First Impressions of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine promises to be a reliable, high-capacity feeding device for a range of classic Smith & Wesson pistols. Mec-Gar is well-regarded in the industry as an OEM supplier and for producing quality aftermarket magazines. This offering, compatible with the S&W 5900 series, 915, 910, and 659, boasts a 17-round capacity, a polymer follower, and a heat-treated carbon steel tube.
My search for this magazine stemmed from a desire to enhance the capacity of my aging Smith & Wesson 5906. Original magazines are increasingly hard to find, and often command a premium price, making a reliable aftermarket option highly desirable. The Mec-Gar promised to solve the problem of limited capacity and potentially unreliable older magazines.
Upon unboxing, the Mec-Gar magazine felt solid and well-constructed. The black finish was even and durable-looking, and the polymer floorplate fit flush with the magazine body. Compared to some generic aftermarket magazines I’ve handled, the Mec-Gar exuded a noticeable step up in quality.
I considered magazines from ProMag and some lesser-known brands, but the reputation of Mec-Gar ultimately swayed me. Their history of supplying magazines to major firearms manufacturers gave me confidence in their product. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – a blend of excitement at the prospect of increased capacity and a healthy dose of skepticism that only real-world testing could address.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine was at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid mag changes and evaluating the magazine’s feeding reliability with various types of 9mm ammunition (FMJ, JHP). The magazine loaded easily and locked into my S&W 5906 without any excessive force.
The Mec-Gar performed flawlessly through the first 100 rounds. I encountered no failures to feed, no double feeds, and the slide locked back consistently after the last round. The range conditions were typical – sunny and dry, with a slight breeze.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range trips and dry-fire practice sessions, the Mec-Gar magazine has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches from insertion and removal. Cleaning the magazine is simple; I disassemble it, wipe down the components, and lightly lubricate the spring.
The magazine has proven to be incredibly reliable, even when deliberately subjected to adverse conditions. I tested it after dropping it in the dirt and sand at the range, and it continued to function without issue after a quick wipe down. This Mec-Gar outperforms the original Smith & Wesson magazines, many of which are now showing their age with occasional feeding issues.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine boasts the following specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 17 Rounds
- Compatibility: Smith & Wesson 5900 Series, 915, 910, 659
- Material (Tube): Heat-Treated Carbon Steel
- Material (Follower): High-Impact Polymer
- Material (Floor Plate): High-Impact Polymer
- Finish: Black
- Country of Origin: Italy
These specifications are crucial for reliable performance. The heat-treated carbon steel tube ensures durability and resistance to deformation, while the high-impact polymer follower promotes smooth feeding. The 17-round capacity significantly increases firepower, and the compatibility with multiple S&W models adds to its versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine performs exceptionally well. Its primary function – reliably feeding ammunition – is executed flawlessly. I experienced no malfunctions, even during rapid-fire drills.
Its strengths lie in its reliability and high capacity. A minor weakness might be the slightly stiffer spring tension when fully loaded, but this is a common trait in high-capacity magazines and diminishes with use. The Mec-Gar exceeded my expectations, proving to be a significant upgrade over the original factory magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mec-Gar magazine is excellent. The materials feel durable, and the construction is solid. The weight is appropriate for a steel-bodied magazine, providing a sense of robustness without being excessively heavy.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or disassembly. There is no learning curve; it functions just like the original factory magazines.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine is built to last. The heat-treated carbon steel construction resists corrosion and deformation, and the high-impact polymer components are unlikely to crack or break under normal use. Regular cleaning and light lubrication of the spring are all that’s needed to maintain its functionality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar magazine itself does not offer many customization options, but it is compatible with various aftermarket floorplates designed for S&W 5900 series magazines. This allows users to personalize the magazine with different colors or enhanced grips. Standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines will accommodate the Mec-Gar.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Feeds ammunition flawlessly, even under adverse conditions.
- High Capacity: 17 rounds significantly increases firepower.
- Durable Construction: Heat-treated carbon steel and high-impact polymer ensure long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value compared to original factory magazines.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple disassembly and cleaning.
Cons
- Stiff Spring Tension: Can be slightly difficult to load to full capacity initially.
- Finish Wear: The black finish may show cosmetic wear over time with frequent use.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine?
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine is perfect for owners of Smith & Wesson 5900 series, 915, 910, or 659 pistols who want increased capacity and enhanced reliability. It is also ideal for competitive shooters or anyone who uses these pistols for self-defense. Anyone who wants to refresh old, worn-out magazines should seriously consider this option.
If you are looking for a lightweight magazine for concealed carry, you might want to explore options with aluminum alloy bodies, although those usually come with a higher price tag and potentially reduced durability. Someone who is extremely recoil-sensitive may also prefer lower-capacity magazines for a slightly lighter pistol.
A quality magazine pouch designed for double-stack 9mm magazines is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series/ 915/ 910/ 659 17 Round 9mm Luger Magazine is an outstanding aftermarket option that delivers exceptional reliability, high capacity, and durable construction at an affordable price. The price is absolutely justified, considering the performance and longevity it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone looking to upgrade or replace the magazines for their compatible Smith & Wesson pistol. It is a worthwhile investment that will enhance your shooting experience and provide peace of mind. Upgrade your firepower and reliability today – you won’t regret it!