Internal and External Locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a Lock and Load

Abstract

An internal and external locking/latching loading device and coupling mechanism made of durable material for directly and mechanically loading ammunition rounds into standard rifle and pistol magazines. The device has a latch and collar to engage the magazine and a push system to compress the magazine spring as it mechanically feeds the round from the sleeve of the device or straight from a disposable contoured package which the collar of the device is press fit onto the surface of the ammunition package. It eliminates the manual feed and quickly places the rounds into a standard magazine ready for use.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS:

This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application with Ser. No. 62483288 filed Apr. 7, 2017, by Steve Wilkinson and entitled “Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” and claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application with Ser. No. 62575574 filed Oct. 23, 2017, by Steve Wilkinson and entitled “Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a Lock and Load with an External Lock Option”.

FIELD OF INVENTION:

This invention relates to an Internal and external locking/latching magazine device and a coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option. The present invention relates in general to a device or apparatus for loading ammunition into a magazine. More particularly, the invention is concerned with a device or apparatus which provides for the rapid loading of ammunition into a magazine used for holding a number of rounds of ammunition. In addition, the present invention relates to a magazine loading system, and more particularly to a magazine loader mechanism which can quickly and easily load the ammunition into a magazine.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

None.

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

None.

BACKGROUND-FIELD OF INVENTION and PRIOR ART

As far as known, there are no internal or external locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” or the like at this time of applying. There are also no known with an External Lock Option. It is believed that this product is unique in its design and technologies.

A. Background

Ammunition magazines are the most common means of storing and delivering ammunition into firearms. Firearms, including short weapons, assault rifles, and submachine guns, utilize and fire rounds (also known as cartridges and ammunition). Each round is substantially elongated and comprises a deep cup-like case (also known as a shell case and sometimes also a cartridge), usually of brass, which is filled with an explosive propellant. Traditionally, when loading a cartridge clip or magazine for a firearm, the cartridge (e.g. ammunition) must be manually loaded one at a time through an opening on a top portion of the cartridge clip. Generally, each cartridge is pressed against a previously loaded shell and a clip spring contained in the cartridge clip is compressed. As each shell is inserted, strain on the fingers may increase which may cause the individual's hand to become tired and many individuals may not have the required strength or dexterity to manually load the cartridge clip. Other individuals may only be able to partially load a cartridge clip due to the increased strength and dexterity required to continue to load the clip as the spring continues to be compressed. Alternatively, individuals who do have the required strength or dexterity to manually load a single cartridge into a clip may not have the strength to manually load multiple cartridge clips. Furthermore, resistance of the clip spring can slow the speed at which a clip is loaded.

Loading magazines with loose rounds is a relatively time-consuming, tedious, and painful practice if done with bare fingers. Pain accumulates and intensifies as more rounds are loaded against the increasing spring pressure, thus slowing the loading process. When a plurality of magazines are to be loaded, much time is required, which in turn shortens time for reposing, training, or combat time. In combat circumstances, slow reloading can be life-threatening.

The rounds are held within and fed into the firearm from a magazine. Detachable magazines have become dominant throughout the world. The term “magazine” is broad, encompassing several geometric variations, including curved magazines. Most detachable magazines are similar, varying in form and structure, rather than in their general principles of operation. Magazines usually take the form of an elongated container having a generally rectangular cross-section, which is attached to the underside of the firearm. Magazines are commonly made of aluminum alloys, plastic, steel, or a combination. They are usually closed on four or five sides and open on a sixth, upwardly facing, top, side or end, and are substantially hollow. The top open side has a rectangular opening and includes two round-retaining members, known as feed lips that project into or partly close the opening. An internal spring urges a follower or pusher (a shaped piece of plastic or metal) toward the open side. The follower in turn urges the rounds as a group up against the lips. The lips act as a stop for the rounds so that they are not expelled from the magazine. Within the magazine, the rounds are stacked or oriented in the magazine such that the longitudinal axes of the rounds are substantially parallel and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the spring and follower. Adjoining rounds are oriented side-by-side and in the same direction, i.e., the bullets of adjacent rounds are next to each other, as are the cases. Thus, the use of magazines is a convenient and effective method of feeding bullets, in rapid succession, into a weapon's firing chamber.

B. Problem Solved

On the other hand, as mentioned, the reloading of bullets into the spent magazine is known to be problematic. Thus a need is sought for a mechanism or device to be used and incorporated with the magazine so that the ammunition can be quickly and easy fed in the magazine. The loading of bullets into a magazine entails the progressive compression of the magazine spring. Initial loading may be accomplished without substantial manual effort while the latter stages of loading, by reason of increased spring resistance and internal friction, present a problem. Typically the bullet being loaded into the magazine is held by its nose and the base of the bullet used to depress the previously loaded bullet. Accordingly both substantial downward and inward pressure must be exerted on the bullet being loaded as it is slid into the clip or magazine. Handling of the projectile portion of the cartridge can increase misfires and jamming. In addition to the manual dexterity required, a degree of finger strength is necessary. Still further, the unaided loading of magazines is a tedious, time consuming task which consumes costly time when accomplished at a busy firing range. More particularly, the structural design of the magazine requires each bullet to be individually loaded through the top ejection end of the magazine past the retainers and downwardly against the force of the magazine spring (typically a compression spring or equal) in order to receive the bullet within the magazine. As each bullet is loaded, in sequence, the magazine spring in the magazine becomes progressively compressed until the magazine is fully loaded with bullets. Naturally, the resistance of the magazine spring (force) against the downward force of loading the bullets into the magazine becomes greater with each successive bullet loaded into the magazine. Thus, for many years, bullets have been loaded into empty magazines of firearms by hand, using the fingers to force each bullet downwardly against the force of the compression spring and into captured arrangement within the magazine. This process is time consuming, and quite often frustrating, on cold days when a person's fingers are numb, or are enclosed in a glove or mitten.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An internal and external locking/latching loading device and coupling mechanism for directly and mechanically loading ammunition rounds into standard rifle and pistol magazines. The device has a latch and collar to engage the magazine and a push system to compress the magazine spring as it mechanically feeds the round from the ammunition sleeve of the device or straight from a contoured ammunition package which the collar of the device is press fit onto the surface of the ammunition package. It eliminates the manual feed and quickly places the rounds into a standard magazine ready for use.

This invention is an Internal and external locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with External Lock Option.

The preferred embodiment of an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” is comprised of (a) an exterior case of a traditional magazine and a spring of traditional magazine; (b) a modified follower (without stop post); (c) a trigger component further comprised of a top plate, a trigger post, a flat for latching of the trigger component to a base plate feature, and an aperture to connect to the spring; (d) a baseplate and trigger guard box further comprised of a slide configuration to slide ably interconnect guard box with magazine case, an aperture opening in guard box for trigger post, a base plate feature, and a trigger guard box; a push rod component; and (e) a contoured to ammunition package further comprised of sidewalls, an end, a means to secure the sidewalls, a stop/tab with an aperture, and a securing filament attached to the aperture in stop wing/tab, and an opening opposite the closed end is contoured for ammunition rounds wherein the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” can disengage the spring by using the push rod to force down the ammunition rounds, engaging the trigger to lock with the baseplate and guard and hold the spring in compression so that the ammunition rounds can easily fall from the contoured package and into the magazine, and after the ammunition rounds are in the magazine case, the trigger can be released so the spring re-extends to hold the ammunition rounds against the top opening of the magazine.

An alternative device is a collar or full sleeve. The collar is comprised of: (a) a rectangular collar that is configured to lightly press fit and encircle the perimeter of a contoured ammunition with an open end; (b) a tightening fastener to square the collar with an open end of a traditional ammunition magazine which has an aperture near the open end; and (c) a latch which can removably secure the collar to the aperture at the open end of the ammunition magazine wherein the collar is first placed onto the contoured package then latched to the open end of the magazine at the aperture, and then the package is pushed through the collar and into the open end of the magazine thus depressing the spring and releasing ammunition rounds into the magazine and filling the magazine.

Another alternative embodiment is an external locking/latching sleeve device comprised of: (a) a load base with and without extended support legs and a tab slot; (b) an external latch mechanism attached to the base; (c) a housing connected integrally at one end to the load base and at an opposite end to a cap and plate by fasteners; (d) a pusher plate encircling the housing; (e) at least one push rod attached at one end to the pusher plate with fasteners; (f) an optional horizontal rod attached to the pusher plate; and (g) a quick release tab wherein the device is aligned with an ammunition magazine at the open end of the magazine, then the latch of the device is engaged with an aperture of the magazine, then the push plate with the rods is pressed toward the magazine and a spring of the magazine is depressed as the ammunition rounds begin to release, next the pusher plate reaches the load base and all the rounds are completely released into the magazine thus filling the magazine full of ammunition rounds.

The newly invented Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” can be manufactured at low volumes by very simple means and in high volume production by more complex and controlled systems.

Objects and Advantages

There are several objects and advantages of the internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load”. There are currently no known Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” that are effective at providing the objects of this invention.

The Lock and Load system has various advantages and benefits:

Advantages over a standard magazine:
Item Advantages
1    Speed. One is able to load the ammunition many
     times faster. Compared to other loaders Lock
     and load Mag is one step load the Magazine.
2    Much less effort. One does not have to press
     harder on each round.
3    Ergonomic. As more and more of the population
     ages or have difficulty with strength in their
     hands like the older men or the ladies. Now
     they can load a magazine without hurting their
     fingers.
4    The packaging has eliminated the round tumbling
     issue. So the rounds come out into the pan
     where they will be picked up or the packaging
     will be inserted into the Magazine and simply
     fall in.
5    Less cost. Other loaders are priced from
     $100.00 to $13.00 this loader will cost less.
6    Other loaders require one to handle the rounds,
     the lock and load Magazine simply transfers the
     bullets to the Magazine. With the contoured
     ammunition package already coming from the
     company one can simply just transfer loads from
     ammunition package to the magazine. There is no
     need to handle rounds. The free floating
     follower allows one to pick up the ammunition
     without touching it and it allows the trigger
     latch to use the spring to latch. Again it is
     faster than any other loader.
7    External lock compatible with most rifle type
     magazines.
8    External appear lock easier for ammunition
     makers and packagers to adapt to existing
     processes.
9    External lock requires no adaptation with
     current magazines

Finally, other advantages and additional features of the present Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load with External Lock Option will be more apparent from the accompanying drawings and from the full description of the device. For one skilled in the art of firearms, magazines and loaders, it is readily understood that the features shown in the examples with this product are readily adapted to other types of out the magazine loaders and unloaders in the market today.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS—FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option that is preferred. The drawings together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below serve to explain the principles of the improved magazine loading system and devices. It is understood, however, that the Lock and Load system is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIGS. 1 A through 1 D are sketches of the general internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load”.

FIGS. 2 A through 2 G are sketches of a prototype Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with components and features noted.

FIGS. 3 A through 3 C are sketches of a prototype Load and Lock with the components and features shown from front view.

FIGS. 4 A through 4 C are sketches of the base plate and trigger protection component with features shown from several views.

FIGS. 5 A through 5 C are sketches of the trigger component with features indicated and a trigger prototype shown.

FIGS. 6 A through 6 E are sketches of the components and assembly comprising the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load”.

FIGS. 7 A and 7 B are sketches and a prototype of a typical ammunition magazine with features and components shown from a generally front view.

FIGS. 8 A through 8 E are sketches that portray a contoured ammunition package and the improved magazine coupled together.

FIGS. 9 A through 9 C are more sketches of the contoured ammunition package.

FIGS. 10 A and 10 B are sketches of a single round loading ammunition package to be coupled with the Internal locking/latching magazine device called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option.

FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are sketches of both a single stack and double stack ammunition package to be coupled with the Internal locking/latching magazine device called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option.

FIGS. 12 A and 12 B are sketches of the External locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container.

FIGS. 13 A through 13 H are prototypes and sketches of the External locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container.

FIG. 14 is a sketch of an ammunition loading machine with the External locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container.

FIG. 15 is a series of sketches showing the steps to load a magazine with the external collar and ammunition sleeve.

FIG. 16 is a series of sketches showing the steps to load a magazine with the external loading sleeve loaded with ammunition into a banana magazine.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS—REFERENCE NUMERALS

The following list refers to the drawings:

TABLE B
Reference numbers
Ref # Description
30    Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling
      ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30
31    prototype sample 31 of Internal locking/latching magazine
      device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock
      and Load” 30
32    drawings 32 of Internal locking/latching magazine device
      and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and
      Load” 30
40    trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching
      magazine device and coupling ammunition container called
      a “Lock and Load” 30
41    top plate 41 of the trigger component 40
42    trigger post 42 of the trigger component 40
43    contour 43 for finger of the trigger component 40 to
      release ammunition and latch on the device 30
44    flat 44 for latching of the trigger component 40 to the
      base plate 63 on the device 30
45    gussets 45 of the trigger component 40
46    aperture 46 for end of spring 72 in the trigger component
      40
50    push rod component 50 of the improved magazine loader
      device 30
51    rod handle 51
52    rod post 52
53    post extender 53 at 90 degrees/perpendicular to rod post
      52
54    round contour 54 to match with contour of ammunition
      round 120
60    baseplate and trigger guard box 60
61    slide configuration 61 to slide ably interconnect guard
      box 60 with magazine case 71
62    aperture opening 62 in guard box 60 for trigger 44
63    base plate 63 baseplate and trigger guard box 60
64    parallel sides 64 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60
65    bottom 65 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60
66    interior space 66 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60
67    spring ear 67 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60
70    traditional magazine 70
71    exterior case 71 of traditional magazine 70
72    spring 72 of traditional magazine 70
73    base plate 73 of a traditional magazine 70
74    slide configuration 74 to slide ably interconnect case 71
      of traditional magazine 70 to base plate 73
75    follower 75 of traditional magazine 70
75A   follower 75A (without stop post 76) of internal device 30
76    stop post 76 of follower 75
77    aperture 77 in follower 75 for plate end of spring 72
78    universal aperture 78 at load end/top of magazine 70 for
      receiving external latch mechanisms (external latch tab
      143 and screw latch 151)
80    contoured to ammunition package 80
80T   top 80T of contoured to ammunition package 80
80B   bottom 80B of contoured to ammunition package 80
81    aperture/slot, or slit, 81 for stop wing/tab 85
82    packaging sidewalls 82 of contoured to ammunition package
      80
82A   packaging stop 82A below the collar 89 to easily get to
      the rounds and force them toward the magazine 70.
82B   slice/opening perforation 82B to easily get to the
      rounds and force them toward the magazine 70.
82C   movable section 82C (like a collapsible soda straw) to
      turn and fit a curved magazine
83    crimped or glued end 83 of contoured to ammunition
      package 80
84    means 84 for securing crimped end 83 and two sidewalls 82
      to create an open ended envelop or sleeve contoured to
      ammunition rounds 120 crimp, adhesive, sonic weld, staple
      or the like
85    stop wing/ta 85
86    aperture 86 in stop wing/tab 85 for securing filament/
      fiber/wire/string/or equal 88
87    open contour 87 contiguous to rounds 120
88    securing filament/fiber/wire/string/strap or equal 88
89    external latching cuff/collar 89 to accept packaging 80
      and then, in combination with packaging 80, push down and
      load ammunition rounds 120 directly into magazine 70 or
      sleeves
90    ammunition loading package 90 for single round 120
      loading into Internal locking/latching magazine device
      and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and
      Load” 30
91    round holding and guiding configuration/ledges 91
92    package surface 92
95    pocket 95 for single rounds 120
100   ammunition loading package 100 for double stacked rounds
      120
101   collapsible flaps 101
102   closed end 102
103   closed sides 103
104   openable end 104
110   ammunition loading package 110 for single stacked rounds
      120
111   collapsible flaps 111
112   closed end 112
113   closed sides 113
114   openable end 114
120   ammunition round 120
125   typical box/container 125 for ammunition rounds 120
126   rounds holder 126 such as Styrofoam with recessed
      holes/pocket for each round 120
130   individual operator/hand 130
140   external latch 140 for cuff/collar device 89 - may be
      metal, steel, spring steel, plastic, composite material
      easy to form with spring properties
141   end keeper angle 141 of external latch 140
143   external latch tab 143 that engages universal aperture 78
      on magazine 70
144   external locking/latching sleeve device 144 and coupling
      ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 144 with
      extended support legs 153
144A  external locking/latching sleeve device 144A and coupling
      ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 144 without
      extension support
145   internal cross rod 145 of external latching sleeve
      devices 144, 144A to maintain pressure on the ammunition
      rounds 120 at a slight angle
146   external rod 146 of external latching sleeve devices 144,
      144A (at least one or up to three vertical rods aligning
      magazine 70 with sleeve 144, 144A during push down on
      ammunition rounds 120)
150   outside screw 150 presses tightly against walls 82 to
      adjust the opening size 87 needed to hold the package 80
      and the magazine 70 square to each other and keep
      openings in each 70, 80 (87) in line for the ammunition
      rounds 120 to pass easily
151   outside follower button 151 of collar 89, the button 151
      engages the aperture 78 of the magazine 70 during loading
152   load base 152 with external leg/extensions 153 features
      of external locking/latching sleeve device 144
152A  load base 152A of external locking/latching sleeve device
      144A with no extensions
153   external leg/extensions 153 feature to hold rods 146, 145
154   housing 154 portion between load base 152, 152A and
      sleeve cap and plate 157
155   essentially rectangular structure 155 of external latch
      collar 89 holding pressure button 150 and latch 151
156   push plate 156 with external leg/extensions 153 features
156A  push plate 156A with no extensions
157   sleeve cap and plate 157
158   one or more fasteners 158 for sleeve cap 157
159   one or more fasteners 159 for rods 146, 145
160   ammunition package filling machine 160
165   powered and timed roller conveyor 165
170   box stop 170
175   ammunition pneumatic air pressured round loader 175
180   top 80T closer and securing to bottom 80B mechanism at
      station 180 of the machine 160
185   sheet loader station 185
190   external latch automatic unload station 190

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PERFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present development is an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option. This invention relates to an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load”. The present invention relates in general to a device or apparatus for loading ammunition into a magazine. More particularly, the invention is concerned with a device or apparatus which provides for the rapid loading of ammunition into a magazine used for holding a number of rounds of ammunition. In addition, the present invention relates to a magazine loading system, and more particularly to a magazine loader mechanism which can quickly and easily load the ammunition into a magazine.

The advantages for the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 and the External locking/latching magazine device 89, 144, 144A and coupling ammunition container 80 are listed above in the introduction. Succinctly the benefits are that the device:

• • Speed. One is able to load the ammunition many times faster. Compared to other loaders Lock and load Mag is one step load the Magazine.
  • Much less effort. One does not have to press harder on each round.
  • Ergonomic. As more and more of the population ages or have difficulty with strength in their hands like the older men or the ladies. Now they can load a magazine without hurting their fingers.
  • The packaging has eliminated the round tumbling issue. So the rounds come out into the pan where they will be picked up or the packaging will be inserted into the Magazine and simply fall in.
  • Less cost. Other loaders are priced from $100.00 to $13.00 this loader will cost less.
  • Other loaders require one to handle the rounds, the lock and load Magazine simply transfers the bullets to the Magazine. With the ammunition package already coming from the company one will simply just transfer loads from package to the magazine. There is no need to handle rounds. The free floating follower allows one to pick up the ammunition without touching it and it allows the trigger latch to use the spring to latch. Again it is faster than any other loader.
  • External lock compatible with most rifle type magazines.
  • External appear lock easier for ammunition makers and packagers to adapt to existing processes.
  • External lock requires no adaptation with current magazines

The preferred embodiment of an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 is comprised of (a) an exterior case of a traditional magazine and a spring of traditional magazine; (b) a modified follower (without stop post); (c) a trigger component further comprised of a top plate, a trigger post, a flat for latching of the trigger component to a base plate feature, and an aperture to connect to the spring; (d) a baseplate and trigger guard box further comprised of a slide configuration to slide ably interconnect guard box with magazine case, an aperture opening in guard box for trigger post, a base plate feature, and a trigger guard box; a push rod component; and (e) a contoured to ammunition package further comprised of sidewalls, an end, a means to secure the sidewalls, a stop/tab with an aperture, and a securing filament attached to the aperture in stop wing/tab, and an opening opposite the closed end is contoured for ammunition rounds wherein the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” can disengage the spring by using the push rod to force down the ammunition rounds, engaging the trigger to lock with the baseplate and guard and hold the spring in compression so that the ammunition rounds can easily fall from the contoured package and into the magazine, and after the ammunition rounds are in the magazine case, the trigger can be released so the spring re-extends to hold the ammunition rounds against the top opening of the magazine.

An alternative device is a collar or full sleeve. The collar is comprised of: (a) a rectangular collar that is configured to lightly press fit and encircle the perimeter of a contoured ammunition with an open end; (b) a tightening fastener to square the collar with an open end of a traditional ammunition magazine which has an aperture near the open end; and (c) a latch which can removably secure the collar to the aperture at the open end of the ammunition magazine wherein the collar is first placed onto the contoured ammunition package then latched to the open end of the magazine at the aperture, and then the package is pushed through the collar and into the open end of the magazine thus depressing the spring and releasing ammunition rounds into the magazine and filling the magazine.

Another alternative embodiment is an external locking/latching sleeve device comprised of: (a) a load base with and without extended support legs and a tab slot; (b) an external latch mechanism attached to the base; (c) a housing connected integrally at one end to the load base and at an opposite end to a cap and plate by fasteners; (d) a pusher plate encircling the housing; (e) at least one push rod attached at one end to the pusher plate with fasteners; (f) an optional horizontal rod attached to the pusher plate; and (g) a quick release tab wherein the device is aligned with an ammunition magazine at the open end of the magazine, then the latch of the device is engaged with an aperture of the magazine, then the push plate with the rods is pressed toward the magazine and a spring of the magazine is depressed as the ammunition rounds begin to release, next the pusher plate reaches the load base and all the rounds are completely released into the magazine thus filling the magazine full of ammunition rounds.

There is shown in FIGS. 1-16 a complete description and operative embodiment of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” with an External Lock Option. In the drawings and illustrations, one notes well that the FIGS. 1-16 demonstrate the general configuration and use of this system. The various example uses are in the operation and use section, below.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 that is preferred and an external lock 89, 144, 144A compatible with most rifle and pistol type magazines. The drawings together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below serve to explain the principles of the Lock and Load 30, 89, 144, 144A. It is understood, however, that Lock and Load 30, 89, 144, 144A is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. Other examples of magazines and loader devices and uses are still understood by one skilled in the art of ammunition magazine loaders and packaging devices to be within the scope and spirit shown here.

FIGS. 1 A through 1 D are sketches of the general Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30. In these drawings are shown the general system and components including: the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; prototype sample 31 of Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a push rod component 50 of the improved magazine loader device 30; baseplate and trigger guard box 60; follower 75A (without stop post 76) of new device 30; contoured to ammunition package 80; ammunition round 120; and individual operator/hand 130.

FIGS. 2 A through 2 G are sketches of a prototype Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 with components and features noted. Demonstrated in these views are: an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; drawings 32 of Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; top plate 41 of the trigger component 40; trigger post 42 of the trigger component 40; contour 43 for finger of the trigger component 40 to release ammunition and latch on the device 30; flat 44 for latching of the trigger component 40 to the base plate 63 on the device 30; a push rod component 50 of the improved magazine loader device 30; rod handle 51; rod post 52; post extender 53 at 90 degrees/perpendicular to rod post 52; round contour 54 to match with contour of ammunition round 120; baseplate and trigger guard box 60; slide configuration 61 to slide ably interconnect guard box 60 with magazine case 71; aperture opening 62 in guard box 60 for trigger 44; base plate 63 baseplate and trigger guard box 60; parallel sides 64 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; bottom 65 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; interior space 66 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; exterior case 71 of traditional magazine 70; spring 72 of traditional magazine 70; and a follower 75A (without stop post 76) of new device 30. Note that the free-floating follower 76A is special. The free-floating follower 76A has the middle post 76 cut out. The trigger 40 is attached to the spring 72. Next, the base plate 63 is at the bottom of the spring 72 which is what the trigger post 42 goes through in the aperture 62. That base plate 63 is the top part of the base plate and trigger guard 60. The trigger 40 latch is now attached to the spring 72 through the aperture 46. The advantage of the free floating follower 76A is that it can be used to pick up the ammunition 120 without touching it and it allows the trigger 40 latch to use the spring 72 to force the trigger 40 to latch with the flat 44 and the base plate 63 at the aperture 62.

FIGS. 3 A through 3 C are sketches of a prototype Load and Lock 31 with the components and features shown from front view. Viewed here one sees: Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; prototype sample 31 of Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a flat 44 for latching of the trigger component 40 to the base plate 63 on the device 30; a push rod component 50 of the improved magazine loader device 30; a baseplate and trigger guard box 60; base plate 63 feature of the baseplate and trigger guard box 60; an exterior case 71 of traditional magazine 70; a spring 72 of traditional magazine 70; and a follower 75A (without stop post 76) of new device 30.

FIGS. 4 A through 4 C are sketches of the base plate and trigger protection component 60 with features shown from several views. Shown in this group of drawings are: a baseplate and trigger guard box 60; slide configuration 61 to slide ably interconnect guard box 60 with magazine case 71; aperture opening 62 in guard box 60 for trigger 44; base plate 63 baseplate and trigger guard box 60; parallel sides 64 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; bottom 65 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; interior space 66 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60; and a spring ear 67 of baseplate and trigger guard box 60.

FIGS. 5 A through 5 C are sketches of the trigger component with features indicated and a trigger prototype 40 shown. Demonstrated are: a trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a top plate 41 of the trigger component 40; a trigger post 42 of the trigger component 40; a contour 43 for finger of the trigger component 40 to release ammunition and latch on the device 30; a flat 44 for latching of the trigger component 40 to the base plate 63 on the device 30; gussets 45 of the trigger component 40; an aperture 46 for end of spring 72 in the trigger component 40; a spring 72 of traditional magazine 70; a follower 75 of traditional magazine 70; a follower 75A (without stop post 76) of new device 30; and a stop post 76 of follower 75,

FIGS. 6 A through 6 E are sketches of the components and assembly comprising the internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30. Portrayed here are: an internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; drawings 32 of internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; trigger component 40 of the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a baseplate and trigger guard box 60; a traditional magazine 70; an exterior case 71 of traditional magazine 70; a spring 72 of traditional magazine 70; and a follower 75A (without stop post 76) of new device 30. Also, FIG. 6 E shows a cross section of the internal latch “Lock and Load” 30 with all the components denoted.

FIGS. 7 A and 7 B are sketches and a prototype 31 of a typical ammunition magazine with features and components shown from a generally front view. Provided are: a traditional magazine 70; an exterior case 71 of traditional magazine 70; the spring 72 of traditional magazine 70; a base plate 73 of a traditional magazine 70; a follower 75 of traditional magazine 70; and a stop post 76 of follower 75.

FIGS. 8 A through 8 E are sketches that portray a contoured ammunition package and a prototype 31 of the improved magazine 30 coupled together. One views from these drawings: a prototype sample 31 of Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a contoured to ammunition package 80; an aperture/slot 81 for stop wing/tab 85; the packaging sidewalls 82 of contoured to ammunition package 80; a crimped end 83 of contoured to ammunition package 80; a means 84 for securing crimped end 83 and the two sidewalls 82 to create an open ended envelop or sleeve contoured to ammunition rounds 120; a stop wing/tab 85; an aperture 86 in stop wing/tab 85 for securing a filament/fiber/wire/string/or equal 88; an open contour 87 contiguous to rounds 120; a securing filament/fiber/wire/string/or equal 88; a quick release 96 tab; ammunition rounds 120; a typical box/container 125 for ammunition rounds 120; and a rounds holder 126 such as Styrofoam with recessed holes/pocket for each round 120.

FIGS. 9 A through 9 C are more sketches of the contoured ammunition package 80. Here are details as follows: the contoured to ammunition package 80; an aperture/slot 81 for stop wing/tab 85; packaging sidewalls 82 of contoured to ammunition package 80; a crimped end 83 of contoured to ammunition package 80; a means 84 for securing crimped end 83 and two sidewalls 82 to create an open ended envelop or sleeve contoured to ammunition rounds 120; a stop wing/tab 85; an aperture 86 in stop wing/tab 85 for securing filament/fiber/wire/string/or equal 88; an open contour 87 contiguous to rounds 120; a securing filament/fiber/wire/string/or equal 88; and the ammunition rounds 120. One may note that there are two views of the packaging. The FIG. 9 B is looking down the throat of the package seeing where the ammunition rounds are located. The FIG. 9 A is a side view showing the rounds stopped by where the tab 85 that would go into the bottom slot 86 and hold the rounds 120 above the slot 86. The second tab slot 86 one sees would be a stop for extra rounds 120 that would be in the packaging. The packaging will include a built in rod 50 to lock the Magazine. FIG. 9 C shows the optional quick release 96 tab. This has a tab with a pin which will disengage or automatically pull the quick release 96 out as the pusher mechanism or the contoured package 80 passes and pops the pin so the tab is flipped out of the slot or slit 81 and the ammunition 120 is freed to drop into the magazine 70.

FIGS. 10 A and 10 B are sketches of a single round loading ammunition package 90 to be coupled with the Internal locking/latching magazine device called a “Lock and Load” 30. These drawings show: an ammunition loading package 90 for single round 120 loading into Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30; a round holding and guiding configuration/ledges 91; a package surface 92; the pocket 95 for single rounds 120; and the ammunition rounds 120.

FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are sketches of both a single stack 100 and double stack 110 ammunition package to be coupled with the Internal locking/latching magazine device called a “Lock and Load” 30. This type works for all pistols and single stack magazines. Displayed here are the following components and features: an ammunition loading package 100 for double stacked rounds 120; a plethora of collapsible flaps 101; a closed end 102; a pair of closed sides 103; an openable end 104; an ammunition loading package 110 for single stacked rounds 120; a plethora of collapsible flaps 111; a closed end 112; a pair of closed sides 113; an openable end 114; and several ammunition rounds 120. Packaging 100 is for the double stack magazine. It goes inside of the magazine. The packaging 110 for the single stack goes on the outside of the magazine. The side flaps 101, 111 can be a Styrofoam or cardboard insert that will collapse as the magazine presses down in releasing each round. Also design the packaging 100, 110 allows it to split open as the magazine presses in releasing the ammo 120. The point of the flaps 101, 111 is that the rounds 120 are being held by the packaging so they will stay in place until the magazine opens or collapses it to release the ammo 120.

FIGS. 12 A and 12 B are sketches of the collar or cuff external locking/latching magazine device 89 and coupling ammunition container 80. Shown here are the following components and features: an external latching cuff/collar 89 to accept packaging 80 and then, in combination with packaging 80, push down and load ammunition rounds 120 directly into magazine 70 or sleeves; an external latch 140 for cuff/collar device 89—may be metal, steel, spring steel, plastic, composite material easy to form with spring properties; an end keeper angle 141 of external latch 140; an outside screw 150 presses tightly against walls 82 to adjust the opening size 87 needed to hold the package 80 and the magazine 70 square to each other and keep openings in each 70, 80 (87) in line for the ammunition rounds 120 to pass easily; an outside follower button 151 of collar 89, the button 151 engages the aperture 78 of the magazine 70 during loading; a universal aperture 78 at load end/top of magazine 70 for receiving external latch mechanisms is not visible; an essentially rectangular structure 155 of external latch collar 89 holding pressure button 150 and latch 151; a magazine 70; a slot for the hold tab 85, and the exterior surface 82 of the contoured ammunition package 80.

FIGS. 13 A through 13 H are sketches and drawings of the prototypes for the external locking/latching sleeve device 144, 144A and coupling ammunition container 80. Provided and demonstrated in these sketches are: a universal aperture 78 at load end/top of magazine 70 for receiving external latch mechanisms latch tab 143; an external latch tab 143 that engages universal aperture 78 on magazine 70; an external locking/latching sleeve device 144 and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 144 with extended support legs 153; an external locking/latching sleeve device 144A and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 144 without extension support; an internal, horizontal cross rod 145 of external latching sleeve devices 144, 144A to maintain pressure on the ammunition rounds 120 at a slight angle; an external rod 146 of external latching sleeve devices 144, 144A (at least one or up to three vertical rods aligning magazine 70 with sleeve 144, 144A during push down on ammunition rounds 120); a load base 152 with external leg/extensions 153 features of external locking/latching sleeve device 144; a load base 152A of external locking/latching sleeve device 144A with no extensions; an external leg/extensions 153 feature to hold rods 146, 145; a housing 154 portion between load base 152, 152A and sleeve cap and plate 157; a push plate 156 with external leg/extensions 153 features; a push plate 156A with no extensions; a sleeve cap and plate 157; one or more fasteners 158 for sleeve cap 157; one or more fasteners 159 for rods 146, 145; a magazine 70; a slot for the hold tab 85, and the exterior surface 82 of the contoured ammunition package 80.

There are various materials are anticipated for the devices 30, 89, 144, 144A as well as the ammunition packages 80. Durable materials are anticipated for the devices 30, 89, 144, 144A which include steel, steel alloys, aluminum, brass, plastic, reinforced plastic, and composite materials. Disposable materials for the contoured ammunition package 80 anticipated are, but are not limited to, thin, non-reinforced plastic, compressed cardboard, compressed fiber boards, and biodegradable composite materials.

FIG. 14 is a sketch of an ammunition loading machine 160 with the external and internal locking/latching magazine devices 30, 144, 144A and coupling ammunition container. Shown here are: an ammunition package filling machine 160; a sheet loader station 185; a powered and timed roller conveyor 165; a box stop 170; the ammunition pneumatic air pressured round loader 175; a top 80T closer and securing the top 80T to bottom 80B mechanism at station 180 of the machine 160; a contoured to ammunition package 80; a top 80T of contoured to ammunition package 80; a bottom 80B of contoured to ammunition package 80, and the ammunition rounds 120. As the open container 80 with a top 80T and bottom 80B passes the pneumatic loader 175, the rounds 120 are forced into the box 80. Next the package 80 runs across the closing and sealing station 180 and the rounds 120 are secured in the package 80 and ready for pallet or container pack out or additional labeling. An additional station is anticipated after the top is fastened. Here the additional station or a secondary operation will permit the spring external latch 140 or trigger 40 and latch flat 44 to be incorporated with the packaging and be automated to attach to a magazine at an internal or external latch automatic unload station 190. An Assembly line type machine will bring an empty magazine under a rod that will depress the follower down. A sleeve that is attached to a hopper of the machine, will go into the magazine and drop ammo rounds in and pull out. Then the rod will be lifted out by the machine. The machine will then conveyed by a belt. With the full magazine out of the way an empty magazine will come under the machines rod and sleeve.

The details mentioned here are exemplary and not limiting. Other specific components and manners specific to describing an Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30, 89, 144, 144A may be added as a person having ordinary skill in the field of the art of ammunition magazine loaders and packaging devices and their uses well appreciates.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

The Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 and the external latch cuff/collar 89 and external sleeve devices 144, 144A have been described in the above embodiment. The manner of how the devices operate are described below. One notes well that the description above and the operation described here must be taken together to fully illustrate the concept of the Lock and Load 30, 89, 144, 144A. The preferred embodiment of an Internal locking/latching magazine device 30 and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” is comprised of (a) an exterior case 71 of a traditional magazine 70 and a spring 72 of traditional magazine; (b) a modified follower 75A (without stop post 76); (c) a trigger component 40 further comprised of a top plate 41, a trigger post 42, a flat 44 for latching of the trigger component 40 to a base plate feature 63, and an aperture 46 to connect to the spring 72; (d) a baseplate and trigger guard box 60 further comprised of a slide configuration 61 to slide ably interconnect guard box 60 with magazine case 71, an aperture opening 62 in guard box 60 for trigger post 42, a base plate 63 feature, and a trigger guard box; a push rod component 50; and (e) a contoured to ammunition package 80 further comprised of sidewalls 82, an end 83, a means 84 to secure the sidewalls, a stop/tab with an aperture, and a securing filament 88 attached to the aperture 86 in stop wing/tab 85, and an opening 87 opposite the closed end 83 is contoured for ammunition rounds 120 wherein the Internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” 30 can disengage the spring by using the push rod to force down the ammunition rounds, engaging the trigger to lock with the baseplate and guard and hold the spring in compression so that the ammunition rounds can easily fall from the contoured package and into the magazine, and after the ammunition rounds are in the magazine case, the trigger can be released so the spring re-extends to hold the ammunition rounds against the top opening of the magazine.

An alternative device is a collar 89 comprised of: (a) a rectangular collar 155 that is configured to lightly press fit and encircle the perimeter of a contoured ammunition package 80 with an open end; (b) a tightening fastener 150 to square the collar 88 with an open end of a traditional ammunition magazine 70 which has an aperture 78 near the open end; and (c) a latch 140 which can removably secure the collar 89 to the aperture 78 at the open end of the ammunition magazine 70 wherein the collar 89 is first placed onto the contoured package 80 then latched to the open end of the magazine 70 at the aperture 78, and then the package 80 is pushed through the collar 89 and into the open end of the magazine 70 thus depressing the spring 72 and releasing ammunition rounds 120 into the magazine 70 and filling the magazine.

Another alternative is the external locking/latching sleeve device 144, 144A comprised of: (a) a load base 152, 152A with and without extended support legs 153 and a tab slot 81; (b) an external latch mechanism 143 attached to the base 152, 152A; (c) a housing 154 connected integrally at one end to the load base 152, 152A and at an opposite end to a cap and plate 157 by fasteners 159; (d) a pusher plate 156 encircling the housing 154; (e) at least one push rod 146 attached at one end to the pusher plate 156 with fasteners 158; (f) an optional horizontal rod 145 attached to the pusher plate 156; and (g) a quick release tab 96 wherein the device 144, 144A is aligned with an ammunition magazine 70 at the open end of the magazine 70, then the latch 143 of the device 144, 144A is engaged with an aperture 78 of the magazine 70, then the push plate 156 with the rods 146 is pressed toward the magazine 70 and a spring 72 of the magazine 70 is depressed as the ammunition rounds 120 begin to release, next the pusher plate reaches the load base 152, 152A and all the rounds 120 are completely released into the magazine thus filling the magazine 70 full of ammunition rounds 120.

The Internal locking/latching magazine device 30 and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” operates as follows: Place the rod 50 at the top of the magazine over the follower 76A. Press rod down through magazine until trigger 44 locks with the baseplate 63 through the aperture 62. Place magazine over top of individual rounds 120 in package 80, 90, 100,110. The magazine will pick up rounds 120. The operator 130 keeps pressing over each round individually until magazine is loaded. Press Trigger 40 at the contour 43 to release follower 76A. Magazine is now ready to be used. An alternate way: line package up with top of magazine over the follower 76A. Press package down through magazine until trigger 40 locks. Remove packaging as rounds fall down into magazine. Press Trigger 40 at the contour 43 to release follower 76A. Magazine is ready to use.

The contour ammunition package 80 operates as follows: There is a tab 85 that is all that is in slots 86 in the bottom of the packaging 83. The packaging is in a triangle shape to match the bullet rounds 120. The cardboard or metal tab 85 will go through the slots 86 of the packaging. The packaging is inserted down inside the magazine. One then can pull on the filament 88 to remove the tab 85 from the slots 86. The bullet rounds 120 fall down into the magazine. Also if there are rounds left in the packaging when it comes out of a magazine one can re-insert the tab 85 and hold them. There will be a tab at the top of the packaging that will hold the top of the rounds from falling or tumbling back out of the package. The rod in package also include an opening on the bottom of the packaging that will be used to insert the rod up into the packaging and up into the unlocked magazine. This will press a few remaining rounds of ammunition up against the trigger lock. This is a safety feature. If there is only half or less filled package of ammo the tension on the spring can be slowly released by pressing the rod out and through the magazine and packaging. Also for clarification the magazine goes into the packaging the magazine and will simply be pressed in and taken out, no need to be turned upside down. The operation of the external latch devices 89, 144, 144A are described next.

FIG. 15 is a series of sketches showing the steps to load ammunition 120 into a magazine 70 with the external collar 89. The steps are as follows:

Step Description of operating step
1    An operator 130 places the collar 89 onto a
     sleeve 80 and presses the collar onto magazine
     to be locked by the thumb screw 151. He holds
     it in one hand and obtains a magazine 70 in
     the other.
2    Operator 130 aligns collar 89 and sleeve 80
     over magazine 70
3    Operator 130 engages extension latch 140 into
     magazine 70 aperture 78
4    operator 130 pushes sleeve 80 toward magazine
     70, quick tab 96 disengages, and ammunition
     rounds 120 begin to fill magazine 70
5    operator 130 continues to push sleeve 80 and
     quick tab 96 falls away
6    collar 89 bottoms out and is contiguous to
     magazine 70
7    operator 130 begins to pull/retract sleeve 80
     from magazine 70
8    operator releases latch 141 from magazine 70
9    operator 130 pulls sleeve 80 and collar 89
     away from filled magazine 70, 120
10   sleeve 80 and collar 89 are separated from
     filled magazine 70, 120

FIG. 16 is a series of sketches showing the steps to load a magazine with the external loading sleeve 144, 144a loaded with ammunition 120 into a banana magazine 70.

Step Description of operating step
A    Operator 130 has external sleeve device 144A and
     magazine 70 ready to load ammunition 120 from device
B    operator aligns device 144A with magazine 70 and
     engages load base 152A with top/open end of magazine
     70
C    operator 130 removes tab 85 from ammunition sleeve
     device 144A
D    operator 130 engages latch 143 into magazine aperture
     78
E    operator 130 begins to push/force pusher plate 156
     toward magazine 70 forcing ammunition 120 into
     magazine opening
F    operator 130 bottoms out pusher plate 156 against load
     base 152A and magazine 70
G    operator nudges/releases latch 143 and pulls sleeve
     device 144A away from magazine 70 and ammo rounds 120
H    external ammunition sleeve device 152A and full
     magazine 70 with thirty rounds 120 are separated

Many types of ammunition rounds are anticipated to be used with the Internal and external locking/latching magazine devices 30, 89, 144, 144A and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load”. As of now, there are no known common rounds of ammunition 120 that are not usable with a similar system 30, 89, 144, 144A. With this description it is to be understood that the Internal and external locking/latching magazine devices 30, 89, 144, 144A and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” is not to be limited to only the disclosed embodiment of product. The features of the Lock and Load devices 30, 89, 144, 144A are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the description.

While certain novel features of this invention have been shown and described and are pointed out in the annexed claims, it is not intended to be limited to the details above, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which these inventions belong. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present inventions, the preferred methods and materials are now described above in the foregoing paragraphs.

Other embodiments of the invention are possible. Although the description above contains much specificity, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the inventions. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

The terms recited in the claims should be given their ordinary and customary meaning as determined by reference to relevant entries (e.g., definition of “plane” as a carpenter's tool would not be relevant to the use of the term “plane” when used to refer to an airplane, etc.) in dictionaries (e.g., widely used general reference dictionaries and/or relevant technical dictionaries), commonly understood meanings by those in the art, etc., with the understanding that the broadest meaning imparted by any one or combination of these sources should be given to the claim terms (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries should be combined to provide the broadest meaning of the combination of entries, etc.) subject only to the following exceptions: (a) if a term is used herein in a manner more expansive than its ordinary and customary meaning, the term should be given its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional expansive meaning, or (b) if a term has been explicitly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term followed by the phrase “as used herein shall mean” or similar language (e.g., “herein this term means,” “as defined herein,” “for the purposes of this disclosure [the term] shall mean,” etc.). References to specific examples, use of “i.e.,” use of the word “invention,” etc., are not meant to invoke exception (b) or otherwise restrict the scope of the recited claim terms. Other than situations where exception (b) applies, nothing contained herein should be considered a disclaimer or disavowal of claim scope. Accordingly, the subject matter recited in the claims is not coextensive with and should not be interpreted to be coextensive with any particular embodiment, feature, or combination of features shown herein. This is true even if only a single embodiment of the particular feature or combination of features is illustrated and described herein. Thus, the appended claims should be read to be given their broadest interpretation in view of the prior art and the ordinary meaning of the claim terms.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the specification (other than the claims) are understood as modified in all instances by the term “approximately.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term “approximately” should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

Claims

1. An Internal locking/latching magazine device (30) made of durable material and coupling ammunition container (80) made of disposable materials called a “Lock and Load” is comprised of: wherein the internal locking/latching magazine device and coupling ammunition container called a “Lock and Load” (30) can disengage the spring by using the push rod to force down the ammunition rounds, engaging the trigger to lock with the baseplate and guard and hold the spring in compression so that the ammunition rounds can easily fall from the contoured package and into the magazine, and after the ammunition rounds are in the magazine case, the trigger can be released so the spring re-extends to hold the ammunition rounds against the top opening of the magazine.

(a) an exterior case (71) of a traditional magazine (70) and a spring (72) of traditional magazine;

(b) a modified follower (75A) (without stop post (76));

(c) a trigger component (40) further comprised of a top plate (41), a trigger post (42), a flat (44) for latching of the trigger component (40) to a base plate feature (63), and an aperture (46) to connect to the spring (72);

(d) a baseplate and trigger guard box (60) further comprised of a slide configuration (61) to slidably interconnect guard box (60) with magazine case (71), an aperture opening (62) in guard box (60) for trigger post (42), a base plate (63) feature, and a trigger guard box; a push rod component (50); and

(e) a contoured to ammunition package (80) further comprised of sidewalls (82), an end (83), a means (84) to secure the sidewalls, a stop/tab with an aperture, and a securing filament (88) attached to the aperture (86) in stop wing/tab (85), and an opening (87) opposite the closed end (83) is contoured for ammunition rounds (120)

2. The Internal locking/latching magazine device (30) according to claim 1 wherein the durable material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, steel, steel alloys, brass, plastic, reinforced plastic, and composite materials.

3. The Internal locking/latching magazine device (30) according to claim 1 wherein the disposable material for the contour package is selected from the group consisting of non-reinforced plastic, compressed cardboard, compressed fiber boards, and biodegradable composite materials.

4. A loading device that is external to an ammunition magazine (70) which is a collar (89) made of durable materials and comprised of: wherein the collar (89) is first placed onto the contoured package (80) then latched to the open end of the magazine (70) at the aperture (78), and then the package (80) is pushed through the collar (89) and into the open end of the magazine (70) thus depressing the spring (72) and releasing ammunition rounds (120) into the magazine (70) and filling the magazine with the ammunition rounds (120).

(a) a rectangular collar (155) that is configured to lightly press fit and encircle the perimeter of a contoured ammunition package (80) with an open end;

(b) a tightening fastener (150) to square the collar (88) with an open end of a traditional ammunition magazine (70) which has an aperture (78) near the open end; and

(c) a latch (140) which can removably secure the collar (89) to the aperture (78) at the open end of the ammunition magazine (70)

5. The loading device that is external to an ammunition magazine (70) which is a collar (89) according to claim 4 wherein the durable material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, steel, steel alloys, brass, plastic, reinforced plastic, and composite materials.

6. An external locking/latching ammunition sleeve device (144) made of durable materials and comprised of:

(a) a load base (152) with extended support legs (153) and a tab slot (81);

(b) an external latch mechanism (143) attached to the load base (152);

(c) a housing (154) connected integrally at one end to the load base (152) and at an opposite end to a cap and plate (157) by fasteners (159);

(d) a pusher plate (156) encircling the housing (154);

(e) at least one push rod (146) attached at one end to the pusher plate (156) with fasteners (158);

(f) an optional horizontal rod (145) attached to the pusher plate (156) configured at an angle so as to put pressure on at least one ammunition round (120) in the magazine (70); and

(g) a quick release tab (96) wherein the device (144) is aligned with an ammunition magazine (70) at the open end of the magazine (70), then the latch (143) of the device (144) is engaged with an aperture (78) of the magazine (70), then the push plate (156) with the rods (146) is pressed toward the magazine (70) and a spring (72) of the magazine (70) is depressed as the ammunition rounds (120) begin to release, next the pusher plate reaches the load base (152) and all the rounds (120) are completely released into the magazine thus filling the magazine 70 full of ammunition rounds (120).

7. The external locking/latching sleeve device (144) according to claim 6 wherein the durable material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, steel, steel alloys, brass, plastic, reinforced plastic, and composite materials.