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Magazines guide

Magazine buying notes: capacity laws and feed reliability

What to check before stocking spare magazines — compatibility, springs, and state capacity limits.

By Tom Leach · Best Gun Prices · Updated November 5, 2026 · Honest tips — no fake prices

Spare magazines are consumables. Springs wear, followers crack, and cheap unmarked mags are a common source of “mystery” malfunctions that get blamed on the firearm.

Compatibility first

  • Match generation and model (for example, not every double-stack 9 mm magazine interchanges).
  • For AR-pattern rifles, stick with reputable STANAG-pattern magazines your rifle has already proven.
  • Mark practice magazines versus carry/duty magazines so you retire tired springs on purpose.

Capacity and shipping

State and local capacity limits can make a standard magazine illegal to ship to your door. Retailers usually filter by ship-to state, but you are still responsible for knowing your law. When in doubt, ask your FFL or a qualified local attorney — not a comments section.

Value without fake prices

Buy fewer good magazines rather than a crate of no-name units on a flash sale. We do not post invented dollar amounts; compare live listings and watch for bundle deals that include magazines you will actually use.

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