Background Background of of theInvention the Invention

[0002]

[0002] In In the the field fieldof of firearm accessories firearm and accessories ammunition and ammunition handling, handling, magazine speed magazine speed

loaders have loaders have been been developed developed to assist to assist users inusers in efficiently efficiently inserting inserting cartridges cartridges into into

firearm magazines. firearm Manual magazines. Manual loading loading of of cartridgesinto cartridges intospring-loaded spring -loadedmagazines magazinescancan

be physically demanding be physically demanding and andtime-consuming, time-consuming, particularly with particularly with high-capacity high-capacity

magazines magazines ororininsituations situationsrequiring requiring repetitive repetitive loading. loading. To To address addressthese these issues, issues,

numerous devices numerous devices have have beenbeen proposed proposed thattoaim that aim to streamline streamline or mechanise or mechanise the the

loading process, loading process, typically typically by by aligning aligning multiple multiple cartridges cartridges and transferring and transferring them into them into

the magazine the with reduced magazine with reducedmanual manual effort. effort.

[0003]

[0003] US 2014/0033592 US 2014/0033592 A1 A1 (Fiorucci (Fiorucci Dana Dana Joseph), Joseph), published published on 6onFebruary 6 February 2014, 2014,

discloses a discloses a gun magazinespeed gun magazine speed loader loader thatenables that enables cartridgestotobebepressed cartridges pressed intoa a into

magazine magazine in in a a single single motion. motion. TheThe loader loader includes includes a that a body bodyholds that holds multiple multiple cartridges cartridges

in in parallel parallel alignment alignment and incorporates aapushrod and incorporates pushrodforfor simultaneously simultaneously pressing pressing the the

cartridges into the cartridges into themagazine's magazine’s feeding feeding end. end.

[0004]

[0004]US US 2019/0017762 A1(Vista 2019/0017762 A1 (Vista Outdoor OutdoorOperations OperationsLLC), LLC),published publishedonon1717

January 2019,describes January 2019, describesa amagazine magazine loader loader specificallyadapted specifically adaptedfor forloading loadingaabatch batch

of of rimmed cartridges rimmed cartridges into into a tubular a tubular rifle rifle magazine. magazine. The loader The loader includes includes a and a hopper hopper and

an elongate body an elongate bodydefining defining aa feed feed passageway passageway that that extends extends to to a magazine-receiving a magazine-receiving

portion. Alongthis portion. Along thispassageway passagewayare aare a series series of orienting of orienting portions portions that progressively that progressively

reorient thecartridges reorient the cartridgesinto intoa tip-forward a tip-forward or rim-forward or rim-forward configuration configuration for alignment for alignment

with the with the tubular tubular magazine. Theloader magazine. The loaderincludes includesfeatures featuressuch suchasas a moveable a moveable gate, gate,

adjustable cartridgequantity adjustable cartridge quantity selector, selector, andand a three-sided a three-sided orienting orienting channel channel shaped shaped to to

1 control cartridge alignment control cartridge alignment and and quantity. quantity. A selected A selected number number of cartridges, of cartridges, determined determined using thequantity using the quantityselector, selector,are are allowed allowed to proceed to proceed alongalong thepath. the feed feed path.

[0005]

[0005]US 2023/0358492 A1 US 2023/0358492 A1(Tippmann (Tippmann Arms Arms Company Company LLC), LLC), published published on 9 on 9

November 2023, November 2023, discloses discloses a speed a speed loader loader comprising comprising a hopper a hopper for receiving for receiving a bulk a bulk

quantity quantity of of loose ammunitionand loose ammunition and a track a track body body defining defining a single -file a single-file passageway passageway

leading to aa magazine leading to magazine receiving receiving portion. portion. Rounds Rounds are the are from fromhopper the hopper into theinto the

passageway, where passageway, where they they are progressively are progressively alignedaligned in single in single filetheir file with with rim theirportions rim portions

supported byinternal supported by internal guide guide shelves. shelves.A Acrank-operated crank-operated round round loading loading assembly assembly is is

configured to load configured to load rounds roundssequentially sequentiallyfrom from thethe passageway passageway into magazine. into the the magazine.

Rotation of the Rotation of thecrank crankhandle handle actuates actuates a gear a gear traintrain connected connected to a plunger to a plunger and pusher and pusher

mechanism: theplunger mechanism: the plunger depresses depresses the the follower follower or or round round stack stack in the in the magazine magazine to to

create space, while create space, while the the pusher pusher inserts inserts the the next next round. round. Once O ncethe theround roundisisloaded, loaded,a a

spring-biased mechanism spring-biased mechanism retracts retracts the pusher, the pusher, readying readying thefor the system system for the the next next cycle. cycle.

A latch A latch mechanism securesthe mechanism secures themagazine magazineduring duringloading, loading, and andthe theloader loadermay may

incorporate incorporate translucent translucent markings andfluid markings and fluid pads for cleaning pads for cleaning rounds. rounds. The T hesystem systemisis

configured forprogressive configured for progressive mechanical mechanical insertion insertion of individual of individual rounds rounds into ainto a detachable detachable

magazine throughactuation magazine through actuationofof aa manually manuallydriven drivencrank crankand andgear gearassembly. assembly.

[0006]

[0006] US 2003/0046854 US 2003/0046854 A1 (Urchek), A1 (Urchek), published published on 13on 13 March March 2003, discloses 2003, discloses a a

cartridge cartridge clip cliploading loadingapparatus apparatus comprising an elongated comprising an elongatedcartridge cartridge reservoir reservoir with with aa

wishbonecross-section wishbone cross-sectionthat that defines defines an an upper upper holding holding chamber chamberfor forrandomly randomlyoriented oriented

cartridges and aalower cartridges and lowerfeed feed channel channel for for arranging arranging them them side-by-side side-by-side in a row. in a row.

Cartridges movethrough Cartridges move througha a bottom bottom opening opening intointo the the feedfeed channel, channel, where where they they are are

suspended in upright suspended in upright orientation orientation by their by their rims rims resting resting on longitudinal on longitudinal ribs. A ribs. bridgeA bridge

platform separates the platform separates theholding holdingchamber chamber fromfrom a downstream a downstream portionportion of the of the feed feed

channel, allowing rims channel, allowing rims to to pass pass beneath beneathwhile whilepromoting promoting cartridge cartridge tilting towards tilting towardsa a

discharge opening. discharge opening.A Aclip clipholder holderfixed fixedtoto the theend endofofthe thefeed feed channel channel receives receives a a

cartridge clip such cartridge clip suchthat thatcartridges cartridges slide slide into into it ione t one by by one.one. A detent A detent ball mechanism ball mechanism

temporarily blocks temporarily blocks discharge dischargeuntil untilthe theclip clipisisfully fully inserted, inserted, atat which whichpoint pointthethe

mechanism is disengaged, mechanism is disengaged, allowing allowing cartridges cartridges tothe to enter enter the clip. clip.

2

Summary Summary ofofthe the Disclosure Disclosure

[0007]

[0007] A gravity-fed magazine A gravity-fed magazinespeed speed loader loader is provided is provided for transferring for transferring rimmed rimmed

cartridges cartridges from from a bulk hopper a bulk into aa firearm hopper into firearm magazine magazineininaacontrolled controlled manner. manner.The The

speed loadercomprises speed loader comprises a hopper a hopper with with an outlet an outlet that funnels that funnels into aninto an elongate elongate

constriction entrance constriction entrance aligned aligned along along a feeding a feeding channel. channel. As cartridges As cartridges areinto are loaded loaded into

the hopper, the hopper,the theconstriction constriction entrance entrance engages engages theirtorims their rims to them guide guide them into into adjacent adjacent

and parallelalignment and parallel alignment within within thethe feeding feeding channel. channel.

[0008] Thefeeding

[0008] The feeding channel channel narrows narrows at oneatend oneto end tothe cause cause the cartridges cartridges to tip by to tip by their their

bullet bullet ends into aalongitudinal ends into longitudinal alignment. alignment.This Thisalignment alignment is maintained is maintained as the as the

cartridges cartridges exit exit through through an outlet equipped an outlet with aaconnector equipped with connectorthat thatinterfaces interfaceswith witha a

separable magazineadapter. separable magazine adapter.The The adapter adapter defines defines a channel a channel aligned aligned withwith thethe outlet outlet

and includes a and includes a magazine attachmentconfigured magazine attachment configuredfor forengagement engagement with with a spring -loaded a spring-loaded

magazine. magazine.

[0009]

[0009] At At the the point point of of loading, loading, the the adapter defines aa loading adapter defines loading interface interface having havingthe the

channel angledtowards channel angled towards a backstop a backstop adjacent adjacent an entrance an entrance to thetomagazine. the magazine. The The

entrance is wider entrance is wider than thanthe thelength lengthofofthe thecartridges, cartridges,allowing allowingtheir theirbullet bullet ends endstoto

disengage fromthethe disengage from channel channel and and pivotpivot into into adjacent adjacent parallel parallel alignment. alignment. As theAs the

cartridges exit the cartridges exit thechannel channelin in longitudinal longitudinal alignment alignment and contact and contact the backstop, the backstop, they they

pivot and fall pivot and fall under under gravity gravity into into the thespring-loaded spring-loaded containment containment channel channel of the of the

magazine. This arrangement magazine. This arrangement enables enablesreliable reliable cartridge cartridge alignment alignment and passive and passive

transfer without transfer without the the need for manual need for manualfeeding feedingor or powered powered assistance. assistance. The The

configurationalso configuration alsoallows allows controlled controlled insertion insertion ofquantity of a a quantity of cartridges of cartridges proportionate proportionate

to the to the depth depthofofretraction retraction ofofthe thecompression compression spring spring within within the the magazine. magazine. The The

magazine adapterisisseparable magazine adapter separablefrom fromthe themain main body body andand configured configured to interface to interface with with

different magazine different types, allowing magazine types, allowing a a common loaderunit common loader unittotobe beused usedwith witha arange rangeofof

magazine-specific adapters. magazine-specific adapters.

[0010]

[0010] The feeding channel The feeding channelmay maybebe configured configured with with a a holdingsection holding sectionproximate proximate thethe

entrance entrance ininwhich which cartridges cartridges are are retained retained in adjacent in adjacent and parallel and parallel alignment, alignment, and an and an

orientating orientating section section disposed disposed further further along along the the channel channel where the geometry where the geometrynarrows narrows

to induce to induce the the cartridges cartridges to to tip. tip.A Acommon rim channel common rim channel may mayconnect connect the the holdingand holding and

3 orientating sections,allowing orientating sections, allowing thethe rims rims of the of the cartridges cartridges to travel to travel freely freely between between the the two zones two zoneswhile whilemaintaining maintainingcontrol controlover over theirlateral their lateral position. position. This This configuration configuration supports supports a asmooth smoothand and progressive progressive transition transition from rim-guided from rim-guided retentionretention to bullet-end to bullet-end tipping, thereby tipping, improving thereby improving thethe consistency consistency of longitudinal of longitudinal alignment alignment prior prior to magazine to magazine entry. entry.

[0011]

[0011] In In some examples, some examples, thethe feeding feeding channel channel may include may include a floor a curved curvedthat floor that

converges towardsthe converges towards therim rimchannel channel along along thethe transitionfrom transition fromthe theholding holdingsection sectiontoto

the orientating the orientatingsection. section.This Thiscurvature curvature may may assist assist in guiding in guiding the cartridges the cartridges smoothly smoothly

into into the desired tipping the desired tipping behaviour behaviourwhile whilealso also helping helping to manage to manage cartridge cartridge flow flow

dynamics, reducing dynamics, reducingthe the risk risk of of jamming or misalignment jamming or within the misalignment within the channel. channel.

[0012]

[0012] The speedloader The speed loadermay mayinclude includea awindow window along along thethe curved curved portion portion of of thethe floor floor

to provide to provide visual visual access accesstotothe thecartridge cartridgealignment alignment process. process. This This may may allowallow an an

operator to verify operator to verify correct correct feeding feeding and identify any and identify blockagesororflow any blockages flowinterruptions interruptions

without needing without needingto to disassemble disassemble the loader, the loader, thereby thereby facilitating facilitating fasterfaster troubleshooting troubleshooting

and improved and improved usability usability during during operation. operation.

[0013] Tofacilitate

[0013] To facilitate manufacturing manufacturing andand enable enable ease ease of of cleaning cleaning or cartridge or cartridge retrieval, retrieval,

the loader the loader may maybebeconstructed constructedfrom from bifurcatedportions bifurcated portionsjoined joinedalong alonga a longitudinal longitudinal

plane. These plane. These portions portions maymay be separable be separable and configured and configured to clip together, to clip together, allowing allowing the the

user to open user to openand and reassemble reassemble the as the unit unit as needed needed without without tools or tools or fasteners. fasteners.

[0014] In aa further

[0014] In further refinement, refinement,thethe bifurcated bifurcated housing housing portions portions may bemay held be held together together

using integrally moulded using integrally moulded plastic plastic clips.This clips. This maymay reduce reduce manufacturing manufacturing complexity complexity and and

material costs,particularly material costs, particularlywhere where plastic plastic injection injection moulding moulding is used, is used, andsupport and may may support

a robust, snap-fit a robust, snap-fit enclosure enclosure suitable suitable forfor repeated repeated use use in field in field conditions. conditions.

[0015]

[0015] A methodofofloading A method loadingrimmed rimmed cartridges cartridges into into a spring-loaded a spring-loaded magazine magazine may may

include include providing providing aa gravity-fed gravity-fedmagazine speedloader magazine speed loadercomprising comprisinga ahopper hopper with with anan

outlet funnelled outlet to an funnelled to anelongate elongate constriction constriction entrance entrance aligned aligned alongalong a feeding a feeding channel. channel.

Loose rimmedcartridges Loose rimmed cartridgesintroduced introducedinto intothe thehopper hopper may may be guided be guided suchsuch that that their their

rims are engaged rims are engagedby by the the constriction constriction entrance, entrance, aligning aligning the cartridges the cartridges in adjacent in adjacent and and

parallel parallel alignment withinthe alignment within thefeeding feeding channel. channel.

4

[0016]

[0016] The methodmaymay The method further further include include guiding guiding the the cartridges cartridges along along the feeding the feeding

channel towardsa atapered channel towards taperedend end where where the the cartridges cartridges tiptip by by theirbullet their bulletends endsinto intoa a

longitudinal alignment.The longitudinal alignment. The longitudinally longitudinally aligned aligned cartridges cartridges maybe may then then be delivered delivered to to

an outlet, where an outlet, where aa separable separable magazine adapterisis attached. magazine adapter attached. This This adapter adapter may maydefine define

a a channel that continues channel that the longitudinal continues the longitudinalalignment alignment and and is isangled angled toward toward aa backstop backstop

adjacent adjacent anan entrance entrance that that is wider is wider thanthan the length the length of cartridges. of the the cartridges.

[0017] Ascartridges

[0017] As cartridgesexit exitthe the channel, channel, theythey may may contact contact the backstop the backstop and and pivot, pivot, with with

the wider the wider entrance entranceallowing allowingtheir their bullet bullet ends to disengage ends to disengagefrom from the the channel. channel. TheThe

cartridges may cartridges may then then fall fall under under gravity gravity intointo the the spring-loaded spring-loaded containment containment channel of channel of

a connected magazine, a connected magazine,entering enteringininadjacent adjacentandand parallelalignment parallel alignment as as the the

compression spring within compression spring within the the magazine is retracted. magazine is retracted. This This process process enables a enables a

controlled andrepeatable controlled and repeatable insertion insertion of cartridges, of cartridges, proportionate proportionate to spring's to the the spring’s degree degree

of of retraction, retraction,without withoutthe the need for powered need for assistanceorormanual powered assistance manual manipulation manipulation of of

individual rounds. individual rounds.

[0018] Otheraspects

[0018] Other aspectsof of thethe invention invention are are alsoalso disclosed. disclosed.

Brief Brief Description of the Description of the Drawings Drawings

[0019] Notwithstanding

[0019] Notwithstanding anyany other other forms forms whichwhich may may fall fall within within the of the scope scope of the present the present

invention, invention, preferred preferred embodiments of the embodiments of the disclosure disclosure will will now now be described, by be described, by way way of of

example only, with example only, with reference to the reference to the accompanying drawings accompanying drawings ininwhich: which:

[0020]

[0020] Figure Figure 11 shows shows aa perspective perspective view view of of a a magazine speed magazine speed loader; loader;

[0021]

[0021] Figure Figure 22 shows shows aa perspective perspective view view of of a a magazine adapter; magazine adapter;

[0022] Figure3 3shows

[0022] Figure shows a cross-sectional a cross-sectional view view of theofadapter; the adapter;

[0023] Figure4 4shows

[0023] Figure shows a cross-sectional a cross-sectional view view of theofspeed the speed loader; loader;

[0024]

[0024] Figures Figures 5 5 -- 88 show progressive cross show progressive cross sections sections along alongthe thelength lengthof of the the speed speed

loader; loader;

[0025] Figures9 9and

[0025] Figures and 10 10 show show crosscross sections sections illustrating illustrating use ofuse the of the loader. speed speed loader.

Description Description of ofEmbodiments Embodiments

[0026]

[0026] The magazinespeed The magazine speed loader100 loader 100 comprises comprises a hopper a hopper 101 101 thatthat funnels funnels towards towards

an an elongate constriction entrance elongate constriction entrance 102 102 aligned aligned along along aafeeding feedingchannel channel 103. 103.As As shown shown

5 in in Figure Figure 9, 9, the the hopper 101isis configured hopper 101 configuredtotoreceive receiveloose looserimmed rimmed cartridges cartridges 104104 througha awide through wideopening opening 105,105, and,and, when when agitated, agitated, guidesguides them towards them towards the constriction the constriction entrance 102. The entrance 102. Theconstriction constriction entrance entrance102 102engages engagesthethe rims rims 106106 of the of the cartridge cartridge casings 107so so casings 107 that that the the cartridges cartridges 104 aligned 104 are are aligned in adjacent in adjacent and parallel and parallel arrangement within arrangement within thethe feeding feeding channel channel 103, 103, as as illustrated illustrated in Figure in Figure 9. The9. The cartridges cartridges

104 are of 104 are of the the rimmed type, wherein rimmed type, whereinthe theproximal proximalrims rims106 106have havea adiameter diameter greater greater

than the than theremainder remainderof of thethe casing casing 107.107.

[0027]

[0027] Referring Referring to toFigure Figure5,5,the thefeeding feedingchannel channel103 103 may include aa rim may include rim channel channel 108 108

formed above formed abovethe theconstriction constriction entrance entrance 102 102and anda acasing casingchannel channel109 109 formed formed below below

it. The it. casing channel The casing channel109 109 is is narrower narrower thanthan the the rim rim channel channel 108, enabling 108, enabling the the

constriction constriction entrance 102totoretain entrance 102 retainthe thelarger largerdiameter diameter rims rims 106106 and and guidegu ide the the

cartridges 104 into cartridges 104 into adjacent, adjacent,side-by-side side-by-sidealignment. alignment. TheThe feeding feeding channel channel 103 103

narrows awayfrom narrows away from theentrance the entrance 102, 102, forming forming an orienting an orienting section section that that causes causes the the

cartridges 104tototip cartridges 104 tipforward forwardunder under gravity gravity by by their their bullet bullet ends ends 110,110, thereby thereby achieving achieving

longitudinal alignment longitudinal alignment as as shown shown in Figure in Figure 10. 10.

[0028]

[0028] When cartridges 104 When cartridges 104are arepoured pouredinto into the the wide wide opening opening105 105and and agitated,they agitated, they

descend throughthethe descend through constrictionentrance constriction entrance 102 102 intointo the the feeding feeding channel channel 103 in103 in

adjacent, parallelarrangement. adjacent, parallel arrangement. By tipping By tipping the the loader loader 100, 100, the cartridges the cartridges 104 proceed 104 proceed

along thenarrowing along the narrowing section section of of thethe channel, channel, where where the bullets the bullets 110 contact 110 contact an upwardly an upwardly

curved floor 111. curved floor 111.This Thisinteraction interactionpromotes promotes tipping tipping of each of each cartridge cartridge 104 into 104 into

longitudinal longitudinal alignment alignment within withinthe thechannel channel 103. 103. The The loader loader 100 defines an 100 defines an outlet outlet 112 112

fromwhich from whichthethe cartridges cartridges 104104 emerge emerge in longitudinal in this this longitudinal orientation. orientation.

[0029]

[0029] The The feeding feeding channel 103 may channel 103 mayinclude include aa holding holding section section 103A near the 103A near the entrance entrance

102, wherethe 102, where the cartridges cartridges 104104 are are aligned aligned side side by side, by side, and and an an orienting orienting sectionsection 103B 103B

downstream, where downstream, where thechannel the channel narrows narrows to to tipthe tip thecartridges cartridges 104 104 into into alignment. alignment. The The

rim rim channel 108 provides channel 108 providesaa continuous continuousguide guidebetween betweenthethe holding holding section section 103A 103A andand

the orienting the orienting section section103B, 103B, facilitatingsmooth facilitating smooth transition transition of the of the cartridges cartridges 104they 104 as as they

progress along progress along thethe channel. channel. Specifically, Specifically, Figure Figure 5 shows 5 shows a cross -section a cross-section through the through the

hopper 101illustrating hopper 101 illustrating the rim channel the rim channel 108, 108,while whileFigures Figures6 and 6 and 7 depict 7 depict cross - cross-

sections alongthe sections along the orienting orienting section section 103B, 103B, highlighting highlighting the rim -guided the rim-guided path. path.

6

[0030]

[0030] The curved floor The curved floor 111 convergestowards 111 converges towardsthe therim rimchannel channel 108108 as as thethe channel channel

transitions from transitions fromthe theholding holding section section 103A 103A to orienting to the the orienting section section 103B. 103B. At At the the distal distal

end of the end of the orienting orientingsection section103B, 103B,the thecasing casingchannel channel109 109and andrim rimchannel channel108 108 merge merge

into into aa tubular tubular outlet outletchannel channel 113 having aa circular 113 having circular cross-section, cross-section, enabling smooth enabling smooth

ejection of longitudinally ejection of longitudinally aligned alignedcartridges cartridges 104. 104.

[0031]

[0031] To To assist assist the the user, user,the thespeed speed loader loader 100 100 may include aa window may include 114for window 114 for visual visual

inspection inspection or or for for applying applying lubricant. lubricant.This This may comprisea awindow may comprise window 114A 114A along along the the

curved floor 111, curved floor as well 111, as well as as additional additional viewing viewing windows windows 114B 114B along along the the orienting orienting

section 103Band section 103B and 114C 114C at outlet at the the outlet channel channel 113, allowing 113, allowing continuous continuous visual visual

monitoring monitoring ofofthe thecartridges cartridges 104104 fromfrom entrance entrance 102 to102 to outlet outlet 112. 112.

[0032]

[0032] A A connector 115is connector 115 is defined defined at at the the outlet outlet 112, 112, allowing allowing aa separable separable magazine magazine

adapter 116 to adapter 116 to be be detachably detachablymounted mounted thereto,asasshown thereto, shown in in Figure Figure 10.10. TheThe adapter adapter

116 definesa acontinuation 116 defines continuation channel channel 117 117 in in longitudinal longitudinal alignment alignment with thewith the112, outlet outlet 112,

receiving thecartridges receiving the cartridges104104 in in their their aligned aligned orientation. orientation.

[0033]

[0033]The The adapter 116 includes adapter 116 includes aa magazine magazine attachment attachment 118118 configured configured for for

connection to aa magazine connection to magazine119. 119.The The attachment attachment 118118 defines defines a loading a loading interface interface 120120

that redirects that the longitudinally redirects the longitudinally aligned alignedcartridges cartridges104 104 into into adjacent adjacent parallel parallel alignment alignment

suitable for insertion suitable for into the insertion into the magazine’s spring-loaded magazine's spring-loaded containment containment channel channel 121. The121. The

adapter 116 may adapter 116 mayinclude includeaafurther further window window114D 114D near near the the interface120 interface 120for forobserving observing

cartridge movement cartridge movement or for or for administering administering lubricant. lubricant.

[0034]

[0034]The The magazine 119 incorporates magazine 119 incorporates aa manual manual toggle toggle 122 122 movable movablealong alongthe the

containment channel121 containment channel 121totocompress compressthethe internalcompression internal compression spring.This spring. Thisenables enables

the incoming the incoming cartridges cartridges 104 104 to betoreceived be received under gravity under gravity as theisspring as the spring is retracted. retracted.

The loading The loading interface interface 120 angles the 120 angles the channel channel117 117towards towardsa abackstop backstop 125. 125. As As each each

cartridge cartridge 104 enters the 104 enters the interface interface 120, 120, its itscasing casing 107 107 rear rear end abuts the end abuts the backstop backstop

125, 125, and the wider and the wider entrance allows the entrance allows the bullet bulletend end 110 110 to todisengage disengage from from the the channel channel

117. Thispromotes 117. This promotes controlled controlled pivoting pivoting of theofcartridge the cartridge 104 it 104 so that so falls that into it falls the into the

containment channel121 containment channel 121 in in adjacent adjacent parallelalignment. parallel alignment.The The arrangement arrangement enables enables

controlled insertioninin proportion controlled insertion proportiontotothe thedepth depth of of spring spring retraction. retraction.

7

[0035]

[0035] In In the the embodiment shown, embodiment shown, thethe speed speed loader loader 100 100 is formed is formed from bifurcated from bifurcated

portions portions 123 that assemble 123 that assemblealong alonga longitudinal a longitudinalaxis. axis.These These portions portions 123123 maymay be be

secured usingplastic secured using plasticclips clips124, 124, facilitatingplastic facilitating plasticinjection injectionmoulding moulding during during

manufacture andenabling manufacture and enablingstraightforward straightforwardassembly assembly and and disassembly. disassembly.

[0036]

[0036]The The method of use method of use and and operation operation of of the the magazine magazine speed speedloader loader 100 100isis

straightforward and straightforward requires no and requires no manual manualfeeding feedingororpowered powered assistance. assistance. Cartridges Cartridges

104 are introduced 104 are introduced through throughthe the wide wideopening opening105 105 of of thehopper the hopper 101101 in in a loose a loose andand

random orientation. To random orientation. To encourage encourageinitial initial alignment, alignment, the the user user may agitate the may agitate the loader loader

100—by shaking, 100-by shaking, tapping, tapping, or or gently gently rocking rocking thethe assembly —causing assembly-causing the cartridges the cartridges

104 to settle 104 to settle and descendtoward and descend toward thethe constrictionentrance constriction entrance 102. 102. The The constriction constriction

entrance 102 entrance 102 acts acts on on thethe larger-diameter larger-diameter rims rims 106 of106 the of the cartridges cartridges 104 to 104 aligntothem align them

in in adjacent adjacent and parallel arrangement and parallel within the arrangement within the feeding feeding channel channel103, 103,asasguided guided byby

the rim the rim channel channel 108 and supported 108 and supportedbybythe thecasing casingchannel channel109. 109.

[0037] Once

[0037] Once a sufficient a sufficient number number of cartridges of cartridges 104retained 104 are are retained in the holding in the holding section section

103A of the 103A of the feeding feeding channel 103, the channel 103, the loader loader 100 100 may maybebeinclined inclined forward forwardso sothat that the the

cartridges cartridges 104 progressunder 104 progress undergravity gravitytoward toward thethe orienting orienting section section 103B. 103B. As the As the

feeding channel feeding 103 narrows channel 103 narrowsand andthe thefloor floor 111 111 curves curves upward, upward,the thebullet bullet ends 110 of ends 110 of

the cartridges the cartridges104 104 engage engage the curved the curved floor floor 111, prompting 111, prompting each cartridge each cartridge to to tip over tip over

by its bullet by its bulletend endand and assume assume a alongitudinal longitudinal alignment alignment within within the the channel channel103. 103.This This

transition is transition is guided smoothly guided smoothly by by thethe geometry geometry of rim of the the channel rim channel 108, continues 108, which which continues

into into the outlet channel the outlet channel113. 113.

[0038]

[0038] With With the the cartridges cartridges104 104 now in longitudinal now in longitudinalalignment alignmentand and proceeding proceeding through through

the outlet the outlet112, 112,the theseparable separable magazine adapter116 magazine adapter 116may maybebe affixedtotothe affixed the connector connector

115. Thisalignment 115. This alignment ensures ensures thatthat the the cartridges cartridges 104 enter 104 enter the internal the internal channelchannel 117 of 117 of

the adapter the adapter116 116in in a smooth, a smooth, end-to-end end-to-end orientation. orientation. Travelling Travelling in longitudinal in longitudinal

alignment alignment allows allows the the cartridges cartridges 104 104 to to move morereliably move more reliably and and with with reduced reduced

resistance compared resistance comparedto toadjacent adjacent paralleltravel, parallel travel,significantly significantly lowering lowering the the risk risk of of

jammingorormisalignment. jamming misalignment. This This orientation orientation alsoalso facilitates facilitates a seamless a seamless transition transition

between thefeeding between the feedingchannel channel 103 103 andand the the adapter adapter channel channel 117 without 117 without the of the risk risk of

edges catching or edges catching or interfering, interfering, thereby therebypromoting promoting consistent consistent flow. flow.The The user user may then may then

8 engage themagazine engage the magazine attachment attachment 118 118 of the of the adapter adapter 116 116 with with a suitable a suitable magazine magazine

119, 119, which includes aa spring-loaded which includes containmentchannel spring-loaded containment channel121. 121.

[0039] Prior to

[0039] Prior to cartridge cartridgeinsertion, insertion,the theuser useractuates actuates thethe manual manual toggle toggle 122 the 122 along along the

containment channel121121 containment channel to to retract retract thethe compression compression spring. spring. The The loader loader 100 and 100 and

adapter 116 adapter 116 areare then then heldheld at incline at an an incline to allow to allow gravity-fed gravity-fed transfer transfer of theofcartridges the cartridges

104 fromthe 104 from theoutlet outlet112 112 through through the the channel channel 117 of117 the of the adapter adapter 116. 116.

[0040] Aseach

[0040] As each cartridge cartridge 104104 exits exits the the channel channel 117 117 in in longitudinal longitudinal alignment, alignment, the rearthe rear

of of the the casing casing 107 107 contacts the backstop contacts the 125. The backstop 125. Theinterface interface 120, 120, having having an anentrance entrance

widerthan wider thanthe thelength length of of a cartridge a cartridge 104, 104, allows allows the bullet the bullet endto110 end 110 to the clear clear the outlet outlet

path, enablingthe path, enabling thecartridge cartridge 104 104 to to pivot pivot andand fallfall cleanly cleanly into into thethe containment containment channel channel

121 of the 121 of the magazine magazine119 119ininadjacent adjacentparallel parallel alignment. alignment.This Thisarrangement arrangement ensures ensures

reliable reliableengagement evenwhen engagement even when multiplecartridges multiple cartridgesare areinserted inserted consecutively. consecutively.

[0041]

[0041] The numberofofcartridges The number cartridges104 104introduced introducedinto intothe themagazine magazine119119 is naturally is naturally

limited limited by by the the degree to which degree to the spring which the spring has beenretracted has been retracted via via the the manual manualtoggle toggle

122, enablingthe 122, enabling theuser user to to control control thethe quantity quantity of cartridges of cartridges loaded loaded in operation. in each each operation.

Visual confirmation Visual confirmationofofcartridge cartridge progression progression is provided is provided through through windows windows 114A, 114A, 114B, 114B,

114C, and 114C, and 114D. 114D. These These viewing viewing portsallow ports also alsothe allow the optional optional application application of lubricant of lubricant

to assist to assist cartridge cartridgeflow flowalong alongthe thechannel channel 103, 103, adapter adapter 116, and into 116, and into the the magazine magazine

119. 119.

[0042] Thebifurcated

[0042] The bifurcated construction construction of the of the speed speed loader loader 100 allows 100 allows for straightforward for straightforward

disassemblyfor disassembly for cleaning, cleaning, inspection, inspection, or or manufacture. Theplastic manufacture. The plastic clips clips 124 124 ensure ensure

secure closure secure closure during during operation operation while while allowing allowing the to the user user to separate separate the of the halves halves the of the

device whenrequired. device when required.

[0043]

[0043] This methodenables This method enables fast,fast, reliable reliable and repeatable and repeatable cartridge cartridge loading, loading,

particularly particularlysuitable suitableforfor rimmed rimmedammunition ammunition types, types, while whileminimising minimising manual manual handling handling

and supporting compatibility and supporting compatibility with with various variousmagazine formats through magazine formats through interchangeable interchangeable

adapters 116. adapters 116.

[0044]

[0044] The foregoingdescription, The foregoing description,forfor purposes purposes of explanation, of explanation, used specific used specific

nomenclature toprovide nomenclature to provideaathorough thoroughunderstanding understandingof of theinvention. the invention.However, However,it itwill will

be apparent be apparent to to one one skilled skilled in the in the art art that that specific specific details details are are not not required required in order in order to to

9 practise practise the the invention. invention. Thus, Thus, the the foregoing foregoing descriptions descriptions of of specific specificembodiments of embodiments of the invention the inventionare arepresented presentedfor for purposes purposes of illustration of illustration and description. and description. They They are notare not intended intended totobebe exhaustive exhaustive orlimit or to to limit the the invention invention to precise to the the precise forms forms disclosed disclosed as as obviously many obviously manymodifications modifications andand variations variations are are possible possible in view in view of above of the the above teachings. The teachings. embodiments The embodiments were were chosen chosen and and described described in order in order to best to best explain explain thethe principles principles of of the the invention invention and its practical and its practical applications, applications, thereby thereby enabling others enabling others skilled skilled in in the art to the art to best best utilize utilize the the invention inventionand and various various embodiments embodiments with various with various modifications modifications asas are are suited suited to to thethe particular particular useuse contemplated. contemplated. It is intended It is intended that the that the following claims following claimsand and their their equivalents equivalents define define the scope the scope of theofinvention. the invention.

10

Claims (14)

1. Claims Claims 1. 1. A A gravity-fed magazine gravity-fed magazine speed speed loader loader comprising: comprising:

   a hopperhaving a hopper havingan an outlet outlet funnelled funnelled to elongate to an an elongate constriction constriction entrance entrance

   aligned alonga afeeding aligned along feeding channel, channel, the the hopper hopper beingbeing configured configured to receive to receive and guide and guide

   loose rimmed loose rimmed cartridges cartridges such such thatthat the the constriction constriction entrance entrance engages engages rims of rims the of the

   cartridges to align cartridges to align them themininadjacent adjacentandand parallel parallel alignment alignment within within the feeding the feeding channel; channel;

   whereinthe wherein thefeeding feeding channel channel tapers tapers at end at one oneto end to cause cause the cartridges the cartridges to to tip by tip by

   their bullet their bullet ends into aa longitudinal ends into longitudinal alignment, alignment,and and terminates terminates in outlet in an an outlet provided provided

   with aa connector; with connector;

   a separablemagazine a separable magazine adapter adapter configured configured to attach to attach to the to the connector, connector, the the

   magazine adapter magazine adapter defining defining a channel a channel aligned aligned withoutlet with the the outlet for receiving for receiving the the

   cartridges in the cartridges in the longitudinal longitudinal alignment, alignment,the themagazine magazine adapter adapter further further comprising comprising a a

   magazine attachmentconfigured magazine attachment configuredfor for engagement engagement with with a a magazine magazine in in use; use;

   whereinthe wherein themagazine magazine attachment attachment defines defines a loading a loading interface interface having having the the

   channel orientedatatanan channel oriented angle angle towards towards a backstop a backstop adjacent adjacent an entrance an entrance that is wider that is wider

   than aa cartridge, than cartridge, such suchthat, that,ininuse, use,cartridges cartridgesexiting exitingthe thechannel channel in longitudinal in longitudinal

   alignment contact alignment contact the the backstop backstop to pivot to pivot and and fall fall under under gravity gravity through through the entrance the entrance

   into into a a spring-loaded containment spring-loaded containment channel channel of magazine of the the magazine in adjacent in adjacent parallelparallel

   alignment alignment asas aa compression compression spring spring within within the containment the containment channel channel is retracted. is retracted.
2. 2. 2. The magazine The magazine speed speed loader loader of claim of claim 1, wherein 1, wherein the feeding the feeding channel channel defines adefines a

   holding sectionatatthe holding section theentrance entrance wherein wherein the the cartridges cartridges are retained are retained in adjacent in adjacent and and

   parallel parallel alignment, andanan alignment, and orientating orientating section section away away from from the entrance the entrance where the where the

   feeding channel feeding narrows to channel narrows to tip tip the thecartridges cartridgesover, and over, wherein and a common wherein a common widened widened

   rim channeltransitions rim channel transitionsthe thesections sections to to allow allow passage passage of rims of the the rims from from the holding the holding

   section to the section to the orientating orientatingsection. section.
3. 3. 3. The magazine The magazine speed speed loader loader of claim of claim 2, wherein 2, wherein the feeding the feeding channel channel further further

   comprises comprises a a curved curved floor floor that that converges converges towards towards thechannel the rim rim channel from thefrom the holding holding

   section to the section to the orientating orientatingsection. section.

   11
4. 4. The 4. The magazine speedloader magazine speed loaderofofclaim claim 3, 3, wherein the speed wherein the loader defines speed loader defines aa window window

   along thecurved along the curvedfloor. floor.
5. 5. 5. The The magazine speedloader magazine speed loaderofof claim claim 1, 1, wherein the speed wherein the loader comprises speed loader comprises

   bifurcated portionsthat bifurcated portions thatclip clip together togetheralong alonga a longitudinal longitudinal axis axis plane. plane.
6. 6. 6. The magazine The magazine speed speed loader loader of claim of claim 5, wherein 5, wherein the bifurcated the bifurcated portions portions are heldare held

   togetherby together byplastic plasticclips clips to to facilitate facilitate plastic plastic injection injectionmanufacturing. manufacturing.
7. 7. 7. A methodforforloading A method loading rimmed rimmed cartridges cartridges usingusing the magazine the magazine speed speed loader of loader claim of claim

   1, 1, the the method comprising method comprising the the steps steps of: of:

   pouring looserimmed pouring loose rimmed cartridges cartridges intointo the the hopper; hopper;

   agitating the hopper agitating the hoppertotoguide guide the the cartridges cartridges toward toward the the constriction constriction entrance; entrance;

   engaging therims engaging the rims of of the the cartridges cartridges at at thethe constriction constriction entrance entrance to align to align the the

   cartridges in adjacent cartridges in adjacentand and parallelalignment parallel alignment within within the the feeding feeding channel; channel;

   tipping the tipping the magazine magazine speed speed loader loader to cause to cause the cartridges the cartridges to progress to progress through through

   the tapering the taperingfeeding feedingchannel channel andand tip tip overover by their by their bullet bullet endsends into into a longitudinal a longitudinal

   alignment; alignment;

   guiding the guiding thelongitudinally longitudinallyaligned alignedcartridges cartridges through through the the channel channel of of the the

   magazine adapter; magazine adapter;

   and allowingthe and allowing thecartridges cartridges to to contact contact thethe backstop backstop to pivot to pivot and fall and fall under under

   gravity throughthe gravity through theentrance entrance into into thethe spring-loaded spring-loaded containment containment channelchannel of the of the

   magazine magazine in in adjacent adjacent andand parallel parallel alignment alignment ascompression as the the compression spring spring is is retracted. retracted.
8. 8. 8. The method The method of of claim claim 7, 7, further further comprising comprising the step the step of visually of visually inspecting inspecting the the

   progression progression ofofcartridges cartridgesthrough through a window a window formed formed in the in the curved curved floor floor of the of the feeding feeding

   channel. channel.

   12
9. 9. 9. The method The method of of claim claim 8, 8, further further comprising comprising the step the step of applying of applying a lubricant a lubricant through through

   the window the window toto assistpassage assist passage of the of the cartridges cartridges through through the feeding the feeding channel. channel.
10. 10. 10. The method The method of of claim claim 7, 7, further further comprising comprising the step the step of actuating of actuating a manual a manual toggle toggle

    on the magazine on the magazineto to retract retract thethe compression compression spring spring duringduring the gravity the gravity-fed -fed loading loading of of

    cartridges. cartridges.
11. 11. 11. The method The method of of claim claim 7, 7, wherein wherein the step the step of tipping of tipping the magazine the magazine speed loader speed loader

    causes thecartridges causes the cartridges to to travelalong travel along a curved a curved floor floor thatthat converges converges toward toward a rim a rim

    channel, therebyassisting channel, thereby assisting tipping tipping of of the the cartridges cartridges into into thethe longitudinal longitudinal alignment. alignment.
12. 12. 12. A systemfor A system forloading loading rimmed rimmed cartridges, cartridges, comprising: comprising:

    a a magazine speedloader magazine speed loaderasasclaimed claimedinin claim claim 1; 1; and and

    a plurality of a plurality of rimmed cartridgesconfigured rimmed cartridges configured forfor insertion insertion into into thethe hopper hopper of the of the

    magazine speed magazine speed loader loader and having and having rims rims of of a diameter a diameter greater greater than than their their so casings casings so

    as to be as to be retained retainedininadjacent adjacentand and parallel parallel alignment alignment within within the the feeding feeding channel channel by by

    engagement at the engagement at the constriction constriction entrance. entrance.
13. 13. 13. The system The system of of claim claim 12,12, wherein wherein the cartridges the cartridges are dimensioned are dimensioned to their to tip by tip by their

    bullet bullet ends into longitudinal ends into longitudinal alignment alignment when when traversing traversing the tapering the tapering section section of theof the

    feedingchannel feeding channel under under gravity. gravity.
14. 14. 14. The system The system of of claim claim 12,12, wherein wherein the cartridges the cartridges are configured are configured to passtothrough pass through the the

    channel channel ofofthe themagazine magazine adapter adapter and under and fall fall under gravity gravity into ainto a spring -loaded spring-loaded

    containment channel containment channel of aofmagazine a magazine in adjacent in adjacent and parallel and parallel alignment. alignment.

    13