The Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Browning Hi-Power is a classic pistol, and reliable magazines are crucial for its proper function. When my original Hi-Power magazines started showing their age after years of use and countless range sessions, I knew I needed to find a trustworthy replacement. That’s when I came across the Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin, a name synonymous with quality aftermarket magazines.
My search stemmed from a desire to maintain the reliability of my Hi-Power without breaking the bank on original factory magazines. The Mec-Gar magazines promised similar performance at a more accessible price point, piquing my interest. Upon unboxing, the blued steel construction felt solid and reassuring. The magazine had a noticeable heft, suggesting durable construction.
Compared to some cheaper, generic magazines I’ve seen, the Mec-Gar offering felt significantly more robust. I’d considered ProMag alternatives, but their mixed reviews pushed me towards the more reputable Mec-Gar. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Would it live up to the Mec-Gar reputation for quality?
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin at my local outdoor range during a typical weekend session. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing. The magazines loaded smoothly, and I experienced no initial difficulties feeding rounds into my Hi-Power.
The magazine release felt positive, and the magazines ejected cleanly. I ran through several magazines, focusing on various drills including rapid fire and controlled pairs. There were no noticeable issues in terms of feeding, extraction, or lockback, even with different types of 9mm ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular range trips, the Mec-Gar magazines have proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through each magazine, and they continue to function flawlessly. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. Only slight scuff marks from insertion and ejection mar the finish.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring keeps them in top condition. Compared to my original Hi-Power magazines, the Mec-Gar performs just as well, if not better, given the age of my originals. These magazines have exceeded my initial expectations and instilled complete confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin boasts several key specifications. It is chambered in 9mm caliber, holding 13 rounds. The magazine body is constructed of steel, with a blued finish.
The aftermarket origin means it is not manufactured by Browning, but by Mec-Gar, a well-respected magazine manufacturer. These specs are crucial because they ensure compatibility with the Browning Hi-Power and provide a higher capacity than standard 10-round magazines in some areas. The steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin performs exceptionally well. Its primary function, reliably feeding ammunition into the Hi-Power, is executed flawlessly. I’ve experienced zero malfunctions attributable to the magazines themselves.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its robust construction and reliable feeding, while a slight con may be the tight spring when new, requiring a bit more effort to load to full capacity initially. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for an aftermarket magazine. The positive user feedback from other Hi-Power owners also confirms its reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is functional and true to the original Hi-Power magazine. The blued steel construction gives it a classic, understated look. The weight is appropriate, not too heavy, and not flimsy, lending to its perceived quality.
There isn’t much of a learning curve. The magazine functions exactly as expected, without any quirks. Loading can be a bit stiff when new, but this eases with use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel construction, the Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to maintain its performance. Disassembly for cleaning is simple, involving removing the baseplate.
Replacing the spring is possible if needed, further extending its lifespan. The blued finish provides decent corrosion resistance, but a light coat of oil is recommended for long-term storage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin does not require any specific accessories for operation. Base pads can be added for easier handling and faster reloads. Compatibility with aftermarket magazine pouches is excellent, as it conforms to standard Hi-Power magazine dimensions.
There aren’t many customization options for magazines themselves, but the Mec-Gar offering works well with existing Hi-Power accessories. Aftermarket followers might be available for further customization, but the stock follower is perfectly adequate.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Feeds ammunition consistently without malfunctions.
- Durable Steel Construction: Built to withstand years of use and abuse.
- 13-Round Capacity: Offers increased capacity compared to standard magazines.
- Affordable Price: Provides excellent value for the money.
- Reputable Manufacturer: Backed by Mec-Gar’s reputation for quality.
Cons
- Tight Spring When New: Can be difficult to load to full capacity initially.
- Blued Finish Susceptible to Wear: Finish may show wear with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin?
The Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for Browning Hi-Power owners seeking reliable and affordable replacement magazines. It is ideal for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, and those who rely on their Hi-Power for self-defense. Anyone needing to replace worn or damaged Hi-Power magazines will find this a worthwhile investment.
Those who should skip this product are individuals seeking original Browning factory magazines at any cost. Also, if someone prefers magazines with a different finish, such as nickel or stainless steel, they might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine loader to ease the initial loading process.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
In summary, the Mec-Gar MGBRHP13 Browning HP Magazine 13RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 13 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is a fantastic aftermarket magazine for the Browning Hi-Power. Its reliability, durability, and affordable price make it an excellent value proposition. The price of $18.99 is more than justified, considering the quality and performance offered.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any Hi-Power owner needing reliable replacements or additional magazines. Don’t hesitate – upgrade your Hi-Power with Mec-Gar magazines and experience the difference! You won’t be disappointed.