First Impressions of Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine
The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine promises a significant boost in firepower for VR shotgun owners. This magazine aims to extend shooting sessions without constant reloading, making it a compelling option for competitive shooters or those wanting increased capacity for home defense. I wanted to evaluate whether this aftermarket magazine lives up to the hype and whether the increased capacity is worth the potential trade-offs in reliability.
My primary reason for considering this magazine was the limited capacity of my factory VR80 magazines. The standard 5-round capacity often felt restrictive during practice sessions and left me wanting more in defensive scenarios. I was looking for a high-capacity solution that wouldn’t compromise the reliability I expect from my shotgun.
Upon unboxing, the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine felt solid, although the polymer body did initially give me pause. Compared to the metal construction of some competitors’ magazines, I was curious about its long-term durability. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about potential feeding issues, a common concern with high-capacity magazines.
Several other high-capacity VR shotgun magazines are available on the market, but I chose the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine due to its advertised compatibility with multiple VR models. Additionally, the price point was more attractive than some of the higher-end, all-metal options, making it a worthwhile gamble. I was cautiously optimistic and eager to see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on its feeding reliability and ease of use. The range offered various scenarios, from static target shooting to more dynamic drills involving movement and rapid target acquisition. The weather was dry and mild, providing optimal conditions for testing.
The magazine loaded into my VR80 with a firm click, and initially, I experienced a few failures to feed in the first five rounds. However, after cycling the action a few times and ensuring the magazine was properly seated, the feeding became much smoother. The added weight of the 19 rounds was noticeable, requiring a firmer grip and stance for comfortable shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and hundreds of rounds, the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine has proven to be reasonably reliable, though not flawless. I still encounter occasional failures to feed, particularly with lighter target loads. Overall, it holds up reasonably well, especially with heavier buckshot and slug rounds.
After about six months of use, there are some minor signs of wear and tear, mainly cosmetic scratches on the polymer body. Cleaning is straightforward; simply wiping down the exterior and occasionally disassembling it to clean the internals. Compared to the factory magazines, the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine requires a bit more attention to ensure proper seating and feeding, but the increased capacity generally outweighs the minor inconvenience.
Breaking Down the Features of Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Armscor Precision Inc manufactures this magazine. Armscor is a known name in firearms and ammunition.
- Gauge: It is designed for 12 Gauge shotguns. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of VR series shotguns.
- Magazine Capacity: It holds 19 rounds. This high capacity significantly reduces reloading frequency.
- Material: The magazine body is made of polymer. This reduces weight but may compromise durability compared to metal magazines.
- Finish: It has a blued metal finish. The metal provides enhanced strength in the critical feed lip area.
- Gun Make Compatibility: It is compatible with Rock Island Armory shotguns. Confirmed models include VR82, VRPA40, VRF14, and VR70.
- Quantity: It comes as a single pack. You receive one magazine per purchase.
Performance & Functionality
The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine provides a substantial increase in firepower for VR shotgun owners. Its primary function is to provide extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads. The magazine performs adequately, although not perfectly, with most types of 12-gauge ammunition.
The main strength is its high capacity. The main weakness is occasional feeding issues, especially with lighter target loads. It generally meets expectations for recreational shooting, but might require more careful ammo selection for critical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is straightforward, prioritizing capacity and compatibility. The polymer body contributes to a lighter weight than some competitors, but it may feel less robust. Seating the magazine requires a firm push, and removing it can be slightly stiff at times.
The learning curve is minimal, as it operates like any other box magazine. However, users need to be mindful of potential feeding issues and ensure proper seating for reliable performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability is still being assessed, but the polymer body shows some cosmetic wear after moderate use. Maintenance involves regular cleaning of the magazine body and feed lips. Disassembly for thorough cleaning is relatively simple, requiring minimal tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come standard with the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine. There are no customization options directly related to the magazine itself. However, the magazine’s compatibility with various VR shotgun models means it benefits from any general VR accessory upgrades, such as improved charging handles or optics.
Pros and Cons of Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine
Pros
- Increased Capacity: The 19-round capacity drastically reduces reload times, enhancing the shooting experience.
- Broad Compatibility: It fits multiple Rock Island Armory VR series shotguns (VR82, VRPA40, VRF14, VR70), offering versatility.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other high-capacity magazines, it represents good value for money.
- Lightweight Design: The polymer construction reduces overall weight, making it easier to handle during extended use.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple design allows for easy cleaning and upkeep, ensuring reliable performance.
Cons
- Feeding Issues: Occasional failures to feed, especially with lighter target loads, can be frustrating.
- Polymer Durability: The polymer body may not be as durable as all-metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine?
The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters who need increased capacity to minimize reload times during matches. It also benefits recreational shooters who enjoy extended shooting sessions without constant interruptions. Home defense users seeking a higher round count in their VR shotgun may find this magazine valuable, but they should prioritize reliable ammunition.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who demand absolute reliability above all else. If you need flawless feeding with every round, regardless of ammunition type, a standard capacity metal magazine might be a better choice. Users who prefer the robustness of all-metal construction should also explore alternative options.
A must-have modification or accessory is a high-quality shell carrier to keep extra ammunition readily available for quick reloading. Additionally, experimenting with different brands and types of 12-gauge ammunition can help identify the most reliable loads for this magazine.
Conclusion on Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine
Overall, the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine delivers on its promise of increased capacity, but with some compromises. The price is justified for those prioritizing round count and willing to manage occasional feeding issues. I would personally recommend it to recreational shooters and competitive users who understand its limitations and take steps to ensure reliable feeding with their chosen ammunition.
The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island VR 12 Gauge 19 Round Shotgun Magazine significantly enhances the VR shotgun experience for those seeking more firepower. Consider purchasing if you value capacity and are prepared to test different ammunition types.