First Impressions of Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine is a dedicated magazine designed to reliably feed .300 Blackout ammunition in Ruger’s AR-556 and SR-556 platforms. With its stainless steel construction and 30-round capacity, it promises durability and ample firepower for various shooting applications. It’s a purpose-built piece designed to address a critical need in the AR platform: reliable feeding of the .300 Blackout round, which is often plagued by issues in standard 5.56 magazines.
I transitioned to .300 Blackout to gain a ballistic advantage in shorter barrel configurations, primarily for hog hunting in dense brush. Feeding issues were immediately apparent when using converted 5.56 magazines, with constant jams and failures to feed plaguing my hunts. I needed a magazine explicitly designed for the .300 Blackout round to ensure reliable cycling.
Upon receiving the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine, the first thing I noticed was its robust construction. The stainless steel felt solid and well-finished, a stark contrast to some of the polymer magazines I’ve used that feel flimsy. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting a durable magazine that would hold up to repeated use.
Compared to standard 5.56 AR magazines, like Magpul PMAGs, this magazine has a subtly different internal geometry. This difference appears designed to better accommodate the .300 Blackout’s wider projectile. I chose this magazine over a generic .300 Blackout magazine because it was specifically designed and tested for the Ruger AR-556 platform.
My initial impression was positive and hopeful. I was eager to test it at the range to see if it lived up to its promise of reliable feeding, especially after struggling with converted magazines. The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine feels like a quality piece of equipment, and that gave me confidence going in.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on rapid-fire drills and magazine changes. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the magazine’s feeding reliability and overall function. The weather was typical for a Texas summer, hot and humid, conditions known to sometimes affect magazine performance due to swelling.
The magazine performed flawlessly during the first session. I experienced zero failures to feed, even with rapid firing, which was a major improvement over my previous experiences with converted 5.56 magazines. Loading was smooth and consistent, and the magazine locked into the Ruger AR-556 securely every time.
The initial use revealed no immediate issues, which was incredibly promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and two hog hunts, the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it without a single malfunction.
The magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel body has resisted corrosion and maintained its structural integrity, even after being exposed to mud and dirt during hunts. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a basic wipe-down after each use.
Compared to my past experiences with aftermarket .300 Blackout magazines, the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. It has become my go-to magazine for my .300 Blackout AR, giving me confidence during hunts. It is a considerable improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine is built to Ruger’s exacting standards. It is specifically designed for use with the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge in AR-15 platforms, particularly the Ruger AR-556 and SR-556. The magazine has a 30-round capacity, offering ample firepower for various applications.
The magazine is constructed from stainless steel, providing excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. Its black color provides a low-profile look. It is designed for use with AR platform rifles chambered in .300 AAC Blackout.
These specifications contribute significantly to the magazine’s performance and user experience. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliability, while the 30-round capacity provides ample firepower without sacrificing portability. The .300 Blackout-specific design ensures optimal feeding, minimizing the risk of malfunctions.
Performance & Functionality
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine excels at its primary job: reliably feeding .300 Blackout ammunition. Accuracy is not directly affected by the magazine itself, but the reliability of feeding allows for consistent shooting without the distraction of malfunctions. The usability is excellent.
The magazine’s strength lies in its reliable feeding and robust construction. A potential area for improvement is the magazine’s finish, which could benefit from a more durable coating to further enhance its resistance to wear. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a .300 Blackout magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine features a standard AR-15 magazine design, making it compatible with most AR-15 magazine pouches. The stainless steel construction provides a solid and durable feel in the hand, contributing to its overall quality. There is virtually no learning curve to using this magazine.
The magazine’s design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing reliability over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. No specialized tools or knowledge are needed for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it functions as a standalone unit. However, it’s compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches, allowing for easy carrying and storage. There are no inherent customization options for the magazine itself.
Its compatibility with standard AR-15 magazine pouches provides flexibility in gear setup.
Pros and Cons of Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: Specifically designed for .300 Blackout, ensuring consistent and reliable feeding, eliminating common malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, guaranteeing a long service life.
- Optimal Capacity: The 30-round capacity offers ample firepower without sacrificing portability.
- Direct Fit: Designed to fit seamlessly in Ruger AR-556 and SR-556 platforms, ensuring proper function.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple design allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, extending the magazine’s lifespan.
Cons
- Finish: The finish could be more durable to resist scratches and wear over prolonged use.
- Price: It may be slightly more expensive than generic .300 Blackout magazines.
Who Should Buy Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for Ruger AR-556 and SR-556 owners who use .300 Blackout and demand reliable feeding. It is also a good choice for hog hunters and tactical shooters who rely on their rifles in demanding situations.
Those who primarily shoot 5.56/.223 or are looking for budget-friendly options might want to skip this product.
A quality AR-15 magazine pouch is a must-have accessory to carry and protect the magazine.
Conclusion on Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine
The Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine is a well-built and highly reliable magazine designed specifically for .300 Blackout AR-15 platforms. While it may be slightly more expensive than generic options, its robust construction and guaranteed compatibility with Ruger rifles make it a worthwhile investment. The price is justified by the reliability and durability it offers.
I would absolutely recommend this magazine to anyone using a Ruger AR-556 or SR-556 in .300 Blackout. If you want a magazine that will feed reliably and withstand the rigors of regular use, then the Ruger AR-556/SR-556 30 Round .300 Blackout Rifle Magazine is an excellent choice. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your magazine will perform when you need it most.