The Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin isn’t just an accessory; it’s a statement. This drum magazine, manufactured by Magpul, promises to deliver a significant increase in firepower for your AR-10 platform rifle, specifically those accepting SR25/M110 pattern magazines. It boasts a 50-round capacity of 7.62x51mm NATO/.308 Winchester ammunition and is designed to be rugged and reliable.
My journey to acquire the Magpul PMAG D-50 started with a recurring frustration: constantly reloading during range sessions and hog hunts. The standard 20-round magazines felt limiting, especially when engaging multiple targets or dealing with a sounder of hogs. The drum promised an extended engagement capability.
Upon unboxing, the PMAG D-50 felt substantial. The polymer construction, reminiscent of Magpul’s renowned PMAG series, immediately instilled confidence. It felt solid in hand. The weight, while noticeable, seemed manageable, hinting at a robust build designed to withstand rigorous use.
I considered other drum magazines, particularly those from X Products, but their price point was significantly higher. The Magpul D-50 offered a more accessible entry into the world of high-capacity magazines, combined with the established reputation of Magpul products. I ultimately chose the PMAG D-50 for its balance of price, capacity, and Magpul’s commitment to reliability.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this drum magazine truly deliver on its promise of increased capacity and reliable feeding, or would it be another range toy that spends more time malfunctioning than firing? Only testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Magpul PMAG D-50 was at my local shooting range, under relatively controlled conditions. I wanted to get a feel for its loading process and how it affected the balance of my AR-10. I was shooting from a bench.
The PMAG D-50 performed flawlessly during the initial range session. It fed all 50 rounds of .308 without a single hiccup. Loading was relatively easy, though definitely more time-consuming than loading a standard 20-round magazine.
I was surprised by how well the rifle balanced, even with the added weight of the full drum magazine. There was no noticeable degradation in accuracy, and the recoil remained manageable. I noticed that prone shooting was now challenging, due to the increased drum height.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Magpul PMAG D-50 continues to impress. It has become a trusted companion on my hog hunts, providing that extra margin of firepower when needed. It has also seen duty in several training scenarios.
The PMAG D-50 has proven remarkably durable. Despite being subjected to dirt, mud, and the occasional accidental drop, it shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer construction has held up extremely well.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The drum can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning, and the Magpul polymer is resistant to most cleaning solvents. Compared to my previous experiences with other high-capacity magazines, the D-50 is a clear winner in terms of reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The Magpul PMAG D-50 is a 50-round drum magazine designed for 7.62x51mm NATO/.308 Winchester ammunition. It is compatible with SR25/M110 pattern rifles, and similar platforms that accept these magazines. The drum is constructed from Magpul’s proprietary impact and crush-resistant polymer.
The robust stainless steel internals ensure resistance to corrosion and reliable feeding. The anti-glare translucent window on the rear of the drum allows for quick visual confirmation of remaining ammunition. The slip-on semi-rigid dust cover protects against debris intrusion during storage and transport.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the magazine’s reliability, durability, and ease of use. The polymer construction keeps the weight manageable while providing excellent impact resistance. The stainless steel internals ensure smooth and consistent feeding, even under harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul PMAG D-50 performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent and reliable feeding of ammunition. I have experienced no malfunctions directly attributable to the magazine itself. It meets and exceeds my expectations.
Its primary strength is its increased capacity, which significantly extends engagement times. The weakness, if any, is the increased weight and bulk compared to standard magazines, which can affect maneuverability in certain situations. Overall, its performance is excellent.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul PMAG D-50 boasts a well-thought-out design. The polymer construction keeps the weight reasonable for a 50-round drum. The ergonomics are generally good, although the drum’s size can make prone shooting awkward.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly. While loading takes more time than with standard magazines, it is a simple and straightforward process. Minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul PMAG D-50 is built to last. The high-quality polymer and stainless steel internals suggest a long lifespan. It is easy to disassemble and clean.
Maintaining the PMAG D-50 is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the internal components will ensure optimal performance. It appears very durable and reliable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul PMAG D-50 does not require any specific accessories for basic functionality. The included dust cover is a welcome addition. The drum is compatible with standard SR25/M110 pattern magazine pouches, although specialized drum magazine pouches may offer a more secure fit.
While there are no direct customization options for the magazine itself, it works seamlessly with a wide range of AR-10 platform accessories, such as optics, slings, and bipods. The D-50 integrates seamlessly into the AR-10 ecosystem.
Pros and Cons of Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Massive 50-round capacity significantly extends engagement times.
- Reliable feeding with no malfunctions experienced during testing.
- Durable Magpul polymer construction withstands harsh conditions.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
- Compatible with SR25/M110 pattern rifles and magazine pouches.
Cons
- Increased weight and bulk compared to standard magazines.
- Loading takes more time than with standard magazines.
- Can make prone shooting awkward due to its size.
Who Should Buy Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The Magpul PMAG D-50 is perfect for hog hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants increased firepower and extended engagement times with their AR-10 platform rifle. It is also a good option for those seeking a reliable high-capacity magazine for home defense. The D-50 excels in scenarios where minimizing reload frequency is paramount.
Those who prioritize lightweight and maneuverability above all else might want to skip this product. The added weight and bulk can be a hindrance in situations where speed and agility are crucial. Also, those with AR-10 platforms that do not accept SR25/M110 magazines should not buy it.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated drum magazine pouch for secure carry. Also, a quality magazine loader can significantly speed up the loading process. These additions will maximize the effectiveness of the Magpul PMAG D-50.
Conclusion on Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The Magpul PMAG D-50 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO AR-10,M110,SR25 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 51mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin delivers on its promise of increased firepower and reliable performance. It is a well-built and durable drum magazine that is compatible with a wide range of AR-10 platform rifles. The price of $123.49 is justified.
I would personally recommend the Magpul PMAG D-50 to anyone looking for a high-capacity magazine for their AR-10. Its reliability, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. Upgrade your AR-10 today!