Newsgroups: rec.guns
Subject: Re: Colt AR-15 mags -- Analysis of 5 vs. 20 rounders
Date: 12 May 1994 22:50:55 -0400

I recently converted two 5 rounders to 20 rounders. It was very
easy to do.

  1-drill out existing rivet.
  2-remove baseplate.
  3-remove U-shaped spacer.
  4-clean and inspect magazine interior.
  5-reinstall baseplate.
  6-reinstall rivet (optional).

The baseplate has a detent that functions as a catch and keeps
the baseplate in place. I think the rivet is there to discourage
the aforementioned procedure. BTW, I used silver rivets instead
of the orginal black ones so I can easily distinguish the 20's
from the other 5 rounds I have. I also saved the U-shaped spacers
in case I need to reinstall them per the "Klinton Disarms America"
program.

If anyone really needs to know drill bit size and rivet size
information, let me know. Don't recall exactly without checking...

I'd also be interested to know if there is any difference in the
follower spring characteristics between the original 20's and the
current 5's (with spacers).