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Limited Edition "Alien Green" 30 Round AK-47 MagazineGET YOURS
Given its ubiquitous global presence, the aftermarket support for AK-platform rifles is incredibly diverse and robust. Standard-capacity and extended magazines are available in a wide assortment of finishes, colors, and materials from a variety of manufacturers. The following are our picks for the best AK mags available in 2024.
Most standard AK-pattern magazines are inserted using the "rock and lock" method, hence their slightly exaggerated curvature compared to the much straighter M14 or AR-15 magazine. Rather than locking into place vertically, AK mags must be angled towards the back of the receiver before being loaded into the magazine well using an upward and rearward motion (as pictured below).
As with most firearms, the rugged and ultra-reliable AK platform's most common failure point is the magazine itself. Proper fit and finish are essential to ensure smooth operation and loading / unloading, because out-of-spec feed lips or locking lugs can induce a malfunction. If you experience consistent feed-related jams or struggle to remove the magazine once inserted, switching to one of these high-quality aftermarket mags may remedy the problem.
The Classic Firearms team has tested a lot of AK rifles and pistols over the years, meaning we've also had the opportunity to evaluate many different types of magazines from around the world. Now, we're sharing that knowledge with you so you can select the best magazine for your AK in 2024.
To be considered for our list, each magazine must have a capacity of 30 rounds or more, be made of durable materials that will not warp or bend, and offer a positive lock-up once fully inserted into the mag well. We've also chosen to focus on mags that will work for most shooters in most standard AKs without extensive modification (sanding, filing, etc.)
The budget-friendly U.S. Palm AK mag is a tremendous value, featuring a durable yet lightweight design with a low friction self-cleaning follower for reliable feeding. Stock up on mags before your next range trip or add a splash of color to your custom build with the Limited Collectors Edition "Alien Green" mag (U.S. Palm Martian Patch included).
Want to extend your capacity without the added bulk of a drum magazine? These mil-spec steel magazines hold 40 rounds of 7.62x39 ammunition instead of the standard 30, and they have a reinforced ribbed back for increased strenght and durability. Moreover, during our extensive testing, each 40-round mag locked in tight and fed reliably with no malfunctions.
Unsurprisingly, Magpul's version of the AK-47 / AKM magazine is pure quality from top to bottom. The AK PMAG utilizes constant curve geometry for easier loading, plus each magazine includes a removable floorplate and high-reliability / low-friction follower for enhanced performance at an affordable price.
Manufactured right here in the U.S., a Pioneer 30-round waffle magazine is the perfect addition to your Polish AK variant. These tough Lexan mags feature a removable floor plate for easy maintenance and multiple witness holes along the spine, so the shooter can easily verify round count at any given moment. Available in black or brown, Pioneer's waffle mags offer the perfect blend of old-school aesthetic appeal and modern functionality.
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Once you've selected your preferred AK mag, it's a good idea to test it by combining reload drills with live fire training to ensure proper fitment and feeding during normal use. Watch our video for more tips on how to train with your AK-platform rifle.
Shop all AK-pattern mags and drums!
