Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan Review

First Thoughts on the Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is a high-capacity drum magazine designed to significantly increase the firepower of your 1919-style 12-gauge shotgun. From the Black River Manufacturing brand, this magazine promises enhanced reliability and ease of use. With its ability to hold 30 rounds and featuring an EZ LOAD wheel, this drum aims to revolutionize the shooting experience for 1919 shotgun owners.

I’ve always been a proponent of responsible firepower and tactical preparedness. The limitations of standard capacity magazines have always been a slight hurdle, especially in dynamic shooting environments. I was searching for a high-capacity solution for my 1919-style shotgun that wouldn’t compromise reliability or ease of use.

Upon unboxing, the Black River drum magazine made a strong first impression. The build quality felt robust, with a noticeable heft that inspired confidence. The FDE (Flat Dark Earth) finish added a tactical aesthetic, blending well with my shotgun.

Compared to standard stick magazines (typically 5 or 10 rounds) and even some smaller capacity drum magazines, the Black River 30-round drum offered a significant advantage in terms of capacity. I chose this particular model because of Black River’s reputation for quality and the promise of the EZ LOAD wheel. I was also drawn to the availability in both Black and FDE finishes to match my existing setup.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could a 30-round drum really function reliably in a semi-automatic 12-gauge platform? The potential increase in firepower was undeniable, but I needed to see it perform in real-world conditions to be truly convinced.

Real-World Testing: Putting Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan at my local shooting range. The conditions were typical for a spring afternoon – sunny with a slight breeze. I ran a variety of 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells through it, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs.

The initial loading process using the EZ LOAD wheel was surprisingly smooth. It definitely made loading all 30 rounds much easier than manually stuffing each shell. However, I did notice a slight learning curve in getting the tension just right.

The first few magazines ran flawlessly, with smooth feeding and reliable cycling. However, after about 100 rounds, I experienced a couple of failures to feed with some cheaper birdshot. This could be related to the shell quality, or the magazine spring needing some breaking in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Black River drum has become a regular part of my range setup. I’ve put several hundred more rounds through it, and the reliability has improved significantly. It now cycles most ammunition reliably, with the exception of some very low-powered target loads.

The drum shows minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its robust construction. The FDE finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from handling and storage. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only occasional disassembly and wiping down.

Compared to the standard stick magazines, the Black River drum offers a vastly superior shooting experience in terms of sustained firepower. While stick magazines require frequent reloads, the drum allows for extended shooting sessions with minimal interruption. It has exceeded my expectations for sheer capacity and is now a go-to choice for training and recreational shooting.

Breaking Down the Features of Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan

Specifications

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality. It has a 30-round capacity for both 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells. The magazine also features an EZ LOAD wheel for easy loading and weighs 66 ounces (4.125 lbs) when empty.

The internal components are heat-treated for extended lifespan and enhanced durability. It also uses a proprietary spring designed for reliable feeding. The magazine is also element-resistant, designed to withstand various environmental conditions and is drop-tested for durability.

These specifications are critical for ensuring reliable feeding, long-term durability, and ease of use. The high capacity allows for extended shooting sessions, while the EZ LOAD wheel reduces loading fatigue. The heat-treated components and proprietary spring contribute to the magazine’s ability to withstand the rigors of regular use.

Performance & Functionality

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan performs its primary function – feeding ammunition – admirably well, particularly after a break-in period. Accuracy isn’t directly affected by the magazine itself, but the increased capacity allows for more sustained and focused shooting. Reliability is generally excellent, with only occasional issues with certain types of low-powered ammunition.

The main strength is its significantly increased firepower and relatively easy loading process. The main area for improvement would be optimizing the spring tension for flawless feeding with all types of 12-gauge ammunition. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable advantage over standard capacity magazines.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black River drum features a robust and functional design. The materials used appear to be high-quality, contributing to the magazine’s overall durability and weight. While the 66-ounce weight is noticeable, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the increased capacity.

The drum is relatively user-friendly, thanks to the EZ LOAD wheel. There is a slight learning curve to getting the tension just right. However, once mastered, it significantly speeds up the loading process.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, the Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan should last for many years with proper care. The heat-treated internal components and durable polymer exterior are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional disassembly and cleaning. The magazine can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is primarily a standalone product, and doesn’t inherently require any additional accessories. However, a speed loader specifically designed for drum magazines could further enhance the loading process.

The magazine is compatible with a wide range of 1919-style shotguns, making it a versatile addition to any owner’s collection. Because this is a magazine, it is also compatible with various ammunition types.

Pros and Cons of Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan

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Who Should Buy Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan?

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical training enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a significant increase in firepower for their 1919-style shotgun. It is also well-suited for those who value ease of use and durable construction.

Individuals primarily using low-powered target loads or those who prioritize lightweight equipment might want to consider other options. Users who do not own a 1919-style shotgun should also skip this product.

A must-have modification or accessory would be a quality speed loader designed specifically for drum magazines, to further streamline the loading process.

Conclusion on Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan

The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan delivers on its promise of increased firepower and enhanced ease of use. While the weight and occasional ammunition sensitivity are minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh the limitations. The heat-treated internal components and the EZ LOAD wheel set it apart from competitors.

The price is justified by the significant increase in capacity and overall build quality. It is a valuable investment for serious shooters.

I would personally recommend the Black River drum magazine to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 1919-style shotgun. If you’re ready to take your shooting experience to the next level, then consider adding this drum to your arsenal and unleash the true potential of your 12-gauge!

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