KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Review

First Thoughts on the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin

The AK-47, a rifle synonymous with rugged reliability and widespread use, demands magazines that can keep up. The KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin promises just that, at a price point that’s hard to ignore. This review delves into whether this aftermarket magazine lives up to the AK platform’s reputation for dependability.

I needed a cost-effective solution for stocking up on magazines for my AK-pattern rifle. Range time can be expensive, and having enough magazines to avoid constant reloading is crucial for maximizing practice. I was looking for something durable and reliable without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid, with the weight hinting at a steel construction. The black finish appeared even and well-applied. The build quality seemed decent for an aftermarket option, though not quite on par with original ComBloc magazines I’ve handled.

Compared to a Bulgarian steel magazine and a Magpul PMAG AK magazine, the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin felt heavier than the PMAG but slightly less refined than the Bulgarian. I chose the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin hoping for a balance between the durability of steel and the affordability of aftermarket options. The 20-round capacity was also a selling point.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was attractive, but the true test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. Could it feed reliably, and would it stand up to repeated use?

Real-World Testing: Putting KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran approximately 100 rounds of various 7.62x39mm ammunition through it, including steel-cased and brass-cased rounds. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions.

Initially, the magazine was a bit stiff to load to its full 20-round capacity. However, it locked into my AK securely and fed the first few rounds without issue. After about 50 rounds, I experienced two failures to feed, where the bolt failed to strip a round from the magazine.

The magazine was easy to insert and remove, even with gloves. The follower seemed to move smoothly within the magazine body, except when fully loaded. The 20-round capacity offered a good balance between compactness and firepower.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds, the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin showed some signs of wear. The finish started to wear off around the locking lugs and feed lips. The magazine spring seemed to be loosening up, making loading slightly easier.

Durability-wise, the magazine held up reasonably well. There were no dents or significant damage despite being dropped on gravel and concrete a few times. The feed lips remained intact, and the magazine body showed no signs of cracking.

Maintenance involved wiping down the magazine with a CLP-soaked rag after each range session. I also occasionally disassembled it to clean the inside and inspect the spring. Disassembly was straightforward, requiring only a punch or similar tool.

Compared to my experience with military-surplus AK magazines, the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin performed adequately but not flawlessly. The occasional failures to feed were a concern, especially compared to the rock-solid reliability of my surplus magazines. However, given the price point, it was an acceptable trade-off for range use.

Breaking Down the Features of KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin

Specifications

The KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed for rifles chambered in 7.62x39mm. It has a stated capacity of 20 rounds. The magazine is constructed from steel and features a black finish.

The origin of this magazine is listed as “Aftermarket,” meaning it’s not manufactured by the original rifle manufacturer. The relatively low price of $13.99 reflects this aftermarket origin. The magazine’s dimensions are standard for AK-47 magazines, ensuring compatibility with most AK-pattern rifles.

These specifications are important because they determine the magazine’s compatibility, capacity, and durability. The steel construction suggests decent durability, while the 20-round capacity offers a practical compromise between a standard 30-round magazine and a shorter 10-round option. The aftermarket origin and low price point may indicate a trade-off in quality compared to higher-end magazines.

Performance & Functionality

The KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin performs adequately for range use but falls short of flawless reliability. As mentioned earlier, I experienced occasional failures to feed. This issue was more prevalent with steel-cased ammunition.

The magazine locks into the rifle securely and releases easily. The follower moves smoothly within the magazine body when clean and properly lubricated. However, loading to full capacity can be difficult, especially when new.

The magazine meets basic expectations for a 7.62x39mm AK magazine. It feeds ammunition most of the time and withstands basic handling. However, it doesn’t exceed expectations due to the occasional malfunctions.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for an aftermarket magazine at this price point. The steel construction provides a decent level of durability, but the finish is prone to wear. The weight is comparable to other steel AK magazines.

The KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or insertion. There is a slight learning curve in terms of understanding how much pressure to apply when loading. However, this becomes easier with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin should last for a reasonable amount of time. However, it’s unlikely to withstand the same level of abuse as a military-surplus magazine. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining its performance.

Disassembly and reassembly are relatively easy, allowing for thorough cleaning and inspection. Replacement parts, such as springs and followers, may be available from KCI USA INC or other aftermarket suppliers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization options are limited. However, some users may choose to apply custom paint or stencils to personalize their magazines.

The magazine is compatible with most standard AK-47 magazine pouches and carriers. It also works with most AK-pattern rifles designed to accept standard AK magazines.

Pros and Cons of KCI USA INC MAGAZINE AK-47 – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin