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Magpul Releases PMAG for SureFire ICAR 6 ARC

I’ve been sitting in this for a long time. Magpul is poised to begin selling a new 25 round version of the PMAG. Designed in conjunction with SureFire specifically for the 6 ARC cartridge, it is used in the new Intermediate Combat Assault Rifle or ICAR as well as other upcoming intermediate cartridge rifles from other manufacturers.

6mm ARC (6x38mm) provides shooters with a light recoiling, accurate, and ballistically excellent cartridge option. The PMAG 25 ICAR GEN M3 Window magazine was designed specifically for the cartridge, offering a durable, reliable, lightweight, 25-round 6mm ARC polymer magazine for the Surefire ICAR carbine and other firearms with magazine wells based off the LWRCI Six8 mag well.

This magazine release is going to reinvigorate the AR market as we will begin to see new rifles and a magazine which can adequately handle the unique case design of 6 ARC. Turns out, although intended for 6 ARC, it also accommodates 338 ARC.

PMAG 25 for 6mm ARC for Surefire ICAR Features:

– 25-rounds of 6mm ARC

– Rounds-remaining capability via high-visibility coil and dual-side windows 

– Paint pen dot matrix for magazine identification 

– Redesigned bolt-catch notch for added clearance 

– Over-travel stop prevent over insertion 

– Slim, flared floorplate promotes extraction and handling while enabling use in mag pouches 

– MagLevel system 

– GEN M3 standard features such as constant curve internal geometry, a long-life stainless-steel spring, a four-way anti-tilt follower 

– Low-profile ribs and aggressive texture on front and rear gives additional grip in all conditions

The magazine itself is a progression of the 28 round Six8 mag developed for an LWRC project in 2012. They took that as a starting block and SureFire developed a larger magwell to accommodate that magazine. Additionally, they used a custom broach to modify the test mags for 6 ARC. Testing feedback was integrated into the production magazine. The end-user asked for a slightly shorter mag so they ultimately gave it a 25 round capacity. It fits in standard 30’round AR mag pouches.

As many of you know, SureFire has been working on small arms technologies for years such as the AROC operating system. Now, they’ve created an entire rifle. I reached out to SureFire to find what I’m allowed to say about ICAR. This is the statement they gave me:

SureFire has always been committed to leading from the front as we continue our relentless pursuit of the newest technology. The ICAR 6 ARC rifle is a glimpse behind the scenes of future SureFire technologies in development. This project is a result of decades of R&D and is a solution for a specific customer. Currently the project is in pre-production status and the product launch date is TBD at this time.

I have fired the ICAR and it answers my complaints regarding previous versions of carbines chambered in 6 ARC. Mainly, magazine issues and bolt issues. It’s fully ambi and even integrates an RRS section on the handguard. The ICAR is a laser and I’m hoping it is available soon. I want one.

This is a SureFire video on the magazine.

Be sure to check the ICAR and magazine out in the Magpul booth at SHOT Show. I believe it will be one of, if not the biggest draw at the show.

5 Responses to “Magpul Releases PMAG for SureFire ICAR 6 ARC”

  1. NTX says:

    Ahh, so this is what you were referring to the other month!

    SSD, I know they started with the Six8 magazine…is the ICAR/6 ARC mag backwards compatible with Six8 magazine wells, or did they have to enlarge it further?

    Also, I’m calling it now…I know the KS6 upper will fit on mil spec M4/M16 lowers, but I’m betting that the actual KS6 lower will fit an enlarged type magazine (maybe not the ICAR mag) but I’d bet it will be something similar.

  2. Sam says:

    Its not often we see something this disruptive. Impressive work all around.

  3. DangerMouse says:

    Legit, this is real news. Now I’m actually excited about something!

  4. BillC says:

    I can get behind this. I knew Magpul wouldn’t get behind 6ARC magazines… in 5.56mm ar-15 magwells.
    Never occurred to me they’d do it in Six8 magwells for 6.8 omag wall thickness. Now I regret not getting LWRC Six8 receiver set years ago when they were practically giving them away.

    • NTX says:

      Your local LWRC dealer can order Six8 receiver sets for you. They are still available on order, though they do tend to have a production delay because they are manufactured in batches.

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