What Is a Stripper Clip?
A stripper clip is a metal or polymer feeding device that holds a set number of cartridges in a single row. For 5.56 / .223, the standard is 10 rounds per clip. The clip doesn't go into the magazine — it's a loading tool. You strip the rounds off the clip and into the magazine using a guide or speed loader.
They've been standard military issue since the early 1900s. The US military still uses them today to pre-stage ammunition for rapid reloading in the field. The concept hasn't changed — but the materials and execution have improved significantly with SCUSA's polymer design.
- Stripper clip — holds 10 rounds for loading into a magazine
- Loading block (SLB Gen2) — loads rounds onto the clip 10 at a time
- StripLULA — strips rounds off the clip and into the magazine
- Spoon / guide — a basic tool that guides the clip into the magazine feed lips
How Does a Stripper Clip Work?
The clip holds rounds by their case rims — the raised lip at the base of each cartridge. The rounds sit in a row on the clip spine, held in place by spring tension. To load, you place the clip into a guide tool positioned on the magazine feed lips, then push the rounds down and off the clip into the magazine.
With a StripLULA, that push loads all 10 rounds in under 3 seconds. Three clips = one 30-round magazine loaded in under 10 seconds total.
Polymer vs Steel Stripper Clips
USGI surplus clips are steel. They work, but they have real drawbacks that matter for long-term storage and regular use. Here's how they compare to SCUSA polymer clips:
| Feature | SCUSA Polymer | USGI Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | ✅ Won't rust | ❌ Rusts in humid storage |
| Weight per clip | ~3g | ~12g |
| Color coding | ✅ 3 colors by load type | ❌ All look the same |
| Reusability | ✅ Reusable | ✅ Reusable |
| Made in USA | ✅ Texas | ❌ Varies / surplus |
| Patent-pending ID system | ✅ Color-Coded Ammo ID™ | ❌ None |
The Color-Coded Ammo ID™ System
SCUSA clips come in three colors, each mapped to a specific load category. You always know what's loaded without reading a label or opening a can:
M855 green-tip. Long range, steel core penetrator. Precision and duty loads.
M193 duty and defensive loads. The standard for serious shooters.
M193 training and range loads. Non-duty ammo, clearly marked so it never gets mixed.
What Magazines Work With Stripper Clips?
Stripper clips work with any standard AR-15 / M4 magazine that accepts 5.56 / .223 ammunition. This includes:
- Magpul PMAG (Gen 2, Gen 3, Gen M3)
- USGI aluminum GI magazines
- Lancer AWM magazines
- Troy Industries magazines
- Most standard 20-round and 30-round AR-15 magazines
The StripLULA attaches to the magazine feed lips — not the clip — so compatibility depends on the magazine, not the clip. Check Maglula's compatibility list for your specific magazine.
USGI vs SCUSA: Side-by-Side
See the difference between a standard USGI steel clip and SCUSA polymer clips in use:
How Many Clips Do You Need?
3 clips = 1 full 30-round magazine
30 clips (1 pack) = 10 fully loaded magazines = 300 rounds
90 clips (3 packs) = 30 magazines = 900 rounds pre-staged
For a standard range day, one 30-pack is enough to pre-stage 10 magazines. For serious stockpiling or competition prep, 3 packs gives you 30 magazines ready to run.
Get Started
SLB Gen2 + 30 stripper clips in your choice of color. The essential loading station starter.
Shop CORE Kit →SLB Gen2, StripLULA, all three clip colors, desiccants, and ammo can. Everything in one order.
Shop ARMORY MAX →30-pack in Olive Drab, Black, or Range Orange. Add the exact color you need to your existing setup.
Shop Clips →Frequently Asked Questions
Are stripper clips the same as magazines?
No. A magazine feeds rounds into the chamber during firing and stays in the rifle. A stripper clip is a loading tool — it holds rounds for transfer into a magazine, then gets removed and reused.
Do stripper clips damage brass cases?
No. Stripper clips hold rounds by the case rim with light spring tension. There's no damage to brass, primers, or projectiles. You can reload and reuse the same brass after stripping.
Can I use 20-round stripper clips?
Standard 5.56 stripper clips hold 10 rounds. There is no standard 20-round stripper clip for 5.56. For a 20-round magazine, you'd use two 10-round clips.
What's the difference between the SLB Gen1 and Gen2?
The SLB Gen2 adds built-in cartridge height verification — it physically confirms each round is seated to the correct depth before you load the clip. This catches any deformed or out-of-spec rounds before they cause a malfunction. The Gen1 doesn't have this feature.
