First Impressions of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine is a welcome addition to any M&P owner’s kit, offering a high-capacity, reliable feeding solution at a fraction of the cost of factory magazines. As someone who’s spent over a decade tinkering with, testing, and relying on tactical gear, I’m always on the hunt for affordable alternatives that don’t sacrifice performance. The promise of a magazine that can keep up with the demands of both range days and tactical drills, without breaking the bank, is definitely worth investigating.
My journey to this magazine stemmed from the rising costs of maintaining a healthy stable of magazines for my M&P. Factory magazines are great, but the price adds up, especially when you are trying to equip yourself for training and competition. I needed a cost-effective way to increase my magazine capacity without sacrificing reliability, and I was hoping the Armscor magazine would be the answer.
Out of the box, the magazine feels solid, a reassuring weight hinting at its steel construction. The blued finish gives it a classic, understated look that blends well with my M&P. Compared to factory magazines, the polymer basepad does feel a little less refined, but it’s a minor detail that doesn’t detract from the overall impression of a well-made product.
I considered ProMag and ETS magazines, but ProMag’s reputation for inconsistent quality steered me clear, and the ETS magazines, while intriguing with their transparent design, had questionable long-term reliability in some reviews. I chose the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine for its balance of affordability and positive user feedback, hoping for a dependable and budget-friendly option. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, eager to see how it would perform under the stress of regular use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a controlled environment where I could carefully observe the magazine’s performance with different types of ammunition. I ran several drills, including rapid-fire strings and reload exercises, to assess its feeding reliability and ease of use. The magazine was loaded and reloaded countless times, simulating the demands of a practical shooting competition.
The Armscor magazine performed admirably in relatively clean and dry conditions. Feeding was smooth, with no noticeable hiccups or failures to feed across a range of 9mm ammunition, from standard FMJ to hollow points. The magazine inserted positively into the magwell and dropped free without issue when released, streamlining the reloading process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including participation in two weekend-long training courses and numerous range sessions, the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be a dependable performer. It has been subjected to dusty conditions, accidental drops, and extended periods of being fully loaded. While the blued finish shows some minor wear, the magazine’s overall functionality has remained consistent.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session is usually sufficient. So far, I have not encountered any rust or significant corrosion, a testament to the quality of the steel used in its construction. Comparing it to some off-brand magazines I’ve used in the past, the Armscor significantly outperforms them in terms of both reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine is specifically designed to fit full-size Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm pistols. It boasts a 17-round capacity, offering a significant increase over standard magazines, making it ideal for competitive shooting, training, or home defense. The magazine body is constructed from durable steel with a blued finish to enhance corrosion resistance.
The polymer basepad provides a secure grip during magazine changes and helps protect the magazine from impact damage. Its compatibility is limited to the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm platform. However, it’s a crucial component for maximizing the firearm’s potential.
Performance & Functionality
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine performs its intended function flawlessly – reliably feeding 9mm rounds into the chamber of my M&P. Its 17-round capacity is a game-changer for high-volume shooting and tactical applications. While it may not have the perfectly smooth finish of a factory magazine, its performance is on par, and it represents a substantial value for the price.
The primary strength is its reliable feeding, while the slightly less refined basepad could be improved. It has definitely exceeded my expectations, providing near-factory performance at a fraction of the cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s steel construction provides a reassuring weight and durability, while the blued finish offers a classic, understated aesthetic. The polymer basepad is functional and provides a secure grip, although the material feels slightly less premium than the factory magazines. The design is simple and straightforward, with no unnecessary frills, focusing on functionality and reliability.
The magazine is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. It inserts smoothly and locks securely into the magazine well.
Durability & Maintenance
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine is built to last, thanks to its steel construction and durable blued finish. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure its longevity, even with frequent use. Disassembly for deep cleaning is relatively simple, allowing for easy removal of dirt and debris.
The magazine should provide years of reliable service with proper care. Keeping the internal spring clean and lightly lubricated is crucial for optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine itself doesn’t require additional accessories, as it’s designed to function as a standalone unit. However, aftermarket basepads can be installed to enhance grip and improve magazine handling. The compatibility with extended basepads designed for M&P magazines is a plus for those looking to customize their gear.
The Armscor magazine works well with various magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines. Third-party magazine loaders are also compatible, making loading easier during extended range sessions.
Pros and Cons of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding and consistent performance with various 9mm ammunition types.
- High-capacity (17 rounds) for extended shooting sessions and tactical applications.
- Durable steel construction with a corrosion-resistant blued finish.
- Affordable price point compared to factory S&W M&P magazines.
- Compatible with aftermarket M&P magazine basepads.
Cons
- The polymer basepad feels slightly less refined compared to factory magazines.
- Blued finish may show wear over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters and range enthusiasts seeking reliable, high-capacity magazines at an affordable price. It’s also a great option for home defense, providing peace of mind with its extended capacity. Anyone looking to build their magazine supply without breaking the bank would benefit from this product.
Those who demand the absolute highest level of fit and finish or require magazines for duty use in extreme environments might prefer factory magazines. Anyone unwilling to perform regular maintenance on their magazines should also look elsewhere.
Must-have modifications or accessories include a quality magazine loader and aftermarket basepads if enhanced grip is desired.
Conclusion on Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG S&W M&P 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine offers excellent value for the money. Its reliable performance and high-capacity make it a compelling alternative to more expensive factory magazines. The price is definitely justified, considering the magazine’s functionality and durability.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to expand their M&P magazine collection without emptying their wallet. If you’re looking for a dependable, budget-friendly magazine for your M&P, the Armscor ACT-MAG is a solid choice.