Let’s Dive into ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine promises to be a reliable and affordable option for Ruger P95 and P93 owners looking for extra capacity. ProMag is known for offering budget-friendly magazines, and this one boasts a heat-treated steel construction and a 15-round capacity, potentially enhancing the firearm’s usability. This review aims to dissect its performance, durability, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
My Ruger P95 is a trusted sidearm, but the standard 10-round magazines felt limiting during extended range sessions. I was seeking a higher capacity magazine that wouldn’t break the bank and would still function reliably. The ProMag offering seemed like a good middle ground.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid, although the blued steel finish appeared somewhat basic. The weight was comparable to the factory magazines, and the construction seemed reasonably robust. I noted the follower and spring seemed less refined than the factory Ruger magazines.
Compared to factory Ruger magazines (which are significantly more expensive) and some aftermarket Mec-Gar magazines, the ProMag felt less polished. I chose the ProMag primarily due to the price point and the promise of 15-round capacity; the cost difference was significant enough to warrant a try. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran approximately 150 rounds through it, using a mix of 115-grain and 124-grain 9mm ammunition. The weather was dry and sunny.
Initially, the magazine was a bit stiff to load to its full capacity of 15 rounds. After the first few rounds, inserting the magazine into the pistol with a closed slide required a more forceful tap than with the factory magazine. I experienced two failures to feed within the first 50 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and around 500 rounds, the ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine has shown a mixed performance. The initial stiffness in loading subsided somewhat, but inserting a fully loaded magazine with the slide forward still requires extra force. Durability has been acceptable, with only minor wear marks on the blued finish.
Cleaning is straightforward, as the magazine disassembles easily for maintenance. However, I continue to experience occasional failures to feed (approximately 1-2 per 100 rounds). The ProMag does not perform as reliably as the factory Ruger magazines, which have been flawless.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
Caliber: 9mm Luger. This is the standard caliber for the Ruger P95/P93, making it a direct fit.
Magazine Capacity: 15 Rounds. This provides a significant increase in firepower compared to standard capacity magazines in some regions.
Material: Heat-Treated Steel. This construction aims to ensure durability and resistance to deformation under stress.
Color: Blued. The blued finish offers some corrosion resistance, though it’s not as robust as other finishes like stainless steel or Cerakote.
Gun Make: Ruger. Specifically designed for Ruger P95 and P93 models.
Gun Model: Ruger P95/P93. Ensure compatibility before purchasing, as it doesn’t fit P85 or P89 models.
Magazine Follower: Injection Molded. A standard feature, but the quality of the plastic is crucial for reliable feeding.
Magazine Spring: Chrome Silicone Wire. Chrome silicone is known for maintaining its tension over time, contributing to consistent feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine generally performs its basic function of holding and feeding ammunition. However, reliability is its main shortcoming. The occasional failures to feed detract from its overall utility, especially in situations where consistent performance is critical. While the increased capacity is a plus, it is diminished by the lack of consistent functionality.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its increased capacity and affordable price. The weaknesses are its occasional feeding issues and the need for extra force when inserting a full magazine. It meets the basic expectation of holding ammunition, but it falls short in consistent reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine offers a simple, functional design. The build quality is decent for the price, but it lacks the refinement of higher-end magazines. The weight is comparable to other steel magazines.
There is no significant learning curve; it functions similarly to the factory magazines. However, the need for forceful insertion when fully loaded can be inconvenient.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The heat-treated steel construction is fairly robust. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend its lifespan.
The magazine is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Replacement springs and followers are potentially available, further extending its usability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any specific accessories. There are no real customization options for magazines other than potentially replacing the spring or follower if needed. It is compatible with standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased Capacity: 15 rounds offers a significant advantage over standard capacity magazines.
- Affordable Price: Much cheaper than factory Ruger magazines, making it budget-friendly.
- Durable Construction: Heat-treated steel provides decent resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple disassembly for cleaning and lubrication.
- Compatible: Works with Ruger P95 and P93 pistols.
Cons
- Reliability Issues: Occasional failures to feed.
- Stiff Loading: Can be difficult to load to full capacity initially.
- Forceful Insertion: Requires extra force to insert when fully loaded with the slide forward.
Who Should Buy ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for range shooters looking for higher capacity magazines on a budget. It is also suitable for individuals seeking backup magazines for recreational use, provided they understand the potential for occasional malfunctions.
Those seeking absolute reliability for self-defense or duty use should probably skip this product and invest in factory Ruger magazines or higher-end aftermarket options. A must-have accessory would be a magazine loader to ease the initial loading stiffness.
Conclusion on ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Ruger P95/P93 9mm Luger 15 Round Pistol Magazine presents a mixed bag. It offers increased capacity at an attractive price point, but its reliability issues cannot be ignored. The price is somewhat justified for range use or as a backup magazine, but it is not a replacement for higher-quality, more reliable options for critical applications.
I would cautiously recommend it to those prioritizing cost savings and increased capacity for recreational shooting, but with a clear understanding of its limitations. If reliability is paramount, invest in factory magazines. Make an informed choice based on your specific needs and priorities!