AR-15 Magazines: PMAG vs Aluminum
Magpul PMAG (polymer) is the industry standard for reliability and durability. Impact-resistant polymer body, anti-tilt follower, and dust cover. The Gen M3 PMAG is compatible with virtually all AR-15 platforms and most AR-10 builds (in .308 version). Standard capacity: 30 rounds. Price: ~$13–$15 each.
USGI aluminum magazines are mil-spec, lighter than PMAGs, and work in all AR-15s. Followers on older aluminum mags were a reliability issue — always upgrade to an improved follower (Magpul Enhanced Follower, ~$2 each) if using surplus aluminum mags. New production aluminum mags from Brownells or Okay Industries include improved followers.
Top AR-15 Magazines
| Magazine | Material | Capacity | Price Each |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magpul PMAG Gen M3 | Polymer | 10/20/30 rd | ~$13 |
| Lancer L5AWM | Hybrid (polymer body/steel feed lips) | 30 rd | ~$22 |
| Brownells USGI Aluminum | Aluminum | 20/30 rd | ~$10 |
| Okay Industries SureFeed | Aluminum | 30 rd | ~$12 |
| HK Steel Magazine | Steel | 30 rd | ~$35 |
Pistol Magazines
OEM factory magazines are the most reliable choice for any pistol. Aftermarket magazines from Magpul (GL9 for Glock) and Mec-Gar (for most pistol platforms) are proven reliable alternatives, often at lower cost. Avoid no-name aftermarket magazines for carry or defensive use — feed lip tolerances vary widely and failures are unacceptable in a defensive firearm.
- OEM Glock magazines — factory standard, available in 10/15/17/33 round. (~$25–$40)
- Magpul GL9 — reliable Glock 9mm alternative, 17 or 21 round. (~$16)
- Mec-Gar — OEM supplier for many manufacturers, excellent quality. (~$20–$30)