Airsoft gun magazines come in different shapes and sizes. Some airsoft gun magazines are designed to fit a specific airsoft gun, while others are more universal in design.
It is important to know which airsoft gun magazine is compatible with your airsoft gun before purchasing one, as using an incompatible airsoft gun magazine can cause damage to your weapon.
Magazines hold the airsoft BBs that are fed into the airsoft gun. Most airsoft gun magazines are made from plastic, with a metal spring inside to push the airsoft BBs up.
Airsoft gun magazines come in different capacities, which is the amount of airsoft BBs they can hold. The capacity of an airsoft gun magazine will usually be listed in the product description.
Key Takeaways
- Not all airsoft magazines are interchangeable — compatibility depends on the gun’s brand, model, and platform.
- Most mags fall into two types: mid-cap (no rattling, no winding) and hi-cap (larger capacity, needs winding).
- Even within the same brand, slight variations in fit and feeding can occur.
- Always check compatibility before buying; user reviews and manufacturer specs help.
- Upgrades like mag adapters and better-quality mags can improve performance.
Types of Airsoft Gun Magazines
There are several different types of airsoft gun magazines for the wide range of different airsoft guns on offer. There are key differences between each type, which is why it is so important to make sure that they match.
Airsoft Shotgun Magazines
Airsoft shotgun magazines are available for the wide range of different airsoft shotguns. Whether you have a gas or electric shotgun, or the Tokyo Marui, there are many different types such as drum magazines and slim profile magazines.
Shop Airsoft Shotgun Shells & Tanks
Airsoft Pistol Magazines
You can buy extended or standard airsoft pistol magazines to fit your pistol and your personal style. There are so many different types of airsoft pistol out there, so make sure you are buying one that matches.
Airsoft Sniper Magazines
For all the long-range experts out there, sniper magazines give you that extra peace of mind if you are going to be facing additional skirmishes. Look for additional capacity if you need it, otherwise go for lightweight.
Airsoft Gun Magazine Parts
Every now and again, you are going to need to give your airsoft gun magazines a little maintenance and repair.
Rather than replacing any damaged magazines, you can shop for replacement parts. You may be surprised by how easy it is to fix.
Airsoft gun magazine parts include replacement base plates, replacement bulb caps, and replacement magazine followers, but you can also invest in O-rings to convert your magazines to silent.
Compatible Airsoft Gun Magazines
Compatible airsoft gun magazines will offer smooth action and can be reloaded with ease. The best way to ensure that you are buying a compatible magazine is by checking the manufacturer description carefully.
It is important to note that just because the magazine is for the same kind of airsoft gun, that does not mean that it is compatible with your specific make.
For example, you should not buy any random pistol magazine and expect it to fit yours.
Airsoft Magazine Compatibility Charts
Airsoft magazines aren't universally compatible with all airsoft weapons, so you need to start by knowing which mags are compatible with your weapons before you jump into upgrading your arsenal.
Here are our airsoft magazine compatibility charts by weapon type:
1. Pistol Magazine Compatibility
Airsoft pistols (especially GBB models) usually have specific magazines designed for their make and model. Cross-compatibility between different pistol types is rare.
| Pistol Type/Model | Low-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Mid-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Hi-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock Series | Yes (typically 20-25 rounds) | N/A (standard capacity is low-cap) | Yes (extended mags, 50+ rounds) | Specific to Glock models (e.g., WE, KJW, Tokyo Marui). |
| 1911 Series | Yes (typically 15-20 rounds) | N/A | Yes (extended mags, 30+ rounds) | Specific to 1911 models. |
| Hi-Capa Series | Yes (typically 25-30 rounds) | N/A | Yes (extended mags, 50+ rounds) | Highly popular, many aftermarket options. |
| USP Series | Yes (typically 20-25 rounds | N/A | Yes (extended mags, 50+ rounds) | Specific to USP models. |
| Beretta M9/M92 | Yes (typically 20-25 rounds) | N/A | Yes (extended mags, 50+ rounds) | Specific to M9/M92 models |
| CZ P-09/SP-01 | Yes (typically 20-25 rounds) | N/A | Yes (extended mags, 50+ rounds) | Specific to CZ models. |
2. Rifle Magazine Compatibility (AEG)
Airsoft assault rifles, particularly AEGs (Automatic Electric Guns), often have more standardised magazine types within certain platforms.
| Low-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Mid-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Hi-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4/AR-15 Series | Yes (30-70 rounds) | Yes (120-180 rounds) | Yes (300-450 rounds) | Most common type, wide cross-compatibility among M4 AEGs (STANAG magazines). |
| AK-47/74 Series | Yes (70-150 rounds) | Yes (130-200 rounds) | Yes (400-600 rounds) | AK-specific magazines. Some variations between AK-47 (curved) and AK-74 (straighter) styles. |
| G36 Series | Yes (50-70 rounds) | Yes (100-140 rounds) | Yes (400-470 rounds) | G36-specific magazines, often with dummy rounds. |
| SCAR-L Series | Yes (30-70 rounds) | Yes (120-180 rounds) | Yes (300-450 rounds) | Uses STANAG (M4-style) magazines. |
| SCAR-H Series | Yes (70-90 rounds) | Yes (120-160 rounds) | Yes (300-400 rounds) | Uses specific SCAR-H magazines, not compatible with SCAR-L/M4. |
| MP5 Series | Yes (30-60 rounds) | Yes (90-130 rounds) | Yes (200-250 rounds) | MP5-specific magazines. |
| AUG Series | Yes (30-70 rounds) | Yes (110-170 rounds) | Yes (300-330 rounds) | AUG-specific magazines. |
3. Sniper Rifle Magazine Compatibility
Airsoft sniper rifles, especially bolt-action variants, typically have low-capacity magazines unique to their platform. Semi-automatic sniper rifles may share compatibility with their assault rifle counterparts.
| Sniper Rifle Type/Model | Low-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Mid-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Hi-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VSR-10 Series | Yes (30-50 rounds) | N/A | N/A | Bolt-action. Magazines are specific to the VSR-10 platform (e.g., Tokyo Marui, JG, Cyma). |
| L96/Type 96 Series | Yes (20-40 rounds) | N/A | N/A | Bolt-action. Magazines are specific to the L96 platform. |
| SVD (AEG/GBB) | Yes (80-100 rounds) | N/A | Yes (120-200 rounds) | SVD-specific magazines. GBB versions have lower capacity. |
| M110/SR-25 (AEG) | Yes (50-70 rounds) | Yes (100-150 rounds) | Yes (300-400 rounds) | Uses specific SR-25/M110 magazines, not compatible with M4/AR-15. |
4. Revolver Compatibility
Airsoft revolvers generally do not use traditional stick magazines. They typically use individual revolver shells that hold one BB, or magazine speedloaders to quickly load multiple shells.
| Revolver Type/Model | Low-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Mid-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Hi-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Airsoft Revolvers | N/A (use individual shells) | N/A | N/A | BBs are loaded into individual "shells" which are then inserted into the cylinder. Airsoft speedloaders are used for faster reloading of multiple shells. |
5. Machine Gun Magazine Compatibility (LMG/HMG)
Airsoft machine guns (Light Machine Guns – LMGs, or Heavy Machine Guns – HMGs) primarily use high-capacity box magazines or drum magazines, though some may also accept standard rifle magazines.
| Machine Gun Type/Model | Low-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Mid-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Hi-Cap Magazine Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M249 SAW | N/A | N/A | Yes (2500-5000 round box mag) | Primarily uses large electric box magazines. Some models can accept standard M4/STANAG magazines as a backup. |
| M60/PKM | N/A | N/A | Yes (3000-5000 round box mag) | Uses large electric box magazines specific to the model. |
| RPK (AEG) | Yes (AK low-caps) | Yes (AK mid-caps) | Yes (AK hi-caps, 1000-2000 round drum mag) | Can use standard AK-type magazines, but often comes with or is used with a large drum magazine. |
| MG42 (AEG) | N/A | N/A | Yes (2500-4000 round box mag) | Uses specific large electric box magazines. |
Incompatible Airsoft Gun Magazines
Simply put, incompatible airsoft gun magazines will either not work or cause damage to your gun. The chances are that it will not fit the gun in question, and as a result will have to be returned.
You should not try to force an incompatible magazine to fit your airsoft gun. This could result in wear and tear and could even cause a blockage. If you have any questions about whether the magazine is compatible, contact our team. We will be able to help you find the right fit.
Read More: Which Airsoft Gun is Right for Me?
High-Capacity Airsoft Magazines
High-capacity airsoft magazines will hold many BBs. If you are new to the sport, or you don’t want to waste a lot of time reloading, then these are a great choice.
Different types of high-capacity airsoft magazines include the drum magazine (typically for light machine guns), dual magazine (which are two magazines), cartridge magazine (which are made for maximum capacity) and box magazines (which look real but offer more BB storage).
Low Capacity Airsoft Magazines
As you would expect, low-capacity airsoft gun magazines offer very little in the way of BB storage. You can generally expect to load up to thirty BBs, but it will depend on the airsoft gun in question.
Because these magazines are geared toward realism, historical re-enactment groups generally use them.
For mil-sim enthusiasts, low-cap and real-cap magazines, with capacities similar to their real-steel counterparts, provide the most authentic experience.
Models such as the KWA QRF MOD 120 are known for their reliability and precision in this category.
Mid Capacity Airsoft Magazines
Mid-capacity airsoft magazines are the middle ground for those who want a little more realism and a bit more of a challenge in their skirmish but want to have the freedom to unload and have fun.
Mid-cap magazines are a favourite among airsoft players due to their realistic capacity, holding between 100-150 BBs on average. They do not rely on a winding mechanism, enabling a more immersive and noise-free experience.
Popular choices include the PTS EPM1 and the Evolution Reaper 110rd mid-cap Mag.
Common Airsoft Magazine Issues
It's important to acknowledge that airsoft magazines, like any mechanical component, are bound to experience issues from time to time.
Even with premium-quality magazines, regular use in demanding conditions can lead to certain problems.
Some of the most common issues players encounter include:
- Misfeed issues, where BBs fail to load into the hop-up chamber properly, are often caused by dirt, wear, or weak springs.
- Jamming issues can occur when debris or damaged BBs obstruct the mechanism.
- Compatibility issues* can occur if a magazine isn't designed to perfectly fit a specific replica, leading to wobbling or inconsistent feeding.
Regular maintenance, proper storage, and using high-quality BBs can help minimise these challenges and ensure better performance during gameplay.
*Compatibility depends on the make and model of your airsoft gun. Always check your firearm's specifications and the magazine's details to ensure a proper fit.
Our team is happy to assist with finding the right match for your gear.
How To Load An Airsoft Magazine
The best way to load an airsoft magazine will depend on the type of magazine and the gun in question.
If you have a gas gun, you will need to hold the gas bottle to the magazine for up to ten seconds, or load the gas cartridge, before pouring in the BBs.
With an AEG airsoft gun, you will need to place your speed loader on the magazine and pour BBs from it. Then, turn the spur gear on your magazine. Once it is full, simply insert it into your airsoft gun.
Find Quality Airsoft Gun Magazines at Socom Tactical
At Socom Tactical, you’ll find an extensive selection of airsoft magazines to suit a variety of weapons and play styles.
Whether you’re after high-capacity magazines for sustained gameplay or low-capacity ones for a more realistic experience, we’ve got you covered.
Our range includes options compatible with a wide array of airsoft rifles, pistols, and submachine guns, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your gear.
Shop online today or visit us in-store to explore our stock and get expert advice from our team.
