November 2020
Auto Mag Ltd., Co. Loris, SC USA
SHOOTER’S MANUAL
AUTO MAG™ MODEL 180 CLASSIC AND FOUNDERS PISTOL In 1982, the last Auto Mag was assembled; however, the story of the Auto Mag continues today. In 2015, a new company was formed to bring this legend back to the market, Auto Mag Ltd., Co. Auto Mag Ltd., Co. is now in the process of remaking the Auto Mag with the intent to keep the heart and soul of the Auto Mag but, while also correcting many of the issues that true lovers of the Auto Mag have wanted resolved. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube and keep up to date on events in the Auto Mag product line by signing up for our newsletter and/or reviewing our Blog. This AutoMag Shooter's Manual was written to allow you to have maximum enjoyment of your favorite shooting sport in a safe manner. Be sure to read it thoroughly, including the Warranty and Statement of Liability. Please study and comply with the sections marked WARNING and CAUTION.
CONTENTS
Auto Mag™ Model 180 Classic and Founders Pistol ...... 1 Warranty ...... 2 Statement of Liability ...... 4 General Description ...... 5 Lubricants ...... 5 Special Notices ...... 5 Functioning of the Pistol ...... 6 Feeding ...... 7 Locking ...... 7 Firing ...... 7 Unlocking ...... 8 Extracting ...... 8 Ejecting ...... 8 Cocking ...... 8 Safety Lever Operation ...... 9 Settings and Adjustments ...... 9 Trigger Settings ...... 10 Front Sight removal and installation ...... 10 Safety Practices ...... 11 Loading, Firing and Unloading ...... 12 Magazine Loading ...... 12 Pistol Loading...... 13
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Suggestion for Easy Cocking...... 13 Firing ...... 14 Never carry the pistol when loaded ...... 15 Unloading the Pistol ...... 15 Unloading the Magazine ...... 15 Normal Maintenance ...... 15 Disassembly (Field Stripping) ...... 15 Disassembly Sequence ...... 16 Cleaning ...... 17 Cleaning Sequence ...... 17 Accelerator Removal, Inspection, Cleaning and Replacement ...... 17 Reassembly ...... 18 Reassembly Sequence ...... 18 Factory Service ...... 20 On-line Resources...... 22 Illustrated Parts List ...... 23
WARRANTY WARRANTY FOR FIREARMS AND FIREARM COMPONENTS MANUFACTURED BY AUTO MAG LTD. CO.: 1. New firearms and firearm components are warranted by the manufacturer and product returns/repairs should be arranged directly with the manufacturer. 2. Most manufacturers will require the customer to pay shipping for delivery of a firearm or firearm component for repair. You should expect to be responsible for shipping costs if you have a warranty issue. 3. If the item under an Auto Mag Ltd. Co. warranty also includes a warrant from another manufacturer on certain items or components, the Auto Mag Ltd. Co. warranty does not run concurrently with the other manufacturer’s warranty, but begins only upon the expiration of the other manufacturer’s warranty. If the scope or duration of the other manufacturer’s warranty cannot reasonably be determined, then the warranty of Auto Mag Ltd. Co. will be limited to the warranty described in Section 4 below. 4. For all items under Auto Mag Ltd. Co. warranty that do not also include a warranty from the manufacturer of a part or component, or where Auto Mag Ltd. Co. cannot reasonably determine the scope of the applicable manufacturer’s warranty at the time of the claim, Auto Mag Ltd. Co. warrants that:
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5. If the warranted item is purchased in newly manufactured condition (as denoted on the item description available at the time of purchase), it is free of defects in material or workmanship from the date of the original purchase of the item; or 6. If the warranted item is purchase in surplus, salvage or used condition (as denoted on the item description available at the time of purchase), there is no warranty provided by Auto Mag Ltd. Co., and the obligation of Auto Mag Ltd. Co. shall be limited to the replacement of such item, only, without further warranty as to merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. 7. Auto Mag Ltd. Co.’s sole obligation under this warranty, and, to the extent permitted by law, any warranty or condition implied by law shall be the repair or replacement of the parts, without charge, which are, in the case of a warranty provided under Section 3 above, qualified by the terms and conditions of the manufacturer’s warranty, and in the case of a warranty provided under Section 4 above, defective in material or workmanship. At Auto Mag Ltd. Co.’s sole discretion, a replacement item or order credit may be provided if an item is unrepairable. If a replacement item is provided, the original warranty will remain in effect for the replacement item. Order credit will be provided at the lower of the purchase price or the then current retail value of the item, as determined by Auto Mag Ltd. Co. 8. This warranty applies only to the item in the condition as originally sold by Auto Mag Ltd. Co. The warranty does not cover: the replacement or refinishing or parts that are subject to normal wear and tear through the lifespan of the item; issues related to the accuracy of any item; and any accessories that come with the item or attachments to the item. 9. This warranty is void if using hand loaded or reloaded ammunition, or if this firearm is modified in any manner from the original factory specifications. 10. This warranty is void if transferred to someone other than the original purchaser of the item, as list on the sale receipt, and is non-transferrable. 11. This warranty does not include shipping costs associated with a warranty claim. You are responsible for shipping the warranty item both to and from Auto Mag Ltd. Co. as necessary to fulfill the terms of the warranty. 12. To make a claim under this warranty, you must return the complete item to Auto Mag Ltd. Co. You must provide in writing full details of the defect or malfunction, you name, the purchase date, and a copy of your sales receipt (or other proof of
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purchase).For questions about the warranty or information about making a claim, please contact: Auto Mag Ltd., Co 4232 Meadow Street Loris, South Carolina 29569 Telephone: 843-756-0362 13. IN NO EVENT SHALL AUTO MAG LTD. CO. BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGE OF ANY KIND, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, CAUSED BY ANY DEFECT OR MALFUNCTION.ADDITIONALLY, AUTO MAG LTD. CO. SHALL NOT LIABILE FOR ANY LOSS OF USE DURING THE PERIOD IN WHICH THE ITEM IS INOPERABLE, BEING REPAIRED, OR OTHERWISE AWAITING REPAIR OR PARTS.AUTO MAG LTD. CO. MAKES NO WARRANTIES EXCEPT FOR THOSE EXPRESSLY SET FORTH HEREIN AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. All disclaimers and limitations of liability shall still apply even if the limited remedy of repair and replacement fails of its essential purpose. This warranty give you special legal rights and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow exclusion or limitations of incidental or consequential damages and limitations as to how long any implied warranty may last, so the above exclusions and limitations may not apply to you. 14. Any action against Auto Mag Ltd. Co. arising from or in connection with an alleged breach of this warranty must be brought within 1 year of the claimed breach. 15. The laws of the State of South Carolina, without regard to the principals of conflict of laws, will govern these Terms and Conditions and any dispute of any sort that might arise between you and Auto Mag Ltd. Co. DISCLAIMER AFTER ANY SERVICING OR ADJUSTMENT, WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND HAVING ALL FIREARMS, AND FIREARM COMPONENTS, THOROUGHLY EXAMINED BY A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH BEFORE FIRING. STATEMENT OF LIABILITY This pistol is classified as a FIREARM or DANGEROUS WEAPON and is surrendered by the Company with the express understanding that it assumes no liability to any person other than the owner whose warranty is registered with the Company, no liability resulting from unsafe handling, no
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL liability arising from conduct constituting a violation under any applicable laws or regulations, nor any other liability except as expressly provided in the above warranty. The Company shall not be liable for personal injury or injury to property resulting from (a) intentional, reckless, negligent, or accidental discharge; (b) the function of any gun subjected to influences beyond its control which may result from careless handling, improper usage, corrosion or neglect; (c) unauthorized adjustments, repairs, or alterations made outside of its factory; (d) the incorporation of any part not of its manufacture; or (e) defective, improper, or reloaded ammunition. The Company shall not be liable for any consequential damages resulting from any of the above. The Company will not be liable for any injury or damages to any person arising out of use of the Auto Mag in hunting dangerous game, combat, civil defense or police activities as the Auto Mag is not designed for any of these purposes. This statement of liability supersedes any other statements of liability, whether expressed or implied. GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Auto Mag pistol is a semiautomatic, short recoil operated, rotary bolt, magazine fed, handgun manufactured primarily from stainless steel. It is chambered specifically for the AMP (Auto Mag Pistol) rimless cartridges. Magazine capacity is seven cartridges. LUBRICANTS Auto Mag Oil is a unique lubricant specially formulated to provide smooth pistol functioning over a wide temperature range. It was adopted for use after Auto Mag had tested many commercially available gun oils and lubricants and found that the Auto Mag pistol requires a different type of lubricant than ordinary carbon steel guns. WARNING THE USE OF OTHER LUBRICANTS ON THE AUTO MAG PISTOLS IS NOT RECOMMENDED, AND MAY RESULT IN MALFUNCTION OR DAMAGE TO METAL PARTS. SPECIAL NOTICES Several precautionary statements are contained throughout the text of this Shooter's Manual. For the reader's convenience, some of the most important are summarized below. Throughout this manual you will find number in parenthesis ( ). These numbers directly indicate the part in the schematic to assist the users in familiarizing themselves of the nomenclature of the parts, their location and function in the Auto Mag pistol: • Verify that the pistol is not loaded before handling or disassembly. Be muzzle conscious!! Always point the muzzle in a safe direction when handling any firearm!! If the pistol contains a magazine, release the magazine by pressing the magazine latch (57) on the left side of frame to the rear of the trigger guard and then remove
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it by withdrawing it from the butt of the pistol grip. Pull the cocking piece fully to the rear and inspect the chamber visually through the open ejection port to be sure that the pistol is not loaded. • Do not use ammunition of any other type than that specifically designed for the pistol. We do not recommend the use of reloads or ammunition that is of question-able origin or condition. • Never load a live cartridge directly into the chamber of the pistol. The pistol designed to feed from the magazine only. • Always fire the pistol at full arm's length from the body. • Disassembly further than for normal maintenance should be performed only by an experienced gunsmith or as a part of factory servicing. • The use of lubricants other than Auto Mag Oil Lubricant on Auto Mag pistols is not recommended and may result in malfunction or damage to metal parts. • Be sure to read your Shooter's Manual thoroughly and heed its recommendations. A written copy of the Shooters Manual is shipped with your pistol. If you lose your Shooters Manual you can download a copy from our website or call the factory at 843-756- 0632 and request a copy. Additionally, there are instructional videos on our website (www.automag.com) that cover loading, firing, cleaning, and maintenance of the Auto mag pistols. FUNCTIONING OF THE PISTOL Each time a cartridge is fired, the parts within the pistol function in a given order or cycle of operation. The Auto Mag's cycle of operation is divided into seven basic steps which are listed below in the order in which they occur. More than one step may be occurring at the same time. In the text which follows, numbers in parenthesis refer to parts shown on the exploded view illustration of the pistol: 1. Feeding: Moving the cartridge from the magazine into the chamber. 2. Locking: Holding the cartridge in the chamber and engaging the locking lugs on the bolt with those on the barrel extension. 3. Firing: Igniting the primer and firing the cartridge. 4. Unlocking: Disengaging the locking lugs on the bolt from those on the barrel extension. 5. Extracting: Removing the cartridge case from the chamber. 6. Ejecting: Discarding the cartridge case from the pistol. 7. Cocking: Returning the firing mechanism to the cocked position ready to fire another cartridge. 6 | P a g e
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FEEDING Inserting a loaded magazine into the butt of the pistol (barrel and extension (1) for-ward, and bolt (22) locked rearward by the hold open (34), will bring the top cartridge in the magazine in front of the bolt face. When the magazine is fully seated in the butt of the pistol, the magazine latch (57) engages the magazine (15) and locks it in place. Pulling the cocking piece (18) fully to the rear then engage the hold open by pressing upward on the hold open tab located on the left side of the pistol above the grip to lock the bolt rearward the recoil springs (17) are fully compressed, and the hammer (51) is cocked. Pull the cocking piece rearward to release the hold open (34) the release the cocking piece to allow the bolt to travel forward. The expanding recoil springs force the bolt and cocking piece forward. The lower portion of the moving bolt face passes between the lips of the magazine, strips the top cartridge from the magazine, and pushes it forward to contact and travel up the feed ramp and into the chamber. The cartridge is chambered when the bolt has completed its forward motion relative to the barrel and extension assembly. The cocking piece contacts the rear of the recoil spring tubes on the frame of the pistol. LOCKING The bolt and cocking piece in conjunction with the barrel and extension assembly now move forward as a group from the force of the still expanding recoil springs. During the last part of this motion the helical portion of the internal bearing surface of the bolt makes contact with the bolt rotation pin (21). The bolt rotation spring (23) and the bolt closing cut pressured by the rounds remaining in the magazine causes the bolt to rotate as directed by the helix until the six bolt locking lugs are securely engaged with those within the barrel and extension assembly. Finally, the forward motion of the barrel extension is stopped by the barrel latch (60) and the bolt’s for-ward motion is stopped by the contact of the cocking piece against the rear of the re-coil tubes. The pistol is then ready for firing. FIRING For the Auto Mag to fire, the bolt must be fully forward and locked in the breech so that bolt safety tappet (44) will connect the trigger bar (36) to the sear (42). When the trigger (38) is squeezed, the trigger bar engages the sear which rotates on the sear pin (41) and disengages from the full cock notch of the hammer. The expanding pair of nested hammer springs (55 and 56) push the hammer strut guide (54) upwards along with the hammer strut (53), forcing the hammer to rotate forward on the hammer pin and to strike the firing pin (19). The inertia type titanium firing pin travels forward, compressing the firing pin spring (20). The firing pin moves through the firing pin exit opening in the face of the bolt and strikes the cartridge primer. The primer ignites, firing the cartridge. The firing pin spring then expands and withdraws the firing pin from the face of the bolt.
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UNLOCKING The pressure of the powder gases while driving the bullet forward, forces the barrel and extension assembly, bolt, and cocking piece rearward together. Their total weight which is much greater than that of the bullet when combined with the resistance of the recoil springs which makes them react more slowly than the bullet. This allows the bullet to leave the barrel before unlocking of the bolt begins. The unlocking is caused by the engagement of the helical portion of the internal camming surface of the bolt with the bolt rotation pin. The unlocked bolt and cocking piece continue to travel a short distance further in unison with the barrel and extension assembly. That accelerator (4) then contacts a special locking lug on the bolt imparting a thrust to the bolt and cocking piece combination which separates them from the barrel and extension assembly and accelerates them towards the rear. Shortly thereafter, the rearward motion of the barrel and extension assembly is stopped when the barrel extension lug reaches an internal abutment located in the front of the pistol frame. EXTRACTING As the bolt and cocking piece continue their rearward movement, the extractor (25) which is engaged in the extractor groove of the cartridge, withdraws the cartridge case from the chamber. Extraction is completed as the cartridge case clears the chamber. EJECTING As the bolt continues to move rearward, the cartridge case, held in contact with the bolt by the extractor, reaches a point where the case mouth passes the front edge of the ejection port in the barrel extension. Since there is no longer any restraint placed on the lateral movement of the case, the spring loaded ejector (28) on the opposite side of the bolt face imparts a forward thrust motion to the case using the extractor as a pivot point, thus ejecting the cartridge case from the pistol. COCKING Cocking begins as the cocking piece starts rearward in recoil. At first the cocking piece contacts the hammer, rotating it downwards to the rear, thus compressing the hammer springs through the force exerted by the hammer strut acting on the hammer strut guide. As the cocking piece continues its rearward travel, it passes over and beyond the hammer which remains restrained in a fully downward position by contact with the bottom surface of the bolt. When rearward motion of the bolt cocking piece is stopped by the forward end of the slot in the bolt contacting the bolt rotation pin, the recoil springs then begin to expand, forcing the cocking piece and bolt forward again. The hammer remains depressed and restrained until the rear of the cocking piece moves far enough forward to allow the hammer to begin to rotate for-ward to follow it. This hammer motion only extends for a very short distance because the sear, which is bearing against the hammer through the action of the sear spring (43), engages the full cock notch of
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL the hammer and holds it in the fully cocked position. By the time the bolt and cocking piece are fully forward and the shooter has released his trigger squeeze, the bolt safety tappet will be positioned in its recess in the bottom of the bolt, and the operating cycle is completed. Subsequent steps in the cycle of operation of the pistol, feeding, locking, firing, etc., may be continued in order so long as there are cartridges in the magazine. When the magazine has been emptied, the hold open (34) engages the bolt and holds it in the fully rearward position, thus serving as an indicator to remind the shooter that the empty magazine must be replaced with a loaded one. Depressing the magazine latch releases the empty magazine from the handle of the pistol and permits insertion of a loaded magazine. Pressing downward on the safety lever (45) releases the bolt from the open position allowing it to go forward to its locked position, carrying the top cartridge from the magazine into the barrel chamber, leaving the pistol cocked and ready for firing again. SAFETY LEVER OPERATION The safety lever (45) is located on the left side of the pistol at the top rear of the grip. It may be actuated in two directions from the horizontal or "FIRE" position. Rotating the safety lever fully upward as far it will go will lock it into the "SAFE" position. When it is in the "SAFE " position the hammer is lifted off of the sear and locked back by the shaft of the safety lever and the safety plate (32) is rotated to lock the sear in the full cock notch of the hammer as well as to engage the cocking piece thus locking it in the forward position. When the safety lever (45) is depressed from the horizontal or "FIRE" position to the "RELEASE " position, it acts as a bolt release by disengaging the hold open, thus allowing the bolt to close. The "RELEASE" position is spring loaded, and the safety lever will automatically return to the "FIRE" position when released. The preferred method of releasing the bolt held to the rear and retained by the hold open (34) to load a cartridge is to simply pull the cocking piece rearward to disengage the hold open (34) and let go of the cocking piece. The bolt and cocking piece will move rapidly forward and will move a round out of the magazine into the chamber. The preferred method described above will reduce wear on the hold open pawl which retains the bolt rearward after the last round is fired. Never place the safety lever (45) in the safe position when the bolt is locked rearward by the hold open (34). If you engage the safety with the bolt locked rearward and then pull on the cocking piece and release the cocking piece (18) the bolt and cocking piece will travel forward and damage the safety plate (32). SETTINGS AND ADJUSTMENTS The rear sight on the Auto Mag is fully adjustable for elevation and windage. Trigger foreplay and over travel are also adjustable. In the text which
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL follows, numbers in parenthesis refer to parts shown on the exploded view illustration of the pistol. TRIGGER SETTINGS Both trigger foreplay and trigger over travel may be adjusted to suit the shooter's individual preferences. A 3/32-inch hex head wrench is used to make trigger adjustments. CAUTION BEFORE MAKING ANY ADJUSTMENTS, THE SHOOTER SHOULD FIRE THE PISTOL ENOUGH TIMES TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE FACTORY TRIGGER SETTINGS. The trigger foreplay adjustment screw (33) is in the top of the frame immediately above the trigger (38). The barrel and extension assembly must be removed from the frame (63) to gain access to it (see steps 1 and 2 of the Disassembly Sequence described in the section on Normal Maintenance. Clockwise rotation decreases trigger foreplay. CAUTION INSUFFICIENT TRIGGER FOREPLAY MAY MAKE THE PISTOL ACTION INOPERATIVE AFTER FIRING ONE CARTRIDGE AND MAY ALSO CAUSE THE SEAR TO NOT FULLY ENGAGE THE HAMMER SEAR NOTCH AND COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE THE SEAR TO FAIL TO RETAIN THE HAMMER. IT IS ADVISABLE TO REMOVE THE RIGHT GRIP AND ADJUST THE TRIGGER FOREPLAY TO RETAIN .003 (THICKNESS OF A SHEET OF NOTEBOOK PAPER) CLEARANCE BEFORE CONTACTING THE SEAR LEG. Counter-clockwise rotation increases trigger foreplay. Note: Excessive trigger foreplay is not conducive to accurate shooting. The trigger over travel adjustment screw (33) is in the center of the trigger and may be adjusted without pistol disassembly. Clockwise rotation decreases trigger over travel. CAUTION INSUFFICIENT TRIGGER OVER TRAVEL MAY MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO FIRE THE PISTOL. Counter-clockwise rotation increases trigger over travel. Note: excessive trigger over travel is not conducive to accurate shooting. FRONT SIGHT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION The front sight may be removed and replaced if damaged or changed to one of several sight designs to suit the shooters preference. To remove the front sight first remove the magazine from the pistol and make sure the pistol does not have a cartridge in the chamber. The front sight is retained by a set screw. Unscrew the set screw counterclockwise with a 3/32-inch hex head Allen wrench to the point where the front sight will slide forward
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL and out of the pistol rib. To install the front sight simply sit the front sight into the pocket in the rib, push the sight rearward ensuring the sight base is resting on the rib and tighten the Allen screw in a clockwise direction. It is important to check the front sight screw to ensure it has not loosened during firing. If you have no plans to change the front sight a drop of Loctite™ on the screw threads will prevent loosening. SAFETY PRACTICES There are many safety rules set forth for handling firearms. Those which follow are basic and should be rigidly observed: • Always check your Auto Mag for live ammunition when it is picked up, drawn from a holster, or handed to or accepted from another individual. • Never place your finger inside the ejection port with the bolt rearward. If the bolt is released severe injury will result. • Keep your pistol holstered or in a carrying case unless it is removed for a specific purpose. • Never point your Auto Mag at anything that you do not intend to shoot. • Do not cock your pistol unless you intend to shoot it, and do not insert your finger in-to the trigger guard until you are ready to fire. • Dry firing, even with dummy cartridges is to be discouraged unless performed on a regular target range, at a known, inanimate target object. • Always be certain that the muzzle of your Auto Mag is pointed in a safe direction, whether the pistol is loaded or not. • Never place your finger inside the trigger guard until you are on target and ready to shoot. • Use a very heavy backstop when target shooting with the Auto Mag. Know your target and what lies beyond. • Store firearms so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons or children. A lock is provided with your pistol and should be utilized when the pistol is not in use. With the bolt locked rearward by the hold open (34) pass the lock cable through the ejection port and out of the magazine well and into the lock body then pull rearward on the cocking piece to release the hold open (18) and gently ease the bolt forward until the bolt stops on the lock cable. • The shooter and those nearby should wear eye and ear protection when appropriate.
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• Never use alcohol, illegal substances, over the counter drugs or prescription drugs that may affect your judgement or safe firearms handling before or while shooting. • Clean and lubricate your pistol every time it is used. After prolonged storage it is advisable to clean and lubricate the pistol before firing. • Make safe gun handling a habit. LOADING, FIRING AND UNLOADING When you purchased an Auto Mag pistol, you became the owner of one of the most advanced and powerful production handguns now made. When used correctly by a competent person, it is probably the safest of all handguns but must always be considered a dangerous weapon. Before proceeding to use your Auto Mag, read the section on safe practices, loading, firing, and unloading very carefully. In the text which follows, numbers in parenthesis refer to parts shown on the exploded view illustration of the pistol. Additionally, there are several instructional videos on our website that cover safe handling, loading, and firing of the Auto Mag and a video showing the recommended procedure for disassembly and cleaning. A printed manual is included with your pistol. If you lose your manual you can download a copy from our website (www.automag.com) or call the factory at 843-765-0362 to request a copy. MAGAZINE LOADING The Auto Mag magazine has a capacity of seven cartridges. To load the magazine (15), hold it in one hand with the forward end of the follower in the same direction as the thumb and fingers of the holding hand. Place a cartridge on the forward end of the follower in front of the magazine lips, press down and to the rear with the cartridge head or base facing to rear of the magazine. The thumb of the hand holding the magazine may be used to exert a downward and rearward pressure on the cartridge while inserting it with the free hand. Succeeding cartridges are loaded in the same manner, one on top of another until the magazine contains the desired number of rounds or the maximum of seven rounds. Auto Mag Ltd manufactures a magazine loading tool that allows easy loading of a magazine. The loading tool is available for purchase on our website: www.automag.com or by calling the factory at 843-756-0362. Additional magazines are also available for purchase on our website or by calling the parts department at 843-756-0362. WARNING DO NOT USE AMMUNITION OF ANY OTHER TYPE THAN THAT SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE PISTOL. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THE USE OF RELOADED AMMUNITION OR AMMUNITION OF QUESTIONABLE ORIGIN.
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PISTOL LOADING If the pistol is to be fired immediately, make sure that the safety lever (45) is in the horizontal or "FIRE" position. Insert the loaded magazine into the pistol handle and push it in until it is engaged by the magazine latch (57) and locked in place. Ensure that the bolt (22) is locked fully to the rear by engagement with the hold open (34), insert a loaded magazine into the butt of the pistol until it is engaged by the magazine catch. Pull the cocking piece to the rear to release the hold open (34) and let cocking piece go. This action will allow the bolt to travel forward pressured by the recoil springs and chamber a round. An alternate method of loading is to ensure the bolt (22) is locked fully to the rear by engagement of the hold open (34) insert a loaded magazine then press downward on the safety lever (45) to release the bolt and chamber a round. When all the rounds are fired out of the magazine the bolt will lock rearward after the last round is fired. Simply insert a loaded magazine and repeat the steps described above to resume firing. If you wish to discontinue firing and there are rounds left in the magazine simply remove the magazine by depressing the magazine catch (57) and remove the magazine from the butt of the pistol, then with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and your finger out of the trigger guard and away from the trigger pull the cocking piece (18) fully rearward to eject the unfired round from the chamber and ease the cocking piece forward until fully forward. The hammer (51) may now be lowered by controlling the hammer by placing your thumb on the hammer spur and pulling the trigger and gently lowering the hammer against the cocking piece. It is not advisable to lower the hammer with a live round in the chamber. Even though the firing pin is of the inertial type and cannot reach the primer of a cartridge unless struck by the hammer (51) if by chance you were to try and lower the hammer on a live round and your thumb were to slip off of the hammer spur it is possible the firing pin could be struck with sufficient force to cause an unintentional discharge and if there is a loaded magazine in the pistol it will load the next round in the magazine. WARNING NEVER LOAD A LIVE CARTRIDGE DIRECTLY INTO THE CHAMBER OF THE PISTOL. THE PISTOL IS DESIGNED TO FED FROM THE MAGAZINE ONLY SUGGESTION FOR EASY COCKING Pulling the cocking piece of your Auto Mag pistol fully to the rear is probably the most common manual actuation of the pistol action which you will make. It is required in order to verify that the pistol is safe, as well as to feed the first round from a loaded magazine into the chamber after the bolt and cocking piece are held to the rear by the hold open. To facilitate pulling the cocking piece to the rear, first rotate the hammer (51) manually to the rear until it is held in the full cock position. While holding the pistol handle
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL securely with one hand, grasp the cocking piece with the thumb and forefinger of the other hand taking care to avoid possible contact with the rear sight blade (10). To bring the bolt and cocking piece fully to the rear, push the grip handle of the pistol away from the body while keeping the hand holding the cocking piece essentially stationary. The bolt can be held to the rear by pushing upward on the hold open tab or by inserting an empty magazine and pulling the cocking piece rearward. The empty magazine will engage the hold open (34) and lock the bolt rearward. The magazine can then be removed, and the bolt will remain rearward until the cocking piece is pulled rearward to release the hold open (34) (i.e., recommended method). Or an alternate method of closing the bolt. The safety lever (45) can be pressed downward to release the hold open from retaining the bolt in the rearmost position and the bolt will move forward with speed. We do not recommend this method as there are no rounds in the magazine to slow the forward speed of the bolt therefore the bolt slams forward and will cause premature wear of the hold open pawl that retains the bolt. FIRING If the pistol is loaded and the shooter is not ready to fire, the safety lever should be rotated upward until it locks in the "SAFE" position. Before firing. the safety lever must be returned to the horizontal or "FIRE” position. NOTE THE RATE OF FIRE OF THE AUTO MAG IS LIMITED ONLY BY THE SHOOTER'S ABILITY TO CHANGE MAGAZINES RAPIDLY, AIM, AND SQUEEZE THE TRIGGER. THE BOLT AND COCKING PIECE COME FULLY TO THE REAR EACH TIME A CARTRIDGE IS FIRED. WARNING ALWAYS FIRE THE PISTOL AT FULL ARM'S LENGTH FROM THE BODY. NEVER FIRE THE PISTOL AT EYE LEVEL NEAR THE FACE BECAUSE OF THE REARWARD PROPULSION OF THE BOLT. THIS SAFETY PRACTICE SHOULD BE FOLLOWED WITH ALL HANDGUNS. ADDITIONALLY, ENSURE THAT WHEN FIRING WITH TWO HANDS THAT YOUR SUPPORT HAND WILL NOT COME IN CONTACT WITH ANY RECOILING PARTS THAT MAY CAUSE INJURY OR CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE PISTOL. ALSO, WHEN GRIPPING THE PISTOL DO NOT LAY YOUR THUMB ON TOP OF THE SAFETY LEVER. LAYING YOUR THUMB ON TOP OF THE SAFETY LEVER WILL PROHIBIT THE HOLD OPEN FROM LOCKING THE BOLT REARWARD AFTER THE LAST ROUND IS FIRED. PLACING YOUR THUMB UNDER THE SAFETY LEVER AND LIFTING THE LEVER WHEN FIRING CAN CAUSE THE HOLD OPEN (34) TO LOCK THE BOLT REARWARD WHEN THERE ARE REMAINING ROUNDS IN THE MAGAZINE. IN SHORT, KEEP YOUR THUMB CLEAR OF THE SAFETY LEVER WHEN FIRING
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NEVER CARRY THE PISTOL WHEN LOADED When carrying the pistol in a holster, it should be carried with cartridges in the magazine only and the chamber empty. A cartridge should be chambered only at the time the pistol is to be fired. The pistol should never be stored in a box or case with a live round in the chamber. When people other than the shooter have access to the pistol, the chamber should be empty; and if the magazine is loaded with cartridges, it should be removed from the pistol. UNLOADING THE PISTOL Release the magazine by pressing the magazine latch on the left side of frame to the rear of the trigger guard and then remove it by withdrawing it from the butt of the pistol handle. Pull the cocking piece fully to the rear and inspect the chamber visually through the open ejection port to be sure that the pistol is not loaded. UNLOADING THE MAGAZINE The cartridge in a magazine may be removed by pushing forward on the head of each cartridge until it is released from the magazine lips. NORMAL MAINTENANCE Normal maintenance of the Auto Mag pistol consists of disassembly (field striping), cleaning. and reassembly. Even though the Auto Mag is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion due to its primarily stainless steel construction, it still requires proper cleaning to remove dirt, powder residue, brass shavings, and metal fouling in the bore which may accumulate after sustained firing. Thorough cleaning and proper lubrication of your pistol after every firing session will help maintain its inherent accuracy and assure its efficient operation. In the text which follows, numbers in parenthesis refer to parts shown on the exploded view illustration of the pistol. DISASSEMBLY (FIELD STRIPPING) CAUTION VERIFY THAT THE PISTOL IS NOT LOADED BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH ITS DISASSEMBLY. IF THE PISTOL CONTAINS A MAGAZINE (15), RELEASE IT BY PRESSING THE MAGAZINE LATCH (57) ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE FRAME (63) TO THE REAR OF THE TRIGGER GUARD AND THEN REMOVE IT BY WITHDRAWING IT FROM THE BUTT OF THE PISTOL. PULL THE COCKING PIECE (18) FULLY TO THE REAR AND INSPECT THE CHAMBER VISUALLY THROUGH THE OPEN EJECTION PORT TO BE SURE THAT THE PISTOL IS NOT LOADED. ONCE YOU HAVE VERIFIED THE CHAMBER IS NOT LOADED GENTLY EASE THE BOLT FULLY FORWARD.
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CAUTION THE MAGAZINE MUST BE REMOVED BEFORE PULLING THE COCKING PIECE (34) TO THE REAR TO ENSURE THE PISTOL IS NOT LOADED.
DISASSEMBLY SEQUENCE 1. Start the disassembly sequence by: a. Insert an empty magazine into the pistol and pull the cocking piece fully to the rear until the hold open (34) engages the bolt (22) and locks it and the cocking piece in the rear position; then remove the magazine. b. If an empty magazine is not used, pull the cocking piece fully to the rear and press the hold open thumb piece located forward of the safety lever manually upward to engage the bolt and to lock it and the cocking piece in the rear position. 2. Rotate the barrel latch (60) down and forward until it stops. Then slide the barrel and extension assembly (1) forward and off the front of pistol frame. a. Pull the cocking piece to the rear to disengage the hold open. While still holding the cocking piece, allow it and the bolt to travel forward slowly until the cocking piece motion is stopped by the ring on the top of the frame leaving the hammer (51) cocked. b. Using a 3/32-inch hex head wrench, remove the recoil rods (16) from the front end of the frame along with the recoil springs (17). c. Pull the cocking piece fully to the rear, rotate it 1/4 turn counterclockwise, and disengage it from the bolt by a continued Dull to the rear. d. Remove the firing pin (19) and firing pin spring (20) from the bolt. e. Push the safety lever (45) up to the "SAFE" position. f. Push the bolt rotation pin (21) out to the left and remove it. g. Slide the bolt in a rearward direction out of the ring in the frame. WARNING DISASSEMBLY BEYOND MAINTENANCE FIELD STRIPPING, SIGHT AND TRIGGER ADJUSTMENTS SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY
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AN EXPERIENCED GUNSMITH OR AS A PART OF FACTORY SERVICING CLEANING All cleaning should be performed using a good quality commercial nitro powder solvent. Care should be exercised to assure the thorough removal of all dirt, powder residue, brass shavings, metal fouling and other contaminants. CLEANING SEQUENCE 1. Clean the bore and chamber from the rear as follows: a. Wet a cleaning patch with solvent and run it back and forth through the bore and chamber several times. b. Continue to run wet cleaning patches through the bore and chamber until they are dean. c. Run a dry-cleaning patch through the bore and chamber several times. d. Inspect the bore and chamber for cleanliness. Repeat steps (a) through (c) as necessary until all residue is removed. 2. Wipe the bolt dean with a cleaning patch soaked in solvent. Pay particular attention to the bolt face and the interior cam surfaces which contact the bolt rotation pin. 3. Clean ALL other exposed metal surfaces including those on the frame with cleaning patches soaked in solvent. Perform a careful visual inspection to assure that all metal surfaces are clean. ACCELERATOR REMOVAL, INSPECTION, CLEANING AND REPLACEMENT With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction remove the magazine then pull the cocking piece rearward and visually check to see make sure the chamber is empty. Insert an empty magazine then retract the bolt fully by pulling rearward on the cocking piece (44), the hold open (34) will engage and keep the bolt locked rearward. While holding the pistol horizontally push the Barrel extension assembly (1) rearward until it stops then rotate the barrel latch (60) downward. Pull the upper assembly (1) off the pistol frame. Lay the frame aside. You will notice on the right side of the barrel extension a dovetailed extension lug. There is an Allen screw to retain the accelerator block that will have to be removed to allow you to pull the accelerator block and accelerator downward out of the pocket in the barrel extension. There is a spring retained 3/32-inch Allen wrench. If you have a Hogue G-10 grip, the Allen wrench is stored in the bottom of the right grip (14), it can be retracted with a car key, tooth pick or
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL any similar item that will enable you to pry the wrench upward and allow you to pull the wrench out of the grip. Remove the accelerator block screw (2a) by inserting the short end Allen wrench full into the screw and turn the screw counterclockwise until it can be removed from the extension lug. On the left side of the frame simply slide the accelerator block and accelerator out of the pocket in the barrel extension. Clean the accelerator block (3) and accelerator, inspect for wear or damage then lightly oil. It is advisable to use an aerosol cleaning fluid (Birchwood Casey Gun Scrubber Aerosol© recommended). Always use any cleaning fluids in a well-ventilated area away from spark or flame and wear safety glasses. After the accelerator pocket is clean, slide the accelerator block and accelerator back into the pocket (the thicker area of the accelerator downward). Align the accelerator block with the screw hole in the extension lug then replace the screw and turn the screw in clockwise and tighten firmly with the Allen wrench. Note: this is an opportune time to clean the upper assembly and bore as per the cleaning instructions shown above. Replace the Barrel and extension assembly by sliding the dovetailed extension lug into the front of the frames corresponding dovetail and push the barreled extension to the rear on the frame until it stops. Then rotate the barrel latch upward to the locked position. Remove the magazine then pull the cocking piece (18) rearward to disengage the hold open (34) and gently allow the bolt to move forward until it is fully forward. Replace the Allen wrench by inserting the wrench into the opening in the bottom of the right grip (14) and pressing it in with finger pressure until fully seated. REASSEMBLY The reassembly of the pistol is done essentially in the reverse order of disassembly. Careful lubrication is an important part of the reassembly process. The use of Auto Mag Oil is the recommended lubricant. WARNING THE USE OF OTHER LUBRICANTS ON AUTOMAG FIREARMS MAY RESULT IN MALFUNCTION OR DAMAGE TO METAL PARTS.
REASSEMBLY SEQUENCE 1. Spread a light even film of Auto Mag Oil lubricant on the following metal surfaces using a fresh cleaning patch: a. Mating dovetail surfaces at the top front of the frame and on the block on the bottom of the barrel and extension assembly. b. Accelerator (4) and accelerator block (3) mating surface. c. Cocking piece interior lugs which engage with the lugs on the rear of the bolt.
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d. Surface of the bolt rotation pin. e. Interior cam surfaces of the bolt. f. Threads and surface of the recoil rods. 2. Make sure that the hammer is pulled back to the full cock notch and that the safety lever is rotated upward to the “SAFE" position. 3. From the rear, slide the bolt into the ring on the frame, and rotate the bolt so that the extractor (25) faces towards the right of the pistol frame. 4. Insert the bolt rotation pin through the frame ring and cam slot in the bolt body from the left making sure that it indexes and seats flush into the ring. 5. Pull the bolt fully to the rear and depress the safety lever to horizontal or "FIRE" position. 6. Place the firing pin spring onto the firing pin and insert both parts into the bolt from the rear. 7. While holding the pistol frame, block the bolt's forward motion with a finger of the holding hand, then take the cocking piece in the other hand. Rotate it 1/4 tum counterclockwise from its normal position, engage it with the lugs on the rear of the bolt fully forward slowly using the finger of the holding hand to help restrain forward bolt motion. 8. Slip the recoil springs onto the recoil rods and insert these assemblies into the frame tubes at the front of the frame. Mate each recoil rod with the cocking piece in turn. Insert a 3/32-inch hex head wrench into the head of a recoil rod, press to compress the recoil spring until engagement with the cocking piece is felt, and then screw in to tighten. Before and periodically when firing the Auto Mag pistol, it is advisable to check and ensure that the recoil rods are tight. If you have a Hogue G-10 grip there is a storage for the 3/32-inch Allen wrench in the bottom of the right grip. The wrench is retained by a spring in the grip and can be pried up with a car key or any object that will suffice such as a twig, paper clip or toothpick and simply removed by pulling the wrench out of the grip. This wrench will fit the recoil rods, grip screws and accelerator block screw. To place the wrench back into the grip just press the wrench back into the slot until it is retained by the spring catch. If your recoil rods require frequent tightening it is likely that the helicoils need replacement. Please call the factory at 843-756-0632 to arrange for shipping the cocking piece to the factory for helicoil replacement.
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WARNING APPLICATION OF EXCESSIVE FORCE AFTER FULL ENGAGEMENT IS REACHED WILL DAMAGE SELF-LOCKING INSERTS CONTAINED IN THE COCKING PIECE. 9. Lubricate remaining metal surfaces which make contact with each other during function of the pistol with Auto Mag Oil. Never lubricate the firing pin or firing pin spring. The surfaces that require lubricant include the following: a. Bolt body outside surface b. Hammer pin (50) c. Hammer strut pin (52) d. Bolt rotation pin (21) 10. Using either of the following: a. Insert an empty magazine into the pistol and pull the cocking piece fully to the rear until the hold open engages the bolt and locks it and the cocking piece in the rear position; then remove the magazine. b. If an empty magazine is not used, pull the cocking piece fully to the rear and press the hold open thumb piece tab (34) manually upward to engage the bolt and to lock it and the cocking piece in the rearward position. 11. Make sure that the barrel latch is rotated down and forward as far as it will go. 12. Slide the barrel and extension assembly onto the pistol frame as far as it will go and rotate the barrel latch back to the locked position. 13. Pull the cocking piece to the rear to disengage the hold open while still holding the cocking piece, allow it and the bolt to travel forward slowly until cocking piece motion stops. 14. While restraining the hammer manually, pull the trigger, and allow the hammer to come to rest gently on the cocking piece. FACTORY SERVICE If your Auto Mag pistol should require repair, it is recommended that it be returned to the factory or a factory designated repair center as there is no other way to assure that the work will be done in a properly staffed and equipped shop with parts manufactured by the Company. Compliance with the following instructions will facilitate prompt service:
1. Call the Company and obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) along with the address of the repair center where the gun should be shipped. The Company’s telephone number is
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(843) 756-0362. 2. Remove custom grips, scopes, special sights, etc., before packing the gun for shipment. Do not include holsters or carrying cases. The Company will not assume responsibility for any of the above items. We do not service or repair the old Auto Mag pistols made before 2020. If your older pistol requires parts, we may have some parts that will interchange. The parts list on our website (www.automag.com) indicates which parts will fit the older pistols. All firearms parts must be installed by a competent gunsmith. 3. Enclose a note with the pistol containing the following information: a. Your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address. b. The RMA number provided above. c. The caliber and serial number of the gun being returned. d. Detailed information about the difficulty being experienced. e. Any specific instructions which you may have. 4. Pistols should be packed with proper care to protect them from damage during transit. 5. Mark the outside of the package in the lower left-hand comer as follows: ATTN: Service Department / RMA: (RMA number obtained above) 6. Unless otherwise directed by the company, Guns must be shipped prepaid. Collect shipments will be returned at shippers’ expense. 7. Shipment by USPS, FedEx or UPS to the factory is recommended. You must comply with both the regulations set forth by the respective companies regarding the shipment of pistols and with Federal, State and Local Laws. We advise you to fully insure your firearm as we cannot and will not be held responsible for firearms lost by the carrier. We also ask that your pistol be packaged securely with adequate padding in a sturdy box as we cannot and will not be held responsible for damage occurring in shipment. When your pistol arrives at a repair center it will be subjected to a careful inspection, and a review of the note which you have enclosed with the gun. If the repair is not a warrantied repair, you will be notified of the cost of repair before any action is taken. You will also be quoted on any custom alterations, polishing and or engraving before any work is done. It is important that you include in the package with your firearm your name, address, a good phone number and or email address that will allow us to
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SHOOTER’S MANUAL contact you and a copy of the ink signed FFL from your dealer that will accept return shipment of your firearm (if applicable).
ON-LINE RESOURCES For more information about your Auto Mag Pistol, please visit our website at https://www.automag.com. There you will find answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), the history of the Auto Mag Pistol, the illustrated Parts Manual as well as a link to our on-line store. In addition please follow the Member Login link to the https://my.automag.com site where we provide technical resources, the “Auto Mag Blog” and “Auto Mag Forum”, including an exclusive “Owners” forum area reserved for Auto Mag Owners only. Use your smartphone camera and scan the QR code below to go directly to our website.
Thank you for the purchase of your new Auto Mag pistol. With care, maintenance, and proper ammunition your pistol will provide many years of enjoyment.
Auto Mag Ltd., Co 4232 Meadow Street Loris, South Carolina 29569
Copyright© 2020 - Current
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ILLUSTRATED PARTS LIST
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NOMENCLATURE OR NOMENCLATURE OR NOMENCLATURE DR ITEM ITEM ITEM DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 1 BARREL & EXTENSION ASSEMBLY 23 BOLT ROTATION SPRING 45 SAfETY LEVER SAFETY LEVER OETENT 2 ACCELERATOR BLOCK PIN 24 EXTRACTOR RETAINING PIN 46 PLUNGER SAfETY LEVER DETENT SPRING 3 ACCELERATOR BLOCK 25 EXTRACTOR 47 (OUTER) SAFETY LEVER DETENT SPRING 4 ACCELERATOR 26 EXTRACTOR SPRING 48 (INNER) 5 REAR SIGHT PIN 27 EJECTOR RETAINING PIN 49 HAMMER PIN RETAINING RING
6 REAR SIGHT PLATFORM 28 EJECTOR 50 HAMMER PIN
7 REAR SIGHT ELEVATION SPRING 29 EJECTOR SPRING 51 HAMMER ELEVATION ADJUSTMENT SCREW 8 ' 30 RETAINING RING 52 HAMMER STRUT PIN ASSY 9 INCLUDED IN PART #6 31 SAfETY PLATE SPACER 53 HAMMER STRUT 10 INCLUDED IN PART #6 32 SAFETY PLATE 54 HAMMER STRUT GUIDE
11 INCLUDED IN PART #6 33 TRIGGER ADJUSTMENT SCREW 55 HAMMER SPRING (OUTER)
12 GRIP SCREW 34 HOLDOPEN ASSY 56 HAMMER SPRING (INNER) 13 LEFT GRIP 35 HOLDOPEN SPRING 57 MAGAZINE LATCH 14 RIGHT GRIP 36 TRIGGER BAR 58 MAGAZINE LATCH SPRING 15 MAGAZINE ASSY 37 TRIGGER BAR SPRING 59 MAGAZINE LATCH RETAINER 1 6 RECOIL ROD 38 TRIGGER 60 BARREL LATCH BARREL LATCH DETENT 17 RECOIL SPRING 39 TRIGGER BAR PIN 61 PLUNGER 18 COCKING PIECE 40 TRIGGER SPRING 62 BARREL LATCH OETENT SPRING
19 FIRING PIN 41 SEAR PIN 63 FRAME 20 FIRING PIN SPRING 42 SEAR 64 DISCONTINUED 21 BOLT ROTATION PIN 43 SEAR SPRING 65 DISCONTINUED 22 BOU 44 BOLT SAFETY TAPPET
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