The BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds Made a Bold First Impression
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds promises to redefine the firepower and aesthetics of 12-gauge shotguns. With its high-capacity 20-round drum and distinctive black and zombie green color scheme, it’s a statement piece as much as it is a performance upgrade. After years of fiddling with standard magazines, the prospect of increased capacity without constant reloads was extremely appealing.
I’ve spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, and I’ve always been drawn to gear that blends functionality with a touch of flair. The BRM Battle Drum Magazine caught my eye specifically because I was looking to enhance the capabilities of my AR-12 platform shotgun. Tired of constantly swapping standard capacity magazines during training drills, I needed a high-capacity solution that wouldn’t compromise reliability.
Unboxing the BRM Battle Drum Magazine was an experience in itself. The drum feels solid and well-built, with a reassuring heft that speaks to its all-metal construction. The black and zombie green finish is eye-catching, and the EZ LOAD hand wheel immediately hints at user-friendliness.
Compared to standard 5 or 10 round magazines, the BRM Battle Drum Magazine feels like a significant leap forward. I also considered the X Products X-12 and the SDS Imports BLP 12 drum magazines, but ultimately the EZ LOAD wheel, claimed compatibility with a wide range of shotguns, and the unique color combination of the BRM Battle Drum Magazine swayed my decision. My first impression was a mix of excitement and a healthy dose of skepticism – could it really live up to the hype?
Real-World Testing: Putting BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BRM Battle Drum Magazine at my local shooting range, a controlled environment perfect for evaluating its feeding and reliability. The weather was dry and cool, ideal for a comfortable shooting session. Loading the drum using the EZ LOAD wheel was surprisingly easy, a welcome change from the tediousness of loading standard magazines.
The initial rounds cycled smoothly, with no jams or misfeeds. The added weight of the BRM Battle Drum Magazine took some getting used to, but it also seemed to help mitigate recoil slightly. However, after about 15 rounds, I experienced a couple of failures to feed, which raised some concerns.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range trips and a tactical shotgun course, the BRM Battle Drum Magazine’s performance has been somewhat inconsistent. While it generally feeds reliably with standard 2 ¾” shells, it struggles with some 3″ magnum loads. I have found that consistent cleaning and lubrication of the drum’s interior mechanisms is essential for maintaining optimal performance.
After about 200 rounds, there are minor signs of wear on the drum’s exterior finish, but nothing major. Cleaning the BRM Battle Drum Magazine is relatively straightforward, although disassembling it completely for a thorough cleaning is not recommended by BRM. While it offers significantly more capacity than standard magazines, its reliability isn’t quite as rock-solid as factory magazines, requiring more diligent maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds
Specifications
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds is designed for 12-gauge shotguns, specifically those based on the AR-12/MKA 1919 platform. It boasts a 20-round capacity for both 2 ¾” and 3″ shells. Its listed weight is 35 oz (approximately 2.19 lbs) empty, constructed with heat treated interior parts, features the EZ LOAD wheel, and is drop tested.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 20-round capacity provides a significant firepower advantage, reducing the need for frequent reloads in dynamic shooting situations. The heat treated interior parts should contribute to the magazine’s longevity and ability to withstand the stresses of repeated use.
Performance & Functionality
When it works, the BRM Battle Drum Magazine is a game-changer. The increased capacity translates to more time shooting and less time reloading. The EZ LOAD wheel truly simplifies the loading process, especially compared to wrestling rounds into a standard magazine.
However, the magazine’s performance isn’t flawless. As mentioned earlier, I experienced occasional failures to feed, particularly with heavier magnum loads. While the majority of rounds cycle smoothly, these occasional hiccups prevent it from being a truly reliable option for critical situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine‘s design is undeniably striking, with its black and zombie green color scheme. The all-metal construction feels robust, and the EZ LOAD wheel is well-integrated into the overall design. While the added weight is noticeable, it’s manageable, and the drum’s shape doesn’t interfere excessively with shouldering the shotgun.
There is a slight learning curve to using the EZ LOAD wheel efficiently, but it’s quickly mastered. The drum’s width can make it slightly awkward to handle initially, especially when transitioning between shooting positions.
Durability & Maintenance
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine appears to be built to last. The heat treated interior parts should withstand considerable wear and tear. After several range sessions and some rough handling, there are no signs of structural damage.
However, as mentioned previously, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining optimal performance. Disassembly for deep cleaning is not user-serviceable, so cleaning is limited to the accessible areas.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine doesn’t come with any included accessories. The primary “customization” option is its black and zombie green color, which allows users to personalize the look of their shotgun. The magazine is designed to be compatible with any AR-12/MKA 1919 style shotgun that accepts standard magazines, offering broad compatibility.
Pros and Cons of BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Holds 20 rounds, significantly reducing reload frequency.
- EZ LOAD Wheel: Simplifies the loading process compared to standard magazines.
- Durable Construction: All-metal build with heat treated interior parts.
- Eye-Catching Design: Distinctive black and zombie green color scheme.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits most AR-12/MKA 1919 style shotguns.
Cons
- Reliability Issues: Occasional failures to feed, especially with magnum loads.
- Maintenance Requirements: Requires regular cleaning and lubrication for optimal performance.
- Added Weight: Noticeably heavier than standard magazines.
Who Should Buy BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds?
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine is perfect for recreational shooters and those who participate in dynamic shooting sports where increased firepower is an advantage. It’s also ideal for individuals who appreciate a unique and eye-catching aesthetic.
However, this magazine might not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize absolute reliability in critical situations or those who prefer lightweight setups. Those who are unwilling to commit to regular maintenance should also probably avoid this magazine. A must-have accessory for this magazine is a high-quality gun lubricant to ensure smooth feeding, and potentially a magazine pouch designed to accommodate its bulkier size.
Conclusion on BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds
The BRM Battle Drum Magazine 20rd 12Ga- Black/Zombie Green – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds is a mixed bag. While it offers a significant increase in firepower and a distinctive look, its occasional reliability issues prevent it from being a truly exceptional product. At $105.99, the price is reasonable for the added capacity, but the need for consistent maintenance detracts from its overall value.
Personally, I’d recommend this magazine with reservations. If you’re willing to invest the time in cleaning and lubricating it regularly, and if you don’t rely on your shotgun for life-or-death situations, it can be a fun and effective addition to your arsenal. However, if absolute reliability is paramount, stick with standard capacity magazines. Give the BRM Battle Drum Magazine a try, but be sure to test it thoroughly with your preferred ammunition before relying on it.