Let’s Dive into ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine is designed to feed .308 Winchester rounds into DPMS LR-308 and SR-25 pattern rifles. Marketed as a reliable and cost-effective alternative to OEM magazines, it promises consistent feeding and durability.
I needed additional magazines for my AR-10 platform rifle, specifically for range practice and potential competition use. I was looking for magazines that wouldn’t break the bank but would still provide reasonable reliability.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazine felt relatively lightweight. The phosphate steel construction gave it a sturdy feel, but the polymer follower appeared somewhat basic.
I was considering Magpul PMAGs and Lancer L7 AWM magazines, known for their reliability and enhanced features. Ultimately, the lower price point of the ProMag was the deciding factor, hoping to get decent performance without the higher cost.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was hoping the ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine would live up to its promise of reliability, but I also had some reservations given the mixed reviews I’d seen online.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing magazine functionality.
The initial loading process was straightforward, but I immediately noticed that the magazine required significant force to seat fully into the magazine well of my rifle. Chambering the first round was a little rough, and I experienced a failure to feed on the third round.
The magazine felt somewhat loose in the mag well, which could contribute to feeding issues. After the first 20 rounds, I noticed the magazine body exhibiting slight bending when fully loaded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a couple of months, the ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine has shown inconsistent performance. Approximately 1 in 5 rounds resulted in either a failure to feed or a double feed.
The phosphate steel body has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor scratches from regular use. Cleaning is simple, involving disassembly and a quick wipe-down, but the persistent feeding issues are frustrating.
Compared to my experience with Magpul PMAGs, the ProMag falls significantly short in terms of reliability. While the ProMag is more affordable, the difference in performance doesn’t justify the cost savings for anything beyond very casual range use.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine holds 10 rounds of .308 Winchester ammunition. It is constructed from phosphate-coated steel for durability.
The magazine features a precision-molded polymer follower and a chrome-silicon wire spring. The manufacturer is ProMag, and it is designed for DPMS LR-308 and SR-25 pattern rifles.
These specifications are crucial for a magazine’s ability to reliably feed ammunition into the rifle. A strong spring and quality follower are essential for consistent feeding, while durable materials ensure the magazine can withstand repeated use and harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine’s performance is its biggest letdown. While it initially appears functional, its reliability issues make it unsuitable for serious applications.
Its main weakness is its inconsistent feeding, leading to frequent stoppages. On the other hand, the steel construction is durable.
The magazine does not meet my expectations for a reliable magazine. Its unreliability makes it unsuitable for any scenario where consistent performance is essential.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine has a standard magazine design. The phosphate steel gives it a robust feel, although it lacks the refined feel of higher-end magazines.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly to load and unload. However, the tight fit in the mag well can make quick magazine changes difficult.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine is built to last through regular use. The phosphate steel resists corrosion well, even after exposure to moisture.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning. Disassembly is easy, allowing for thorough cleaning of the follower and spring.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine doesn’t come with any accessories. Being a standard magazine, there are no real customization options to speak of.
The magazine is compatible with any AR-10 platform rifle designed to accept DPMS LR-308 pattern magazines. While there are no direct accessories for the magazine, aftermarket magazine pouches are readily available from various brands.
Pros and Cons of ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Durable phosphate steel construction.
- Relatively affordable compared to other .308 magazines.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
- Compatible with standard DPMS LR-308 pattern rifles.
Cons
- Unreliable feeding, leading to frequent malfunctions.
- Tight fit in some mag wells, hindering quick magazine changes.
- Polymer follower feels cheap and may contribute to feeding issues.
Who Should Buy ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine?
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine might be suitable for casual target shooters who prioritize affordability over reliability. It could serve as a range magazine for non-critical applications.
Anyone needing guaranteed reliability, such as hunters, competitive shooters, or those using their rifle for self-defense, should skip this product. Instead, they should opt for higher-quality magazines like Magpul PMAGs or Lancer L7 AWMs.
Must-have modifications are not applicable for this magazine. I would strongly recommend against relying on this magazine without significant testing and potentially replacing the follower and spring, which would negate its initial cost advantage.
Conclusion on ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine
The ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine promises affordability but falls short on reliability. The inconsistent feeding issues make it a frustrating choice for anything beyond casual use.
The price point is attractive, but the cost savings are not justified given the performance issues. In this case, you get what you pay for, and cheaper isn’t always better.
I would not personally recommend the ProMag DPMS LR-308 .308 Rifle Magazine. Invest in higher-quality magazines for reliable performance. You’ll save yourself headaches and potential malfunctions in the long run.