First Impressions of Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine
The AR-10 platform, chambered in the potent 7.62×51 NATO (.308 Winchester), demands reliable and durable magazines. After years of relying on metal magazines, often plagued by denting and feeding issues, I was intrigued by the promise of Mission First Tactical’s (MFT) polymer offering, specifically the Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine. This magazine claimed enhanced strength and durability through advanced polymer technology, a feature I desperately needed for my hard-use AR-10.
I’ve dealt with countless magazine failures over the years, from dented feed lips to springs that gave out at the worst possible moment. My AR-10, a precision rifle I rely on for long-range shooting and occasional hunting, deserves better than unreliable magazines.
Upon unboxing, the MFT magazine felt noticeably robust. The textured grip and flared floor plate immediately inspired confidence, a stark contrast to the slick, often unwieldy feel of standard metal AR-10 magazines. Compared to Magpul’s SR25 PMAG and Lancer’s L7AWM magazine, both popular options, the MFT magazine presented a more aggressive texture and a seemingly more rigid polymer construction.
I chose the MFT magazine for its claims of exceptional durability and its focus on the AR10A/SR25/M110 pattern rifles, matching my rifle’s specifications perfectly. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, eager to see if the magazine could truly live up to its claims of superior reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine at my local shooting range, a dusty outdoor facility where magazines often get subjected to less-than-ideal conditions. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various 7.62×51 NATO ammunition types, including Federal Gold Medal Match, surplus Lake City, and some hunting rounds from Hornady. The magazine fed flawlessly, locking back the bolt consistently after the last round.
The magazine performed exceptionally well, even when intentionally dropping it onto the gravel-covered ground during reloads. I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the rounds fed, especially considering some polymer magazines can be sensitive to different bullet profiles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the MFT magazine has proven to be exceptionally durable. It’s been through numerous range sessions, a couple of hunting trips, and even some informal tactical drills. There are no signs of cracking or deformation, and the feed lips remain in perfect condition.
The magazine shows only minor cosmetic wear, primarily scuff marks from insertion and extraction. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down after use. It outperforms many of the metal magazines I’ve used in the past, which often required more meticulous cleaning and were prone to denting.
Breaking Down the Features of Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine is specifically designed for AR10A/SR25/M110 pattern rifles, chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester). It holds 20 rounds and is constructed from a next-generation long glass fiber polymer, enhancing its strength and durability.
The magazine features a ribbed front and rear gripping surface, a tool-less disassembly design with double floor plate safety release tabs, and a long-life stainless steel spring. It also includes a four-way anti-tilt self-lubricating follower, a flared floor plate, an oversized bolt catch, and a paint pen dot matrix for marking and identification. These features collectively contribute to the magazine’s reliability and user-friendliness.
Performance & Functionality
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its feeding reliability is outstanding, and the oversized bolt catch ensures positive bolt lock-back after the last round. The magazine meets and exceeds expectations, offering a significant upgrade over standard metal magazines.
While metal magazines can sometimes deform or dent, leading to malfunctions, the MFT magazine maintains its shape and functionality even after rough handling. This is a major advantage for anyone who uses their AR-10 in demanding environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The MFT magazine boasts a well-thought-out design. The polymer construction keeps the weight down while providing excellent impact resistance, and the ribbed gripping surfaces offer a secure hold, even with gloves. Its user-friendly design means there’s virtually no learning curve.
The flared floor plate aids in quick magazine changes, and the tool-less disassembly simplifies cleaning and maintenance. These design elements contribute to a positive overall user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of long glass fiber polymer ensures that the MFT magazine is built to last. I expect this magazine to withstand years of use without significant degradation. Maintenance is simple, and the magazine can be easily disassembled for cleaning if needed.
The stainless steel spring resists corrosion, further extending the magazine’s lifespan. This combination of durable materials and ease of maintenance makes the MFT magazine a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality, as it’s a self-contained unit. However, the paint pen dot matrix on the magazine body allows for personalized marking and identification. While not a customization option in the traditional sense, it offers a way to differentiate magazines for specific rifles or loadouts.
Its compatibility with any standard AR10A/SR25/M110 pattern rifle makes it a versatile option for various setups. This means users can confidently use this magazine with existing AR-10 platforms without concern for compatibility issues.
Pros and Cons of Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The long glass fiber polymer construction ensures the magazine can withstand significant abuse.
- Reliable Feeding: The magazine feeds flawlessly with various 7.62×51 NATO ammunition types.
- User-Friendly Design: Features like the ribbed gripping surfaces and flared floor plate enhance usability.
- Easy Maintenance: Tool-less disassembly makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
- Oversized Bolt Catch: Ensures positive bolt lock-back after the last round.
Cons
- The aggressive texture, while providing excellent grip, might be abrasive for some users during prolonged handling without gloves.
- While robust, polymer magazines can still be susceptible to melting under extreme heat conditions, though this is unlikely in typical use scenarios.
Who Should Buy Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine?
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine is perfect for AR-10 owners who demand reliability and durability from their magazines. This includes hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical users who rely on their rifles in demanding environments. It’s also a great option for anyone looking to upgrade from less reliable metal magazines.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear above all else might consider exploring other options, though the weight difference is minimal. Someone exclusively shooting precision bolt-action rifles might not need this magazine’s specific features.
A quality AR-10 optic is a must-have for maximizing the rifle’s potential, and a durable rifle case is essential for protecting it during transport. Reliable ammunition is crucial for optimal performance, and a cleaning kit will help maintain the rifle and magazine in top condition.
Conclusion on Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR10 SR25/M110 7.62 x 51 NATO 20 Rounds Rifle Magazine offers exceptional value for its price. The improved durability and reliability compared to standard metal magazines make it a worthwhile investment for any serious AR-10 user. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable magazine for their AR-10 rifle.
If you’re tired of dealing with magazine-related malfunctions and want a magazine you can trust, give the MFT EXD AR10 SR25/M110 a try. You won’t be disappointed.