First Thoughts on the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin promises a significant boost in firepower for the FN Five-seveN pistol. Specifically, it offers a massive 55-round drum magazine where standard magazines typically hold 20 rounds. This aftermarket drum magazine aims to address the limited capacity of factory magazines.
My interest in this product stemmed from a desire for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads. I wanted something that would provide a definite edge during training scenarios. I was looking for an alternative to carrying multiple magazines, streamlining my gear and reducing reload times.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The drum felt substantial, with a reassuring heft, suggesting the use of durable materials. However, the all-black finish and somewhat utilitarian design lacked the refined aesthetics of the factory magazines. Its aftermarket origin was evident in the slightly less polished construction compared to OEM mags.
I considered other extended magazines and coupling solutions. However, the drum magazine seemed like a more compact solution than carrying multiple extended magazines on my person. Other alternatives felt cumbersome and less efficient than a high-capacity drum. I ultimately chose the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin for its promised high capacity and relatively streamlined profile.
Excitement was tempered with some reservation. I’ve had mixed experiences with aftermarket magazines, and reliability is paramount, especially in a high-capacity drum. The price of $91.49 also raised the stakes. I was eager to see if it would live up to its potential or become another range toy with questionable reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, under relatively mild conditions (sunny, 70°F). I loaded the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin with 50 rounds of Federal American Eagle 5.7x28mm ammunition. The loading process was straightforward, though time-consuming, due to the sheer capacity.
The first few rounds cycled smoothly, instilling confidence. However, by the tenth round, I experienced a failure to feed. I cleared the malfunction and continued shooting. Intermittent failures continued throughout the first magazine. It appeared the magazine spring struggled to keep up with the high round count.
The drum added noticeable weight to the pistol. It affected the balance, requiring some adjustment to my grip and stance. It became a bit unwieldy after a few rapid-fire strings. Initial use revealed both the potential and the challenges of this high-capacity magazine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds through the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, its performance remained inconsistent. I experimented with different ammunition brands (Fiocchi and Speer). The issues persisted. Failures to feed were still a recurring problem.
Durability-wise, the drum showed minimal signs of wear. The polymer body remained intact, but the feed lips exhibited slight deformation. I meticulously cleaned the magazine after each use. I used a dry lubricant on the interior to minimize friction.
Compared to factory magazines, the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin underperformed significantly. While OEM magazines ran flawlessly, the drum was plagued by reliability issues. I consider this a disappointment, given the high expectations for a product marketed for extended shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
- Caliber: 5.7mm x 28mm. This is specifically designed for the FN Five-seveN pistol.
- Capacity: 55 rounds. This is the key selling point, offering almost three times the capacity of a standard magazine.
- Origin: Aftermarket. This highlights that it is not a factory-produced magazine, which can impact quality control.
- Material: Typically constructed from a polymer body with a steel feed lip insert and a high-tension steel spring. The polymer reduces weight, while steel reinforces critical areas.
- Configuration: Drum magazine. This is a rotary design allowing for higher capacity in a more compact form factor compared to extended stick magazines.
The specifications are crucial for understanding the magazine’s intent and limitations. The high capacity is appealing, but the aftermarket origin raises concerns about reliability and long-term durability. Proper material selection is essential for consistent feeding and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin aims to provide extended shooting sessions with minimal reloading. In theory, it minimizes downtime on the range or in a tactical scenario. However, its performance in practice is less than ideal.
The primary weakness is its unreliable feeding. Frequent failures to feed detract from its intended purpose. The large capacity is negated by the need to constantly clear malfunctions. This makes it unsuitable for serious defensive applications.
It partially meets expectations in terms of capacity but fails to deliver consistent and reliable performance. The increased weight also affects handling and accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin features a mostly polymer construction. The polymer helps keep the weight manageable, though it still adds considerable bulk to the pistol. The drum design is relatively compact.
The build quality feels adequate but not exceptional. The seams are visible. The polymer finish is somewhat rough. While the magazine locks securely into the pistol, the overall feel lacks the refinement of factory magazines.
There isn’t a significant learning curve, but the added weight requires some getting used to. The magazine’s dimensions can also affect holster compatibility.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer body seems reasonably durable and should withstand typical range use. However, the feed lips appear to be a potential weak point. They exhibited deformation after only a few hundred rounds.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving cleaning and occasional lubrication. Disassembly for thorough cleaning can be somewhat challenging. Replacement parts, if needed, may be difficult to source.
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin‘s lifespan will depend on usage and maintenance. The unreliable feeding could accelerate wear on the feed lips and magazine spring.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t come with any accessories. It primarily replaces standard magazines.
Due to its unique design, customization options are limited. It won’t work with standard magazine pouches or loading tools designed for stick magazines. Holster compatibility is also a concern. You may need to modify existing holsters or purchase specialized ones to accommodate the drum’s size.
Pros and Cons of PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- High capacity (55 rounds) provides extended shooting without frequent reloads.
- Potentially reduces the need to carry multiple magazines, simplifying gear.
- Relatively compact drum design compared to multiple extended stick magazines.
- Polymer construction helps keep weight manageable (compared to all-steel drums).
- Compatible with the FN Five-seveN pistol.
Cons
- Unreliable feeding; frequent failures to feed undermine its primary function.
- Aftermarket origin raises concerns about long-term durability and quality control.
- Increased weight and bulk can negatively impact handling and balance.
- Limited compatibility with standard magazine pouches and holsters.
- Feed lips appear to be a potential weak point.
Who Should Buy PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin might appeal to recreational shooters. It caters to those who prioritize high capacity and are willing to tolerate occasional malfunctions. It is designed for range use and novelty.
Who should skip this product? Anyone seeking a reliable magazine for self-defense or tactical applications should avoid this product. The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin isn’t dependable enough for high-stakes situations.
Must-have accessories or modifications? There are no must-have accessories, but a reliable magazine loader for drum magazines would be helpful. Consider specialized holsters designed to accommodate drum magazines.
Conclusion on PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers the allure of high capacity. However, its unreliable feeding makes it a questionable investment for serious shooters.
The price of $91.49 seems steep for a product that doesn’t consistently perform its core function. You might be better off investing in additional factory magazines for reliable performance.
Personally, I cannot recommend the PRO MAG MAGAZINE FNH FIVE OF – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin for anything beyond recreational range use. Its unreliability outweighs its high capacity. Buyer beware: prioritize reliability over capacity, especially in critical situations.