At virtually the same time as they were releasing the M2 (second generation), they were working on the M3 (third generation), which brought a series of further changes.<\/p>\n
Magpul PMAG Generations: Understanding the Differences<\/h2>\n![\"Gen](\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Comparing-Magpul-Generations.jpg\" "\\"Gen")
The 2nd generation pmag on the right is very similar to the 3rd generation magazine (left)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nCurrently, the two major generations of PMAG products<\/a> are the M2 (second generation) and M3 (third generation). While the first generation is still available, the M2 and M3 are the main options for current AR owners.<\/p>\nUnderstanding the differences can help you choose the right product for your specific needs.<\/p>\n
M2 vs. M3 – Second vs. Third Generation<\/h3>\n
![\"Top](\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Gen-2-vs-Gen-3-pmag.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
First of all, there is a difference in compatibility, which is important to all gun owners. The original PMAG was designed to work with the Colt-spec M16 rifle, and they are very effective at meeting this goal. But the various dimensions of similar yet different rifles have made the M2 less effective for these purposes. The M3, however, appears to be more compatible with a variety of weapons, including international rifles and military-grade products. Essentially, the M3 functions in non-Colt-spec platforms while the M2 often runs into trouble.<\/p>\n
Physically, one of the most noticeable differences between the two generations is the dust cover. The M2 does not have a dust cover, so this needs to be ordered separately. The M3, however, does have a dust cover, which allows you to keep debris out of the magazine and protects the feed lips from impact. Not all shooters want dust covers, but if you do, the M3 is likely a better option.<\/p>\n
Floor Plate Differences<\/h4>\n![\"Base](\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Base-plate-comparison.jpg\" "\\"Gen")
The 2nd Generation Pmag on the right has a wider baseplate than the Gen 3 (left)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe floor plates or \u201cbutt plates\u201d also have differences. The plate of the M2 is wider, which can create difficulty when placing it into tight magazine pouches. This was thinned for the third generation to make storage easier.<\/p>\n
On the rear spine of the M3, you\u2019ll also notice a small notch sticking out of the magazine. This is a feature called the over-insertion stop, and it\u2019s there to ensure you can\u2019t jam the magazine too far into the weapon. With this feature, you can perform faster, more aggressive magazine changes with less chance for malfunction.<\/p>\n
Perhaps the most interesting feature on the M3 is the dot matrix. At the bottom of the magazine, Magpul has placed a grid of paint-pen dots that allow you to mark the magazine as you see fit. You can create a specific design or write a four-letter code or word into the magazine, creating easier identification for your PMAG product.<\/p>\n
Overall, Magpul claims the M3 has improved strength in addition to new features. This generation of the PMAG also has a low-friction four-way anti-tilt follower, which enhances chambering in your firearm.<\/p>\n
Which Should You Choose?<\/h3>\n
![\"Shooting](\"https:\/\/www.ammunitiontogo.com\/lodge\/wp-content\/uploads\/Shooting-ar-15.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Whether you choose the first, second, or third generation, you should consider all the features as well as your personal uses for the magazine. In most cases, however, many shooters consider the M3 the most advanced of the PMAG products currently available. This makes perfect sense. It\u2019s a continual evolution, a steady advancement to create a nearly perfect rifle magazine.<\/p>\n
The M3 has features that others do not (the dot matrix and over-insertion stop, as examples), but if you are shooting the standard AR rifles, the M2 or even the first generation will often suit your needs perfectly<\/a>.<\/p>\nWhy Buy the M2?<\/h3>\n
With all of the new features for the M3, why would anyone consider purchasing the M2 at all? It seems like the third generation has essentially eclipse the second, but there are still reasons to consider the M2.<\/p>\n
Most importantly, the M2 is still available. With supply-chain issues and firearm-product shortages, options for gun owners are limited. So if you find the M2 in stock, but can’t get your hands on M3s, the choice may have been made for you.<\/p>\n
M2s are generally more affordable as well. All those neat little features on the M3 increase the cost; one small improvement doesn\u2019t make a huge difference; a dozen improvements can significantly increase the final cost. Of course, the final price will depend on where and how you buy, but it\u2019s not uncommon for M3s to be a few dollars more.<\/p>\n
As of writing this article, you can find the 30-round Gen 3 for $15.45. The 30-round M2 sells for $12.75. That\u2019s less than $3, but it\u2019s a cost difference nonetheless. (Prices are subject to change. For official current pricing, please see our website.)<\/p>\n
Many, won\u2019t be deterred by the additional cost, but this is something to consider.<\/p>\n
Find the Ammo and Accessories You Need<\/h3>\n
Currently, the two major generations of PMAG products<\/a> are the M2 (second generation) and M3 (third generation). While the first generation is still available, the M2 and M3 are the main options for current AR owners.<\/p>\n Understanding the differences can help you choose the right product for your specific needs.<\/p>\n First of all, there is a difference in compatibility, which is important to all gun owners. The original PMAG was designed to work with the Colt-spec M16 rifle, and they are very effective at meeting this goal. But the various dimensions of similar yet different rifles have made the M2 less effective for these purposes. The M3, however, appears to be more compatible with a variety of weapons, including international rifles and military-grade products. Essentially, the M3 functions in non-Colt-spec platforms while the M2 often runs into trouble.<\/p>\n Physically, one of the most noticeable differences between the two generations is the dust cover. The M2 does not have a dust cover, so this needs to be ordered separately. The M3, however, does have a dust cover, which allows you to keep debris out of the magazine and protects the feed lips from impact. Not all shooters want dust covers, but if you do, the M3 is likely a better option.<\/p>\n The floor plates or \u201cbutt plates\u201d also have differences. The plate of the M2 is wider, which can create difficulty when placing it into tight magazine pouches. This was thinned for the third generation to make storage easier.<\/p>\n On the rear spine of the M3, you\u2019ll also notice a small notch sticking out of the magazine. This is a feature called the over-insertion stop, and it\u2019s there to ensure you can\u2019t jam the magazine too far into the weapon. With this feature, you can perform faster, more aggressive magazine changes with less chance for malfunction.<\/p>\n Perhaps the most interesting feature on the M3 is the dot matrix. At the bottom of the magazine, Magpul has placed a grid of paint-pen dots that allow you to mark the magazine as you see fit. You can create a specific design or write a four-letter code or word into the magazine, creating easier identification for your PMAG product.<\/p>\n Overall, Magpul claims the M3 has improved strength in addition to new features. This generation of the PMAG also has a low-friction four-way anti-tilt follower, which enhances chambering in your firearm.<\/p>\n Whether you choose the first, second, or third generation, you should consider all the features as well as your personal uses for the magazine. In most cases, however, many shooters consider the M3 the most advanced of the PMAG products currently available. This makes perfect sense. It\u2019s a continual evolution, a steady advancement to create a nearly perfect rifle magazine.<\/p>\n The M3 has features that others do not (the dot matrix and over-insertion stop, as examples), but if you are shooting the standard AR rifles, the M2 or even the first generation will often suit your needs perfectly<\/a>.<\/p>\n With all of the new features for the M3, why would anyone consider purchasing the M2 at all? It seems like the third generation has essentially eclipse the second, but there are still reasons to consider the M2.<\/p>\n Most importantly, the M2 is still available. With supply-chain issues and firearm-product shortages, options for gun owners are limited. So if you find the M2 in stock, but can’t get your hands on M3s, the choice may have been made for you.<\/p>\n M2s are generally more affordable as well. All those neat little features on the M3 increase the cost; one small improvement doesn\u2019t make a huge difference; a dozen improvements can significantly increase the final cost. Of course, the final price will depend on where and how you buy, but it\u2019s not uncommon for M3s to be a few dollars more.<\/p>\n As of writing this article, you can find the 30-round Gen 3 for $15.45. The 30-round M2 sells for $12.75. That\u2019s less than $3, but it\u2019s a cost difference nonetheless. (Prices are subject to change. For official current pricing, please see our website.)<\/p>\n Many, won\u2019t be deterred by the additional cost, but this is something to consider.<\/p>\nM2 vs. M3 – Second vs. Third Generation<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nFloor Plate Differences<\/h4>\n
Which Should You Choose?<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nWhy Buy the M2?<\/h3>\n
Find the Ammo and Accessories You Need<\/h3>\n