AMT AutoMag III Review

Ever wondered what happens when rugged design meets clever engineering? The AMT AutoMag III is one of those firearms that stands out with its unique features and stainless steel construction. Whether you’re into its matte finish, innovative recoil system, or just want a pistol that’s built to perform, there’s a lot to unpack here. Let’s dive in and see what makes this gun tick—you might just discover your next favorite!

Bottomline

The AMT AutoMag III is a reliable and distinctive pistol built for performance and durability.

AMT AutoMag II Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Width	Weight
.30 Carbine	8+1	6.5″	10.75″	1.375″	45 oz.

AMT AutoMag III History

The AutoMag (one word) was the brainchild of Harry Sanford, the man also behind the Auto Mag (two words) in the late 1960s. The AutoMag series was produced by AMT / IAI from the late 1980s through the 1990s before the company went under.

Currently, High Standard produces the AutoMag II. The AutoMag series included the AutoMag II, the AutoMag III, the AutoMag IV and the AutoMag V.

AMT AutoMag III Features

Slide-Mounted Safety

The AMT AutoMag III features a slide-mounted safety that’s a rotating cylinder designed to block the firing pin, stopping it from striking when engaged. It can be activated whether the hammer is cocked or not, giving you some extra flexibility in handling the firearm. However, while it’s effective at preventing accidental discharges, it doesn’t lock the trigger or sear. This means if the hammer is cocked and the safety is on, pulling the trigger will still drop the hammer—something to keep in mind, especially if you’re used to safeties that also decock the hammer for added security.

Bead-Blasted Matte Appearance

The AMT AutoMag III sports a bead-blasted matte finish that gives it a sleek, non-reflective surface, perfect for reducing glare and enhancing concealment. Made from stainless steel, it’s built tough and resists corrosion like a champ. However, while the matte look is functional and stylish, it’s a bit more prone to scratches and wear than polished finishes. Plus, if you’re someone who leans toward the classic blued or polished style, the matte aesthetic might not fully win you over.

Recoil Spring Assembly

The recoil spring assembly in the AMT AutoMag III features a spring-loaded pin that delays the barrel’s movement during firing, ensuring smooth cycling and reducing the risk of jams. It’s a great design for reliability, but it does make field stripping a bit trickier. The small spring and pin are easy to misplace during disassembly, which can be frustrating if you’re not careful. Plus, if these parts get damaged or wear out, they could cause operational hiccups, so a little extra care is definitely needed.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts

The AMT AutoMag III is a unique firearm that combines rugged durability with some thoughtful design features, but it’s not without its quirks. The slide-mounted safety, bead-blasted matte finish, and recoil spring assembly all add distinct functionality, though they come with a few trade-offs that might take getting used to. If you’re someone who values performance and doesn’t mind a bit of extra care during maintenance, this pistol has a lot to offer. Sure, it might not check every box for everyone, but for those who appreciate its character, the AutoMag III can be a reliable and exciting choice.

More Reading

Click here to see a 1990 article in Guns & Ammo on the AutoMag III.