First Thoughts on the ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model
The FN Five-seveN is a unique pistol, known for its high-velocity, flat-shooting 5.7x28mm cartridge. Its proprietary magazines, however, are often criticized for their cost and limited availability. Enter the ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model, a higher-capacity, aftermarket alternative designed to address both of these concerns.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist and shooting enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for quality aftermarket products that enhance the performance and practicality of my firearms. I was particularly interested in the ProMag magazine as a solution to the limited capacity of the standard magazines and the high cost. This magazine promised to offer a larger round count at a more accessible price point.
My initial impression upon unboxing the ProMag magazine was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. The black polymer construction felt reasonably sturdy, though not quite as refined as the factory FN magazines. I immediately noticed the extended length and included grip sleeve, designed to seamlessly integrate with the Five-seveN’s frame.
I was particularly drawn to this ProMag magazine because of the potential for increased firepower in practical shooting scenarios. Compared to standard 20-round magazines from FN, the ProMag promised a significant 50% increase in capacity. This could potentially reduce the frequency of reloads, particularly in training exercises or self-defense situations.
My excitement was tempered by the common perception that aftermarket magazines are often less reliable than factory offerings. I reserved judgment, eager to put the ProMag to the test on the range. My initial impression was a blend of intrigue and the need to prove the magazine’s reliability through rigorous testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine at my local shooting range, simulating a practical pistol course. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for evaluating the magazine’s functionality. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and magazine changes.
The magazine loaded easily and locked into my FN Five-seveN USG with a positive click. During the first few magazines, I experienced two failures to feed, which raised some immediate concerns about reliability. I carefully inspected the magazine and the rounds, but found no obvious causes for the malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and hundreds of rounds, the ProMag magazine has shown improvements in reliability, but still trails behind the performance of the factory magazines. I’ve noticed that the magazine functions more reliably when loaded to 28 rounds instead of the full 30, echoing some of the user feedback I’d seen. This suggests potential spring tension issues when fully loaded.
Durability has been acceptable, with no major signs of wear and tear on the polymer body. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic disassembly and wiping down of the components. Compared to the factory FN magazines, the ProMag requires slightly more frequent cleaning to ensure smooth feeding, especially after extended use.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7x28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model
Specifications
The ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine is designed for the FN Five-seveN pistol, chambered in 5.7x28mm. Its capacity is 30 rounds, a significant increase over the standard 20-round factory magazine. The magazine body is constructed from injection-molded, glass-filled nylon polymer for enhanced durability.
It also features a precision-wound, heat-treated Chrome-silicon wire spring for reliable feeding. The magazine has an overall length of 7.25 inches and includes a molded grip sleeve. All components are proudly made in the U.S.A.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the ProMag magazine is to reliably feed 5.7x28mm rounds into the FN Five-seveN pistol. While it offers a higher capacity, its performance has been inconsistent compared to factory magazines. The feeding can be less smooth than the OEM magazines and prone to occasional malfunctions, especially when fully loaded.
The increased capacity is a definite strength, offering a tactical advantage in certain scenarios. However, the potential for malfunctions is a significant weakness that needs to be addressed. The performance generally meets expectations for an aftermarket magazine in this price range, but falls short of the reliability offered by factory options.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag magazine is designed to mimic the appearance of the newer FN magazines, with an added rib in the front. The polymer construction keeps the weight reasonable, though it feels less robust than the metal-reinforced polymer of the factory magazines. The included grip sleeve enhances ergonomics, providing a comfortable and secure grip.
The user-friendliness is generally good, with easy loading and straightforward disassembly for cleaning. However, some users may find the magazine slightly more difficult to seat fully when loaded to its maximum capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The glass-filled nylon polymer construction of the ProMag magazine offers decent durability for its price point. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide a reasonable service life. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only basic tools and solvents.
It’s important to regularly inspect the magazine for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or deformation of the polymer body. Proper maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication of the spring and follower, is crucial for ensuring reliable function.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine is primarily a standalone product with limited customization options. It is designed to be compatible with the standard FN Five-seveN pistol and does not require any specific accessories for operation. The molded grip sleeve is an integral part of the magazine design and cannot be easily replaced.
Pros and Cons of ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7x28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Holds 30 rounds, offering a 50% increase over standard magazines.
- Affordable Price: Significantly less expensive than factory FN magazines.
- Durable Construction: Made from injection-molded, glass-filled nylon polymer.
- Made in USA: All components are manufactured in the United States.
- Ergonomic Grip Sleeve: Includes a molded grip sleeve for enhanced handling.
Cons
- Reliability Issues: Can be prone to malfunctions, especially when fully loaded.
- Build Quality: Polymer construction feels less robust than factory magazines.
- Requires More Maintenance: Needs more frequent cleaning to ensure smooth feeding.
Who Should Buy ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7x28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model?
The ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want increased magazine capacity for range training or recreational shooting. It can also be useful for those who want to have extra magazines without spending a fortune on factory options.
This magazine is not recommended for those who require absolute reliability for self-defense or duty use. It’s also not ideal for shooters who demand the highest level of quality and durability. A must-have modification would be diligent testing and potentially limiting the magazine to 28 rounds for enhanced reliability.
Conclusion on ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7x28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model
The ProMag FNH-A2 FN FiveseveN USG Magazine 30RD 5.7x28mm Black Polymer – 5.7x28mm Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Five-Seven Model offers a compelling value proposition for FN Five-seveN owners seeking increased capacity at an affordable price. While it doesn’t quite match the reliability and build quality of factory magazines, its higher round count and budget-friendly cost make it a worthwhile option for certain applications.
The price is certainly justified for range use and training, where occasional malfunctions are acceptable. I would personally recommend this magazine for those who understand its limitations and are willing to thoroughly test it before relying on it in critical situations. If you’re looking to expand your magazine arsenal without breaking the bank, the ProMag is worth considering. However, remember to prioritize testing and maintenance to ensure its reliable performance.