AR-15 20RD WAFFLE MAGAZINE STEEL Reviews & Ratings

AR-15 2ORD WAFFLE MAGAZINE STEEL

The Brownells Retro Waffle steel 20-round M16 magazine is a close replica of the original military M16 magazines issued in the late 1950s and early ’60s. With the distinctive waffle pattern stamped into its steel (NOT aluminum!) body, just like the originals, our Waffle 20-round M16 magazine gives the final touch of period accuracy to your "retro" reproduction rifle. Most of the original USGI waffle mags were destroyed by the Department of Defense and so are extremely rare and hard to come by - and the few that survived are collector’s items too valuable to shoot. Our mags give you the period-correct appearance at a fraction of the cost, with 100% up-to-date and reliable innards for dependable function in ANY AR-15 - new, old, or reproduction.

Magazine body & floorplate made exclusively for Brownells by Nodak Spud
Floorplate & spring are from the Brownells USGI 20rd aluminum magazines
Fully heat-treated (for strength) carbon steel magazine body
Waffle pattern crisply stamped into the sheet metal
Matte black Parkerized finish

With a Brownells Retro Waffle steel 20-round M16 magazine, you give your retro AR-15 build that vintage military look. The waffle texture gives any AR-15 shooter extra "purchase" to aid in fast mag changes in non-retro rifles, too.

See all of our AR15s and AR15 parts here.

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2 Stars

Reviews Summary

Customers appreciate the nostalgic design and improved functionality of the AR-15 Waffle Magazine but express concerns over its price, follower materials, and occasional quality control issues. While many find them visually appealing and reliable, some experienced problems with fit, finish, and durability, particularly compared to original mags.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Design & Aesthetics

70%

Reviewers frequently highlight the nostalgic appeal of the waffle design, making it an attractive option for retro rifle builds. The magazine's look is often referred to as visually appealing, especially to those who appreciate vintage styles.

Functionality & Reliability

60%

Many users report 100% functionality, with several stating they experienced no failures during use. The overall performance of the magazine is generally praised and is considered reliable for various types of shooting experiences.

Pricing Concerns

55%

A recurring theme in reviews is the perception of high pricing. Many customers feel that while the quality is solid, the cost is a bit steep compared to alternatives, which affects their overall satisfaction.

Quality Control Issues

45%

Some reviews mention issues with fit and finish, including concerns about the magazine's polymer follower and the finish rubbing off easily. While satisfaction with the product is high overall, these issues were notable for several reviewers.

Customer Experience

40%

Comments regarding shipping and customer service were mixed. While some received their products promptly, others faced issues with customer service responses. Packaging quality was also mentioned positively, with several noting good arrival conditions.

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does not work in PSA lowers

this is a great reproduction mag - however, it will not lock into any of my PSA lowers - works fine in others - I don't know if it is just this mag, or a problem with the design - I have emailed Brownells twice, but they haven't bothered to answer - it truly is an authentic mag for an early build, but it needs to work properly -

does not work in PSA lowers

Very Poor Finish Quality

I bought this with the intention of using it in my reproduction M16-A1 style AR-15 build. When I received it the first thing I noticed was how gritty the finish on it was when compared to some original period correct magazines that I own, it almost feels like sandpaper. When I locked the magazine into my AR, it seemed to fit just fine, but when I took it out I noticed a bunch of black stuff on my hands. Upon closer inspection I noticed the finish was rubbing off of the magazine very easily. I also noticed that the magazine reeked of WD-40, like it was sprayed down with it before shipping. I tried to wipe down the magazine with a towel to see if I could get rid of the smell, and instead it took off quite a bit of the finish with very little effort. Needless to say I'm extremely disappointed with the quality of the magazine given the price.