ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine Review

First Impressions of ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine promises enhanced capacity and reliable feeding for one of the most iconic modern battle rifles. I’ve always been a proponent of having ample magazines on hand, whether for range training, competition, or, frankly, preparedness. The ProMag offering aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to factory magazines, and that prospect certainly piqued my interest.

My SCAR 17 has always been a reliable platform, but I’m constantly looking for ways to improve its capabilities. I needed magazines that could withstand rigorous use and offer a higher capacity than the standard 10-round magazines, without sacrificing reliability. The promise of a 20-round capacity in a ProMag magazine for my SCAR 17 was immediately appealing.

Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazine felt surprisingly robust for a polymer magazine. The texture provided a good grip, and the overall construction appeared solid, though not quite as refined as the factory FN magazines. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the magazine felt well-made, but the real test would be its performance in the field.

Compared to the factory FN SCAR 17 magazines and Magpul’s SR25/AR-10 magazines, the ProMag felt a bit less refined in its construction. I chose to test the ProMag because I was drawn to the higher capacity offered, hoping it could provide similar reliability at a more affordable price point. This made it an appealing option for high-volume shooting or scenarios where carrying extra magazines is critical.

My first impression was a mix of anticipation and skepticism. While the magazine appeared solid, the proof would be in the pudding – how well would it feed, and how durable would it prove to be over time? Only testing could reveal the true quality of the ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on drills that involved rapid magazine changes and sustained firing. The range provided a controlled environment to assess feeding reliability and identify any immediate issues. I also incorporated some basic movement drills to simulate real-world scenarios.

Performance was acceptable in dry conditions, though a couple of initial loading issues were noted. I also ran the magazine during a slightly drizzly afternoon session, where I experienced a couple of failures to feed; this gave me pause about its reliability in less-than-ideal conditions.

The magazine felt natural enough to use, but wasn’t quite as smooth as my factory magazines. The slightly rougher texture did provide a secure grip, which helped during faster reloads. I also noticed the magazine release wasn’t quite as slick as with factory mags, requiring slightly more deliberate effort to disengage.

The initial feeding issues were a concern, but I was hopeful that they were simply due to the magazine needing to be broken in. These initial concerns tempered my enthusiasm, but I was determined to put the magazine through its paces before drawing any firm conclusions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular range use, the ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine began to show some signs of wear on the feed lips. While no catastrophic failures occurred, the finish showed wear marks more rapidly than my factory magazines. I estimate I put around 500 rounds through this particular ProMag magazine during my testing period.

Durability, though not terrible, wasn’t on par with the factory magazines. The polymer construction, while feeling robust initially, exhibited more wear and tear around the feed lips and the magazine catch. This raised some questions about its long-term reliability under heavy use.

Maintenance was simple; I disassembled and cleaned the magazine after each range session. The polymer body and steel spring were easy to wipe down and lubricate. However, I did notice some minor plastic shavings accumulating within the magazine body, suggesting some internal wear.

In comparison to my factory FN magazines, the ProMag fell short in terms of overall reliability and durability. While it functioned adequately for range use, I wouldn’t trust it for high-stakes applications without further testing and modifications. This difference in performance highlighted the value of investing in higher-quality magazines for critical use.

Breaking Down the Features of ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine

Specifications

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine is designed as a replacement or spare magazine for the FN SCAR 17 rifle. It is chambered in .308 Winchester and holds 20 rounds. The magazine body is constructed from DuPont Zytel polymer, with an injection-molded mag follower and a mag spring formed from chrome silicone wire.

These specifications are important for several reasons. The .308 Winchester caliber ensures compatibility with the SCAR 17 platform. The increased 20-round capacity provides more firepower compared to standard 10-round magazines. The Zytel polymer construction offers a balance of durability and weight savings. The chrome silicone wire spring is chosen for its corrosion resistance and consistent performance.

Performance & Functionality

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine functions adequately for range use, but its reliability is not on par with factory magazines. Feeding can be inconsistent, particularly with certain types of ammunition. The magazine’s primary strength is its increased capacity, which allows for longer strings of fire.

The magazine’s weaknesses include occasional failures to feed, especially during rapid firing or with certain types of .308 ammunition. The polymer construction, while lightweight, may not be as durable as steel alternatives. Overall, the magazine meets expectations for a budget-friendly option, but falls short of exceeding them.

Design & Ergonomics

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine features a standard box magazine design, with a slightly textured polymer body for enhanced grip. The weight is comparable to other polymer magazines, making it comfortable to handle.

The magazine is relatively user-friendly, although the magazine release can feel a bit stiff compared to factory magazines. There is a slight learning curve associated with loading and unloading the magazine, particularly when new. The overall design is functional but lacks the refined feel of higher-end magazines.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine is a concern. The polymer construction shows signs of wear and tear more quickly than steel magazines. While the magazine is easy to disassemble and clean, the plastic shavings accumulating inside suggest internal wear over time.

Maintenance involves disassembling the magazine, cleaning the body and follower, and lubricating the spring. With proper care, the magazine should last for a reasonable amount of time, but its long-term durability remains a question mark. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself.

The magazine is compatible with the standard FN SCAR 17 magazine well and magazine release mechanism. While there are no direct accessories for the magazine, users can customize their SCAR 17 with various optics, grips, and other aftermarket parts. However, these modifications do not directly impact the magazine’s performance or functionality.

Pros and Cons of ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine

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Who Should Buy ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine?

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine is perfect for range shooters who want to increase their magazine capacity without breaking the bank. It is also a suitable option for casual shooters looking for spare magazines for recreational use.

Those who should skip this product include individuals who require absolute reliability in high-stress situations or tactical applications. Users who prioritize durability and long-term performance should also consider investing in higher-quality, albeit more expensive, factory magazines.

A must-have accessory for this magazine would be a high-quality magazine pouch or carrier to ensure secure and convenient access during range sessions. While modifications aren’t typically done to magazines, frequent users might consider upgrading the spring if they encounter persistent feeding issues.

Conclusion on ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine

The ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine offers an affordable solution for those seeking higher capacity magazines for their SCAR 17 rifles. While it doesn’t match the reliability and durability of factory magazines, it serves its purpose adequately for recreational use and range training.

The price is justified for the increased capacity and reasonable performance, making it a viable option for budget-conscious shooters. However, it’s essential to be aware of its limitations and potential feeding issues.

I would personally recommend the ProMag magazine with reservations. It’s a decent option for supplementing your magazine collection for range use, but I would not rely on it as my primary magazine for self-defense or tactical applications. Ultimately, if you prioritize affordability over absolute reliability, the ProMag FN Scar 17 .308 20 Round Rifle Magazine could be a worthwhile investment.