Gun Magnets - good or bad? Testing the hypothesis

I've had a set of very strong gun magnets for several months, but just got around to testing the argument that they would magnetize your pistol and therefore somehow interfere with functioning. So I left the gun (Ruger 9e) on the magnet for a few days. Pulled it off yesterday morning, and performed a scientific test with a paperclip on various parts. Slide, barrel, etc.

Results:
1. Yes, it will magnetize the steel parts including a steel magazine in the grip. However, the parts only remain magnetic for a few minutes and the effect is very localized on the larger parts such as the slide & barrel. All parts failed to attract the paperclip after about 15 minutes of just sitting disassembled on the bench.

2. Reassembled and put it back on the magnet overnight. Took it outside this morning, removed the magnet and immediately shot a mag full (17rnds) with no effect on function. Paper clip test after firing showed no discernible magnetism.

I wonder if a magnetized gun might create issues with steel case ammunition. Probably not for ejection (would be surprised if any magnetism remains), but perhaps for feeding?

NikA said:

I wonder if a magnetized gun might create issues with steel case ammunition. Probably not for ejection (would be surprised if any magnetism remains), but perhaps for feeding?

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I doubt it would be an issue, since the magnetic field is very weak at that distance, and dissipates rapidly. Might be worth testing tho, and I would if I had any steel case ammo.

I can remember in junior high science class that our teacher would take a magnet and throw it down forcefully on the floor of the classroom. He'd then test it for the magnetic field and it wouldn't pick up anything. Seems the force of the throw would disrupt the molecular structure and it wouldn't pick up anything metal for a while. I'd think even if the handgun were magnetized as above the force of the recoil would have the same effect. Would be interesting to find out, wouldn't it?

What's supposed to be the advantage/effect of magnetizing a gun?

Snake45 said:

What's supposed to be the advantage/effect of magnetizing a gun?

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Many people use gun magnets to secure their pistol/rifle, etc. to a convenient spot in their truck, car, tractor cab, or some piece of furniture in the house and still have it readily accessible. Perfectly legal in many States to have a readily available loaded gun accessible to the driver or passenger. Some States will take you to jail for it tho, so you should know the laws that apply to your travels.

For example this is a popular mounting:

Thanks for the testing. My concern would be picking up magnetic grit in dusty conditions or shavings off the shop bench.

I want one! https://americanguncraft.com/products/?trimuzzlesites

fiasconva said:

I can remember in junior high science class that our teacher would take a magnet and throw it down forcefully on the floor of the classroom. He'd then test it for the magnetic field and it wouldn't pick up anything. Seems the force of the throw would disrupt the molecular structure and it wouldn't pick up anything metal for a while. I'd think even if the handgun were magnetized as above the force of the recoil would have the same effect. Would be interesting to find out, wouldn't it?

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You could hit it with a hammer and do the same thing.

Old and grumpy said:

Thanks for the testing. My concern would be picking up magnetic grit in dusty conditions or shavings off the shop bench.

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The weak magnetic field imparted to the gun dissipates in minutes after it's removed from the magnet, so I doubt it would be an issue. But your gun, your call.

They really are meant for your car, truck, etc. if your local laws permit you to have a loaded gun instantly available while driving. I prefer it to a cup holder or just laying on the seat or trying to get my carry gun out from under the seat belt.

I use a strong magnet holder on my side by side. Pistols hang on there all day long, no change in pistol function.

IMHO, the worst part will be the inevitable finish gouging associated with the contact area.

I have had a PSA Dagger stuck to a magnet on my nightstand for a long time. I take the Dagger to the range weekly and have found no issues.

I wish new trucks came with a gun holder as an option.

I have one on the side of my gun room bench. When pulling a gun from the back row of the safe, I use it to secure guns I remove from the front. I usually take multiple guns shooting, so while I'm cleaning one on the bench, the others can be held in place waiting their turn.

I like the idea of mounting one to my side by side. Thanks "planetcat".