Gene - We've kicked this question around before on some of the pistol threads. I am a firm advocate of dropping expended mags - most of the time. I have to concede that circumstances will dictate TTPs especially with regard to retaining/discarding expended magazines. (Big Boyz ought to be smart/experienced enough to know when to do what!) In all fairness it's been a long time since I was in "indian country" and things have changed a bit. I was never where I couldn't go back to pick up discards or get a resupply. (LATAM is/was not RVN or the sandbox - and I don't envy anybody from either theater!) Personally I think the emphasis on always/only doing tactical (retained) reloads was taken out of context by the "Walter Mittie" crowd and turned into an unreasoning cult gospel.
Now - Let's expand the discussion a bit! I haven't worn an assaulter's kit in years and the last time I did, drop bags (and most everything else too!) were improvised. Eagle was the only reputable manufacturer and the IMPAC C/C wasn't invented yet. I'll be working with a friend over the next few months to get my gear up to speed (and looking at some of your stuff Eggroll - it comes recommended by the right people). If we're retaining magazines - and a drop bag is the only smart way to do that - where is a "southpaw" that shoots his carbine right handed going to put a dump pouch without interfering with his (left) leg holster? Or should I get a chest rig for the pistol and mount it on the IBA? Given that mounted/urban ops have redefined the requirements what's an acceptable solution (read "direction to start experimenting"). IMWTK - Peregrino