What AR15 Magazines do you need?

Published on January 14, 2021
Duration: 15:35

This video provides a comprehensive overview of AR-15 magazine types, their compatibility with various calibers, and practical considerations for selection. It covers standard 5.56 magazines, their use with 300 Blackout, and specialized magazines for calibers like 7.62x39, 6.5 Grendel, .350 Legend, and big bore options. The instructor also discusses the pros and cons of polymer versus aluminum magazines and advises against high-capacity magazines for critical reliability.

Quick Summary

For optimal reliability in AR-15 platforms, the standard 30-round aluminum magazine is the recommended choice. While 20-round magazines are equally reliable, and 10-rounders are useful for bench rest shooting, high-capacity magazines (60+ rounds) introduce potential reliability issues. Standard 5.56 magazines also work for 300 Blackout.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AR-15 Magazines
  2. 00:48Evolution of AR-15 Magazines
  3. 01:16Early Aluminum Magazines and Followers
  4. 02:24Standard 5.56 30-Round Magazines
  5. 03:2810-Round Magazines for Bench Rest
  6. 04:125.56 Magazines for 300 Blackout
  7. 04:47Polymer (PMAGs) vs. Aluminum Magazines
  8. 06:00PMAG Features and Drop-Free Issues
  9. 07:21Durability and Damage Detection
  10. 08:0130-Round Magazines for Big Bore Calibers
  11. 09:00Specialized Followers for Big Bore
  12. 09:45Magazines for 7.62x39 and 6.5 Grendel
  13. 11:4822LR Conversion Magazines
  14. 12:00Oddball Setups: 350 Legend
  15. 13:16224 Valkyrie and 6.8 SPC Magazines
  16. 14:05High-Capacity Magazines (60/100 Round)
  17. 14:43Drum Magazines for Fun
  18. 15:00Conclusion: Reliability and 30-Round Standard

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable AR-15 magazine type for general use?

For general use and maximum reliability, the standard 30-round aluminum AR-15 magazine is considered the tried-and-true standard. While 20-round magazines are equally reliable, the 30-round capacity offers a good balance for most shooting applications.

Can standard 5.56 AR-15 magazines be used for 300 Blackout?

Yes, standard 5.56/.223 AR-15 magazines are fully compatible with 300 Blackout ammunition. You do not need to purchase specialized magazines for 300 Blackout, as the case dimensions and bullet weights fit well within standard 5.56 magazines.

What are the main differences between polymer PMAGs and aluminum AR-15 magazines?

Aluminum magazines typically 'drop free' more reliably from the AR-15 lower receiver. Polymer PMAGs may offer more resilience to impact, bouncing back from bends, but can sometimes be hesitant to drop free and their wear is less visually obvious.

Are high-capacity AR-15 magazines (60-100 rounds) reliable?

High-capacity magazines, such as 60-round or 100-round drums, are generally considered less reliable than standard 30-round magazines. For situations requiring ultimate reliability, it is recommended to stick with standard 30-round magazines and carry multiples.

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