Building better AR mags

[onebigelf]

So I've been looking at the insane prices for even basic mil-spec mags.

A couple of weeks ago I ordered 10 stainless steel C-products 30rnd mag bodies.
$10 each + $5 for 10 floorplates + $11 shipping = $116

10 grey Magpul followers.
$2 each, $4 shipping = $24

10 CMMG braided wire springs.
$60 + $8 shipping = $68

116 + $24 + $68 = $208

That's about $21 apiece including shipping for primo mags, assuming you like the C-Products bodies as much as I do.

So why are we paying $20 + shipping for Okay?

John

 

[Bartkowski]

I don't know why. I just buy my PMAGs for $15 from a local dealer.

How heavy are the stainless bodies?

 

[Lloyd Smale]

just got in on a group buy for 30brownell mags with magpul bottoms and antitilt follwers for 15 bucks each and 20 rounders for 12. Hardly seems worth the bother.

 

[jpwilly]

I've been picking up good mags for some time without having to assemble my own. Many of the AR-15 mags I own were purchased for $12.99 or so on sale.

 

[diablo2184]

where was that group buy?

 

[chuckles]

I just bought another 20 C-Products stainless 30 rounders, CS springs, Magpul followers from 44mag for $14.99 each. I have had very good results from all of the Cprod mags I have, (60+). My results with pmags have been mixed at best. Stay with mil-spec and you will be fine.

 

[Rubber_Duck]

What's the deal with the braided wire springs? How do they compare to chrome-silicone?

 

[browningguy]

Most of mine are milspec mags bought for $9-13 each over the years. I don't think there is any reason I would pay $20 ea. for AR magazines.

 

[mr.trooper]

I buy C-products locally for $15, and Lancer L5s and P-mags for $20.

What's the deal with the braided wire springs? How do they compare to chrome-silicone?

they are stronger, and SUPPOSEDLY wont ever take a set.

 

[Eric F]

maybe its just me but I see nothing wrong with the mil surplus $10 mags I get. I hade to replace 1 spring 1 time IIRC about 2 years ago no problems at all. Well execpt for the one I Ran over with the truck. It came out ok but the lips were bent/ crushed

 

[Duke of Doubt]

Someone once taught me how to reload a magazine. Since then, I spend my money on ammunition.

 

[Schuey2002]

So why are we paying $20 + shipping for Okay?

I don't. Nor will I pay $21+ for sub-par C-Products mags.

Why would I when there are better quality NHMTG, Brownells, and D&H Industries USGI's for less?

 

[jbauch357]

I just got 10 D&H teflon coated GI mags plus extended magpul followers for $145 shipped.

I don't really see why I would pay any more than that - or what another mag would offer that these don't.

 

[W.E.G.]

Have your pmag's cracked yet?

 

[Schuey2002]

Mine haven't. But if they do, I know that Magpul will take care of it...

 

[USP45T]

Waiting on a shipment from Palmetto. $14 C-Products black SS mags with magpul follower. 12 w/ orange follower and 6 w/ grey follower. Was the best price I could find at the time. Free shipping on orders >$200.

I have 50 pmags and 30 aluminum (D&H, NTMHG, bravo) spread out over 4 weapons but with ammo prices, I haven't been shooting much of anything except .22 and 9mm. I've only used 4 of the pmags. 18 SS mags are gonna fit in there nicely. I keep thinking that I should have ordered more.