Hi K98Mike... The drums are send with the winding levers tensioned and locked in the loading position for one simple reason, if the mainspring is relaxed, and the winding lever in the empty position, it means that there is tension on the follower spring, and these have a habit, (normal) of popping past the feed lips and causing some to return the drum rather then getting use to the quirks and issues unique to the beast! you must ALWAYS USE CAUTION when you wind, or release the lever... It can and will spank you and I guarantee you it will hurt!!!!!!!
With the winding lever locked, you should be able to load the full compliment of 32 rounds with out issue.. if it stops during the loading cycle, (usually first 3 to 6 rounds) stop, strip out the rounds, and start over... Tapping might help, but if the problem persists, send it to me and I will take care of the problem... Drop me a note at:
gctomeks@msn.com BTW, make sure you put a little oil on the front and rear spine inside the drum mag tube.. this will help as well..... Hi Don, and best to you K98Mike... til.....lat'r.....GT
BTW, squared... I will cover postage both ways as well....