First Impressions of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The CZ 75 is a legendary pistol, known for its all-steel construction, comfortable ergonomics, and smooth shooting characteristics. However, factory CZ magazines can be expensive and sometimes difficult to find. That’s where the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine steps in, promising a reliable and affordable alternative. It aims to deliver the same capacity and function as the original magazines, but at a more accessible price point.
I’ve been shooting CZ pistols for years, primarily using them in practical shooting competitions. My original factory magazines are showing their age and I needed additional magazines to keep up with my training schedule without breaking the bank. I was looking for a cost-effective solution to expand my magazine arsenal, focusing on reliability and durability.
Upon receiving the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine, I immediately noticed its solid construction. The blued metal finish appeared even and well-applied, offering a good first impression. The magazine felt substantial in hand, indicating a sturdy build.
I’ve used Mec-Gar CZ 75 magazines in the past, which are widely considered high-quality aftermarket options. ProMag CZ 75 magazines are also available, but I’ve generally found their reliability to be inconsistent. The ACT-MAG, at its price point, seemed like a worthwhile gamble compared to the mixed reviews of ProMag.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The magazine seemed well-made for the price, but the real test would be how it performed at the range. If this magazine could reliably feed rounds and withstand regular use, it would be a valuable addition to my gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran it through my CZ 75 SP-01 Tactical, focusing on different drills that involve rapid firing and magazine changes. The weather was sunny and dry, ideal conditions for testing.
The magazine initially loaded a bit stiffly, especially when trying to reach the full 17-round capacity. However, it seated positively into the magazine well and locked the slide back after the last round was fired. I experienced no immediate failures to feed or eject during the first few magazines.
I didn’t encounter any major issues during this initial range session, although the slightly stiff spring was noticeable. It required more effort than my factory magazines to fully load the ACT-MAG. Overall, the first use was promising, suggesting the magazine had the potential to be a reliable training tool.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine during my regular training sessions, I have a better understanding of its long-term performance. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it in various drills and scenarios. The magazine continues to function, but some issues have surfaced.
The blued finish is showing some wear and tear, particularly around the feed lips and the baseplate. However, this is to be expected with regular use. The magazine spring has loosened up slightly, making loading easier, but it still feels a bit weaker than my factory magazines.
I had one instance where the magazine failed to lock the slide back after the last round. This only happened once, but it’s a concern. Compared to my factory CZ magazines, the ACT-MAG doesn’t feel quite as robust, but it still performs adequately for range use.
Breaking Down the Features of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
Manufacturer: Armscor Precision Inc. The company is known for producing a wide range of firearms and ammunition.
Gun Make: CZ. The magazine is specifically designed for CZ pistols.
Gun Model: CZ 75. This includes variants like the CZ 75B, CZ 75 SP-01, and other similar models that accept the same magazine pattern.
Caliber: 9mm Luger. This is one of the most popular handgun calibers, known for its versatility and affordability.
Magazine Capacity: 17 Round. This is the standard capacity for full-size CZ 75 magazines, providing ample firepower.
Color: Blued. The blued finish offers a traditional and aesthetically pleasing look.
Quantity: 1. Each purchase includes one magazine.
Fabric/Material: Metal. The metal construction ensures durability and longevity.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the magazine. The 17-round capacity is essential for practical shooting and self-defense scenarios. The metal construction contributes to the magazine’s ability to withstand repeated use and harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine performs adequately for range use, but it’s not without its quirks. Its primary function is to reliably feed 9mm rounds into a CZ 75 pistol, and for the most part, it accomplishes this. However, there are some areas where it falls short of expectations.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its compatibility and capacity. It fits snugly into my CZ 75 SP-01 Tactical and provides a 17-round capacity, which is ideal for training. The main weakness is the spring tension. It can be overly stiff when new and potentially weaken over time.
It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly magazine, but it doesn’t exceed them. It’s a decent option for range practice, but I wouldn’t rely on it exclusively for self-defense without extensive testing.
Design & Ergonomics
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine features a standard design consistent with most CZ 75 magazines. The blued steel construction feels solid, but the finish is somewhat basic. The magazine’s weight is comparable to factory magazines, contributing to a balanced feel in the pistol.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, although the stiff spring can make loading challenging. There isn’t a significant learning curve involved. It functions similarly to other CZ 75 magazines.
The design is functional, but not particularly innovative. The ergonomics are standard for CZ 75 magazines, meaning it fits comfortably and releases easily.
Durability & Maintenance
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine appears reasonably durable, but it’s not as robust as factory CZ magazines. The metal body should withstand regular use, but the blued finish may show wear over time. The longevity of the magazine will depend on how frequently it’s used and maintained.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe it down after each range session and occasionally lubricate the spring. Regular cleaning should help prolong its lifespan.
Overall, the magazine seems adequately durable for its price point, but it may not hold up to heavy use as well as higher-end options.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself. The baseplate can be replaced with aftermarket options if desired.
It is compatible with any CZ 75 that accepts standard capacity magazines. This includes a wide range of models and aftermarket accessories designed for the CZ 75 platform.
This ACT-MAG offers limited customization options, focusing instead on providing a functional and affordable replacement magazine.
Pros and Cons of Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than factory CZ magazines, making it budget-friendly.
Cons
- Spring Tension: Can be overly stiff when new and potentially weaken over time.
- Finish: The blued finish is basic and may show wear relatively quickly.
- Not as Robust as Factory Magazines: Overall build quality is not on par with higher-end options.
17-Round Capacity: Offers a standard capacity, ideal for practical shooting and self-defense.
Compatible with CZ 75: Designed specifically for the CZ 75 platform, ensuring proper fit and function.
Solid Metal Construction: Provides reasonable durability for regular use.
Good option for adding more magazines for training without breaking the bank.
Who Should Buy Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need additional magazines for range training. It’s also suitable for CZ 75 owners who want to expand their magazine collection without spending a fortune. It will be a good fit for those who prioritize affordability and functionality over premium quality.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who demand the highest level of reliability and durability for self-defense or competition. If you rely heavily on your CZ 75 for personal protection, investing in factory magazines or higher-quality aftermarket options like Mec-Gar is recommended.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine loader to help with the initially stiff spring.
Conclusion on Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine offers a cost-effective solution for CZ 75 owners looking to expand their magazine arsenal. While it may not match the premium quality and reliability of factory magazines, it provides adequate performance for range training and casual use. Its value proposition lies in its affordability and compatibility with the CZ 75 platform.
The price is justified given its functionality and the cost of alternatives. It’s a budget-friendly option that gets the job done.
I would recommend it to shooters looking for a cheap way to stock up on range magazines. Just be aware of its limitations and consider investing in higher-quality magazines for critical applications. If you are looking to increase your training capacity at a low cost, give the Armscor Precision Inc ACT-MAG CZ 75 9mm Luger 17 Round Pistol Magazine a try.