The MAG-7 was developed as a close quarters combat (CQB) weapon, which would combine the aspects of a compact submachine gun and a pump shotgun. The design incorporates a 5-round box magazine that is placed within the pistol grip. This, along with the research showing that standard 12 gauge cartridges provide more than adequate stopping power at the close ranges for which the weapon was designed, led to the use of a special 12 gauge cartridge measuring 2.36 inch (60 mm) in length. The use of the MAG-7 with these cartridges yields an effective range of 45 yards (41.1 m), although they have a proven lethality to 90 yards (82 m). The MAG-7 also has a detachable, top-folding sheet metal stock.