The ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel arrived with a promise of increased capacity for my Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380, a pistol I often carry for its concealability. The idea of adding a few extra rounds without drastically impacting the gun’s footprint was definitely appealing, and I was eager to see if ProMag could deliver on that promise.
I’ve always valued having extra capacity in my carry pistols; the standard 6-round magazine in the Bodyguard always felt a little limiting, especially given the potential for malfunctions or the need for multiple follow-up shots in a defensive situation. The claim of a 10-round capacity in an extended magazine that allegedly improves grip sounded like the perfect solution to this problem.
Upon unboxing, the blued steel construction felt solid, but I immediately noticed the added length compared to the flush-fitting factory magazine. My initial thought was: “Will this really be worth it for the added capacity, or will it ruin the Bodyguard’s primary advantage: concealability?”. It felt heavier, which was expected, but the polymer baseplate appeared well-molded and hopefully durable.
Compared to a factory S&W magazine and a competitor’s 7-round extended magazine, the ProMag was noticeably longer. I chose it because of the promise of 10 rounds and positive user reviews about improved grip, hoping these advantages would outweigh the size increase.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and trepidation; I was eager to test the magazine’s reliability and the impact on the Bodyguard’s handling, but I was also wary of potential feeding issues and the added bulk. Only time and range testing would reveal the true potential of the ProMag SMI-21.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the ProMag SMI-21 to my local shooting range, primarily focusing on drills involving rapid target acquisition and multiple shots per target. The range provided a controlled environment to assess functionality and reliability.
I encountered a few failures to feed in the first couple of magazines, especially with cheaper, range-grade ammunition. The ProMag performed better with higher-quality self-defense rounds, but the initial hiccups were concerning. The improved grip was noticeable and welcomed, especially during rapid firing, even with the magazine’s extended length.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and around 300 rounds fired, the ProMag magazine’s reliability improved, but occasional malfunctions still occurred, particularly when the magazine was fully loaded to its 10-round capacity. There was a noticeable wear mark appearing on the feed lips.
The blued steel showed minimal wear and tear, though the polymer baseplate exhibited some scuffing from repeated loading and unloading. Cleaning the magazine was straightforward, with easy disassembly and reassembly. While it offered a better grip than the factory magazine, the trade-off in reliability wasn’t ideal; my factory magazine never failed to feed.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine is designed for the S&W Bodyguard 380 pistol, chambered in .380 ACP caliber. It boasts a 10-round capacity, significantly increasing the firepower of the standard Bodyguard. The magazine body is constructed from heat-treated blued steel for durability.
The follower, lock-plate, and base-plate are molded from a proprietary DuPont® Zytel™ based black polymer. A spring, wound from Chrome-silicon wire and heat-treated is also included. The overall length of the magazine is approximately 5 inches. This extended length contributes to an enhanced grip.
These specifications translate to a heavier magazine with increased capacity, potentially improving handling and offering more rounds before needing to reload. The steel body provides robustness, while the polymer components aim to reduce weight and ensure smooth feeding. The spring’s material is designed for longevity and consistent pressure.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the ProMag SMI-21 is to increase the S&W Bodyguard’s magazine capacity. In terms of performance, it does offer the promised 10 rounds, but the initial failures to feed issues raised concerns about its overall reliability. It did improve over time, but the reliability of a carry magazine is of utmost importance.
Its main strength is the added capacity and improved grip, allowing for more comfortable and controlled shooting. The main weakness is the occasional feeding issues, especially with a fully loaded magazine and certain types of ammunition. For a carry pistol, I expect a higher level of reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s build quality appears decent, with a solid steel body and a well-molded polymer baseplate. The increased weight compared to the factory magazine is noticeable.
The extended length does contribute to a more secure and comfortable grip, particularly for those with larger hands, however it extends the overall footprint of the handgun. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of reliably loading all 10 rounds, as the spring pressure can be quite strong when the magazine is new.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the magazine suggests good long-term durability, and after 300 rounds, there are only minor signs of wear. Disassembly for cleaning and maintenance is relatively simple, requiring no specialized tools.
With proper care and regular cleaning, the ProMag SMI-21 should last for a considerable time, though the spring might eventually require replacement with extensive use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag SMI-21 itself is an aftermarket accessory designed to enhance the S&W Bodyguard 380. There are no additional accessories that come specifically with the magazine. As an aftermarket magazine, it is not compatible with all magazine pouches designed for the Bodyguard 380 due to the extended length.
Pros and Cons of ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Offers a significant increase in ammunition capacity (10 rounds vs. 6).
- Improved Grip: The extended length provides a more substantial grip surface, enhancing control.
- Durable Construction: Blued steel body promises long-term durability.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple disassembly for cleaning and maintenance.
Cons
- Occasional Feeding Issues: Experienced failures to feed, especially when fully loaded.
- Compromised Concealment: Added length makes concealment slightly more challenging.
Who Should Buy ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin?
The ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine is perfect for Bodyguard 380 owners who prioritize increased capacity and improved grip over ultimate concealment. It could be beneficial for range shooters looking for more time between reloads.
Those who demand absolute reliability in their concealed carry weapon should perhaps avoid this product, or at least test it extensively with their chosen self-defense ammunition. For most shooters, the ProMag is a fun range toy.
Conclusion on ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine 10RD 380ACP Blued Steel – 380 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
The ProMag SMI-21 S&W Bodyguard Magazine offers a tempting upgrade for Bodyguard 380 owners seeking more firepower and a better grip. The price of $18.49 is certainly attractive, and the magazine is well built.
However, the occasional feeding issues I experienced prevent me from wholeheartedly recommending it for everyday carry. The increased capacity is a plus, but reliability is paramount.
If you’re willing to thoroughly test it and accept the slight risk of malfunctions, the ProMag SMI-21 could be a worthwhile addition to your range gear. However, for self-defense, I would stick with factory magazines.