Let’s Dive into Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round
The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round is a replacement magazine designed for Savage Arms Model 93 rifles chambered in .22 Magnum or .17 HMR. This 10-round magazine aims to provide reliable feeding and increased capacity compared to the factory 5-round options. While seemingly a simple accessory, a reliable magazine is crucial for consistent performance in the field or at the range.
I needed a more reliable and higher-capacity magazine for my Savage Model 93R17 for small game hunting. The factory 5-round magazine felt limiting, and I wanted to reduce the frequency of reloads. I’d also heard about potential feeding issues with aftermarket options, so sticking with a Savage Arms magazine seemed like the best bet for compatibility.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid, constructed primarily of steel with a black finish. The weight felt appropriate for a 10-round rimfire magazine. Initially, the build quality seemed decent, although closer inspection revealed some minor imperfections in the finish.
I considered aftermarket magazines from ProMag, but the reviews were mixed regarding reliability. The Savage Arms factory magazine, despite being a bit more expensive, seemed the safer choice. Ultimately, I chose the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round hoping for seamless integration and reliable feeding.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the magazine appeared well-built, I was aware of potential fitment issues reported by other users, particularly concerning getting it to properly seat in the magazine well without modification. Only testing would reveal if the magazine truly lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. The conditions were sunny and dry, ideal for evaluating magazine function. I loaded the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round with .17 HMR ammunition and attempted to insert it into my Savage 93R17.
Initially, the magazine didn’t seat properly; it required significant force to lock into place. Once seated, the first few rounds chambered smoothly, but then I experienced a failure to feed. I realized the magazine needed some minor adjustment to the feed lips to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After about a month of use, including several range sessions and a small game hunting trip, the magazine’s performance has improved after the initial adjustments. Durability appears to be good; the steel construction shows no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to field conditions. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
Compared to the original 5-round magazine, the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round offers significantly increased capacity, reducing reload frequency. However, the initial fitment issues and the need for adjustment are a definite drawback. Despite these challenges, with a little tweaking it now outperforms the original in terms of capacity and overall utility.
Breaking Down the Features of Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Savage Arms
- Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) / .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR)
- Capacity: 10 Rounds
- Material: Steel
- Color: Black
- Gun Model: Savage Model 93
- Condition: New
These specifications are important because they dictate the magazine’s compatibility and performance. The steel construction ensures durability, while the 10-round capacity offers increased firepower for hunting or target shooting. Ensuring it is a genuine Savage Arms magazine increases the likelihood of proper fitment and feeding, though as testing showed, this is not always guaranteed.
Performance & Functionality
The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round performs adequately once properly fitted and adjusted. Its primary function is to reliably feed ammunition into the chamber, and with some minor adjustments, it does this reasonably well. The main strength is the increased capacity, providing more rounds before needing to reload.
The main weakness is the potential for initial fitment issues and the need for adjustment. It does meet expectations for a factory magazine, but it doesn’t exceed them, particularly given the price point. The fact that some users experience zero issues, while others require filing, points to a quality control issue at the Savage Arms factory.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, consistent with other rimfire magazines. The steel construction provides a robust feel, but the black finish is prone to scratching. The ergonomics are generally good, although the extended length compared to the 5-round magazine may affect how some users grip the rifle.
There is no significant learning curve, but potential fitment issues require mechanical aptitude for resolution. Some basic knowledge of firearms and magazine function is beneficial. Patience and perhaps a small file might be necessary to get this magazine working correctly.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests good longevity, provided the magazine is properly maintained. Regular cleaning is recommended to prevent dirt and debris from affecting feeding. Disassembly for cleaning is not typically required, but occasional wiping down with a lightly oiled cloth can help prevent rust.
Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring minimal effort to keep the magazine in good working order. With proper care, this magazine should last for many years of service. However, if the feed lips are excessively filed or damaged, this will obviously affect overall service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories that come directly with the magazine. Aftermarket magazine pouches designed for rimfire magazines can be used for carrying spare magazines. There are no customization options for the magazine itself beyond potential adjustments to the feed lips for optimal feeding.
The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round is primarily intended to be used as is, without any significant modifications. Compatibility with accessories is limited to carrying pouches and loading tools, as it is a self-contained unit. No optics or other accessories directly attach to the magazine itself.
Pros and Cons of Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round
Pros
- Increased capacity (10 rounds) compared to standard 5-round magazines.
- Durable steel construction.
- Factory magazine designed for Savage Arms Model 93 rifles.
- Relatively easy to clean and maintain.
- Provides a more streamlined shooting experience compared to constantly reloading a 5 round magazine
Cons
- Potential fitment issues requiring modification (filing feed lips or magazine well).
- Relatively expensive compared to aftermarket magazines.
- Finish is prone to scratching.
Who Should Buy Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round?
The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round is perfect for small game hunters, target shooters, and anyone who wants to increase the capacity of their Savage Model 93 rifle. It is particularly useful for those who prefer fewer reloads during hunting or extended range sessions. If you value factory parts and understand that minor adjustments may be necessary, this magazine is a good option.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are uncomfortable making minor adjustments to firearms accessories. Also, if you are extremely budget-conscious, cheaper aftermarket options might be tempting, but be aware of potential reliability issues. If you absolutely require guaranteed flawless performance right out of the box, this magazine may not be for you, unless you are prepared for the possibility of needing to file or tweak it.
Must-have accessories or modifications are a small file for adjusting the feed lips, and potentially a magazine pouch for carrying spare magazines. No other significant modifications are necessary once the magazine is properly fitted.
Conclusion on Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round
Overall, the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round offers a worthwhile upgrade for Savage Model 93 owners seeking increased capacity. However, the potential for fitment issues and the need for adjustment are significant drawbacks that cannot be ignored. The price is somewhat high for a rimfire magazine, especially considering the potential need for modification.
I would personally recommend it, but with a caveat. Be prepared to potentially spend some time adjusting the magazine to ensure reliable feeding. If you are willing to put in the effort, the increased capacity and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to your Savage Model 93.
Ultimately, if you’re looking to spend less time reloading and more time shooting, and you’re not afraid of a little DIY, then grab a Savage Arms Magazine 93MAG 22M/17HMR B 10 Round and get ready to load up. Just remember to have a file handy, just in case!