Questions from an AR-15 Newb

Chromaflage · Oct 30, 2012

After much research and considering a number of manufacturers and custom building, I've settled on a DPMS Recon. Although discussion about my selection can take us deep into the woods, I'd like to avoid that for the time being. But, being new to the world of AR-15s, I have some questions (some may be silly, stupid and may fall into the category of "if you don't know, why are you getting and AR-15?"). Be that as it may, here goes:

1. Will any standard AR-15 magazine work with the DPMS AR?
2. If other mags will work, what are the "good" ones and what are the "bad" ones
3. Are the mags for .223 and 5.56 different or the same?
4. Is the DPMS capable of the same mods as a standard AR-15?

That's a good place to start, anyway. Thanks!

The Duck · Oct 30, 2012

1) Yes, in .223 / 5.56
2) Anyone with ammo in it is good, an empty one is bad...
3) Same either way
4) DPMS is a standard AR...

Note: When you get one, have someone who knows the platform go over it with you or at least You-Tube it! (Please)

DirectDrive · Oct 31, 2012

Chromaflage said:
After much research and considering a number of manufacturers and custom building, I've settled on a DPMS Recon. Although discussion about my selection can take us deep into the woods, I'd like to avoid that for the time being. But, being new to the world of AR-15s, I have some questions (some may be silly, stupid and may fall into the category of "if you don't know, why are you getting and AR-15?"). Be that as it may, here goes:

1. Will any standard AR-15 magazine work with the DPMS AR?
Yes, USGI type are probably the most dependable (NHMTG or D&H)
For a polymer mag Pmags and Lancer are very popular.
Avoid ANYTHING Tapco for an AR

2. If other mags will work, what are the "good" ones and what are the "bad" ones
See above
3. Are the mags for .223 and 5.56 different or the same?
Same.
Side note: Civilian .223 ammo is loaded to lower pressures than full power 5.56 ammo. Sometimes weak .223 ammo will not cycle well in some ARs.
4. Is the DPMS capable of the same mods as a standard AR-15?
Yes.
But...for similar money you may be able to get a higher grade weapon.
If you want to buy off the shelf, check with Kurt's in Milwaukie and tell him your budget.

That's a good place to start, anyway. Thanks!

See underlined text.

The B · Oct 31, 2012

That's gonna be one heavy carbine.

Born2hunt · Nov 4, 2012

I really like the Magpul mags. Great for me so far.

trainsktg · Nov 4, 2012

Chromaflage said:
After much research and considering a number of manufacturers and custom building, I've settled on a DPMS Recon. Although discussion about my selection can take us deep into the woods, I'd like to avoid that for the time being.

With that in mind, we might as well get in some AR15 forum humor

.

Typical gun forum advice - YouTube

Keith

DoubleTapDrew · Nov 4, 2012

Luckily the vast majority of ARs (including DPMS) are build to mil-spec dimensions so any AR mag will work. IMO the best AR mags for price/performance are USGI like D&H. Magpul pmags are also very good but tend to carry a heavier price tag. Copes is having a sale on 10 packs currently for about $9 a pop
<broken link removed>

Modeler · Nov 4, 2012

trainsktg said:
With that in mind, we might as well get in some AR15 forum humor .

Typical gun forum advice - YouTube

Keith

That video wasn't nearly as funny as I had hoped.

shooter58 · Nov 6, 2012

I have had experience with 3 DPMS lowers and a variety of mags. No issues to speak of. I have most experience with mil spec aluminum mags but also have had good luck with magpul and iMag.