CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine Review

What Makes CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine Stand Out?

The CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine is designed to provide reliable feeding of the potent .338 ARC cartridge in a standard AR-15 platform, while adhering to capacity restrictions in certain jurisdictions. This magazine combines CMMG’s reputable build quality with the specific needs of .338 ARC shooters, resulting in a product aimed at delivering both performance and compliance. It’s a unique offering in a market often saturated with standard capacity options.

As an avid AR-15 enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by alternative calibers that push the platform’s boundaries. Living in a state with magazine capacity restrictions, I constantly search for compliant options that don’t sacrifice reliability. The promise of a CMMG magazine designed specifically for the .338 ARC, a caliber known for its impressive ballistics, immediately piqued my interest.

My initial impression upon receiving the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine was positive. The magazine felt solid and well-constructed, with no immediate signs of cheap materials or poor assembly. The high-visibility yellow anti-tilt follower was a welcome feature, hinting at attention to detail.

Compared to standard 5.56 AR magazines, the CMMG .338 ARC magazine appeared noticeably different. While retaining the same overall dimensions to fit the AR-15 magwell, the internal geometry seemed optimized for the larger .338 ARC cartridge. I considered alternatives, such as modifying existing magazines, but the potential for feeding issues and unreliability steered me towards this dedicated solution.

I was cautiously optimistic after the initial inspection. Would it feed reliably? Would it hold up to repeated use? Only real-world testing would reveal the true worth of the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine.


Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for late fall: cool, with a slight drizzle, conditions where equipment often reveals its shortcomings. I loaded the magazine with .338 ARC ammunition and inserted it into my AR-15 rifle, built specifically for this caliber.

The magazine seated securely and locked into place with a reassuring click. The first few rounds chambered smoothly, and the rifle cycled without any issues. I fired several controlled pairs, focusing on consistent grip and trigger pull.

After about 30 rounds, I experienced my first malfunction: a failure to feed. Clearing the jam was straightforward, and I continued shooting. No other issues arose during that initial session, but the single malfunction raised a slight concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next few months, I put the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine through several more range sessions, totaling approximately 300 rounds. I also used it during a weekend hog hunt, though I did not have an opportunity to take a shot. The magazine spent considerable time loaded in my rifle, both in storage and during transport.

The durability of the magazine has proven to be adequate. I have noticed some minor scratches on the exterior finish, but nothing that affects performance. The steel construction appears robust enough to withstand typical use and handling.

Maintaining the magazine is simple. After each range session, I disassemble it, wipe down the internal components, and apply a light coat of lubricant. The high-visibility yellow anti-tilt follower is easy to remove and clean. Compared to some other magazines I own, this one requires minimal effort to keep in good working order.

My previous experiences with aftermarket magazines have been mixed, but the CMMG .338 ARC magazine generally outperforms most of them in terms of consistent feeding. It’s not perfect, as the initial failure to feed indicates, but it’s significantly more reliable than some of the generic AR-15 magazines I’ve used with other calibers.

Breaking Down the Features of CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: CMMG.

  • Color: Black.

  • Fabric/Material: Steel.

  • Magazine Capacity: 10 Round.

  • Caliber: .338 ARC.

  • Gun Make: CMMG.

  • Gun Model: AR-15.

  • High-Visibility Yellow Anti-Tilt Follower: This feature aids in smooth and reliable feeding.

  • Durable Construction: Made with quality materials for longevity.

  • State-Compliant Capacity: Designed to adhere to magazine capacity restrictions.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The steel construction contributes to the magazine’s durability and resistance to damage. The 10-round capacity ensures compliance with state laws while still providing adequate firepower. The anti-tilt follower is vital for reliable feeding of the .338 ARC cartridge, which can be more sensitive to magazine design than standard 5.56 ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine performs its primary job of feeding ammunition into the rifle reasonably well. Accuracy is not directly affected by the magazine itself, but reliable feeding is crucial for maintaining consistent shot placement. Usability is straightforward, as it functions like any other AR-15 magazine.

The magazine’s main strength is its dedicated design for the .338 ARC cartridge. This is essential in comparison to trying to adapt 5.56 magazines. The occasional failure to feed is a weakness that needs to be addressed, though the overall performance is acceptable for a specialized magazine.

The magazine meets, but doesn’t necessarily exceed, expectations for a product in its price range. I would like to see improved reliability to justify the cost fully.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent. The steel construction feels sturdy, and the black finish is evenly applied. The magazine’s weight is comparable to other steel AR-15 magazines.

The design is user-friendly. The magazine inserts and removes easily from the magazine well. There is no learning curve associated with its operation.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine should last for many years. The steel construction is resistant to wear and tear, and the finish is reasonably durable.

Maintenance is simple. Disassembling, cleaning, and lubricating the magazine is easy and requires minimal time and effort.

Accessories and Customization Options

The magazine does not come with any accessories. Customization options are limited to aftermarket baseplates or magazine couplers, but these are not specific to the .338 ARC.

The magazine is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver designed to accept standard AR-15 magazines. It is not directly compatible with accessories designed for other magazine types.

Pros and Cons of CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine

Pros

  • Dedicated design for .338 ARC.
  • Steel construction for durability.
  • High-visibility yellow anti-tilt follower enhances reliability.
  • State-compliant 10-round capacity.
  • Easy to maintain.

Cons

  • Relatively expensive.
  • Experienced one failure to feed during initial testing.


Who Should Buy CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine?

The CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine is perfect for AR-15 owners who want to shoot .338 ARC in states with magazine capacity restrictions. It’s also suitable for hunters who want to use the .338 ARC for ethical and effective game harvesting while staying within legal limits.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who live in states without magazine capacity restrictions. These users can opt for standard capacity magazines. Individuals primarily using 5.56/.223 AR-15 rifles should also skip this product.

Must-have accessories are a quality magazine pouch for carrying spare magazines and a magazine loader to simplify the loading process.

Conclusion on CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine

The CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine is a specialized product designed to meet the needs of .338 ARC shooters in capacity-restricted states. While the initial failure to feed was a minor concern, the overall performance and durability have been satisfactory.

The price is somewhat high compared to standard AR-15 magazines, but justified by the dedicated design and the limited availability of .338 ARC magazines. For those who need a compliant and reasonably reliable magazine for their .338 ARC AR-15, the price is justified.

I would recommend the CMMG AR-15 .338 ARC 10 Rounds Rifle Magazine with the caveat that users should test it thoroughly to ensure reliable feeding with their specific ammunition. Overall, it’s a solid product that fills a specific niche in the AR-15 market. If you’re a .338 ARC shooter in a restricted state, this magazine is worth considering. Purchase it, test it, and experience the .338 ARC performance for yourself!

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