Why Are Gun Magazines Called Magazines?

In American English, the term magazine is commonly used to describe various items, particularly in relation to firearms. This confusion arises because the term has a rich history rooted in military and linguistic contexts. Let’s delve into why gun magazines are called magazines and explore the evolution of this terminology.

Origins of the Word

The word "magazine" has a long and storied history that dates back to the 16th century. The term originally comes from the Arabic word “makzin” meaning ‘storage.’ This ancient Arabic word was adopted into French, where it was pronounced as magasin. Eventually, the term made its way into English and took on its current form.

Military Origins

The use of "magazine" to describe an ammunition storage facility has deep roots in military contexts. From the 16th century onward, a dedicated facility for storing gunpowder, firearms, and cannon projectiles was called a "magazine." Military depots and bunkers across the world still bear this name. West Fort Hood, for example, is full of such "magazines," each containing vast amounts of ammunition.

Evolution to Firearms Terminology

As repeating firearms became more common in the 19th century, the term "magazine" was applied to onboard ammunition storage. This is why, when discussing firearms, a magazine is a container that holds cartridges. The term "magazine" is so engrained in firearms terminology that it often sounds more natural than alternative terms like "periodicals" or "manuscripts."

Official Terminology and Cataloging

The official naming conventions follow a logical and systematic approach, typically in military contexts. For example, the official name for the iconic Rifle Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) reflects this structure. The term follows the word "RIFLE" as a descriptor in military stores terminology:

Trousers: Jungle green. Hat: Khaki fur felt. Beret: Black. Rifle: Short Magazine Lee-Enfield.

This format makes it easy to catalog and distinguish between different equipment. The rifle is described as "Rifle," "Short" because it is shorter than its predecessor, "Magazine" because it holds cartridges, and "Lee-Enfield" due to the combination of its Lee bolt action and Enfield barrel. The series also includes earlier variants like the MLE (Short Magazine Lee-Enfield) and the Lee-Metford, each with distinct descriptions for their barrel types.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term "magazine" in relation to firearms is a direct descendant of its military origins. From Arabic storage facilities to onboard ammunition storage, the term has evolved to become the standard in firearms terminology. Understanding this history can provide new insights into the linguistic and military contexts that gave us many terms we use today. Whether it's a military depot or a modern firearm, the term "magazine" serves as a reminder of its rich and storied past.