The Magpul D60

The Magpul D60

Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over the Magpul D60 magazine today. This high-capacity magazine offering from Magpul marks their first foray into drum magazines. Today we are going to examine this feeding device while delving into its traits, features, and other considerations. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the Magpul D60 drum magazine today.

Who is Magpul?

Magpul is one of the most well-known and recognizable companies in the firearms industry. The company notably produces a wide range of polymer and synthetic products which are lightweight and durable. These offerings include stocks, grips, sights, and magazines. Additionally, the company produces a wide range of metal parts and components for popular firearms such as AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. Beyond AR-15 and AR-10s, the company also supports a variety of other popular pistol and rifle designs. Notably, Magpul products are designed and manufactured in America and are trusted by shooters and armed professionals across the globe.

What is the Magpul D60?

The Magpul D60 represents a drum magazine offering from the prominent magazine producer. Like the name suggests, the Magpul D60 will hold a total of 60 rounds of 5.56 or .223 ammunition. This unit provides the capacity of two standard 30 round magazines in one magazine. The D60 features a rugged polymer construction which sets it apart from other magazines of this type. This construction utilizes the same materials used by other magazines from Magpul which have become staples for shooters. At its core, the D60 is a lightweight and efficiently-sized drum magazine offering which sets itself apart from similar magazines. Additionally, the components of the magazine are corrosion resistant and will hold up to the elements. The magazine also borrows the translucent window feature from the established PMAG line, allowing users to gauge remaining ammo. Ultimately, the D60 is an efficiently designed and feature-packed magazine produced by one of the industry’s most prominent magazine manufacturers. Purchase a Magpul D60

Compatible Firearms

The Magpul D60 is compatible with a wide range of STANAG 4179 firearms. Put plainly, this essentially means that if a firearm is capable of accepting AR-15 type magazines, the D60 is compatible. Shooters can employ Magpul D60 magazines in various firearms such as AR-15s, NATO pattern Steyr AUGs, and SCAR 16s. Of course, these platforms are just a drop in the bucket when it comes to compatible firearms. An overwhelming majority of semi-automatic firearms chambered in 5.56 accept STANAG type magazines. With the proliferation of AR-15s and other firearms which take STANAG magazines, most shooters will likely have a compatible firearm.

Magpul D60 Form Factor

As mentioned above, the Magpul D60 features an efficient form factor and is noticeably lighter than many other drum magazines. The magazine has an empty weight of 20.5 oz and an estimated loaded weight of about 46 oz. Dimensionally, Magpul states that their D60 has a max width of 4.1” and a max length of 7.4.” This form factor makes the magazine efficient and compact for its size and capacity. Notably, when inserted in a rifle, the D60 mirrors the profile and depth that a normal 30 round magazine has. Of course, the D60 is much wider than a standard 30 round mag, but the unit does not protrude excessively below the firearm. Because of this, the D60 can effectively be used while in the prone position or in conjunction with a bipod or rest.

Last Round Bolt Hold-Open

Notably, the Magpul D60 implements a last round bolt hold-open mechanism. This is to say that the bolt will lock to the rear when the magazine runs dry. The inclusion of this feature allows a shooter to follow the standard manual of arms while reloading. However, Magpul states that the bolt hold-open feature may not function with components that deviate from established Colt specs. Put plainly, the D60 may not feature with some of the aftermarket/out of spec AR-15 bolt catches on the market. Additionally, the bolt hold-open feature will only engage when a magazine runs dry. If one inserts an empty D60 into a firearm and pulls the bolt to the rear, the hold-open feature will not engage. The inclusion of a reliable hold-open mechanism sets the D60 apart from many of its counterparts.

Magpul D60 Loading Mechanism

The Magpul D60 loading mechanism makes the unit one of the easiest drum magazines on the market to load. Loading is accomplished by utilizing the ratcheting loading lever found at the front of the magazine. While not in use, this lever is folded downward and compliments the curve of the drum. To deploy this lever, one must simply fold it upwards and push it to the left. Doing so releases tension from the magazine spring and allows the follower to be depressed, allowing for easy hand loading. To complete the loading process, one will utilize this lever at regular intervals to provide slack as necessary. In addition to being easily loaded by hand, the Magpul D60 can also make use of various loading devices. Shooters can employ loading aids such as StripLULA devices and USGI stripper clips and guides.

Easy Maintenance

Notably, the Magpul D60 is also easily maintained. Should the need arise, the magazine is easily disassembled for cleaning with common tools. The drum magazine is held together by four tabs which are easily removed via a screwdriver or similar implement. Once these four tabs are removed, the magazine can effectively be field stripped and cleaned. Reassembly is accomplished reinstalling internal components and attaching the four large locking tabs. These tabs index with an islet in the front of the magazine and hook over the rear of the body. Purchase a Magpul D60

Dot Matrix Panel

Like the other Gen M3 magazines offered by Magpul, the D60 implements a dot matrix panel. This panel is located at the rear of the magazine and features space for four alphanumeric characters. Shooters typically utilize these types of features to mark their magazines for a variety of reasons. One could simply put their initials or other identifying text in this field to denote the magazine as theirs. Others may utilize a numbering system to keep track of magazines in their inventory. This allows users to easily identify and separate magazines if they have issues or need service. Additionally, some users utilize dot matrix fields to denote a specific type of ammo or loading. In short, the Magpul D60 dot matrix provides a solid and established marking ecosystem for those who need it.

Who is the Magpul D60 For?

The Magpul D60, like all of the company’s magazine offerings, is designed to be a reliable feeding device. Shooters of all types can appreciate the benefits and enhanced capacity of the Magpul D60. Practically, the magazine is best suited for recreational use cases. This is due to the fact that magazine pouches are designed to carry standard style magazines rather than drum magazines. As a larger magazine with a unique shape, a D60 will require a non-standard magazine pouch. This makes it cumbersome when utilized for anything such as duty use, competition, and serious training. Of course, some may find ways to practically employ a magazine of this type. Some may employ the magazine as in a staged capacity with a rifle to eliminate the need for multiple magazines. Other shooters may simply utilize the D60 as their first magazine and utilize standard magazines for subsequent reloads. This practice eliminates the need for dedicated D60 pouches. In short, the magazine truly shines in recreational roles where shooters simply want a large supply of ammo on hand.

Conclusion

All in all, the Magpul D60 represents a rugged and efficient drum magazine option. While the magazine may be bordering on impractical for some use cases, the D60 excels in recreational roles. Like all Magpul products, shooters can rest assured knowing that they are getting a quality product with the D60. At True Shot Ammo, we carry Magpul products like their D60 in addition to our inventory of ammo for sale. This range of ammunition for sale covers popular calibers and gauges like 9mm, 5.56, 12 gauge, and .22 LR. Whether you want to buy Magpul products, buy a Magpul D60, or buy bulk ammo, we have you covered. As always, happy shooting.