First Impressions of ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine
The ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine promises high capacity for AR-platform rifles chambered in 9mm. With the increasing popularity of pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) in competitions and recreational shooting, the allure of a 50-round magazine is undeniable. It suggests less reloading and more time on target.
I was looking for a high-capacity magazine to reduce reload times during PCC matches. The promise of 50 rounds sounded perfect for stages with numerous targets. I was hoping for a reliable and durable magazine.
My initial impression upon receiving the ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine was a mix of intrigue and slight concern. The DuPont Zytel polymer felt sturdy enough. However, the overall size and weight felt a bit unwieldy compared to standard capacity magazines.
Compared to a standard 32-round Glock magazine or a 33-round stick magazine, the ProMag felt bulkier. I picked this over the stick magazine because I wanted the capacity and didn’t care about the size. I choose this over a drum magazine due to cost. I initially was excited about the potential for uninterrupted strings of fire.
Honestly, my first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price point of $79.99 seemed reasonable for the promised capacity. I hoped it would live up to the hype, but I also prepared myself for potential issues given ProMag’s mixed reputation in the past.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. I used it in my AR-9 pistol build, which accepts Colt-style 9mm magazines. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect conditions for testing.
Loading the magazine was immediately problematic. It was extremely difficult to load rounds past the 25-round mark. I had to use a magazine loader and apply significant force. It did function with the rounds loaded though.
The first few shots were promising, but soon the rifle started experiencing malfunctions. Double feeds and failures to extract were common. After only 10 rounds fired I gave up. The magazine would not click in place and seemed to cause the rounds to feed improperly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After that initial range session, I attempted to troubleshoot the ProMag magazine. I disassembled it, cleaned it thoroughly, and re-lubricated the spring. I hoping for any improvement.
Unfortunately, subsequent range trips yielded similar results. The magazine continued to be unreliable, with frequent malfunctions occurring throughout the entire capacity range. The DuPont Zytel polymer showed no significant wear and tear. The issues persisted despite my best efforts.
Cleaning the magazine was relatively straightforward, but the disassembly and reassembly were somewhat fiddly. The spring tension made it challenging to manage. The experience was disappointing. It fell far short of the reliability I expect from a magazine, especially for defensive or competitive use.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine is designed for AR-15 platforms that accept Colt-style 9mm magazines. It features a 50-round capacity and is chambered for 9mm Luger. The magazine body is constructed from DuPont Zytel polymer.
The injection molded mag follower is intended to provide smooth and consistent feeding. The mag spring is formed from chrome silicone wire for enhanced durability and longevity. These specifications are intended to translate to high capacity and reliable feeding.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, the ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine falls short of expectations. The high capacity is appealing in theory. The execution is flawed due to significant reliability issues.
The magazine consistently exhibited feeding problems, including double feeds, failures to extract, and failures to feed. This made it unsuitable for any serious application. The one saving grace is that it is relatively simple.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag magazine’s design is straightforward, but its ergonomics are lacking. The DuPont Zytel polymer construction feels reasonably solid, but the overall size and weight make it bulky. It feels cumbersome to handle.
Loading the magazine is difficult, particularly as it approaches full capacity. The sharp edges of the feed lips can also be uncomfortable during loading. There is a learning curve to disassembling and reassembling the magazine for cleaning.
Durability & Maintenance
The DuPont Zytel polymer construction suggests that the ProMag magazine should be durable. However, the frequent malfunctions raise concerns about its overall longevity. The polymer seems durable, but the internal components (spring and follower) may be the weak points.
The magazine is relatively easy to clean with standard gun cleaning solvents. The reassembly can be a bit tricky due to the spring tension. I would anticipate needing to replace the spring more often than on a higher quality magazine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver that accepts Colt-style 9mm magazines. There are no customization options.
There are no readily available aftermarket followers or springs specifically designed for this magazine. The user is limited to the factory components, which can be a drawback. This limits the ability to improve the magazine’s performance through aftermarket upgrades.
Pros and Cons of ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- High capacity (50 rounds) allows for extended shooting sessions with fewer reloads.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other high-capacity 9mm magazines.
- DuPont Zytel polymer construction offers reasonable durability.
- Compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver that accepts Colt-style 9mm magazines.
- Simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean (although reassembly can be tricky).
Cons
- Unreliable feeding can lead to frequent malfunctions.
- Difficult to load, especially to full capacity.
- Bulky and heavy, making it cumbersome to handle.
Who Should Buy ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine?
This magazine might appeal to recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity above all else. Also, maybe someone looking to experiment with a high-capacity option without spending a lot of money. It might also be useful for someone looking to use this for less serious range time fun.
Serious competitors or anyone relying on their firearm for self-defense should skip this product. The unreliability of the magazine makes it unsuitable for any critical application. You might also want to skip this product if you are planning on getting into competitive shooting.
A magazine loader is a must-have accessory to make loading the ProMag less painful. I would also recommend having a spare magazine spring on hand, as this seems to be a potential point of failure. You might also want a magazine that clicks into place.
Conclusion on ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine
The ProMag AR-15 9mm Luger Colt/SMG Type 50 Round Rifle Magazine promises a lot but ultimately fails to deliver on its core function: reliable feeding. While the high capacity and relatively low price point are attractive, the frequent malfunctions make it a frustrating and ultimately impractical choice.
The price is not justified given the magazine’s unreliability. There are other high-capacity 9mm magazines on the market that offer better performance and reliability, albeit at a higher cost. Reliability is key when it comes to the weapon.
I would not personally recommend this product. While it might be okay for very casual range use, it is not suitable for serious shooting, competition, or self-defense. Invest in a higher quality magazine from a more reputable manufacturer. Spend a little more, and you will enjoy your weapon.