Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine Review

First Impressions of Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine

The Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine promises to deliver enhanced grip, reliability, and lightweight performance in a compact package. With its distinct hexagonal pattern and advanced polymer construction, this magazine immediately catches the eye. The Hexmag brand has been gaining traction for offering affordable yet innovative AR-15 accessories.

I’ve been struggling with finding reliable and durable 10-round magazines for my AR-15 that are also easy to manipulate. Standard capacity magazines are great for open ranges, but 10-rounders are often necessary for hunting or meeting local regulations. I specifically wanted something shorter and lighter than the standard 10-round magazines I’ve used in the past.

Upon unboxing, the Hexmag Shorty feels surprisingly solid despite its light weight, thanks to the CarbonSenthex Advanced Carbon Fiber polymer. The Hexture Texture on the exterior provides a secure grip. The HexID identification system is also a clever touch, allowing for easy color-coding and organization.

Compared to my older steel 10-round magazines and some polymer offerings from Magpul and Lancer, the Hexmag stood out because of its aggressive texturing and promised weight savings. I picked the Hexmag because I wanted a magazine that was specifically designed for enhanced ergonomics and lightweight performance, features that are critical in tactical situations where every ounce counts. My initial impression is one of cautious optimism; the design is intriguing, but the real test will be its performance under stress.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hexmag Shorty at my local shooting range, under relatively ideal conditions – a clear, sunny day with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I primarily used it with my AR-15 chambered in 5.56x45mm. Right out of the box, loading was smooth, and the magazine locked into the magwell with a positive click.

The magazine performed flawlessly through the first few cycles, feeding rounds cleanly without any hiccups. The Hexture Texture was noticeably grippier than my other magazines, especially when my hands were slightly sweaty. There were no noticeable issues, but I did find myself wishing I had a few more mags to run for a more thorough initial test.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range sessions and some dry-fire practice drills, the Hexmag Shorty has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mostly just superficial scratches on the exterior polymer. The stainless steel spring shows no signs of weakening.

Cleaning the magazine is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient, though occasionally, I’ll use a brush to remove any stubborn debris. Compared to some cheaper magazines I’ve used in the past that would start to show feeding issues after a few hundred rounds, the Hexmag has been consistently reliable. It outperformed my expectations for a polymer magazine in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine

Specifications

The Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine features a polymer body constructed from CarbonSenthex Advanced Carbon Fiber polymer, making it lightweight and durable. It has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, compliant with various state regulations. The magazine is designed for the 5.56x45mm NATO caliber and is compatible with AR-15 platforms, including the M16 and M4.

The magazine utilizes a stainless steel spring to ensure reliable feeding. The exterior features Hexmag’s signature Hexture Texture for superior grip and manipulation, even in adverse conditions. The HexID identification system allows users to customize the magazine with different colored followers and baseplates for easy identification. These specifications combine to offer a lightweight, durable, and user-friendly magazine solution for AR-15 owners.

Performance & Functionality

The Hexmag Shorty performs its primary function—feeding ammunition—reliably and consistently. During my testing, I experienced no failures to feed or double feeds. The magazine locks into the AR-15 magwell securely, with minimal wobble.

The Hexture Texture significantly enhances grip, even with wet or gloved hands. One minor weakness is that the short length of the magazine can make it slightly harder to extract from a tight magazine pouch. Overall, the magazine meets and even exceeds expectations for a 10-round polymer magazine.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the CarbonSenthex polymer feeling both rigid and lightweight. The magazine weighs only a few ounces, making it a good choice for those looking to minimize the weight of their gear. The Hexture Texture is not just aesthetically pleasing; it genuinely improves grip.

The Hexmag Shorty is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques to load or unload. The HexID system is a clever design element that adds a degree of customization and organization. The stripper clip guides also allow for faster reloading.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, the Hexmag Shorty is built to last. The polymer body is resistant to impacts and scratches, and the stainless steel spring should maintain its tension for years to come. The magazine is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, requiring only a punch or similar tool to remove the baseplate.

Regular cleaning is recommended to ensure reliable feeding, but the magazine requires minimal maintenance overall. I expect this magazine to withstand thousands of rounds without issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hexmag Shorty itself doesn’t come with many accessories, but the HexID system allows for customization with different colored followers and baseplates. These color-coded parts can be useful for identifying different calibers or types of ammunition. While no modifications are needed, some users might consider adding a magazine pull for faster reloads.

The Hexmag Shorty is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers. It also works with most aftermarket AR-15 triggers and fire control groups. The use of different colored followers to designate different ammunition types is also possible.

Pros and Cons of Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine

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Who Should Buy Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine?

The Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine is perfect for:

• AR-15 owners in states with magazine capacity restrictions who need reliable 10-round magazines.
• Competitive shooters looking for lightweight and easy-to-grip magazines for faster reloads.
• Tactical shooters who prioritize weight savings and reliable performance.

Someone who frequently engages in high-intensity tactical scenarios or requires maximum durability in extreme environments might prefer steel magazines. A must-have accessory would be colored HexID followers to easily identify different loadouts.

Conclusion on Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine

The Hexmag AR-15 5.56×45 10 Rounds Shorty Rifle Magazine is a well-designed, reliable, and affordable option for anyone needing a compliant AR-15 magazine. The price is more than justified given its robust performance. I would definitely recommend it.

The enhanced grip, lightweight construction, and reliable feeding make it a standout choice in the crowded market of AR-15 magazines. Add a few to your range bag today!