First Impressions of ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine promises to significantly increase the capacity of a classic handgun. ProMag advertises increased reliability and durability thanks to its heat-treated steel construction and chrome silicon spring. This magazine aims to offer a high-capacity solution without sacrificing the dependability required for serious applications.
My Ruger P85 has always been a reliable workhorse, but the standard capacity magazines felt limiting in certain scenarios. I was looking for a high-capacity magazine that could extend my range time without constant reloads and potentially offer an advantage in a defensive situation. The promise of a ProMag magazine with over three times the standard capacity piqued my interest.
Upon receiving the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine, I was immediately impressed by its heft. The steel construction felt robust, and the black oxide finish gave it a professional, albeit utilitarian, appearance. It felt solid in hand, a stark contrast to some cheaper aftermarket magazines I’ve handled.
Compared to Mec-Gar Ruger P85 magazines and even some off-brand magazines I have tried, the ProMag immediately seemed more durable. I picked this one because of the positive reviews I saw from other P85 owners. My initial impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism, hoping it would live up to the hype and not be another range toy.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine was at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and mild, perfect conditions for testing a new piece of gear. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid firing and magazine changes.
Initially, the magazine functioned flawlessly. Rounds fed smoothly, and the slide locked back consistently after the last round. The extended capacity was a game-changer, allowing me to focus on my technique without the constant interruption of reloading.
However, after about 100 rounds, I started experiencing some feeding issues. Several times, the slide failed to fully close on the first round after inserting a fresh magazine. This required a tap-rack drill to correct.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions totaling around 500 rounds, the reliability of the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine remained inconsistent. While it generally performed well, those occasional feeding issues persisted. This unreliability is a significant drawback.
Cosmetically, the magazine showed minimal wear and tear after months of use. The black oxide finish held up well, with no significant scratches or blemishes. I have not experienced any rusting.
Cleaning the magazine was straightforward. Disassembling it was simple, and all the components were easily accessible. Regular cleaning seemed to help reduce the frequency of feeding issues, but it did not eliminate them entirely. Compared to the factory magazines, which have been 100% reliable over thousands of rounds, the ProMag fell short of my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the Ruger P85 pistol chambered in 9mm Luger. It boasts a significantly increased capacity of 32 rounds compared to the standard 15-round magazines. The magazine body is constructed of heat-treated steel with a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance.
The magazine follower is injection molded, while the spring is formed from heat-treated chrome silicone wire. These materials are chosen for durability and consistent performance. The increased capacity and robust construction result in a heavier magazine than the factory originals, but the tradeoff is a significantly higher round count.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the reliability and usability of the magazine. A heat-treated steel body should withstand the stresses of repeated use and resist deformation. The chrome silicone spring should maintain its tension over time, ensuring reliable feeding.
Performance & Functionality
When functioning correctly, the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine greatly enhances the Ruger P85’s firepower. The 32-round capacity allows for extended shooting sessions and could be advantageous in certain defensive scenarios. The magazine locks into the pistol securely and releases easily.
However, the previously mentioned occasional feeding issues significantly detract from its overall performance. The failures to feed undermine confidence in the magazine’s reliability. While the magazine functions adequately most of the time, its inconsistent performance makes it unsuitable for serious applications where reliability is paramount.
It only partially meets expectations. The high capacity is a plus, but the lack of consistent reliability is a significant drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine is designed with a focus on durability rather than aesthetics. The steel construction feels solid and inspires confidence. The black oxide finish provides a functional, if somewhat unremarkable, appearance.
The added weight of the ProMag is noticeable, especially when fully loaded. The extended length of the magazine also affects the pistol’s balance. This shift in balance might require some adjustment for shooters accustomed to standard capacity magazines.
The magazine requires no special tools or techniques to load. The design is straightforward and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine suggests it should have a long lifespan. The heat-treated steel body should resist bending and deformation, even under heavy use. The spring’s chrome silicone construction is also designed to resist fatigue.
Maintenance is simple. The magazine disassembles easily for cleaning and inspection. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help ensure reliable performance and prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine itself does not offer any customization options. There are no available aftermarket baseplates or followers specifically designed for this magazine. It is designed as a drop-in replacement for the standard Ruger P85 magazines.
The ProMag is compatible with any accessories designed for the Ruger P85 platform. This includes holsters and magazine pouches. However, the extended length of the magazine might require specialized holsters or pouches.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Significantly increased capacity: More than doubles the standard magazine capacity, allowing for extended shooting sessions.
- Durable steel construction: The heat-treated steel body provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy to load and maintain: The simple design makes it easy to load rounds and disassemble for cleaning.
- Affordable price point: Offers a high-capacity solution at a relatively low cost compared to other options.
- Compatible with Ruger P85 accessories: Works with existing holsters and magazine pouches (though extended versions may be needed).
Cons
- Inconsistent reliability: Occasional feeding issues undermine confidence in its performance.
- Added weight and length: The increased size and weight can affect the pistol’s balance and handling.
- No customization options: Lacks aftermarket accessories or modifications for further optimization.
Who Should Buy ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine might be suitable for recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity and don’t mind occasional malfunctions. It also could be useful for those who practice self-defense drills and want the added capacity for training scenarios.
This product is not recommended for anyone who relies on their Ruger P85 for self-defense or duty use. The inconsistent reliability makes it unsuitable for situations where a malfunction could have serious consequences.
A must-have modification would be rigorous testing and break-in to potentially identify and address any initial reliability issues.
Conclusion on ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine promises a significant upgrade in firepower for the Ruger P85. Its high-capacity and durable construction are initially appealing. However, the inconsistent reliability I experienced during testing ultimately overshadows its positive attributes.
At $37.99, the price is reasonable for a high-capacity magazine. However, the value proposition diminishes if the magazine cannot be reliably counted on to function correctly.
Ultimately, I cannot confidently recommend the ProMag Steel Ruger P85 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine for serious use. While the high capacity is tempting, the lack of consistent reliability is a deal-breaker. Consider investing in higher-quality magazines with a proven track record of reliability, even if it means sacrificing some capacity. Your safety and peace of mind are worth the investment.