MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine Review

First Impressions of MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of rifle magazines. When the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine crossed my desk, I was immediately intrigued. MDT has built a solid reputation for quality chassis systems and accessories, and I was eager to see how their magazine performed, especially in the somewhat niche 6.5×55 Swedish caliber.

For years, I’ve struggled to find reliable, accurate magazines for my custom 6.5×55 hunting rifle. Factory magazines were scarce and often unreliable, leading to frustrating malfunctions during crucial hunts. I needed a magazine that could consistently feed rounds smoothly and withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting.

My initial impression upon unboxing the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine was positive. The magazine felt solid and well-built, with a reassuring weight and a clean, black finish. It certainly felt more robust than the older, often battered magazines I had been using.

Compared to a couple of other aftermarket 6.5×55 magazines I’ve tried – one a polymer-bodied model and another a modified AICS magazine – the MDT offering stood out due to its dedicated design and metal construction. I picked this one hoping for superior feeding reliability and durability.

I was genuinely excited to test this magazine. A reliable magazine is the heart of any rifle system, and I hoped the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine would finally solve my feeding issues and bring greater confidence to my hunts.


Real-World Testing: Putting MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine at my local shooting range and during a recent deer hunt in the Colorado Rockies. At the range, I ran approximately 100 rounds of various 6.5×55 ammunition types through it, including factory loads and my own handloads.

The magazine performed flawlessly even in dusty conditions at the range. Feeding was smooth and consistent, with no failures to feed or double feeds. It was significantly better than the old surplus magazines I had been using, which often caused jams.

The magazine was easy to load and insert into my rifle’s MDT chassis system. I didn’t need any special tools or modifications. The release lever was easy to operate, even with gloved hands.

After the first range session, I was impressed with the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine‘s performance. It showed no signs of weakness and gave me confidence that it would perform equally well in the field.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from below freezing to well above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

I have encountered no issues with durability. The metal construction has held up well to repeated use and exposure to the elements. There are only some minor scratches on the finish.

Maintenance is simple: I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the spring. It’s much easier to clean than polymer magazines, which can be more prone to trapping dirt and debris.

Compared to my previous experiences with unreliable surplus magazines, the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine has been a game-changer. It consistently outperforms my old magazines in terms of feeding reliability and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine

Specifications

  • Caliber: 6.5x55mm Swedish. This is a classic cartridge known for its accuracy and ballistic performance, making this magazine ideal for rifles chambered in this caliber.
  • Capacity: 5 Rounds. The 5-round capacity is sufficient for hunting regulations in many areas and maintains a low profile for easier carrying.
  • Material: Metal. The metal construction ensures durability and longevity, essential for withstanding harsh field conditions.
  • Compatibility: MED bottom metal or MDT chassis systems. This magazine is specifically designed to work seamlessly with MDT’s ecosystem, ensuring optimal fit and function.
  • Overall Cartridge Length: 3.240″. This dimension ensures that the magazine can accommodate a variety of 6.5×55 ammunition types.
  • Outside Length: 3.330″. It is important to know that this is the overall size for proper fitment.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability, durability, and compatibility. The metal construction and precise dimensions ensure consistent feeding and long-term performance, while the 5-round capacity makes it suitable for hunting and tactical applications where a lower profile is desired.

Performance & Functionality

The MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently feeds rounds smoothly and reliably.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction and reliable feeding. The only minor weakness is the 5-round capacity, which may not be ideal for all situations but aligns with its intended purpose for hunting and precision shooting.

The magazine exceeds my expectations. It provides a level of reliability and performance that I haven’t experienced with other 6.5×55 magazines.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with a solid metal construction that feels robust and durable. The weight is appropriate for its size and feels well-balanced in my rifle.

The magazine is user-friendly and easy to load. There is no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its metal construction and simple design, the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine should last for many years with proper care. I expect it to outlast polymer magazines in terms of durability.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe it down after use and apply a light coat of oil to the spring occasionally. It is easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it is a self-contained unit. However, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with MDT chassis systems, which offer a wide range of customization options.

The magazine is compatible with other AICS-pattern accessories, such as magazine pouches and loaders. This compatibility enhances its versatility and makes it easy to integrate into existing gear setups.

Pros and Cons of MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine

Pros

  • Extremely reliable feeding of 6.5×55 ammunition.
  • Durable metal construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Seamless integration with MDT chassis systems.
  • Easy to load and maintain.
  • AICS-pattern compatible for broad accessory support.

Cons

  • 5-round capacity may not be suitable for all applications.
  • Relatively higher price point compared to some polymer magazines.


Who Should Buy MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine?

This magazine is perfect for hunters using 6.5×55 rifles in MDT chassis systems who require utmost reliability. It is also suitable for precision shooters who need consistent feeding for accurate shot placement.

This product might not be the best choice for those who prioritize high magazine capacity above all else. Shooters who need more than 5 rounds in the magazine should look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory for this magazine is a quality magazine pouch for secure and convenient carrying in the field. Additionally, those using it for precision shooting might consider a magazine loader for faster and more efficient reloading at the range.

Conclusion on MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine

The MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine is a high-quality, reliable magazine that delivers exceptional performance. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking consistent feeding and long-term durability.

The price is justified by the superior construction and reliability compared to cheaper alternatives. I would absolutely recommend it.

If you’re tired of unreliable magazines and want a solution that delivers consistent performance, the MDT 6.5×55 Standard 5 Round Rifle Magazine is the answer. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!

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