What Makes Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower Stand Out?
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower might seem like a small, unassuming part, but it’s a critical component in any rifle using a Bottom Drop-down Loader (BDL) magazine system chambered in medium magnum calibers. Hawkins Precision is known for its commitment to precision and quality, making their parts sought after by serious shooters and custom rifle builders. This particular follower aims to ensure smooth and reliable feeding of ammunition, addressing a common pain point in many factory rifle setups.
Years of chasing elk in the backcountry have taught me that even the smallest part can derail a hunt. I was specifically looking to upgrade the reliability of my custom 7mm Remington Magnum, which had been exhibiting occasional feeding issues with heavier bullets. Factory followers often fall short when dealing with the increased length and bullet weights common in magnum cartridges.
Upon receiving the Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower, the first thing I noticed was the robust feel of the material. The black finish was even and appeared durable, and the follower itself had a reassuring heft that suggested quality. Compared to the flimsy, often plastic, factory followers I’ve seen, this was a clear step up.
While I considered options from other manufacturers like Seekins Precision and Wyatt’s Outdoors, the Hawkins Precision name and reputation for precise machining ultimately swayed me. I was immediately impressed with the superior design features. My initial excitement was definitely justified, and I was eager to get it installed and tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower took place at my local range, where I put it through its paces with a variety of ammunition. This included everything from 150-grain Nosler Partitions to 175-grain Swift A-Frames. I wanted to ensure it could handle the full spectrum of hunting loads I typically use.
The range day was typical of the Pacific Northwest, with intermittent rain and a slight breeze. Even with damp hands, the rifle functioned flawlessly. There were absolutely zero feeding issues, even with the longest, heaviest bullets.
The difference was immediately noticeable; the rounds fed smoothly and consistently into the chamber. No more hesitations or hang-ups! It instilled confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous range sessions and a successful deer hunt, the Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower continues to perform flawlessly. The black finish still looks new, with no signs of wear or chipping. I expected it to last for a long time.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with inconsistent feeding and the constant worry of a malfunction, the Hawkins Precision follower has been a revelation. This follower has not disappointed me.
Breaking Down the Features of Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hawkins Precision.
- Caliber: Designed for medium magnum cartridges (e.g., 7mm Rem Mag, .300 Win Mag). It accommodates the specific dimensions of these rounds.
- Color: Black. This durable coating provides a clean and professional look while adding a layer of protection against corrosion.
- Material: Likely machined from high-quality steel. This ensures strength, durability, and resistance to wear and deformation under repeated use.
- Compatibility: Designed for rifles using a Bottom Drop-down Loader (BDL) magazine system. This follower is engineered to seamlessly replace the factory follower in many common BDL setups.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the reliability and longevity of the rifle’s feeding system. A properly designed follower ensures that cartridges are presented to the chamber at the correct angle and with consistent force. This results in fewer malfunctions and greater confidence in the rifle’s performance, especially in critical hunting or tactical situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower excels at its primary job: ensuring reliable feeding of ammunition. It eliminates the common issues associated with factory followers, such as cartridge hang-ups and inconsistent feeding angles. This translates to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
Its strength lies in its ability to handle a wide range of bullet weights and cartridge lengths without issue. One area for potential improvement might be offering it in different colors to match various rifle builds, though the black is already quite versatile. The performance far exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower features a well-thought-out design. Its precise machining and durable materials inspire confidence. The weight is substantial enough to feel robust, yet light enough not to interfere with the magazine’s function.
Installation is straightforward, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing knowledge. There is absolutely no learning curve associated with this part. It improves the feeding of my rifle without any adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower is built to last. The high-quality steel construction and durable black finish ensure that it can withstand years of use and exposure to harsh conditions. This is a testament to its engineering.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove any debris or fouling. With proper care, this follower should provide a lifetime of reliable service. This is a product I plan to keep in my rifle for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower itself doesn’t require any additional accessories. It is a drop-in replacement for the factory follower. However, its enhanced performance can indirectly improve the function of other accessories, such as high-capacity magazines or custom ammunition.
It is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of BDL magazine systems, making it compatible with various rifle brands and models. The enhanced feeding can optimize performance with different bullets.
Pros and Cons of Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower
Pros
- Extremely reliable feeding: Eliminates cartridge hang-ups and ensures smooth cycling.
- Durable construction: Made from high-quality steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation: A drop-in replacement that requires no gunsmithing.
- Improved accuracy: Consistent feeding contributes to better shot-to-shot consistency.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your rifle will function flawlessly in critical situations.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some aftermarket followers.
- Color Options: Only available in black.
Who Should Buy Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower?
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower is perfect for serious hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who relies on a medium magnum rifle for critical applications. If you’re experiencing feeding issues or simply want to upgrade the reliability of your rifle, this is a must-have part. It is also great for custom rifle builders.
Those who are satisfied with the performance of their factory follower and are not concerned about potential feeding issues might not need this upgrade. Additionally, if you don’t own a rifle that utilizes a BDL magazine system or if your rifle is not chambered in a medium magnum caliber, this product is not for you. This product is great for serious shooters.
While not strictly necessary, pairing the Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower with a high-quality magazine spring can further enhance feeding reliability. Also, ensuring the magazine box is properly adjusted to the action is essential for optimal performance. These ensure smooth operation of the rifle.
Conclusion on Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower
The Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower is a small but significant upgrade that can dramatically improve the reliability and performance of your medium magnum rifle. Its durable construction, easy installation, and flawless feeding make it well worth the investment. For those who understand the importance of every component functioning perfectly, this is a no-brainer.
The price is justified by the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your rifle will feed reliably in any situation is invaluable. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their BDL magazine system.
Don’t let a faulty follower compromise your next hunt or competition. Upgrade to the Hawkins Precision Medium Magnum BDL Follower and experience the difference!