While AR15 magazines are commonly most neglected gun part, but it's actually one of THE most important component that keeps the rifle operating flawlessly.
So here are 4 best AR15 magazines that ensures proper feeding.
Magpul PMAG Gen 3 - Best Overall
The Magpul PMAG Gen 3 is a favorite among many. It's the go to magazine for 5.56 across the board. It's commonly used and often comes with every stock AR15 rifle these days.
These robust polymer magazines are designed with modified dimensions to fit any 5.56 caliber rifle platform.
The PMAG Gen 3 has an anti-tilt follower that ensures straight feeding of rounds, and it includes an insertion stop on the spine to prevent over-insertion.
The stainless steel spring is known for its longevity, and the follower is self-lubricating.
Magpul D-60
The Magpul D60 addresses these issues by moving away from the box-style magazine and offering improved reliability with a drum design compared to older designs like the Surefire 60 or 120 round magazine, although it does come at the cost of increased size and weight.
The Magpul D60 AR-15 Magazine is designed to be user-serviceable. The rachet lever makes loading rounds fast and easy even for loading the last round.
According to Magpul's recommendation, the drum should be cleaned and lightly oiled after every 1000 rounds.
Duramag
Duramag has earned a solid reputation over the past decade for manufacturing high-quality and reliable magazines. The Duramag stainless steel magazine is no exception. It features a robust body, a bright orange follower, and a tough EVERFLEX spring.
Duramag has invested a significant amount of time and resources into researching and developing their LIPLOCK technology and Advanced Geometry Followers.
This commitment to design and innovation allows them to guarantee 100% reliability.
Unlike polymer magazines that can crack or swell, Duramag magazines are built to withstand such issues. The company uses their T-360 coating on these magazines along with improved internal geometry to ensure consistent feeding.
Hexmags Series 2
Hexmags have made the cut for a few reasons. Firstly, they are some of the most affordable AR 15 magazines you can buy.
Secondly, Hexmags are named after the unique hexagonal texturing, which enhances your grip on the magazine, with or without gloves.
These magazines are incredibly durable, lightweight, and designed for a long service life. They use anti-tilt followers, stainless steel springs, and an excellent body design.
Lancer Advanced Warfighter Magazine
The Lancer Advanced Warfighter Magazine (L5AWM) is an exceptional choice.
Its innovative construction, which incorporates steel feed lips into a polymer body, ensures unmatched strength and longevity.
It's tested to withstand temperature extremes of -50 degrees F to +180 degrees F and a 5 foot drop fully loaded, onto concrete without impairment of function.
They also offer translucent clear magazine so the shooter can monitor the round count if needed.
With a price point comparable to the popular Magpul PMAG, the Lancer magazine provides excellent value for money, including see-through ones.
AR15 Magazine User Guide
Capacity
30 round magazine is the standard. But there are also 5, 10, 20 and other odd ones. Higher capacity magazines allow you to fire more rounds before having to reload, which is particularly advantageous in fast-paced shooting scenarios.
With a higher round count, you can maintain a steady flow of fire without interruptions, enabling you to engage targets more efficiently.
Lower round count, for example the 10 round magazines are shorter for shooting prone without the magazine interfering with the ground.
Note: Please check your state laws for magazine limitation
Reliable Feeding
Feed reliability is paramount when it comes to AR15 magazines. The shooter could be bracing the rifle against the magazine while shooting prone, gripping the magazine by applying rearward pressure, or firing side ways.
A well-designed magazine will have a feed lip geometry that facilitates reliable feeding, minimizing malfunctions and misfeeds. This ensures each round is properly seated and ready to be fired when you need it most.
For competition shooting, any malfunction can definitely cost you time on the clock.
Ergonomics
AR15 Magazines with a textured surface provide better grip surface when pulling one out of the belt pouch or picking them up from the ground, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This doesn't mean the shooter has to grip the magazine when firing.
In addition, the custom baseplates can be used to support the rifle with better supporting surface than just leaning on the tip of the magazine.
Durable Construction
Another aspect of reliability is the overall construction of the magazine. Opt for magazines made from high-quality materials, such as impact-resistant polymer or aluminum alloys, which can withstand the rigors of regular use.
A sturdy construction ensures that the magazine can endure drops, impacts, and harsh environments without compromising its functionality.
Replacement
Magazine spring will eventually wear out if shooting a lot, so having backup magazine is critical to keep a rifle system working. Therefore, only having one magazine for your rifle may not be enough.
Fit Compatibility
While most AR15 magazines fit in most standard AR15 lower receivers. Some magazines may get stuck in the receiver and prevents it from dropping freely. Different lower receivers may also have different tolerances.