First Thoughts on the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is an aftermarket drum magazine designed specifically for the Akdal MKA 1919 shotgun. I’ve always been intrigued by the MKA 1919’s AR-15-style ergonomics, but found the standard magazine capacity limiting, especially for tactical applications or just plain range fun. This drum promises to drastically increase firepower, and that got my attention.
I’ve long searched for a reliable high-capacity option for my MKA 1919, a shotgun I enjoy using in practical shooting scenarios. Standard magazines, while reliable, require frequent reloads, slowing down drills and potentially impacting effectiveness in dynamic situations. The promise of 20 rounds of 12 gauge in a single drum was undeniably appealing.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag drum felt substantial, though the plastic construction didn’t immediately inspire confidence. Its weight was noticeable even when empty, and I wondered how it would affect the balance of the MKA 1919 once fully loaded. The black finish matched my shotgun well enough, but the overall aesthetic felt somewhat utilitarian compared to the sleek lines of the original magazines.
I considered other high-capacity options like stick magazines, but the drum’s larger capacity and unique look won me over. I also looked at a competing drum magazine, but the ProMag‘s reputation, while mixed, swayed me due to its wider availability and generally positive user feedback. I hoped to find it an upgrade.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The sheer capacity was exciting, but I also worried about potential feeding issues or reliability problems common with aftermarket shotgun magazines. My first impression was a mix of anticipation and slight apprehension, eager to see if the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin would live up to its promise or become another range toy relegated to the back of the safe.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, a familiar and controlled environment. I wanted to assess the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin with a variety of ammunition. This included birdshot, buckshot, and even some rifled slugs, all 2.75″ shells as required.
The weather was mild and dry, providing optimal conditions for testing. Loading the drum proved to be a bit of a chore, requiring significant effort to compress the spring as rounds were added. The first few cycles with only a few rounds failed to load. Once loaded, the drum locked into the MKA 1919 with a secure click, but the added weight was immediately noticeable, shifting the shotgun’s balance forward.
The first few shots were encouraging; the shotgun cycled smoothly. However, after about seven rounds, I experienced a failure to feed. The next shell became jammed against the chamber mouth. After clearing the malfunction, I continued shooting. I experienced intermittent feeding issues every few rounds throughout the first 50 rounds fired. It was disappointing.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next several weeks, I put the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin through more rigorous testing. This included several range sessions and a practical shotgun match. This gave me a better idea of its long-term reliability.
Despite initial hiccups, the drum’s performance improved somewhat with use, likely due to the spring breaking in. However, feeding issues persisted, especially with cheaper, low-brass ammunition. Aftermarket magazines are notorious for this. The drum started to show wear around the feed lips after a couple hundred rounds.
Cleaning the drum is relatively straightforward, involving disassembly and wiping down internal components. However, the plastic construction makes me question its long-term durability. Overall, the ProMag drum was outperformed by the reliability of the original factory magazines. I will say, however, that the drum’s performance when it worked was exhilerating.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed specifically for the Akdal MKA 1919 12-gauge shotgun. It’s crucial to only use 2.75″ shells, as longer shells can cause malfunctions and potentially damage the drum. The stated capacity is 20 rounds, although some users have reported difficulty loading it to full capacity.
The drum is made from a black polymer. This makes it relatively lightweight despite its size, but potentially less durable than steel alternatives. Being an aftermarket product, it’s not manufactured by Akdal, the original shotgun manufacturer. The ProMag is made in the USA.
Performance & Functionality
When it functions correctly, the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin delivers a significant increase in firepower. However, its reliability is its main downfall. Feeding issues, especially with certain types of ammunition, are a common complaint.
Its strengths are its high capacity and unique aesthetic. Its weaknesses are its questionable reliability and the extra weight it adds to the shotgun. It meets expectations for sheer capacity, but falls short in terms of consistent, dependable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag drum’s design is functional but not particularly refined. The polymer construction keeps the weight manageable. However, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as metal magazines. The drum locks securely into the MKA 1919’s magazine well. The added bulk makes the shotgun feel front-heavy.
There’s a noticeable learning curve associated with loading the drum. Compressing the spring and aligning the shells requires practice. It is a user-friendly design.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin‘s long-term durability is a concern. The polymer construction may not withstand heavy use or rough handling. Disassembly for cleaning is relatively easy, but the internal components are also made of plastic. So they are prone to wear and tear.
Repairing the drum may be difficult, as replacement parts are not readily available. Given its construction, the ProMag drum is likely not a buy-it-for-life product. Instead, it is a consumable accessory requiring eventual replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin doesn’t offer any specific accessories or customization options. It’s a standalone product designed to increase the MKA 1919’s magazine capacity. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited, as it is designed specifically for the MKA 1919 platform. I suggest buying a magazine loader.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Significantly increases magazine capacity to 20 rounds.
- Offers a unique and aggressive aesthetic to the MKA 1919 shotgun.
- Relatively affordable compared to some other high-capacity magazine options.
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Reliability issues, including failures to feed and jams, are common.
- Polymer construction raises concerns about long-term durability.
- Can be difficult to load, requiring significant effort and practice.
- Adds noticeable weight and bulk to the shotgun, affecting balance.
Who Should Buy ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity and a unique look over absolute reliability. It’s also suitable for those who want to experiment with a drum magazine without investing in more expensive options.
Those who should skip this product include tactical users, competitive shooters, or anyone relying on the MKA 1919 for self-defense. In these scenarios, reliability is paramount. The risk of malfunctions with the ProMag drum outweighs the benefits of its increased capacity.
A must-have accessory is a magazine loader to ease the loading process. Polishing the feed ramp on the MKA 1919 may also improve feeding reliability.
Conclusion on ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers a significant boost in firepower for the MKA 1919 shotgun. However, its reliability issues are a major drawback. The ProMag‘s price tag of $93.99 is justified if you’re aware of its limitations and willing to accept occasional malfunctions.
I would cautiously recommend it to recreational shooters. But only if they understand its potential issues. For serious applications, stick with reliable factory magazines.
Ultimately, the ProMag Akdal 12 Gauge MKA 1919 2.75″ 20rd Black Drum – 12 Gauge Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is a fun accessory that adds a cool factor to the MKA 1919. Just be prepared for the occasional hiccup. If you are a gun enthusiast looking to add some fun to your range trips, give this drum a try, but keep your factory magazines handy.