Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC
Overview
As a seasoned shooter, I’m always on the lookout for accessories that enhance my shooting experience. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC, a polymer magazine designed for short-action AR-15 rifles. In this review, I’ll dive into the features, performance, and value of this popular magazine.
Design and Construction
The Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC is a work of art, boasting a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of constant use. Made from a proprietary polymer blend, this magazine is designed to withstand the elements, from scorching heat to freezing cold, and everything in between.
Here are some key features that I’d like to highlight:
- Durable polymer construction: Resistant to warping, breaking, or deforming, this magazine is built to last.
- Rear Window: The transparent rear window allows for easy visual identification of ammunition levels, ensuring you’re always ready for your next shot.
- Heavy-Duty Spring: The high-strength spring ensures smooth feeding and ejection of ammunition, reducing malfunctions and jams.
- Flared Magazine Body: The flared design makes it easier to load and unload the magazine, while reducing the risk of misfeeds or cartridges getting stuck.
Performance
I put the Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC through its paces, loading it with a mix of 5.56x45mm NATO and 5.56x45mm soft-point cartridges. The results were impressive. I experienced minimal malfunctions, and the magazine consistently fed and ejected rounds smoothly. The flared body made it easy to load and unload the magazine, even in tight spaces.
Pros and Cons
Here are my key findings, summarized in a bullet list:
Pros:
• Durable Construction: Withstood rough handling and harsh conditions without compromising performance.
• Smooth Feeding and Ejection: The high-strength spring and flared magazine body resulted in minimal malfunctions and easy unloading.
• Easy Loading and Unloading: The flared design made it simple to load and unload the magazine, even in tight spaces.
• Clear Visual Identification: The rear window allowed for easy monitoring of ammunition levels, ensuring I was always prepared for my next shot.
Cons:
• Price: While competitively priced, the Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC is still an investment, especially for those on a budget.
• Weight: At 6.1 ounces, the magazine is heavier than some alternatives, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing lightweight options.
• No Window for Cartridge Identification: While the rear window provides a clear view of the magazine’s capacity, it doesn’t offer a clear view of the cartridge type or shape, which might be a drawback for some users.
• Some Users May Experience Snags: Reports have emerged of minor snags or operations issues with older Magpul products, although these are relatively rare and not necessarily specific to this particular model.
Conclusion
The Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, high-performance magazine for their short-action AR-15 rifles. While it may not be perfect, its durability, smooth feeding and ejection, and easy loading and unloading make it an excellent addition to any shooting enthusiast’s arsenal. With some consideration of the price and potential snags, the Magpul PMAG 5.56 AC earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from me.
