Military surplus AR-15 magazines offer a cost-effective way to expand your ammunition capacity. Understanding their origins, condition, and potential drawbacks is crucial before purchasing. This guide delves into everything you need to know about military surplus AR mags, helping you make informed decisions.
Understanding the Source and Types of Military Surplus AR Mags
The term "military surplus" refers to magazines that were previously in the possession of military or government agencies. These often come from various sources, including:
- US Military: These are often USGI (U.S. Government Issue) magazines, usually made by reputable manufacturers like Magpul (though older examples may be from other manufacturers now out of business). They might be slightly used, but generally in good working order. Look for markings indicating their origin.
- Foreign Military: Magazines from other nations' armed forces can also enter the surplus market. While these may be functional, their quality and reliability can vary greatly depending on the country of origin and storage conditions. Be wary of unfamiliar brands.
- Private Contractors: Some contractors who supply military and law enforcement agencies may sell off excess or used magazines. These can range in quality.
Common Types and Markings
Identifying the type and origin of your surplus AR mag is important. Look for these markings:
- Manufacturer's markings: These help determine the manufacturer and potentially the date of manufacture.
- Lot numbers: These can help trace the history of the magazine.
- Military markings: These might include unit markings or other identifiers.
Table 1: Example Military Surplus AR Mag Manufacturers and Markings
| Manufacturer | Common Markings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Magpul | MAGPUL, PMAG | Known for high quality and reliability |
| USGI (Various) | Various markings, often including a date code | Quality varies depending on age and condition |
| Foreign Manufacturers (Various) | Vary widely | Quality and reliability vary considerably |
Assessing the Condition of Surplus AR-15 Magazines
The condition of a surplus magazine directly impacts its reliability and lifespan. Thoroughly inspect any surplus magazine before purchase or use. Look for:
- Signs of wear and tear: Scratches, dents, and rust are common. Significant damage can affect functionality.
- Follower functionality: The follower should move smoothly and without binding. A stiff or broken follower is a major problem.
- Spring tension: The spring should provide sufficient force to feed rounds reliably. A weak spring can lead to malfunctions.
- Feed lips: These must be straight and undamaged to ensure proper round feeding. Bent or damaged feed lips are a critical failure point.
Visual Inspection Checklist
- Examine the body: Check for dents, cracks, or significant wear.
- Inspect the follower: Ensure it moves freely and is not damaged.
- Test the spring tension: Try to compress the spring; it should provide noticeable resistance.
- Carefully check the feed lips: Make sure they are straight and undamaged.
- Look for rust or corrosion: This can severely compromise the magazine's integrity.
Figure 1: Example of a well-maintained surplus AR-15 magazine (Image would go here)
Figure 2: Example of a damaged surplus AR-15 magazine (Image would go here)
Potential Drawbacks of Military Surplus AR Magazines
While cost-effective, surplus mags have potential drawbacks:
- Unknown history: You may not know how well the magazine was cared for or how much it's been used.
- Increased wear and tear: Expect more wear than a brand new magazine.
- Possible malfunctions: Damaged components could lead to feeding issues or jamming.
- Compatibility issues: While mostly compatible with AR-15 platforms, slight variations might exist.
Cleaning and Maintaining Surplus AR-15 Magazines
Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to prolong the lifespan of your surplus magazines. Follow these steps:
- Disassemble: If possible, fully disassemble the magazine to clean all components.
- Clean with solvent: Use a gun cleaning solvent to remove dirt, grime, and debris.
- Lubricate: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts like the follower and spring.
- Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the magazine, ensuring all parts are properly seated.
- Test: Load a few rounds and test the function before carrying or using in a firearm.
Note: Always follow manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions about Surplus AR Mags
Military surplus AR-15 magazines can be a great way to add capacity to your arsenal, but only if you’re aware of their potential drawbacks. By carefully inspecting and maintaining them, you can safely and effectively use these cost-effective magazines. Remember to prioritize quality and functionality over simply getting the lowest price. Proper care will ensure you get the most out of your investment.