I put only 10 rounds in my mag and I rotate them at every time change(6 months). I'm sure it's not absolutely necessary but why chance it. I have four 15 round mags for my Sig P-226 and they are expensive to replace.

Worc, I have a 226 that I have had for 15 years. keep a mag in it with 14 rounds and another handy with 15. I've probably run 5000 rounds thru this weapon and it still functions flawlessly. You can always order new springs. Unless you live in one of those screwed up states that considers a repair to be a modification.

David

Worc, I understand where you're coming from. And it used to be a common practice. However, I've talked to metallurgists (sp?) and they all agreed that springs will not weaken over time if left fully compressed. They only weaken when "worked". In other words, compressed and decompressed many times. Shooting the mags will weaken the springs 5 times faster than leaving them compressed over several years, according to them.

Just wanted to give you some information so you can make an informed decision.

Contrary to popular opinion, keeping a magazine loaded for years will not weaken the spring..... At least, not the springs in magazines I have kept loaded for years.