MK III magazine problem & questions

[rooger]

My MKIII has developed a common problem wherein the bolt fails to lock back after the last round is fired. With each of the four mags I had been using, sometimes the bolt would lock back correctly and other times it wouldn't. Cleaning the pistol or the mags didn't seem to help. Although none of the mags had any obvious damage, I did feel the springs in the mags seemed to be getting weak. I theorized weakened springs may not have enough force or speed to push up the bolt stop after the last round. So I bought two new mags. Their springs were noticeably stronger.
At the range, the new mags locked the bolt back every time while the old mags continued to have problems.
I would appreciate your answers and suggestions:
1. Does any other company besides Ruger make a magazine for the MKIII?
2. Is there a way to refurbish or strengthen the springs in the old mags?
Thanks.

 

[nvbirdman]

From what I have read, I believe the new mags are covering up rather than fixing the problem. I think your problem is most likely a worn bolt stop, probably caused by releasing the bolt by the bolt stop instead of the slingshot method (pulling the bolt back and letting it go)>

 

[rooger]

probably caused by releasing the bolt by the bolt stop instead of the slingshot method (pulling the bolt back and letting it go)

I forgot to add that since I replaced the bolt stop a year ago, I always release the bolt per the manual (slingshot). Thanks for your help. I will take a close look at the bolt stop...maybe I do need another new one. I do shoot this gun a lot.

 

[FlyerTom]

Everybody seems to be in agreement regarding the slingshot method of releasing the bolt, but Ruger's own video demonstrating Mk III dis-assembly clearly shows the person releasing the bolt with the thumb lever.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGEtudNJua4&feature=youtu.be

Actions speak louder than words, even if you don't agree. Myself, I think it's safer to release the bolt via slingshot. Besides, I did that - ONCE - and tore some bark off my thumb in the process.