Magpul PMAG Gen M3 vs Gen M2: Which is Right for You?

[Talyn]

Magpul’s PMAG has become the go-to AR-15 magazine for the majority of gun owners and the US Military, thanks to its durability, reliability, and affordability. Over the years, we’ve seen upgrades made and new models released, which may leave you confused about which PMAG is best.

The question becomes not whether you should buy PMAGs, but what generation you should purchase. Gen M2 or Gen M3?

Magpul PMAG Gen M3 vs Gen M2: Which is Right for You?

PMAGs have been the gold standard for years, and with multiple models available, it can be hard to choose. Let us help you pick the best one for your needs!

themagshack.com

Left: Gen M3 PMAG, Right: Gen M2 PMAG

 

[USMC6094]

Six one, half dozen the other........

Though dead solid reliable. they are not my Go-To magazines.......

 

[trader]

have both.

 

[USMC6094]

And the Gen 1's aren't too shabby either

 

[Talyn]

PMags are my go-to.

More Gen2s than Gen 3s.

Lancer's as needed + some experimental brands.

 

[Bassbob]

If the M3s were closer in price to the M2s I’d buy some.

I’m heavily invested in M2s. Never had an issue with one and they’re all I use.

 

[HansGruber]

I have them, but my go-to AR mags are the HK 416’s…

 

[Bassbob]

I have them, but my go-to AR mags are the HK 416’s…

Ouch. Kinda hard to be heavily invested in those.

 

[HansGruber]

Ouch. Kinda hard to be heavily invested in those.

I’ve got 10…all have been function verified, but…tbh. When I shoot AR’s at the range, I use PMags.

But, since my go-to 556 is my AUG…

 

[Bassbob]

I’ve got 10…all have been function verified, but…tbh. When I shoot AR’s at the range, I use PMags.

But, since my go-to 556 is my AUG…

It might sound odd, but I have never used a metal mag. I did buy one, as close as I could find to an old USGI Vietnam era 20 rd. for my pal Jim, but I only inserted it into his M16 clone I built for him to make sure it would go. I never loaded it or fired it.

My 1st AR, the Witch Doctor, had a few Amend 2 mags in it, but I soon found those were sketchy. None of my other ones have ever fielded anything other than Gen 2 P mags.