First Impressions of Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine promises to revolutionize 9mm AR builds, especially for those using delayed blowback systems. This magazine boasts an ejectorless design specifically tailored for seamless integration with MEAN Arms bearing delay or CMMG radial delay systems, offering a potential solution to common reliability issues.
I’ve spent countless hours tweaking 9mm ARs, constantly chasing that elusive perfect balance of performance and reliability. The allure of a 40-round capacity paired with an ejectorless design, promising smoother cycling with my radial delay system, was simply irresistible. My primary goal was to eliminate the frustrating failure-to-eject malfunctions that plagued my previous builds using Glock-style magazines and a standard AR-15 lower.
Upon receiving the ExoMag, I immediately noticed the robust polymer construction. It felt solid and well-made, certainly capable of withstanding the rigors of regular range use. The magazine’s weight felt appropriate for its size, not too heavy to be cumbersome but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Compared to my standard Glock-compatible magazines, the ExoMag felt like a purpose-built tool rather than an adaptation. While Glock magazines are reliable in their intended platform, their AR-15 conversion often felt like a compromise. This Mean Arms offering felt designed from the ground up for the AR-15, specifically with delayed blowback systems in mind. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; this magazine seemed to address the shortcomings of existing solutions.
I was definitely excited to get it to the range and see if it lived up to the hype, hoping it would solve the persistent ejection issues I’d been battling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range on a clear, moderately warm day. I ran the ExoMag through my 9mm AR-15 pistol, equipped with a CMMG radial delayed blowback system. I wanted to evaluate its performance with a variety of 9mm ammunition, including standard FMJ, defensive hollow points, and some heavier grain loads.
The magazine performed flawlessly through the first 120 rounds. There were no failures to feed, eject, or lock back on an empty magazine, even with the hollow points, which can sometimes be problematic. The ejectorless design appeared to be functioning as intended, allowing the radial delay system to manage the spent casings without interference from a magazine-mounted ejector.
Ease of use was exceptional; the magazine inserted smoothly, locked securely, and released cleanly. I did not require any break-in period or adjustments to get the magazine to function correctly. This was a significant improvement over some of my previous experiences with aftermarket AR-15 magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, spanning various range sessions and even a couple of informal shooting competitions. The magazine continues to function without issue.
The ExoMag has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. There are some superficial scratches on the polymer body, but nothing that affects its structural integrity or functionality. The feed lips remain intact, and the spring tension feels as strong as it did on day one.
Maintenance is simple; I typically wipe down the magazine with a clean cloth after each range session and occasionally disassemble it for a more thorough cleaning. The polymer construction makes it resistant to corrosion and easy to clean. Compared to my previous experiences with finicky 9mm magazines, the ExoMag has been a breath of fresh air. Its reliability and ease of maintenance have made it a staple in my range bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine is specifically designed for AR-15 platforms chambered in 9mm Luger. Its key features and specifications include:
- Magazine Capacity: 40 Rounds, offering a high-capacity option for extended shooting sessions. This larger capacity is a significant advantage for competitive shooting or situations where minimizing reloads is crucial.
- Caliber: 9mm Luger, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of readily available ammunition. The 9mm chambering makes it ideal for PCCs and AR pistol builds due to its manageable recoil and cost-effectiveness.
- Gun Make: AR Platform, designed specifically for AR-15 style firearms. The AR platform compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing AR-15 lowers and components.
- Gun Model: AR-15, further specifying its design for standard AR-15 lower receivers. This ensures a secure and reliable fit within the AR-15 magwell.
- Manufacturer: Mean Arms, a well-known company specializing in AR-15 accessories and components. Mean Arms’s reputation for quality and innovation inspires confidence in the product’s design and construction.
- Material: Polymer, offering a lightweight and durable construction. The polymer material provides excellent resistance to impact, chemicals, and temperature variations.
- Color: Black, providing a discreet and tactical appearance. The black color blends well with most AR-15 finishes and accessories.
- Ejectorless Design: Eliminates the need for a magazine-mounted ejector, optimized for delayed blowback systems. This feature is critical for reliable function with CMMG radial delay and MEAN Arms bearing delay systems.
- High-Tensile Steel Spring: Ensures consistent and reliable feeding of ammunition. A strong spring force is essential for proper cycling, especially with high-capacity magazines.
- Polymer Follower: Provides smooth and reliable cartridge presentation. The polymer follower minimizes friction and prevents binding, contributing to smooth feeding.
- Last Round Hold-Open Feature: Allows the bolt to lock back after the last round is fired, indicating an empty magazine. The last round hold-open feature is invaluable for efficient reloading and tactical awareness.
- STANAG-Pattern Compatibility: Designed to work with STANAG-pattern lower receivers. This provides broad compatibility with a wide array of AR-15 lowers.
Performance & Functionality
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag excels in its primary function: delivering reliable feeding and cycling of 9mm ammunition in AR-15 platforms equipped with delayed blowback systems. The ejectorless design is the key to its performance, allowing the delayed blowback system to function without interference, resulting in smoother operation and fewer malfunctions.
The magazine’s 40-round capacity is a significant advantage, particularly for competitive shooting or tactical applications where minimizing reloads is critical. I found that the ExoMag fed ammunition reliably, even during rapid fire. The last round hold-open feature consistently worked, allowing for quick and efficient reloads.
While the ExoMag is excellent for its intended purpose, its specialized design means it’s not a universal solution for all 9mm AR-15 builds. It’s specifically optimized for delayed blowback systems. Its performance in direct blowback systems would likely not be ideal.
Design & Ergonomics
The ExoMag’s design is focused on functionality and durability. The polymer construction is robust and feels comfortable in hand. The texturing on the magazine body provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
The magazine inserts smoothly into the AR-15 magwell and locks securely in place. Magazine changes are quick and easy. While the 40-round capacity does make the magazine longer than standard capacity magazines, it doesn’t feel excessively bulky or unwieldy. There’s no real learning curve to using this magazine; it functions just like any other AR-15 magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag is built to last. The high-quality polymer construction is resistant to impact, chemicals, and temperature extremes. The feed lips are reinforced to prevent deformation. The high-tensile steel spring is designed to maintain its tension over extended use.
Maintaining the magazine is straightforward. Disassembly is simple. The smooth polymer surfaces are easy to clean. I expect this magazine to provide many years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag doesn’t require any specific accessories for operation. However, it’s compatible with a variety of AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers, allowing for convenient storage and transportation.
While there aren’t specific “customization” options for the magazine itself, its compatibility with STANAG-pattern lower receivers means it can be used with a wide range of AR-15 accessories and components. This includes different grips, stocks, and optics. The magazine’s black finish also makes it easy to match with other black AR-15 components.
Pros and Cons of Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional reliability with delayed blowback systems. This is the magazine’s primary strength, solving a common problem for 9mm AR builds.
- High-capacity 40-round magazine. Minimizes reloads and provides a significant advantage in competitive or tactical situations.
- Durable polymer construction. Ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Last round hold-open feature. Facilitates quick and efficient reloads.
- Easy to maintain and clean. Simplifies maintenance and prolongs the magazine’s lifespan.
Cons
- Specifically designed for delayed blowback systems; not suitable for direct blowback 9mm AR-15s.
- $51.99 price point may be considered expensive compared to standard capacity magazines.
Who Should Buy Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for AR-15 owners with 9mm builds using CMMG radial delay or MEAN Arms bearing delay systems. It is also beneficial for competitive shooters needing a high-capacity magazine with enhanced reliability. Tactical shooters who require fewer reloads and a dependable magazine will also find it useful.
This product should be skipped by those with direct blowback 9mm AR-15s as the ejectorless design is not optimized for that system. Also, those on a very tight budget might find cheaper standard-capacity options more appealing.
A must-have modification to complement this magazine is a quality upper receiver and bolt designed specifically for delayed blowback operation. Ensure your system is correctly tuned for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine
The Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag, AR-15, 40 Round Rifle Magazine is a specialized but highly effective solution for 9mm AR-15 builds utilizing delayed blowback systems. Its reliability, high capacity, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to optimize their platform’s performance.
While the price may be higher than standard magazines, the ExoMag’s superior functionality and problem-solving design justify the cost for the right user. I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone struggling with reliability issues in their delayed blowback 9mm AR.
If you’re ready to take your 9mm AR-15 to the next level, give the Mean Arms Ejectorless ExoMag a try. You won’t be disappointed!
