First Thoughts on the Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model
The Sig P226. It’s a legend. My first duty pistol was a P226, and while I’ve carried many firearms since then, the 226 always holds a special place. More rounds are always better, so the Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction immediately caught my eye.
For years, I’ve trusted factory Sig magazines in my P226. The problem is, they can be expensive. I needed additional magazines for training and competition, but wanted a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing reliability. Could this aftermarket magazine from Mec-Gar deliver?
Upon receiving the magazine, my initial impression was positive. The finish looked clean, and the magazine felt solid in hand. The “anti-friction” coating seemed slick, promising smooth feeding.
I compared it to a factory Sig Sauer 15-round magazine I already owned. The Mec-Gar felt comparable in weight and construction. My decision to choose the Mec-Gar over other aftermarket magazines stemmed from Mec-Gar’s reputation as an OEM manufacturer.
I was excited to test its performance at the range. Could it live up to the hype and provide reliable feeding with the added capacity? I was cautiously optimistic, hoping for a cost-effective alternative to factory magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for a spring day: sunny with a slight breeze and temperatures in the mid-60s. I ran 200 rounds through the magazine using various 9mm loads, including 115 grain FMJ, 124 grain +P hollow points, and some 147 grain subsonic ammunition.
The magazine loaded easily and seated firmly in my Sig P226. During the first few magazines, I experienced zero malfunctions. The rounds fed smoothly, and the slide locked back consistently after the last round.
There were no surprises; the magazine performed as expected, which is exactly what you want from a magazine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the Mec-Gar magazine continued to perform flawlessly. I estimate I’ve put over 1000 rounds through it at this point.
The magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The anti-friction coating seems to be holding up well, with only slight marks around the feed lips. Cleaning is simple: I just disassemble the magazine, wipe down the follower and spring, and lightly lubricate the body.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, no-name aftermarket magazines, the Mec-Gar has been a revelation. It’s proven to be just as reliable as my factory Sig magazines, but at a much lower price point. This has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model
Specifications
The Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine is chambered in 9mm caliber. It boasts an 18-round capacity, providing a significant increase over the standard 15-round magazines. The magazine is an aftermarket origin, manufactured by Mec-Gar, a well-known and respected magazine manufacturer. The magazine is specifically designed for the P226 model pistol.
The specifications of the Mec-Gar magazine directly impact its performance and user experience. The increased capacity allows for more rounds downrange before needing to reload, a crucial advantage in training, competition, or defensive situations. Mec-Gar’s reputation for quality construction ensures reliable feeding and smooth operation, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its primary function is to reliably feed 9mm rounds into a Sig P226, and it accomplishes this with consistent success. The magazine’s spring tension is perfectly calibrated, ensuring proper round presentation.
A key strength of this magazine is its reliability. I experienced zero failures to feed or malfunctions during my extensive testing. The anti-friction coating facilitates smooth movement of the rounds within the magazine body.
One area that could be improved is the magazine’s baseplate. While functional, it is fairly basic and lacks any ergonomic features. A slightly larger or textured baseplate could improve grip during reloads. However, this is a minor gripe.
Overall, the magazine meets and exceeds expectations for an aftermarket magazine. Its performance is comparable to factory Sig magazines, making it a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar magazine is well-built and feels solid in hand. The magazine body is constructed from durable steel, providing excellent resistance to deformation. The anti-friction coating enhances its resistance to corrosion and wear.
The magazine fits flush with the bottom of the P226 grip. This design minimizes printing for concealed carry and prevents snagging on clothing or gear. The magazine is easy to load and unload thanks to its well-designed feed lips and smoothly operating follower.
There is minimal learning curve with this magazine. It functions identically to a factory magazine, making it easy to integrate into your existing shooting routine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine is built to last. The durable steel construction and anti-friction coating contribute to its longevity. I expect this magazine to withstand years of use with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. The magazine disassembles easily for cleaning, allowing for thorough removal of dirt and debris. Regular cleaning and light lubrication will ensure optimal performance and prevent corrosion.
I anticipate this magazine lasting for many years. Its robust construction and ease of maintenance make it a reliable addition to any P226 owner’s collection.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. However, there are a few aftermarket options available.
Aftermarket baseplates are available to enhance grip and facilitate faster reloads. These baseplates typically offer a larger surface area and textured finish. Some users may also choose to replace the magazine follower with a higher-performance aftermarket follower.
The magazine is compatible with standard Sig P226 magazine pouches and carriers. This ensures seamless integration with existing gear setups. There are no known compatibility issues with aftermarket accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Holds 18 rounds of 9mm, providing a significant advantage over standard 15-round magazines.
- Reliable Performance: Feeds reliably and consistently, with no malfunctions observed during extensive testing.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality steel with an anti-friction coating for long-lasting performance.
- Cost-Effective: Offers similar performance to factory magazines at a lower price point.
- Flush Fit: Magazine sits flush with the grip of the Sig P226, minimizing printing and snagging.
Cons
- Baseplate: The baseplate is functional but lacks ergonomic enhancements for improved grip.
- Aftermarket: It is an aftermarket magazine, so some purists may prefer factory magazines.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model?
This magazine is perfect for:
- Competitive shooters: The increased capacity offers a competitive edge by reducing the frequency of reloads.
- Tactical shooters: The extra rounds can be crucial in a defensive situation.
- Sig P226 owners looking for affordable and reliable magazines: This magazine offers excellent performance at a reasonable price.
- Individuals seeking a high-capacity concealed carry option: The flush fit design minimizes printing, making it suitable for concealed carry.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who only trust factory magazines: If you are unwilling to use aftermarket magazines, this product is not for you.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Aftermarket baseplates: Upgrading the baseplate can improve grip and facilitate faster reloads.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine 18RD 9mm Anti-Friction – 9mm Caliber, 18 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, P226 Model
The Mec-Gar MGP22618 Sig P226 Magazine is an excellent aftermarket option for Sig P226 owners. It provides increased capacity, reliable performance, and durable construction at a reasonable price. The value proposition is excellent, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to upgrade their P226 magazine capacity.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a cost-effective and reliable alternative to factory Sig magazines. It has proven to be a valuable addition to my range kit. If you own a Sig P226 and need additional magazines, don’t hesitate to give the Mec-Gar a try. You won’t be disappointed. Stock up now and experience the difference!