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Prior to the mass production of extended magazines, shooters would achieve increased capacity by using heavy-duty tape to bind two standard mags together to facilitate a nearly instantaneous reload without interrupting cadence of fire. Modern magazine couplers offer the same functionality, but are they still relevant given the widespread availability of extended mags in 2024?
One of the primary advantages rifles offer over handguns and shotguns is their increased capacity, with standard AR and AK-pattern magazines holding 30 rounds of 5.56 NATO or 7.62x39 respectively. In general, the ability to put more rounds on target translates to a better outcome from a defensive encounter, so it's only rational to keep as much ammunition on tap as you possibly can.
Of course, standard 30-round mags are great when self defenders are decked out in full kit, with quick and easy access to multiple ammo pouches, but the same cannot be said for scenarios in which a plate carrier or battle belt is impractical or unavailable. This is where magazine couplers and extended mags come in.
A magazine coupler is exactly what it sounds like - a device that links two magazines together so that a defensive rifle can be stored with one mag inserted and another staged for a rapid reload. By contrast, an extended magazine merely bumps the standard 30-round capacity up to 40 or 60 rounds, depending on which model you choose. So, which of these options is best for you?
As a standalone part, magazine couplers are the most cost-effective solution for expanding a rifle's base capacity. Bind any two standard mags together and you instantly double your ammo reserve without impairing speed or mobility. In a staggered or side-by-side configuration, coupled mags are less cumbersome and faster to reload than longer, chunkier extended mags.
Several manufacturers offer reliable double-stack, quad-stack, or drum magazines that are designed to run in most AR-15 and AK-47 style firearms. While they are more expensive than standard-capacity magazines, extended mags allow you to put more rounds downrange without reloading. This makes them ideal for range use as well as applications that may require you to engage multiple targets or lay down suppressing fire while a friend or family member maneuvers out of harm's way.
Outside of a few specific use cases, magazine couplers are more practical and less expensive than extended magazines. They offer greater utility, as they can also be used to link two extended 40-rounders if so desired. Deciding whether to couple two aluminum or polymer magazines? Check out our video comparison and stress test below.
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