First Thoughts on the Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine promises reliability and smooth feeding in a stylish bronze finish. Duramag is known for its durable AR-15 magazines, and this 20-round variant seemed like the perfect addition to my range kit. After years of relying on standard capacity magazines, I was intrigued by the promise of enhanced performance in a more compact package.
My AR-15 is primarily used for range training and the occasional varmint hunt. I needed magazines that wouldn’t malfunction and could withstand repeated use. Aesthetics are a bonus, and the bronze finish of this Duramag caught my eye.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-constructed. The aluminum body had a smooth finish, and the bronze color was richer than I anticipated. The magazine felt lighter than some of my steel magazines but still substantial.
Compared to my standard steel magazines from Brownells and some older GI-style aluminum mags, the Duramag felt more refined. The Teflon coating and anti-tilt follower seemed like definite upgrades. I chose the Duramag hoping for improved feeding and reliability compared to my older, less sophisticated magazines.
I was genuinely excited. The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine looked and felt like a premium product. I couldn’t wait to test its performance at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine at my local outdoor range. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for a comfortable shooting session. I ran several drills, focusing on magazine changes and rapid-fire sequences.
The Duramag performed flawlessly right out of the box. The magazine seated easily, and rounds fed smoothly into the chamber. I experienced no failures to feed or eject during my initial testing.
The magazine was intuitive to use. Loading was simple, and the anti-tilt follower did its job, presenting rounds horizontally. I was pleasantly surprised by the consistent performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine has proven to be incredibly reliable. It’s become one of my go-to magazines for range sessions. The bronze finish still looks great, despite being subjected to regular handling.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The Teflon coating has prevented any rust or corrosion from forming. Cleaning is simple; I typically wipe it down with a cloth and a bit of CLP.
Compared to some of my older aluminum magazines that have occasionally caused feeding issues, the Duramag has consistently outperformed them. I’ve experienced zero malfunctions related to the magazine itself. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
Specifications
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine is chambered in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO. It has a 20-round capacity. The body is constructed from durable aluminum with a bronze Teflon-360 coating.
- Caliber: .223 Remington/5.56 NATO ensures broad compatibility with AR-15 rifles.
- Capacity: 20 rounds offers a good balance between capacity and compactness, making it ideal for bench shooting and hunting.
- Material: Aluminum construction provides durability without excessive weight.
- Coating: Teflon-360 coating enhances corrosion resistance and ensures smooth feeding.
- Follower: Black, advanced geometry follower promotes consistent round presentation.
- Spring: EverFlex anti-fatigue spring technology maintains reliable feeding even after prolonged use.
These specifications contribute to the magazine’s overall reliability and longevity. The Teflon coating and anti-tilt follower are particularly important for smooth and consistent feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine performs exceptionally well. Its primary function is to reliably feed ammunition into the AR-15, and it accomplishes this flawlessly. Accuracy isn’t directly impacted by the magazine, but reliable feeding ensures consistent shot placement without malfunctions.
The magazine’s greatest strength is its reliability. I’ve yet to experience a single malfunction attributed to the Duramag. The only area for potential improvement might be offering higher-capacity versions with the same level of reliability. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a standard capacity magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Duramag boasts excellent build quality. The aluminum body feels robust and well-finished. The bronze color provides a unique aesthetic.
It is incredibly user-friendly. There is no learning curve; it functions just like any other AR-15 magazine. The smooth finish and rounded edges make it comfortable to handle during loading and magazine changes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine is built to last. The aluminum construction and Teflon coating offer excellent corrosion resistance. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down after each range session is typically sufficient. The Teflon coating makes it easy to remove any dirt or residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine does not come with any accessories. There are no specific customization options for the magazine itself. However, it is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and loading tools.
The magazine’s standard dimensions ensure compatibility with most AR-15 platforms and accessories. This versatility is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
Pros
- Exceptional reliability: Guarantees consistent feeding without malfunctions.
- Durable construction: Aluminum body with Teflon coating ensures long-lasting performance.
- Smooth feeding: Anti-tilt follower and Teflon coating promote seamless round presentation.
- Stylish design: Bronze finish adds a unique and appealing aesthetic.
- Easy to maintain: Simple cleaning process keeps it in top condition.
Cons
- Limited capacity: 20 rounds might be too restrictive for some users.
- Aluminum body: While durable, not as robust as steel magazines.
Who Should Buy Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model?
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine is perfect for range shooters, varmint hunters, and anyone who appreciates reliable performance in a compact package. Its consistent feeding and durable construction make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize function and aesthetics. This magazine is ideal for precision shooting where a lower profile magazine is desired.
Those who require high-capacity magazines for tactical scenarios should skip this product. They would benefit more from standard capacity or extended magazines. No must-have accessories are required, but a quality magazine pouch is always recommended.
Conclusion on Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine .223/5.56 NATO Bronze Aluminum – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
The Duramag Speed AR-15 20 Round Aluminum Magazine is a reliable and stylish addition to any AR-15 owner’s collection. The value proposition is excellent; it offers premium features at a reasonable price. Its exceptional reliability and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Duramag to anyone seeking a dependable 20-round magazine. It has consistently exceeded my expectations. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the Duramag difference!