The ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The AK-47, a rifle synonymous with rugged reliability and high-capacity firepower, has always been a platform ripe for modification and personalization. When I first saw the ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, I envisioned a significant boost in sustained firepower for range days and potential tactical applications. The promise of 50 rounds in a single drum feeding my AKM was an appealing prospect, offering a substantial upgrade over standard 30-round magazines.
I was driven to purchase this product by the desire for increased capacity during training exercises and the sheer novelty of having a drum magazine for my AK. With my experience in tactical gear, I was curious to explore how this aftermarket accessory would perform compared to the factory magazines I trust. The ProMag drum seemed like a cost-effective way to achieve this, but as you’ll see, the path to reliable function wasn’t as smooth as I hoped.
Upon receiving the ProMag drum, my initial impression was mixed. The black polymer construction felt reasonably sturdy, though noticeably lighter than the steel magazines I typically use. The winding mechanism seemed straightforward enough, and the overall design appeared compatible with my AKM pattern rifle.
I considered similar drum magazines from other manufacturers, including some Korean and Eastern European models, but the price point of the ProMag was a major factor. I hoped to get decent performance without investing in higher-end options right away. Excitement mingled with cautious optimism – would this drum live up to the AK’s legendary reliability, or would it be another aftermarket disappointment? Unfortunately, my first impression was more disappointment than excitement.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my usual outdoor shooting range. I loaded the ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin with 50 rounds of standard 7.62x39mm FMJ ammunition and inserted it into my AKM. The fit was snug, but not overly tight.
Unfortunately, problems arose almost immediately. The first few rounds fired without issue, but then I experienced a series of failures to feed. The bolt would fail to fully chamber the next round, resulting in a frustrating “click” instead of a “bang”. After multiple attempts and adjustments to the winding tension, the drum continued to malfunction. I experienced similar issues with multiple AK platforms.
Extended Use & Reliability
After multiple range trips spanning several weeks, the ProMag drum’s reliability remained questionable. The feeding issues persisted, regardless of the type of ammunition I used. I meticulously cleaned and lubed both the drum and my rifle, but the problem persisted.
Durability-wise, the polymer construction held up reasonably well, showing no signs of cracking or breaking. However, the internal mechanism seemed prone to binding, contributing to the feeding problems. Maintaining this drum proved to be more challenging than standard magazines. Disassembly and cleaning were more complex, and getting the winding tension just right was a delicate balancing act.
Compared to my experience with factory AK magazines, which have proven virtually indestructible and exceptionally reliable, the ProMag drum was a major letdown. The standard magazines consistently outperform this drum in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed to fit most common variants of the Kalashnikov chambered in 7.62x39mm. Its key specifications include a 50-round capacity, a 7.62 x 39mm caliber compatibility, and a construction primarily of black polymer. This magazine is an aftermarket product made in the USA.
The 50-round capacity is, of course, the main selling point, offering a significant firepower advantage over standard 30-round magazines. The polymer construction aims to reduce weight compared to steel drums, but the internal mechanism’s design plays a critical role in its overall functionality. The fact that it’s made in the USA might appeal to some buyers.
Performance & Functionality
In theory, the ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin should provide smooth and reliable feeding of 7.62x39mm ammunition. In practice, the performance was significantly below expectations. The unreliability of feeding proved to be a major detriment, hindering any potential benefits of the increased capacity.
The drum’s primary weakness is its inconsistent feeding. I experienced frequent failures to feed, regardless of the ammunition type or the rifle I used. It falls far short of expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin features a relatively simple design, with a polymer body and a winding mechanism at the rear. The weight is manageable, though the drum does add considerable bulk to the rifle. Ergonomically, it can be awkward to handle, especially when shooting from prone positions.
The build quality is acceptable for the price point, but the internal components seem to be the weak link. It took time to get used to the added weight and bulk.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer body of the ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin seems reasonably durable. But the internal mechanism is more susceptible to wear and tear.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning and lubrication. However, disassembly and reassembly are more complex than with standard magazines. The long-term durability of the internal components remains a concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t offer significant customization options itself. It’s designed to be a standalone accessory. However, it’s compatible with any AK-47 variant that accepts standard AK magazines, meaning you can still use aftermarket grips, stocks, and optics with your rifle while using the drum.
The drum itself is the accessory, and its compatibility with standard AK platforms is its key feature.
Pros and Cons of ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Potentially increased firepower with a 50-round capacity.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other drum magazines.
- Polymer construction reduces weight compared to steel drums.
- Compatible with most standard AK-47 variants.
- Made in USA.
Cons
- Unreliable feeding; frequent failures to feed.
- Complex disassembly and cleaning compared to standard magazines.
- Added bulk and weight can make the rifle awkward to handle.
- Questionable long-term durability of internal components.
Who Should Buy ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin might appeal to casual range shooters looking for a novelty item or a temporary boost in firepower. It could also be considered by those on a very tight budget who are willing to tinker and troubleshoot feeding issues.
However, serious shooters, tactical users, or anyone relying on their AK for self-defense should skip this product. The unreliability of feeding makes it unsuitable for any situation where consistent performance is critical.
If you still opt for this drum, consider purchasing a reliable magazine loader to ease the loading process and a high-quality gun lubricant to help mitigate potential feeding issues.
Conclusion on ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
In summary, the ProMag AK-47 7.62x39mm 50rd Black Drum – 7.62 x 39mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers the allure of increased firepower at an affordable price. Unfortunately, the unreliable feeding issues outweigh any potential benefits.
The price is tempting, but the unreliability makes it a questionable value proposition. It’s hard to justify the cost when the primary function – reliable feeding – is compromised.
Personally, I cannot recommend this product. The frustration of constant malfunctions outweighs the novelty of a 50-round drum. Save your money and invest in high-quality standard magazines. Your AK, and your peace of mind, will thank you.