Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine Review

First Impressions of Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine

The 6.5 Grendel cartridge has always intrigued me with its impressive ballistics and accuracy potential in the AR-15 platform. When I got my hands on the Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine, I was eager to see how it would perform and whether it could address some of the feeding issues I’d experienced with other Grendel magazines.

For years, I’ve tinkered with AR platforms, constantly seeking that perfect balance of power, precision, and reliability. So, when the Alexander Arms magazine arrived, promising smooth feeding of the potent 6.5 Grendel cartridge, it felt like a pivotal moment in my quest. My initial experience involved a need to upgrade the magazine of my current AR-15 rifle. I had always struggled with feeding issues and inaccurate shots.

Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-built. The heat-treated steel body and durable coating immediately suggested a product designed for longevity and resistance to the harsh conditions I often encounter in the field. Compared to some of the polymer magazines I’ve used, this one had a reassuring heft and a sense of quality craftsmanship. I had previously used a generic brand 6.5 Grendel magazine and a C Products Defense magazine and I chose the Alexander Arms magazine because of the reputation of the brand name, Alexander Arms.

My first impression was definitely positive – I was excited to put this magazine through its paces and see if it lived up to its promise of reliable feeding and enhanced performance. This magazine seemed ready to handle the demands of competitive shooting and hunting alike.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine was the local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could focus solely on the magazine’s performance. I subjected it to a variety of scenarios, from rapid-fire drills to slow, deliberate precision shots. The weather that day was typical for late spring, with intermittent rain showers and fluctuating humidity.

Right out of the box, the magazine fed flawlessly. The rounds chambered smoothly and consistently, without any of the dreaded jams or misfeeds that I’d experienced with other Grendel magazines. There was no time needed to adjust to its use. I was immediately impressed with how intuitive and trouble-free it was.

After the first range session, I noted a slight stiffness in the spring but that was expected with any new magazine. There were no other issues found.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following months, I continued to use the Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine extensively in a variety of conditions. From dusty desert environments to damp woodland hunts, it consistently performed without a hiccup. After weeks and months of use, it held up remarkably well.

Despite being subjected to repeated loading, unloading, and exposure to the elements, the magazine showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The durable body coating proved resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the feed lips remained intact and undamaged. Cleaning the magazine was straightforward, requiring only a simple wipe-down with a cloth and a bore snake to remove any accumulated dirt and debris. It outperformed some of the aluminum magazines I’ve used, which often develop dents and feeding issues over time.

My previous experiences with magazines had been plagued by inconsistencies, but the Alexander Arms magazine consistently delivered smooth and reliable feeding. I never had to worry about jams or misfeeds while at the range or on a hunt.

Breaking Down the Features of Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine

Specifications

The Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and reliability.

• Manufacturer: Alexander Arms
• Caliber: 6.5mm Grendel. This cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and excellent energy retention at longer ranges.
• Capacity: 17 Rounds. This provides a good balance between firepower and magazine size.
• Material: Steel. The use of steel ensures durability and resistance to damage.
• Color: Black. A standard finish for most AR-15 magazines.
• Gun Make: AR Platform. Designed specifically for AR-15 rifles chambered in 6.5 Grendel.
• Gun Model: AR-15. Ensures compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 variants.
• Gun Type: Rifle. Optimized for rifle-length gas systems and buffer weights.

These specifications are not just numbers on a page; they directly translate into enhanced performance and user experience. The robust steel construction ensures the magazine can withstand the rigors of regular use. The 17-round capacity provides ample firepower without sacrificing maneuverability.

Performance & Functionality

The Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine excels in delivering reliable and consistent performance. From rapid-fire drills to precision shooting, it flawlessly feeds rounds into the chamber, ensuring minimal disruptions. The anti-tilt follower plays a crucial role in preventing jams and misfeeds.

The magazine’s functionality exceeded my expectations. The smooth feeding, combined with the robust construction, made it a standout performer in its class. One weakness is that the magazine is slightly heavier than polymer alternatives, due to the steel construction. The magazine meets every expectation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine is designed with both form and function in mind. The heat-treated steel body provides exceptional durability and the durable coating ensures resistance to corrosion and wear. Its weight is substantial, but this contributes to its robust feel and ability to withstand abuse.

The magazine is user-friendly, with no learning curve. The fully-deburred feed lips contribute to smooth and consistent feeding.

Durability & Maintenance

The Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine is built to last. The steel construction and durable coating ensure it can withstand years of use and abuse in the field. Based on my experience, I expect this magazine to last for many years with proper care.

Maintaining the magazine is simple. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Disassembly is straightforward, allowing for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine does not come with any additional accessories, but its compatibility with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers provides ample customization options. While no specific modifications are needed, some users may opt to add magazine pulls for faster reloads.

The magazine is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, including aftermarket followers and base plates. Be sure to use magazines designed for 6.5 Grendel cartridges.

Pros and Cons of Alexander Arms AR-15 6.5 Grendel 17 Round Rifle Magazine