The C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin isn’t just another AR magazine; it’s a specialized piece designed to bridge the gap between the ubiquitous AR-15 platform and the potent 7.62x39mm cartridge, while adhering to specific capacity restrictions. C Products Defense Inc (CPD) has been a player in the magazine market for some time, but adapting the AR-15 to reliably feed the distinctly tapered 7.62x39mm round has always been a challenge. This 5-round variant offers a solution for hunters and shooters in jurisdictions with magazine capacity limitations.
My quest for this particular magazine stemmed from a desire to use my AR platform for deer hunting in a state with a 5-round magazine restriction. Standard AR magazines chambered in 5.56 NATO are plentiful, but completely useless for my 7.62x39mm upper. I needed a reliable, durable, and compliant magazine to ethically and effectively harvest game.
The initial unboxing revealed a robust steel magazine with a clean black finish. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable construction capable of withstanding the rigors of field use. There were no visible imperfections or signs of poor manufacturing, bolstering my confidence in the CPD product.
Compared to other 7.62x39mm AR magazine options, such as those from ASC or ProMag, the DURAMAG’s reputation for improved reliability swayed my decision. I had previously struggled with feeding issues when using cheaper, polymer magazines with this particular upper. The steel construction of the DURAMAG seemed like a worthwhile investment for ensuring consistent performance.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The magazine felt right, but the real test would come at the range and in the field. Would it reliably feed rounds into my AR?
Real-World Testing: Putting C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test of the C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin took place at my local shooting range. I wanted a controlled environment to assess its feeding reliability before venturing into the woods. The weather was dry and moderately warm, typical of an early autumn day.
The magazine loaded easily and locked securely into my AR-15 lower receiver. I slowly fired all five rounds, and the DURAMAG performed flawlessly; each round chambered smoothly, and the bolt locked back on the empty magazine every time. This contrasted sharply with my prior experiences using other brands of 7.62×39 magazines that often resulted in frustrating jams and failures to feed.
There were no immediate issues after the first use, which was a pleasant surprise. The magazine seemed to function as intended, but I needed to push it further to determine its long-term reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of range trips and a few hunting excursions, the DURAMAG continues to impress. It has consistently fed rounds without any failures across approximately 200 rounds. I even intentionally subjected it to some less-than-ideal conditions, including leaving it loaded in a dusty truck bed for a few days.
Durability-wise, the black finish shows minor signs of wear around the magazine well from repeated insertions and removals. However, the steel body remains structurally sound, with no dents or bends. The magazine spring still feels strong and provides consistent pressure.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it clean and functioning optimally. Disassembly isn’t necessary for routine maintenance. This simplicity is a significant plus compared to some more complex magazine designs.
In comparison to my previous experience with polymer 7.62x39mm AR magazines, the DURAMAG has been a significant upgrade. It has proven to be far more reliable and durable, justifying the slightly higher price point. The peace of mind it provides in the field is worth every penny.
Breaking Down the Features of C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm. This is the defining characteristic, allowing AR-15 platforms to utilize the popular and powerful 7.62x39mm round.
- Capacity: 5 rounds. This is crucial for hunters and shooters in areas with magazine capacity restrictions.
- Origin: Aftermarket. This indicates that it’s not a standard AR-15 magazine, but specifically designed for adapting the AR to the 7.62x39mm cartridge.
- Material: Steel. The steel construction is a key factor in its durability and reliability, especially when compared to polymer alternatives.
- Finish: Black. Provides a protective layer against corrosion and a tactical aesthetic.
- Detachable: Designed for quick magazine changes. This feature is fundamental to the AR-15 platform and allows for rapid reloading.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the magazine’s performance and suitability for specific applications. The steel construction and limited capacity are deliberate choices that contribute to its overall reliability and compliance with regulations.
Performance & Functionality
The C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin performs its primary function – reliably feeding 7.62x39mm rounds into an AR-15 – exceptionally well. Its reliability is its greatest strength, exceeding the performance of many other 7.62x39mm AR magazines I’ve used. The magazine spring provides consistent pressure, ensuring proper feeding even after extended use.
The only potential weakness is the limited 5-round capacity. While this is a necessity in some jurisdictions, it’s a limiting factor for those seeking higher capacity options. Some users might find reloading frequently to be a drawback.
The DURAMAG meets and exceeds my expectations for a low-capacity 7.62x39mm AR magazine. It delivers consistent, reliable performance in a robust package.
Design & Ergonomics
The DURAMAG features a simple, utilitarian design. The steel construction provides a solid and durable feel. The black finish offers adequate corrosion resistance.
The magazine is easy to load and locks securely into standard AR-15 lower receivers. There is no noticeable learning curve; it functions just like any other AR magazine, albeit with a different caliber and capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests excellent long-term durability. I anticipate that this magazine will withstand years of use with proper care. The durable steel construction makes the magazine resistant to damage from drops, impacts, and exposure to harsh environments.
Maintenance is simple; no specialized tools are required. Regular cleaning with a brush and a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t inherently lend itself to a lot of accessories or customization. It is a simple steel magazine designed to feed rounds.
However, it is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver designed to accept standard AR magazines. It pairs perfectly with 7.62x39mm AR-15 uppers from various manufacturers like Bear Creek Arsenal or PSA. The magazine is designed to work seamlessly with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers.
Pros and Cons of C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistently feeds 7.62x39mm rounds without failures.
- Durable Steel Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Compliance: 5-round capacity makes it legal in restricted states.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design allows for quick and easy cleaning.
- Secure Fit: Locks positively into AR-15 lower receivers.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: 5 rounds may be insufficient for some users.
- Heavier Than Polymer Alternatives: Steel construction adds weight compared to polymer magazines.
Who Should Buy C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
This magazine is perfect for hunters in states with magazine capacity restrictions who use a 7.62x39mm AR-15. It is also a great choice for target shooters in similar regulatory environments, or those who simply prefer a lower capacity magazine for training purposes. Anyone building a 7.62x39mm AR-15 for compliance reasons will appreciate the reliability and durability.
This product should be avoided by those who live in areas without magazine capacity restrictions and desire higher capacity options. Someone only using a 5.56 AR15 will also have no use for this product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality AR-15 magazine pouch or carrier to securely transport the magazine in the field. There are no real modifications that could improve the product further.
Conclusion on C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is a well-made, reliable magazine that fulfills a specific need: providing a compliant and dependable feeding solution for 7.62x39mm AR-15s in restricted environments. The price of $13.99 is justified by its robust steel construction and consistent performance.
I would definitely recommend this magazine to anyone seeking a low-capacity 7.62x39mm AR magazine that they can depend on. If you are seeking reliability, compliance, and durability in a single package, look no further than the C Products Defense Inc DURAMAG Steel 7.62x39mm AR-15 5rd Black Detachable – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin. Buy one today and experience the difference!