The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is an aftermarket magazine designed to drastically increase the capacity of your S&W M&P Shield 9mm. With a staggering 50-round capacity, this drum magazine promises extended range sessions and a significant firepower advantage.
As a firearms instructor and tactical gear enthusiast, I’m always looking for ways to improve performance and adaptability. The limited capacity of the M&P Shield’s factory magazines has always been a minor drawback, especially in training scenarios that require high round counts or when teaching new shooters who benefit from continuous firing practice. The allure of a 50-round drum was simply too great to ignore, promising a solution to the limited capacity issue.
My initial impressions upon unboxing were mixed. The drum felt substantial, with a noticeable weight that spoke to its high-capacity design. While the black polymer exterior seemed reasonably durable, the overall fit and finish didn’t quite match the refinement of factory S&W magazines.
Compared to standard 7 or 8-round magazines, or even extended 10-round options, the ProMag drum is a completely different beast. I considered other extended magazines, but the 50-round capacity of the ProMag offered a unique advantage that the other options couldn’t match. My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism, and I was eager to test its reliability and performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin was at my local shooting range. The range offered a controlled environment to evaluate its functionality and reliability. Loading the drum was a bit of a learning curve, requiring careful attention to ensure proper seating of each round.
The drum performed admirably for the first 30 or so rounds. However, I experienced a few failures to feed around the 35-40 round mark. The issue seemed to stem from the drum spring struggling to maintain consistent pressure on the rounds as it neared empty.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 300 rounds fired through the ProMag drum, its reliability remained inconsistent. While it functioned flawlessly for the initial portion of each magazine, failures to feed and occasional double feeds became more frequent as the round count decreased. The wear and tear was minimal.
Cleaning the drum proved to be a bit more involved than standard magazines, requiring disassembly to properly remove debris and fouling. Compared to the rock-solid reliability of the factory S&W magazines, the ProMag drum fell short of my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm. This drum is specifically designed for 9mm rounds, ensuring compatibility with the M&P Shield.
- Capacity: 50 rounds. The massive capacity is the magazine’s defining feature, offering a significant increase in firepower.
- Origin: Aftermarket. Being an aftermarket product, it’s important to consider potential differences in quality and reliability compared to factory magazines.
- Material: Polymer body with steel internal components. The polymer construction helps reduce weight, while steel parts ensure durability in critical areas.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers an undeniable advantage in terms of capacity, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads. Unfortunately, the drum’s inconsistent reliability detracts from its overall appeal.
The increased weight of the fully loaded drum also affects the pistol’s handling, potentially impacting accuracy and maneuverability. While the drum’s capacity is enticing, its functional limitations prevent it from fully meeting expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The drum’s black polymer construction is relatively durable, though the fit and finish aren’t quite on par with factory S&W magazines. Its bulk significantly alters the M&P Shield’s profile, making it less suitable for concealed carry.
The loading process can be cumbersome, especially without a magazine loader, and requires careful attention to prevent malfunctions. While the concept is intriguing, the execution leaves room for improvement in terms of ergonomics and user-friendliness.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin appears to be reasonably durable, capable of withstanding typical range use. However, the drum’s complex internal components require more thorough cleaning and maintenance compared to standard magazines.
The long-term durability of the drum’s spring and feeding mechanism remains a concern, especially with frequent use and high round counts. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure reliable operation and extend the drum’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t offer any specific customization options beyond its inherent high capacity. It’s compatible with standard 9mm ammunition and can be used with most M&P Shield accessories.
However, the added bulk of the drum may limit compatibility with some holsters and magazine pouches designed for standard-capacity magazines. While the drum itself isn’t customizable, it can enhance the overall versatility of the M&P Shield in specific shooting scenarios.
Pros and Cons of ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Massive 50-round capacity, significantly increasing firepower.
- Durable polymer construction suitable for range use.
- Relatively easy to load with a magazine loader.
- Provides a unique aesthetic and tactical advantage.
- Can be a fun novelty for range sessions.
Cons
- Inconsistent reliability, with frequent failures to feed and double feeds.
- Increased weight and bulk negatively impact handling and concealability.
- Requires more thorough cleaning and maintenance compared to standard magazines.
Who Should Buy ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity over absolute reliability and those who enjoy the novelty of a drum magazine. It may also appeal to individuals seeking a distinct tactical advantage in specific scenarios where concealability is not a primary concern.
This product isn’t suitable for individuals who rely on their M&P Shield for self-defense or duty use, where consistent reliability is paramount. I would not recommend this magazine to anyone whose life depends on the M&P Shield functioning flawlessly.
A must-have accessory for this product is a high-quality magazine loader, as loading 50 rounds manually can be tedious and time-consuming.
Conclusion on ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The ProMag S&W 9mm Luger M&P Shield 50rd Black Drum – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is a mixed bag. While it offers a compelling increase in capacity and a unique tactical appeal, its inconsistent reliability is a significant drawback.
At $75.99, the price may be justified for those who value high capacity and novelty, but it’s important to weigh the cost against the potential for malfunctions. While I appreciate the concept and the potential for extended shooting sessions, I cannot wholeheartedly recommend this product due to its reliability issues. If you’re considering this drum, approach it with realistic expectations and prioritize testing and familiarization before relying on it in critical situations.