Patent Publication Number: US-6668479-B1

Title: Firearm magazine holder

Description:
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/177,616, filed on Jun. 19, 2002. Priority to the aforementioned application is hereby expressly claimed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. §120 and any other applicable statutes. 
     The contents of the aforementioned application, and of each U.S. Patent and other reference, if any, cited in this application, are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a firearm magazine or clip. More particularly the present invention relates to a device for holding or joining a plurality of firearm magazines or clips that enable accessibility to a plurality of ammunition. 
     BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
     Many modern firearms used for combat or sporting activities are capable of high cyclic rates of fire and are usually equipped with magazines capable of holding a plurality of cartridges. Such magazines must usually be manually released from the weapon when they have become empty, at which time a second magazine must be inserted into the weapon before firing may be continued. Typically, the second or third magazine is carried in a protective pouch attached to the weapon user&#39;s belt or carried in the user&#39;s vest or pocket. Since removal and insertion of the additionally loaded magazine may take an undesirably long time, various devices have been developed in an effort to expedite and ease the loading of the additional magazine. 
     Generally, multiple magazine holders serve the purpose of coupling together two or more magazines so that the combatant or sportsman will have immediately available multiple magazines rather than one magazine for use with the weapon. Such holders have previously welded or taped magazines together in an effort to provide an ability to fire more rounds quickly. Alternatively, a clip joining device for holding two clips end to end (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,685,238, issued Aug. 11, 1987 to Schoepflin), or a box-like protective device attachable to the weapon (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,484,404, issued Nov. 24, 1984 to Johnson), are known. Another magazine holder, distributed by Defense Procurement Manufacturing Services, Inc. (DPMS) and advertised on May 22, 2002 at the DPMS website http://www.dpmsinc.com, discloses a “Triple Mag Holder”. Although generally well-suited for holding multiple magazines, the DPMS device presents potential problems for the user regarding safety and ease of placing and securing multiple magazines. DPMS has also advertised a “Side-By-Side A-15 Magazine Holder” on Dec. 5, 2002 at http://www.shootstore.com. The “Side-By-Side A-15 Magazine Holder” also presents potential problems for the user regarding safety and ease of placing and securing multiple magazines. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for a device capable of holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention describes a device capable of holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. One embodiment of the device comprises an upper plate, a lower plate, and an interconnected securing member. The upper plate is rotationally positioned about the securing member, and the lower plate is rotationally mounted to the securing member below the upper plate. Magazines are placed between the upper plate and the lower plate in slots defined by the inner surfaces of the plates, and together the plates securely engage the magazines in a clamp-like manner when tightened with the securing member. 
     Multidirectional movements of the plates allow them to be adjusted in order to facilitate placement and securing of the magazines. Adjustment of the upper plate includes free/unrestricted rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member, and restricted vertical translational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member. Adjustment of the lower plate includes rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member. The upper plate has an inner lip within a recess, allowing the securing member head to be contained substantially within the recess and/or rest substantially flush with the outer surface of the upper plate when in use. Additionally, the upper plate and the lower plate have substantially curved edge surfaces, providing a smooth transition from one surface to another. 
     Thus, one embodiment of the present invention includes a device for holding two magazines for use with a firearm comprising: an upper plate having an outer surface and an inner surface; a lower plate having an outer surface and an inner surface; and a securing member having a head, a body, and a foot, said head having a top surface and a bottom surface; wherein the upper plate is rotationally positioned about the body of the securing member; the lower plate is rotationally mounted to the foot of the securing member; the upper plate has a recess with an aperture, and the securing member foot and the securing member body pass through the recess and aperture of the upper plate, the securing member head being received in the recess such that the bottom surface of the securing member head engages an inner lip of the recess thus preventing the securing member head from passing through the aperture of the upper plate, the depth of the recess and the height of the securing member head being such that the top surface of the securing member head is contained substantially within the recess; the lower plate receives the securing member foot in a threaded aperture; and the inner surface of the upper plate defines first and second slots adapted to engage top surfaces of first and second firearm magazines respectively, and the inner surface of the lower plate defines corresponding first and second slots adapted to engage bottom surfaces of the first and the second firearm magazines respectively, such that together the upper plate and the lower plate securely receive the first and the second firearm magazines in the first and second slots respectively, upon tightening of the device. 
     The device may be used by: separating the upper plate from the lower plate a sufficient distance to allow a plurality of firearm magazines to be positioned therebetween; adjusting the upper plate and the lower plate to facilitate placement of the plurality of magazines therebetween, including rotating the lower plate at least five degrees about a central longitudinal axis of the securing member, rotating the upper plate at least five degrees about the central longitudinal axis, and vertically translating the upper plate about the central longitudinal axis; placing a plurality of magazines between the upper plate and the lower plate; and tightening the securing member to secure the plurality of magazines between the upper plate and the lower plate, and to position the securing member head to be substantially contained within the recess of the upper plate. 
     The multidirectional movement of the upper plate and lower plate, substantially curved edge surfaces and/or chamfered outer edge surfaces, recessed securing member head, and other structural elements provide for a device capable of holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. 
     Another embodiment of the present invention is a device comprising a single-piece body having a first compartment adapted to receive a first magazine, and a second compartment adapted to receive a second magazine. The first compartment and the second compartment are separated by a divider. Optionally, the magazine holder further comprises a first securing member located within a first housing of the divider, and a second securing member located within a second housing of the divider. The first securing member is adapted to engage the first magazine when the first magazine is seated in the first compartment. Similarly, the second securing member is adapted to engage the second magazine when the second magazine is seated in the second compartment. 
     The single-piece body optionally has maintenance holes to allow access to the first and/or second securing members through the first and second compartments respectively, and which are sized to allow the first and second securing members respectively to pass therethrough. The body may also have at least one irrigation hole in the bottom surface thereof. Also optionally, at least a portion of the single-piece body may have an anti-slip surface. 
     The embodiment with a single-piece body may be used by: seating a first magazine in the first compartment such that the first securing member engages the first magazine to secure the first magazine into the first compartment; and seating a second magazine in the second compartment such that the second securing member engages the second magazine to secure the second magazine into the second compartment. 
     The single-piece body, with the first and second securing members as described herein, and other structural elements of this embodiment of the present invention, also provide for a device capable of holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 shows a prior art magazine holder. 
     FIG. 2 a  is an elevational view of one embodiment of the firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention, showing a lower plate with an aperture extending entirely therethrough. 
     FIG. 2 b  is an elevational view of one embodiment of the firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention, showing a lower plate with an aperture extending only partially therethrough. 
     FIG. 3 a  is a perspective view of the top of an upper plate of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention, having substantially curved outer edge surfaces. 
     FIG. 3 b  is a perspective view of the top of an upper plate of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention, having chamfered outer surface edges. 
     FIG. 3 c  is a perspective view of the bottom of a bottom plate of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of securing a plurality of firearm magazines in a device in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the securing member of the present invention. 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 4, holding two magazines. 
     FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention. 
     FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a firearm magazine holder of the present invention, showing an exploded view of a first securing member and a second securing member. 
     FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 8 or FIG. 9, further showing placement of magazines in the compartments. 
     FIG. 12 is a partial cut-away view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 8, showing a securing member installed. 
     FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 8, further showing irrigation holes and grip tape. 
     FIG. 14A is a sectional view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 11 (presuming the magazine holder is that of FIG. 8) with both magazines in the magazine wells, taken along line  14 — 14  of FIG. 11, viewed from below line  330 , showing the securing members engaging corresponding magazines. 
     FIG. 14B is a sectional view of the firearm magazine holder of FIG. 11 (presuming the magazine holder is that of FIG. 9) with both magazines in the magazine wells, taken along line  14 — 14  of FIG. 11, viewed from below line  330 , showing the securing members engaging corresponding magazines. 
     FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a tool for use with the magazine holder of FIGS. 8-10. 
     FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using the magazine holders of FIGS. 8-10 in accordance with the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention describes a device for holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. The device comprises an upper plate, a lower plate, and a securing member. The upper plate is rotationally positioned about the securing member, and the lower plate is rotationally mounted to the securing member below the upper plate. Magazines are placed between the upper plate and the lower plate, which together securely engage the magazines when tightened with the securing member. Multidirectional movements of the plates allow them to be adjusted in order to facilitate placement and securing of the magazines. Adjustment of the upper plate includes free/unrestricted rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member, and restricted vertical translational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member. Adjustment of the lower plate includes rotational movement about the central longitudinal axis of the securing member. A recessed inner lip of the upper plate (allowing the head of the securing member to rest within and/or substantially flush with the outer surface of the upper plate) and substantially curved edges, reduce the potential for personal injury due to sharp and/or protruding surfaces. 
     Referring now to FIGS. 2 a - 2   b , elevational views of a preferred embodiment of the firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention are shown. FIG. 2 a  shows an embodiment of the present invention having a lower plate  10  with an aperture  160  that extends entirely therethrough, while FIG. 2 b  shows an embodiment having a lower plate  10  with an aperture  160  that extends only partially therethrough. Each of FIGS. 2 a - 2   b  show a device having an upper plate  5 , a lower plate  10 , and a securing member  15 . The securing member (shown in more detail in FIG. 6) comprises a head  20 , body  25 , and foot  30 . The head  20 , body  25 , and foot  30 , are not necessarily distinct portions of the securing member  15 , but rather these terms are used for reference to define approximate portions of the securing member  15  relative to each other. That is, the head  20  is at the top, the foot  30  is at the bottom, and the body  25  is therebetween. Together, the head  20 , body  25 , and foot  30  form a continuous securing member  15 . There is no exact point at which the head  20  ends and the body  25  begins, or the body  25  ends and the foot  30  begins, although the head  20  and the foot  30  each preferably have physical characteristics to distinguish them from the body  25 , as described herein. 
     The upper plate  5  includes an outer surface  35  and an inner surface  40 . The upper plate further includes a right extension  45 , center extension  50 , and left extension  55 . Additionally, the upper plate includes a recess/countersink  60 , as best seen in FIGS. 3 a - 3   b . The recess  60  has an outer circumference  65 , an inner lip  70 , and an aperture/counter-bore  75 . The recess  60  is of a sufficient size and shape to accommodate the securing member  15 . The inner lip  70  of the recess  60  extends radially inward to define the aperture  75  in the upper plate. Both the upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  may optionally have respective indents or contact wells  72  (see FIG. 4) on either or both of the front surfaces  22  and  24 , and/or either or both of back surfaces (not shown). The contact wells  72  facilitate gripping the magazine holder by providing an indexing area for the user&#39;s thumb and/or index finger. 
     The typical securing member  15  is a threaded bolt or screw (see, e.g., FIG. 6) wherein the foot  30  of the securing member  15  is threaded, and the aperture  160  of the lower plate  10  is correspondingly threaded to receive the foot  30  of the securing member  15 . Examples of a securing member include a pan head screw or lag bolt. The securing member head  20  may incorporate various tightening means including recesses for hex, slotted, or Phillips hardware. Additionally, the securing member head  20  may include a gripping means such as serrations, ribs, or a roughened surface to facilitate tightening of the securing member  15 . The foot  30  of the securing member  15  may be threaded, expandable, or of the locking helicoil type. One such securing member  15 , a threaded hex head bolt, is shown in FIG. 6. A central longitudinal axis  80  of the securing member  15  is defined for reference. 
     The outer circumference  65 , inner lip  70 , and aperture  75  generally form concentric circles, as shown in FIGS. 3 a - 3   b . The aperture  75  is surrounded and defined by the inner lip  70 , and extends entirely through the upper plate  5  from the outer surface  35  thereof to the inner surface  40  thereof. Generally, with placement of the securing member  15  into the upper plate aperture  75 , the central longitudinal axis  80  thereof is positioned to pass vertically through the aperture  75 . The inner lip  70  provides an area for engaging the securing member head  20 . Typically, the depth of the recess  60  from the outer surface  35  of upper plate  5  to the inner lip  70 , is sufficient to allow the bottom surface  85  of the securing member head  20  to rest on the inner lip  70 , while the top surface  92  of securing member head  20  is substantially flush with the outer surface  35  of the upper plate  5 , as shown in FIG. 2 b . The head  20  may also be substantially contained within recess  70 , such that the top surface  92  of the securing member head  20  is at or below the outer surface  35  of upper plate  5 . The recess aperture  75  allows the securing member foot  30  and the securing member body  25  to pass unobstructed therethrough, but prohibits the securing member head  20  from passing therethrough. 
     As shown in FIGS. 2 a  and  2   b , the inner surface  40  of the upper plate  5  includes inner surfaces  90  and  105  of the right extension  45  and left extension  55  respectively, and the first inner surface  95  and the second inner surface  100  of the center extension  50 . Collectively, as shown in FIG. 7, the upper plate inner surfaces  90 ,  95 ,  100 ,  105  define first and second slots  27  and  29  respectively for receiving first and second firearm magazines respectively, and for engaging portions of the firearm magazine(s)&#39; side or casing. Specifically, the first inner surface  95  of the center extension  50  and the inner surface  90  of the right extension  45  form a surface for engaging a first magazine within a first slot  27 . Another surface for engaging a second magazine is formed by the second inner surface  100  of the center extension  50  together with the inner surface  105  of the left extension  55  within second slot  29 . 
     Similar to the upper plate  5 , as shown in FIGS. 2 a - 2   b , the lower plate  10  includes an outer surface  110  and an inner surface  115 . The lower plate further includes a right extension  120 , center extension  125 , and left extension  130  corresponding to the similar aspects of the upper plate  5 . The inner surface  115  of the lower plate  10  forms inner surfaces  135  and  150  of the right extension  120  and left extension  130  respectively, and the first inner surface  140  and the second inner surface  145  of the center extension  125 . Collectively, as shown in FIG. 7, the bottom plate inner surfaces  135 ,  140 ,  145 ,  150  define first and second slots  27  and  29  respectively for receiving first and second firearm magazines respectively, and for engaging portions of the firearm magazine(s)&#39; side or casing. Specifically, the first inner surface  140  of the center extension  125  and the inner surface  135  of the right extension  120  form a surface for engaging a first magazine within first slot  27 . Another surface for engaging a second magazine within second slot  29  is formed by the second inner surface  145  of the center extension  125  and the inner surface  150  of the left extension  130 . 
     The combined inner surfaces  90 ,  95 ,  100 ,  105 ,  135 ,  140 ,  145 ,  150  of the upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  thus define slots  27  and  29 , and provide surfaces for engaging two firearm magazines. The configuration or shape of the aforementioned inner surfaces may be adapted to substantially conform to the sides or casing of various magazines to be held. For example, the drawings illustrate a device for use with an M16 automatic rifle, and particularly thirty round United States military 5.56 mm M16A2 Service Rifles or NATO issue M16s. Other firearms with magazines compatible with the present invention include but in no way are limited to: Bushmaster M17S, XM15E2S, AR-180B, CAV-15&#39;s, M96 Rifle, M16 Series, AR-15&#39;s, M14s, AK47, Fabrique National Series, AR10, M14, and the U.S. military&#39;s M249 Squad automatic Weapon (SAW). The device of the present invention is useful with metal, plastic, or nylon magazines. Inner surfaces of an upper plate and lower plate that substantially conform to the side or casing of the magazine(s) will facilitate greater surface area contact for securing the magazine(s) than inner surfaces that are not as precisely shaped. The combined inner surfaces of the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  may be serrated, ribbed, or roughened in order to provide an additional means for gripping the magazine(s). 
     The terms first magazine  190  and second magazine  195  are used for descriptive purposes only and are in no way meant to limit the order or location of magazine placement in accordance with the present invention. A thickness of not greater than approximately 0.12 inches of the distal portion of the right extensions  45 ,  120  and the left extensions  55 ,  130 , as shown by distance “t” in FIGS. 2 a - 2   b , provide excellent combined performance features of weight, strength, and durability. The upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  may be constructed from a wide variety of materials. For example, the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  may be constructed of titanium alloy, fiberglass, plastic, or aluminum. A preferred material is tempered T6 aluminum square/rectangular bar, one weight percent black anodized. The black color helps make the device non-reflective. 
     Lower plate  10  includes an aperture  160  for receiving the securing member foot  30 . Typically, the aperture  160  is threaded to receive a threaded foot  30 . The aperture  160  may extend partially through lower plate  10 , as shown in FIG. 2 b , or entirely through, as shown in FIG. 2 a , and may contain a helicoil (not shown) therein. 
     In one embodiment, as in FIGS. 2 a - 2   b , the upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  are substantially the same size and shape, and are positioned symmetrically to one another relative the securing member body  25 . Upper and lower plates  5  and  10  are preferably mirror images of each other, excluding the recess  60  of upper plate  5  and the aperture  160  of the lower plate. The plates  5 ,  10  are thus substantially symmetric to each other relative the central longitudinal axis  80  of securing member  15  when in use. This is best seen in FIGS. 2 a - 2   b , and FIG.  7 . Using substantially the same size and shape for the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  facilitates application of a uniform pressure on the side or casing of the firearm magazine(s) when tightening the securing member  15 . Additionally, the application of a uniform pressure while tightening the securing member  15  enhances the ability of the present invention to securely hold multiple magazines when compared to the prior art shown in FIG.  1 . 
     For example, in order to apply even pressure on a plurality of magazines, the prior art device would require an individual to alternate back and forth between tightening two different bolts “B”. Back and forth tightening of the bolts is not only time consuming but quite imprecise as a method of achieving uniform pressure to the firearm magazines. Typically, the surface of the middle magazine will have a greater pressure applied than the surfaces of the outer magazines. Additionally, as the plurality of magazines are emptied of their ammunition, the hollow magazine casings will tend to deform slightly from the applied pressure. The deformed magazine side or casing will further reduce the pressure on the surface of the outer magazines resulting in unsecured magazines. On the other hand, precise and evenly applied pressure, through the use of a single centrally located securing member  15  as described herein, will remain substantially consistent even when the magazines are empty. 
     Turning now to FIGS. 3 a - 3   b , perspective views of the top of an upper plate  5  are shown. FIG. 3 a  shows one embodiment of upper plate  5  with curved outer edge surfaces  165  at the transition from outer surface  35  to front surface  22  and back surface (not shown), and FIG. 3 b  shows another embodiment of upper plate  5  with chamfered outer edge surfaces  165 . FIG. 3 c  shows a perspective view of the bottom of a bottom plate  10 . The plates  5  and  10  have chamfered or substantially curved outer edge surfaces  165 . Typically, the degree of curvature of the substantially curved outer edge surfaces  165  is greater than the degree of curvature at edges between front surfaces  22  and  24  and inner surfaces  40  and  115  respectively, which may be only subtly curved to eliminate sharpness. The curved surfaces are also known as “bull-nosed” or “radialed” surfaces, to distinguish them from sharp edges common in the prior art devices. A preferred degree of curvature of the outer edge surfaces  165  of plates  5  and  10  is 0.18 inches. 
     The substantially curved edge surfaces, including outer edge surfaces  165 , along with upper plate recess  60 , eliminates sharp edges and permits the top surface  92  of the securing member head  20  to be substantially flush with the outer surface  35  of the upper plate S while in use, thus reducing the potential for injury due to sharp and/or protruding surfaces, edges and/or objects when compared to prior art devices. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the prior art device utilizes bolts that protrude above the outer surface of the upper plate. The protruding bolts increase the potential that an individual may be cut, bruised, scraped, or otherwise injured. In addition, clothing may become snagged or caught on the protruding bolts causing an unwanted mishap or accident. In contrast, the recessed top surface  92  of the securing member head  20 , and substantially curved and/or chamfered outer surface edges  65  of the plates  5 ,  10  of the present invention, offer a profile void of any obtrusive structures. 
     Another potential problem area of the prior art is the sharp merging edge surfaces. The merging surfaces of the prior art form well-defined edges that may cause damage to a person&#39;s skin. Sharp edge surfaces are utilized throughout the prior art devices. In contrast, the substantially curved edge surfaces of the device of the present invention offer a smooth transition from one surface to another. The substantially curved edge surfaces of the present invention, including outer edge surfaces  165 , thus reduce the potential for cuts, punctures or other damage to the skin. Similarly, the heads of the bolts “B” in the prior art devices, as seen in FIG. 1, protrude due to the lack of a recess in the upper plate of the prior art device for receiving them, and such protruding metal may also be a potential source of cuts, bruises, etc. 
     Turning now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention is shown. The upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  are capable of multidirectional movements  170 ,  175 ,  180 . Multidirectional movements  170 ,  175 ,  180  of the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  are made possible due to the physical relationship and placement of the plates  5 ,  10  with respect to each other and with respect to the securing member  15 . The upper plate  5  is rotationally positioned about the securing member  15  as best seen in FIG.  4 . The upper plate aperture  75  encircles the securing member  15 , but it is not physically connected thereto, thus allowing free/unrestricted 360 degree rotation about the central longitudinal axis  80  of the securing member in both directions, as seen by directional arrow  170 . 
     Upper plate  5  is also free to move vertically relative the central longitudinal axis  80  of the securing member  15 , as indicated by directional arrow  175 . Such linear movement is referred to herein as translation, to distinguish from rotational movement as indicated by arrow  170 . The upward limit of vertical translation of the upper plate  5  is defined by the dimensions of the head  20  of the securing member  15  in relation to the depth of recess  60  and inner lip  70 . That is, as upper plate  5  is translated upward, head  20  is received into recess  60  and the bottom surface of head  20  engages inner lip  70  preventing further vertical translation of upper plate  5 . A split washer (not shown) may also be placed on inner lip  70  such that the head  20  engages the washer instead. It is intended that in such a configuration the bottom surface of head  20  is still considered to be engaging the inner lip  70 , even though there may not be direct physical contact between the two. This same relationship may be viewed from the perspective of the securing member  15 , as preventing securing member  15  from passing entirely through countersink  60 . 
     The downward limit of vertical translation of the upper plate  5  is defined by the relationship of the upper plate  5  to the lower plate  10 . Specifically, the lower plate  10  is secured by being mounted to the foot  30  of the securing member  15 . As such, when inner surfaces  32  of upper plate  5  engage inner surfaces  33  of lower plate  10 , upper plate  5  is prevented from further downward translational movement. Also, when the device is in use, the body of the magazines  190 ,  195  will prevent such translational movement once the magazines  190 ,  195  are secured, as seen in FIG.  7 . 
     In one embodiment, in which aperture  160  extends entirely through lower plate  10  (see FIG. 2 a ), the boundaries of rotational movement of the lower plate  10 , as shown by directional arrow  180 , are defined by the thread length of the securing member foot  30 . In another embodiment, in which aperture  160  does not extend all the way through lower plate  10  (see FIG. 2 b ), such rotational movement may additionally or alternatively be limited by the depth of aperture  160 . In either case, rotational movement of lower plate  10  is typically free within a range of at least 5 degrees in either direction. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the rotational movement described with respect to the lower plate  10  refers not only to rotation about the central longitudinal axis  80  of securing member  15 , but also to vertical translation thereof due to the threaded properties of securing member foot  15  and aperture  160 . In this respect, such rotational movement of the lower plate  10  varies from rotational movement of upper plate  5 , because since upper plate  5  is not mounted it is capable of rotation without vertical translation. The rotation and vertical translation of the plates  5 ,  10  is thus restricted only as described herein, and the multidirectional movements  170 ,  175 ,  180  of the upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  facilitate placement and securing of the magazines between the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10 . 
     Turning now to FIG. 7, a perspective view of the firearm magazine holder of the present invention is shown holding two magazines  190 ,  195 . The magazines  190 ,  195  are placed between the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  in slots  27 ,  29 , engaging the inner surfaces  40  and  115 . Securing member  15  (not shown) is tightened to secure the magazines  190 ,  195  in place. When compared to the prior art device shown in FIG. 1, the multidirectional movements  170 ,  175 ,  180  of the upper plate  5  and the lower plate  10  greatly enhance placement and securing of the magazine(s) between the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10 . The prior art device requires the magazines to be inserted along well-defined channels in order to be placed properly within the upper and lower plates. At best, the prior art provides only minute movement of the upper plate and essentially no movement of the lower plate, making placement of a magazine cumbersome. Any rotational movement of the plates in the prior art device is insignificant and not measurable, and is at most on the order of less than 1 or 2 degrees. Also, an individual must alternate back and forth between adjusting the two protruding bolts of the prior art device in order to tighten the device. The technique of adjusting two bolts is time consuming. Additionally, unless the two bolts are adjusted equally, the upper and lower plates will not form an even, proper, channel for placement of the magazines. 
     In contrast, multidirectional movement of the plates  5 ,  10  of the present invention as described herein provides the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  with a greater degree of rotational and translational movement for quick and easy placement of the magazines. Properly placing and securing of the magazines will result in the securing member head  20  being substantially within recess  60  and/or substantially flush with the outer surface  35  of the upper plate  5 . In either case, the head  20  will not protrude beyond the outer surface  35  of upper plate  5 . A separate embodiment includes a mushroom or domed head of the securing member  15 , such that even if it protrudes slightly, it does not contain any sharp edges. Magazines may be placed between the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10  in a parallel configuration. Alternatively or additionally, the magazines may be placed in a vertically staggered configuration as seen in FIG. 7, or inverted in relation to each other. In one embodiment (not shown) the device may be configured to receive two magazines such that they are positioned at 45 degree angles to each other relative the plane of front surfaces  22 ,  24 , or to receive a plurality of magazines in other formations such as a circular or partially circular formation. A single magazine or a plurality of magazines may be used in accordance with the present invention. 
     Turning now to FIG. 5, a flow chart illustrating a method of holding a plurality of firearm magazines in accordance with the present invention is shown. The process begins at  500 . At step  510 , a firearm magazine holding device as described herein is provided. A manufacturer, distributor, or other third party may supply the device. In this respect, “providing” the device is intended to refer to the fact that such a device is in fact present in use with the method, and so the device may be provided by the actual user thereof. 
     The securing member is then retracted from the lower plate, as seen in step  520 . Typically, retraction of the securing member is accomplished by unscrewing the threaded foot of the securing member from the threaded aperture of the lower plate. This step is optional, as it is intended to refer to the rotational movement of the lower plate clockwise such that as the lower plate translates lower, in effect the securing member translates upward or is retracted from the lower plate. This is optional because it is very likely that the lower plate will be rotated only counterclockwise, or not at all, since tightening the device does not require retraction of the securing member. In other words, the lower plate may remain stationary, while the securing member is tightened thus causing the securing member to be inserted into the lower plate and not retracted therefrom. 
     At step  530 , the upper plate and lower plate are separated in order to provide sufficient space between the upper plate and lower plate for placement of the magazine(s). At step  540 , the upper plate and lower plate are adjusted to accommodate placement of the magazine(s) between the upper plate and the lower plate. Adjustment of the upper plate may include rotational and translational movement as described herein. Adjustment of the lower plate may include rotational movement as described herein. At step  550 , the magazine(s) are placed between the upper plate and the lower plate. At step  560 , the securing member is tightened. Tightening of the securing member brings the applicable inner surfaces of the upper plate and the lower plate into contact with the side or casing of the magazine(s), and places the top surface of the securing member head in a position substantially within the recess and/or flush with the upper surface of the upper plate. 
     Typically, the shape of the inner surfaces of the upper plate and the lower plate will substantially conform to the side or casing of the magazine(s) to be held. Inner surfaces of an upper plate and lower plate that substantially conform to the side or casing of the magazine(s) will facilitate greater surface area contact for securing the magazine(s). The process ends at step  570 , at which time the first magazine may be inserted into the firearm well. Once the first magazine is emptied, the device (with the magazines secured therein) may be disengaged from the firearm, and the unspent magazine may then be inserted into the firearm well. 
     The multidirectional movement of the upper plate  5  and lower plate  10 , substantially curved edge surfaces (including outer edge surfaces  165 ) and/or chamfered outer edge surfaces  165 , recessed securing member head  20 , and other structural elements as described herein, thus provide for a device capable of holding a plurality of firearm magazines that is more efficient, safer, highly effective, and more reliable than known devices. 
     Turning now to FIG. 8, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment is a magazine holder with a body  200  having a first compartment  205  adapted to receive a first magazine  205   m , and a second compartment  210  adapted to receive a second magazine  210   m . The first compartment  205  and the second compartment  210  are separated by a divider  215 , having a first side wall  215   a  and a second side wall  215   b.    
     The body  200  is a single-piece body as best seen in FIGS. 8-13. That is, the body  200  may be machined from a single block of material, molded from a single mold cavity, cast from a single mold, or otherwise formed as a single-piece integrated body. The body  200  may be constructed of any type of metal, plastic, or like material that permits the body  200  to be formed as a single-piece. The single-piece construction decreases the complexity of manufacture and maintenance. In one embodiment, the body  200  comprises UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) polyethylene, such as the OK 2000 supplied by TSE-OKULEN Americas, L.L.C., of Clearwater, Fla. Typically, the UHMW polyethylene material is abrasion and impact resistant, to lessen the likelihood of marring or scratching the finish of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m . Also typically, the material is non-reflective. In a preferred embodiment, the front wall  235  of the first compartment  205  extends to the inner bottom surface  245  of the first compartment  205 , and the front wall  255  of the second compartment  210  extends to the inner bottom surface  265  of the second compartment  210 . Also, the front wall  235  of the first compartment  205  and the front wall  255  of the second compartment  210  are substantially coplanar. 
     The divider  215  is preferably solid between its two side walls  215   a  and  215   b , and may be substantially flat (not shown), fully ramped (as seen in FIG.  8 ), or partially ramped (as seen in FIG.  9 ). In a fully ramped embodiment, the front wall  255  of the second compartment  210  extends upward to a different vertical height than does the back wall  250  of the second compartment  210 , and the front wall  235  of the first compartment  205  extends upward to a different vertical height than does the back wall  230  of the first compartment  205 . In a partially ramped embodiment, part of the divider  215  may be substantially flat, whereas part of the divider  215  may be ramped. For example, the first side wall  215   a  of the divider  215  may have a substantially uniform height, whereas the second side wall  215   b  of the divider  215  may have a ramped non-uniform height. 
     Ramping or partial ramping up of the divider  215  provides extra lateral stability to magazines  205   m  and/or  210   m , and may be desirable depending on the specific weapon system being used. In a substantially flat, or fully ramped embodiment, the inner bottom surface  245  of the first compartment  205  and the inner bottom surface  265  of the second compartment  210  are substantially coplanar. In a partially ramped embodiment, the inner bottom surface  245  of the first compartment  205  and the inner bottom surface  265  of the second compartment  210  may lie in different, but substantially parallel planes, such that they are staggered or offset, which in turn provides for staggering/offsetting of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m . The maintenance holes  285 ,  300  and the securing member housings  220   h ,  225   h  would typically be correspondingly offset, so the securing members  220 ,  225  (all described more fully herein) could be easily accessed for maintenance, and properly positioned to engage the magazines  205   m ,  210   m . This is best seen in FIG.  14 B. For certain weapon systems, the staggering facilitates a proper transition from one magazine (e.g., the first magazine  205   m ) to another magazine (e.g., the second magazine  210   m ) into the weapon&#39;s magazine well during use of the weapon. 
     The width of the divider  215  may vary to accommodate various weapon systems. For example, the width of the divider  215  shown in FIG. 10 is greater than the width of the divider shown in FIG.  8 . Typically, a magazine holder having a divider with a width of approximately 0.78 inches is used with a weapon such as an M16, AR15, M4, and/or similar weapon system. A magazine holder having a divider with a width of approximately 0.468 inches is used with an F2000 integrated weapon system, used by NATO forces. 
     The body  200  may optionally have an anti-slip surface  270 , as seen in FIG.  13 . An anti-slip surface  270  enhances the user&#39;s grip and control of the body  200  during use. The anti-slip surface  270  may be etched into the body  200 , or otherwise formed in the body  200  during molding, machining, or other manufacturing technique, such that the surface  270  is an integral part of the body  200 . For example, the surface  270  may simply be textured or ribbed. The surface  270  may alternatively be applied to the body  200  as a separate feature. For example, grip tape, rubber pads, or other anti-slip material may be applied to suitable locations on the body  200 , such as on first exterior side wall  275  and/or second exterior side wall  290 . In the latter case, the body  200  may be formed with suitable bevels or recessed areas to receive the grip tape or other anti-slip material. 
     The body  200  also optionally has a first maintenance hole  285  to allow access to the first securing member  220  through the first compartment  205 , and which is sized to allow the first securing member  220  to pass therethrough. The first maintenance hole  285  is typically in the first exterior side wall  275  of the body  200 . Access to the first securing member  220  may be necessary for maintenance, repair, or replacement thereof. Likewise, the body  200  optionally has a second maintenance hole  300  to allow access to the second securing member  225  through the second compartment  210 , and which is sized to allow the second securing member  225  to pass therethrough. The second maintenance hole  300  is typically in the second exterior side wall  290  of the body  200 . 
     A suitable tool  305  such as that seen in FIG. 15 may be used for maintenance, repair, or replacement of securing members  220 ,  225 . FIG. 15 shows an unobstructed partial view of the first side wall  215   a  of the divider  215 , with the first securing member  220  housed therein. Component parts of the first securing member  220  in the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 15 are a first retaining member  220   r , a first engaging member  220   e , and a first tensioning member  220   t  (see FIGS. 10,  14 A, and  14 B), all described herein in more detail. The tool  305  in FIG. 15 has a body  310  having a diameter less than the diameter of the first maintenance hole  285 , and having teeth  315  to grip securing member  220 . The teeth  315  extend out a sufficient distance from distal tip  320  of tool  305 , such that the teeth  315  may grip the first retaining member  220   r  (shown in FIG. 15 as a cap-screw) without interference from the first engaging member  220   e  (shown in FIG. 15 as a ball bearing). For the same reason, the distal tip  320  of the tool  305  may be contoured to correspond to the first engaging member  220   e . As seen in FIG. 15, for example, the distal tip  320  of the tool  305  is concave to correspond to the convex surface of the first engaging member  220   e , which is a ball bearing. The tool  305  may take on various embodiments as needed to access and maintain securing members  220 ,  225 , depending on the mechanical structure of the securing members  220 ,  225 . 
     The body  200  also optionally has an irrigation hole  295  in a bottom surface  280  thereof. The irrigation hole  295  allows water, sand, or other debris that may accumulate in the compartments  205 ,  210  during adverse operating conditions to escape therefrom. The body  200  may be designed with multiple irrigation holes  295 , as seen in FIG.  13 . The maintenance holes  285 ,  300  may also serve as irrigation means if left substantially unobstructed. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates grip tape  270  placed on the first exterior side wall  275  of the body  200  over the first maintenance hole  285 . Such a configuration would not be desirable if the first maintenance hole  285  is intended to double as an irrigation means. If the maintenance holes  285 ,  300  are to double as irrigation means, they should be positioned near the bottom surfaces  245 ,  265  of compartments  205 ,  210 , as the case may be. 
     Turning now to a more detailed description of the compartments  205 ,  210 . The first compartment  205  is defined by a back wall  230 , a front wall  235 , a side wall  240 , the first side wall  215   a  of the divider  215 , and an inner bottom surface  245 , which together form a substantially continuous surface. Likewise, the second compartment  210  is defined by a back wall  250 , a front wall  255 , a side wall  260 , the second side wall  215   b  of the divider  215 , and an inner bottom surface  265 , which together form a substantially continuous surface. The inner bottom surfaces  245 ,  265  each act as respective seats on which the respective magazines  205   m ,  210   m  may rest when inserted in their respective compartments  205 ,  210 . 
     Preferably, each compartment  205 ,  210  has a substantially similar horizontal cross-section, because they will be adapted to receive magazines  205   m ,  210   m  for the same weapon system. Also preferably, each compartment  205 ,  210  has a horizontal cross-section substantially similar to the horizontal cross-section of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  respectively, to further facilitate secure seating of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  therein, and to limit lateral movement of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  within the compartments  205 ,  210 . For example, the contours of the back walls  230 ,  250  and front walls  235 ,  255  correspond substantially to the contours of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  respectively, in which back walls  230 ,  250  are contoured to receive ridges  205   r ,  210   r  of magazines  205   m ,  210   m  respectively, and front walls  235 ,  255  are contoured to receive substantially flat front portions  205   f ,  210   f  of magazines  205   m ,  210   m  respectively. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that rounds  325  are loaded in magazines  205   m ,  210   m  as shown in FIG.  11 . 
     The dimensions of the compartments  205 ,  210  may be such that the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  fit snugly therein, even without the use of securing members  220 ,  225 , such that even if the body  200  is turned upside-down with the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  in compartments  205 ,  210  respectively, the magazines  205   m ,  210   m  would not fall out. For example, the distance between the outer surface of the magazine  205   m  (other than at the grooves) and the respective walls  230 ,  215   a ,  235 ,  240  of first compartment  205  corresponding thereto, is preferably less than approximately two millimeters, and more preferably less than approximately one millimeter. These distances may be uniform, or not. In fact, non-uniformity may provide for a snugger fit. Further, the depth of each compartment  205 ,  210  is typically determined by the height of the magazines  205   m ,  210   m , and the weapon system used with the magazine holder. For example, a compartment  205 ,  210  adapted to hold a thirty round magazine will typically have a depth greater than that of a compartment  205 ,  210  adapted to hold a twenty round magazine. 
     Turning now to FIG. 10, a perspective view of a firearm magazine holder in accordance with the present invention is shown, with an exploded view of securing members  220 ,  225 . The securing member  220  will be described in detail, and it should be noted that the description of the securing member  220  applies correspondingly to the securing member  225 . A preferred embodiment includes a first retaining member  220   r , a first engaging member  220   e , and a first tensioning member  220   t , all as best seen in FIGS. 10,  14 A, and  14 B. The first securing member  220  is located within a first housing  220   h  of the divider  215 , and is adapted to engage the first magazine  205   m  when the first magazine  205   m  is seated in the first compartment  205 . Similarly, the second securing member  225  is located within a second housing  225   h  of the divider  215 , and is adapted to engage the second magazine  210   m  when the second magazine  210   m  is seated in the second compartment  210 . 
     Engagement of the first and second magazines  205   m ,  210   m  may be accomplished by the first securing member  220  being adapted to engage the first magazine  205   m  within a first groove  205   g  of the first magazine  205   m , and the second securing member  225  being adapted to engage the second magazine  210   m  within a second groove  210   g  of the second magazine  210   m . This is best seen in FIGS. 14A and 14B. Magazine  205   m  may have multiple grooves of varying lengths. As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, as the first magazine  205   m  is inserted into the first compartment  205 , the first engaging member  220   e  engages the first magazine  205   m  along the first groove  205   g . Once seated, the first magazine  205   m  is held substantially secure by not only the frictional forces of the first magazine  205   m  against its defining walls  230 ,  235 ,  240 ,  215   a , and by the gravitational force of the first magazine  205   m  against the inner bottom surface  245  of the first compartment  205 , but also by the spring force of the first tensioning member  220   t  pushing outward on the first engaging member  220   e  which in turn engages the first magazine  205   m  in the first groove  205   g.    
     Preferably, the first retaining member  220   r  is a threaded cap-screw, the first tensioning member  220   t  is a spring, and the first engaging member  220   e  is a ball bearing. The ball bearing  220   e  is available from McMaster-Carr Supply Company of Los Angles, Calif., model number 302 stainless steel, part number 9291K23. The cap-screw  220   r  and spring  220   t  are available from Mercob Technologies/Mercob Security Guard Info, of Pasadena, Calif. First housing  220   h  is correspondingly threaded to receive the cap-screw  220   r , and is sized to comfortably house the spring  220   t  and ball bearing  220   e . The dimensions of the components of securing member  220  should be such that the ball bearing  220   e  should rest on the spring  220   t  without passing therethrough, and should be able to peek through the cap-screw  220   r  without passing therethrough. For example, the diameter of the ball bearing  220   e  may be approximately 0.25 inches to correspond to the width of the first groove  205   g  in the first magazine  205   m  which the ball bearing  220   e  will engage. In such a case, the inner diameter of the cap-screw  220   r  should be not more than 0.25 inches, and the inner diameter of the spring  220   t  should be not more than 0.25 inches. 
     Placement of the securing members  220 ,  225  is best seen in FIGS. 14A and 14B. FIG. 14A shows the securing members  220 ,  225  at substantially the same vertical height relative to the divider  215 . FIG. 14B shows the first securing member  220  (and corresponding first maintenance hole  285 ) at a lower vertical height than the second securing member  225  (and corresponding second maintenance hole  300 ). As seen in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the first securing member  220  is secured in the first housing  220   h  by the first retaining member  220   r  such that the first tensioning member  220   t  forces a portion of the first engaging member  220   e  to extend into the first compartment  205  to engage the first groove  205   g . Similarly, the second securing member  225  is secured in the second housing  225   h  by the second retaining member  225   r  such that the second tensioning member  225   t  forces a portion of the second engaging member  225   e  to extend into the second compartment  210  to engage the second groove  210   g.    
     Turning now to FIG. 16, a flow chart is shown illustrating a method of using the magazine holders of FIGS. 8-13. The process begins at step  1600 . At step  1610 , a firearm magazine holder as described herein is provided. A manufacturer, distributor, or other third party may supply the device. In this respect, “providing” the device is intended to refer to the fact that such a device is in fact present in use with the method, and so the device may be provided by the actual user thereof. If securing members are used, and are not yet installed, they may be installed at this point. A typical installation of a securing member such as described herein and shown in FIGS. 10,  14 A, and  14 B, would include placing the spring into its respective housing, placing the ball bearing in front of the spring, and then tightening or otherwise securing the retaining member to the housing. Though the retaining member is shown as being threaded into the housing in the Figures, the retaining member may be secured in place by other means such as by press-fitting or by an adhesive such as glue. Further, the retaining member need not be inserted/installed to the entire depth of the housing. It is sufficient that the retaining member is substantially flush with the side of the divider to which it is installed. 
     At step  1620 , the first magazine is seated in the first compartment such that the first securing member engages the first magazine to assist in securing the first magazine into the first compartment. Typically, the first securing member engages the first magazine within a groove thereof. The second magazine is seated in the second compartment such that the second securing member engages the second magazine to assist in securing the second magazine into the second compartment. Typically, the second securing member engages the second magazine within a groove thereof. Typically, a magazine is seated by applying downward force thereto to move the magazine toward the bottom surface of its compartment. The magazine is thus seated when the magazine is substantially fully inserted into its respective compartment, such that the magazine rests on, engages, and/or is forced against the bottom surface of its respective compartment. 
     Once the magazines are properly seated, the first magazine is inserted into a magazine well at step  1630 , and the entire unit (magazine holder with magazines seated therein) is then installed and operational. The first magazine remains seated in the first compartment after being inserted into the magazine well. Once the first magazine is expended, the first magazine may be removed from the magazine well (step  1640 ), and remains seated in the first compartment after being removed from the magazine well. Removal of the first magazine from the first magazine well may occur at any time, but typically this will occur only after the first magazine is expended. The second magazine may then be inserted into the magazine well (step  1650 ), and likewise remains seated in the second compartment after being inserted into the magazine well. If the magazine holder holds more than two magazines, the process may continue for each such additional magazine. A magazine may be removed from the magazine holder by pulling on the magazine with sufficient force to overcome the frictional forces of the compartment against the magazine, and the spring force of the tensioning member. The process ends at step  1660 . 
     While certain embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and are described herein, including preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific embodiments described herein may be modified without departing from the inventive concepts described. For example, the plates of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-4 may be machined, stamped, or manufactured using various well-known methods. Additionally, the device may be used with firearm replicas, dummy training firearms (demonstration, classes, display), F.A.T.S. machine weaponries, movie props, and live simmunition weapons (commonly used by both military and law enforcement personnel. Also, the outer edge surfaces of the upper and/or lower plates of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-4 may be chamfered and/or curved, independent of each other.