Best AR15 Magazine in 2026: Aluminum, Steel, or PMAG?

This expert review of the Midwest Industries Criterion Core Rifle, presented by a highly knowledgeable host from Tactical Considerations, details extensive accuracy and reliability testing. The rifle demonstrated exceptional performance, particularly with 77gr ammunition, achieving sub-MOA groups. The host's deep technical understanding and systematic approach, including detailed component analysis and rigorous testing with specialized equipment, highlight the rifle's 'hard duty' capabilities and high value proposition at its $1,850 MSRP.

This video argues that the AK platform is an outdated and poor choice for new firearm owners in 2026, particularly in the United States. The presenter, Trench Grenade, cites higher ammunition costs for AK calibers (7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm) compared to 5.56x45mm NATO, limited and often unreliable American AK market options, and significant disadvantages in modularity, accuracy, optics mounting, and suppressor compatibility when compared to the AR-15 platform. The presenter, drawing on personal experience and professional training, concludes that the AR-15 offers a more cost-effective, versatile, and user-friendly platform for most shooters.

This video from Brownells, featuring Caleb, provides a ballistic comparison of Hornady Critical Defense .223 Remington ammunition against standard 55-grain Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds. The testing, conducted at Big Spring Shooting Complex using ballistic gel, highlights the superior terminal performance of the Critical Defense round, demonstrating a significantly larger and more effective wound channel. The presenter argues for its value in self-defense scenarios due to its rapid energy dump and stopping power on unarmored targets, contrasting it with the over-penetration and minimal damage potential of FMJ rounds.

This video reviews a Bushmaster XM15 A2 LEO trade-in rifle, highlighting its value as a budget-friendly, retro-style AR-15. The presenter, Mark, details the rifle's C7 upper receiver, A1 carry handle, and restricted lower receiver, acquired from AIM Surplus. He discusses its performance at the range, potential modifications, and the pros and cons of purchasing police trade-in firearms, emphasizing their potential for quality and historical appeal.

Colion Noir, an expert firearms instructor, evaluates the $600 Ruger Harrier AR-15, concluding it's sufficient for most users who simply want a reliable rifle. He contrasts it with a high-end HK MR556, highlighting the Harrier's balanced handling and adequate performance at common engagement distances, making it a capable, no-frills option for the average buyer.

Colion Noir provides an expert review of the ~$600 Ruger Harrier AR-15, highlighting its surprising quality and modern features for the price. He emphasizes that for many users, this rifle offers all the performance needed without the high cost of premium models. The review covers practical shooting impressions, comparisons to more expensive firearms, and its suitability as a platform for future upgrades.

This video from Warrior Poet Society, featuring John Lovell, humorously debunks the myth of Glocks being made of porcelain and undetectable by metal detectors. It references the fictional Glock 7 from Die Hard 2, clarifying that real Glocks are not made of ceramic and are standard firearms. Lovell's high authority as a professional firearms instructor is evident in his clear explanation and proper handling.

This guide outlines a method for introducing new, potentially apprehensive individuals to firearms, as demonstrated by John Lovell. It emphasizes a controlled, safe, and positive first experience, starting with small calibers and instructor-led handling, before progressing to larger platforms. The approach prioritizes building confidence and dispelling fear through expert guidance and adherence to strict safety protocols.

This video from Warrior Poet Society, featuring John Lovell, humorously illustrates that while a shooter might achieve accuracy from an unstable stance, true shooting proficiency requires a stable base for balance and recoil management. Lovell, a former Army Ranger, emphasizes that a proper stance is fundamental, not just for accuracy but for overall control and readiness. The demonstration shows how instability leads to a loss of balance after firing, highlighting the practical importance of a solid stance.

John Lovell, a professional tactical instructor, demonstrates the correct way to utilize a vertical foregrip on an AR-15. He advises against a 'gangster' grip, instead promoting a technique where the foregrip is used as a hand stop to pull the rifle into the shoulder for better recoil control. The guide also covers using the foregrip to brace against obstacles for increased shooting platform stability.