Shakie....Here is a little bit of interesting trivia for you.

Colt AR-15 magazines were predominately made by "UI", which is the "Okay" (magazine makers) company. Colt sub contracted out to have 99% of their magazines made by "UI".

"Okay" made all UI/Simmonds Industries magazines but now produce under their own name. They are the longest running magazine manufacturer in the nation.

"Okay" company is based in New Britain, CT, which is in Hartford County (close to Colt Mfg.) So when you see a AR-15 Magazine samped "Colt" on it, it's a good chance (99%) that it was made by UI (Okay) and not COLT. UI/Okay also made (make) their own line of AR magazine without the "Colt" markings on it.

Another interesting thing about "Colt" stamped magazines is that early Air Force contract 20-rounders circa 1963-1968 have bright alloy followers. Later model "Colt" stamped magazines had dull followers.

Scarce magazines were the ones stamped "Colt Pt. Mfg. Co.Inc." with the prancing pony and "CAL. .223" on the floor plate.

Some AR magazines that are very scarce and are considered more valuable to collectors are marked "Simmonds" or "Adventureline" on the floorplate. Many collectors pay more money for the ones labled "Colt". (Poor fools, hahaha).

The basic rule about "Colt" stamped magazines is that pre-1969 20 round magazines are stamped "CAL.223". Magazines made after 1969 for the 20 rounders are stamped "CAL. 5.56mm"

There is a much longer history and "fact sheet" about "Colt" magazines if you're a collector etc... but it's too lengthy to discuss here in this forum.

Edited by - Hk45USP on 02/18/2002 01:47:21