Like any semi-auto or automatic rifle, the M1A needs a good magazine-fed rifle to be used effectively. These magazines are broadly used for practice sessions and hunting. As a matter of fact, the flawless semi-automatic operation of these firearms is credited partially to top-notch magazines. That’s why you should never settle for second best when choosing a magazine for your M1A.

This review has the goal to make it easier for you to find a magazine that best suits your needs. Here, you will also get a better idea of what makes a good M1A mag. We will point out the qualities and features such a magazine should have. Apart from that, you are going to learn about the advantages of having an extra magazine.

Yes, there are a lot of things to be addressed. Without further ado, let’s get started!

What Makes a Good M1A Magazine?

A magazine for the M1A needs to meet some very specific requirements and have certain qualities to be regarded as a good choice.

First of all, it must be capable of withstanding pressure and fatigue. That’s because it will often be dropped, stomped, or kicked during use. A high-quality, durable magazine will reduce replacement expenses and ensure reliable operation.

The texture is the next factor to take into account. It’s advisable to choose a magazine with an anti-slip surface because your hands will get wet or sweaty in some situations. The textured magazines are easy to change and hold.

Another significant feature to consider is the follower. Good magazines come with anti-tilt, self-adjusting followers. These followers also have the ability to level automatically. This useful feature reduces the chances of feed malfunction. With regard to material, there are two options: metal and polymer. Which one to choose? Well, as long as the follower is self-adjusting, it’s no big deal.

Make sure your magazine fed rifle is properly sized so that it fits like a glove. It is also supposed to fall freely when pressing the mag release. That will eliminate the need to thump or pull out the mag of the rifle. Your best choice would be to buy a magazine that is tailored specifically for the M1A rifles.

Finally, you will want your magazine is easy to maintain and clean. Similar to the rifles, mags are inclined to collect dust and grime. That is why you need to clean it regularly. Go for a model that has a removable floorplate for cleaning. It can make things a whole lot easier.

What Are the Benefits of Having Extra Magazines?

It’s recommended to always have some additional mags close at hand. Whether you use your rifle for competitions or hunting, that will enable you to use it to best advantage. Having extra magazines allows for fast follow-up shots. This is going to keep you engaged and ready.

Some situations (like competitions or self-defense) require you to fire a lot of bullets very quickly. The last thing you want is to end up without ammo. Magazines are easy to store and handle. Aside from that, they keep ammunition organized at all times and in any situation.

For that reason, you should buy some additional mags for your M1A. It’s worth the extra cost. By the way, it should not be a costly affair for most people.

Top 4 Recommendations For The Best M1A Magazines

* The prices are not shown because of the frequent pricing update on Amazon.com. Please click on the Amazon buttons to get the latest pricing.

IMAGE

MODEL

PRICE

RATING

4.1/5

4.1/5

Best M1A Magazines On the Market

Now that you know how an ideal M1A mag should look like and why it is important to have one, let’s see what the industry has to offer. We will throw light on the best magazine options in the market and check them out thoroughly.

Our Rating

Top Rated M1A Magazine
5/5
If you are looking for a high-quality and extremely durable magazine for your M1A rifle, look no further. This magazine will live up to your expectations for sure. Its body is made from stainless steel to stand the test of time. The floor plate is also constructed from steel and can be removed with ease for cleaning. The rough finish ensures a good grip while releasing or installing. Since the mag does not rub on the rifle at all, the finish won’t wear after a while. There are also wide feed lips which prevent the rounds from getting stuck while feeding. The wound spring is equipped with a steel follower that makes a feed mechanism very reliable. As for the capacity, there are 5, 10 and 20-round variants available. These comply with laws in many states, so you can use this magazine for hunting with peace of mind.

PROS

  • Reliable feeding mechanism
  • Durable steel construction
  • Deliberately designed
  • Easy to clean
  • Fairly priced

CONS

  • A bit bulky

Summary: These magazines stand out from the rest with the flawless feed mechanism and durable steel construction. The units come with Parkerized mil-spec weather-resistant finish that can prevent corrosion and rust. Plus, they are easy to clean. The affordable price lets you buy a few extra units for your M1A. Don’t wait until the money burns a hole in your pocket!

Our Rating

4.7/5

If you are looking for a high-quality and extremely durable magazine for your M1A rifle, look no further. This magazine will live up to your expectations for sure.

Its body is made from stainless steel to stand the test of time. The floor plate is also constructed from steel and can be removed with ease for cleaning. The rough finish ensures a good grip while releasing or installing. Since the mag does not rub on the rifle at all, the finish won’t wear after a while.

There are also wide feed lips which prevent the rounds from getting stuck while feeding. The wound spring is equipped with a steel follower that makes a feed mechanism very reliable. As for the capacity, there are 5, 10 and 20-round variants available. These comply with laws in many states, so you can use this magazine for hunting with peace of mind.

PROS

  • Smooth, consistent feeding
  • Strong stainless steel construction
  • High-strength body
  • Easy cleaning
  • Good grip

CONS

  • Doesn’t look nice

Summary: This magazine is a durable and compact addition to any M1A rifle. It’s easy to clean, reliable, and versatile. The 10-round capacity is suitable for different activities, including self-defense, hunting, and competition. Thanks to the sturdy built, you will be able to use this unit in the toughest conditions. It will not crack, collapse, or chip.

Our Rating

4.5/5

Here’s another option that you need to consider buying for your M1A. This high capacity magazine is meant to withstand the most rigorous beating while still providing reliable, trouble-free operation thanks to the top-notch construction.

The welded, high-strength body of this amazing magazine leverages precision wound spring and steel follower. This ensures repeatable, smooth feeding. The cleaning is easy thanks to the removable floor plate.

Magazine restriction is 20 rounds, which is convenient for tactical use and competition. You will make the most of your firearm either way.

PROS

  • Rugged, all-steel magazine body
  • Works with many rifles
  • Allows for repeatable feeding
  • Reasonable price tag
  • Made in the USA

CONS

  • Only one capacity option

Summary: In a nutshell, this M1A mag features semi-auto action, extra-strong steel follower, and 20-round capacity. It’s great for different kinds of uses, be it hunting, self-defense, or competitions. The all-steel body is welded for enhanced durability. On top of that, the magazine is reasonably priced to suit your budget.

Our Rating

4.1/5

STI is a magazine brand that is widely used and very popular among shooters. This particular model is a versatile accessory that can be used with a variety of rifles.

It is all about durability. This high-capacity magazine is heat-treated and TIG welded for improved durability. That reduces the odds of failure and prevents the mag from cracking. The wound springs are designed in such a way to fit the body without trimming. The magazine comes with nylon follower and polymer base pad for perfect feeding.

It should be pointed out that the magazine is interchangeable with a wide range of rifles. Most importantly, it works well for M1A rifles, so you’ll get your money worth.

PROS

  • Complete mags
  • Durable stainless steel body
  • Flawless feeding
  • Easy cleaning
  • Good value for money

CONS

  • A little expensive
Summary: What we like about these magazines is the stainless steel body, reliable feeding mechanism, and high capacity frames. With all these qualities, STi mags can easily suit your needs and it is an ideal option for just about any rifle. The biggest downside is the price, as these magazines are a bit on the expensive side.

Conclusion

As you can see, it’s a good practice have additional magazines. This lets you shoot more and reload less. It is also a good idea to keep a few separate magazines for precision and practice uses. Be sure to use the best ones for your M1A. A good magazine is the one that is easy to clean, highly durable, and reliable.

It is also important to check out the magazine capacity. While the capacity choice depends a great deal on the intended purpose, make sure that your mag complies with local laws in your state.