First Thoughts on the PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin
The promise of a 50-round drum magazine for the S&W M&P9 is inherently appealing, conjuring images of extended range sessions and a decreased need for constant reloading. The PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin aims to deliver just that, offering a significantly increased capacity compared to standard magazines. As someone with over a decade of experience in the tactical gear world, I was keen to assess its performance and reliability.
My quest for this drum magazine stemmed from a desire to minimize reload time during training drills and recreational shooting. Standard capacity magazines, while reliable, simply don’t offer the same continuous shooting experience. I was looking for something that would allow me to focus on technique and target acquisition, rather than magazine changes.
Upon unboxing, the PROMAG drum felt solid, constructed primarily of polymer, a common material for modern magazines. The black finish appeared consistent and the overall design seemed similar to other drum magazines on the market. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the build quality translated to reliable functionality.
I considered several other high-capacity magazines, including those from Magpul and ETS. However, the PROMAG drum’s promise of a 50-round capacity at a relatively accessible price point was a significant draw. Other options either offered lower capacity or came with a significantly higher price tag. I was excited to test if this magazine would live up to the hype and offer a reliable high-capacity solution for my M&P9.
The initial excitement was tempered slightly by the knowledge that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be finicky. However, I remained hopeful that the PROMAG drum would prove to be a worthwhile addition to my M&P9 setup. The real test would come at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin was at my local outdoor shooting range. I brought along my S&W M&P9 M2.0 full size, as well as my M&P FPC, ready to put the drum through its paces. The weather was clear and dry, ideal for a range day.
Immediately, I encountered a problem: the magazine refused to lock into either the M&P9 or the FPC securely. It would engage the magazine release, but with an excessive amount of play, rendering it unusable. Shaking the firearm or even lightly twisting the magazine caused it to fall free.
Extended Use & Reliability
“Extended use” never truly materialized for me, due to the initial locking issues. I could not reliably use the magazine for more than a few seconds at a time. The build quality seemed acceptable but without proper fitment, it’s hard to assess long-term durability.
Cleaning would have been straightforward had the magazine functioned properly. However, since I couldn’t load and fire it, there was no need for extensive maintenance. My initial experience with the PROMAG drum was highly disappointing compared to my experiences with factory S&W magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
The PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin is a high-capacity drum magazine designed for Smith & Wesson M&P9 pistols chambered in 9mm. It boasts a 50-round capacity. The magazine body is constructed from a black polymer.
- Caliber: 9mm – Designed specifically for 9mm rounds, ensuring compatibility with the M&P9 platform.
- Capacity: 50 Rounds – Provides significantly extended shooting sessions between reloads.
- Origin: OEM – While not technically S&W OEM, it is intended as a compatible replacement magazine.
- Material: Polymer – Offers a balance of durability and weight reduction.
- Finish: Black – Provides a sleek, tactical appearance.
These specifications are intended to deliver a high-capacity, reliable feeding solution for the M&P9. However, based on my experience, the execution falls short of the intention. Without proper fitment, the high capacity is meaningless.
Performance & Functionality
The intended functionality of the PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin is to provide reliable feeding of 9mm rounds in an M&P9 pistol. It should allow for extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent magazine changes. In my testing, the magazine completely failed to lock into the magazine well of both my M&P9 M2.0 and M&P FPC.
The primary weakness is the lack of proper fitment, rendering the magazine unusable. The design might be functional if it properly engaged the magazine release. It certainly did not meet my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The drum design is inherently bulky, which is a necessary compromise for the increased capacity. The polymer construction feels relatively sturdy, but the poor fitment negates any positive aspects of the design. There is no significant learning curve, as it functions like any other magazine in theory, if it worked.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction suggests a reasonable level of durability, assuming it could actually be used. Maintenance should be straightforward, involving disassembly and cleaning as needed. However, the fitment issues prevent a proper assessment of long-term durability and maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. It’s designed as a standalone magazine. Customization is limited, as it’s a self-contained unit. It should be compatible with any M&P9 accessories that don’t interfere with the magazine well, but its basic incompatibility makes this moot.
Pros and Cons of PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- High Capacity: Potentially allows for extended shooting sessions (50 rounds).
- Polymer Construction: Could provide a balance of durability and weight reduction.
- Aggressive Look: The drum design could appeal to some users aesthetically.
Cons
- Major Fitment Issues: Does not lock securely into M&P9 or M&P FPC, rendering it unusable.
- Unreliable Function: Cannot reliably feed ammunition due to fitment problems.
- Questionable Value: The relatively low price is irrelevant if the product doesn’t function.
Who Should Buy PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin?
This product, in its current state, is not recommended for anyone who needs a reliable magazine for their S&W M&P9.
- Who should skip this product? Anyone who values reliable performance and proper fitment. This magazine is currently unsuitable for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, or anyone relying on their firearm for self-defense.
Conclusion on PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin
The PROMAG S&W M&P9 9MM 50RD DRUM BLACK – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin promised high capacity and enhanced range time. Sadly, it failed to deliver on its most basic function: reliable fitment. The asking price of $71.49 is not justified, given the magazine’s complete inability to lock into the intended firearm.
I cannot personally recommend this product in its current form. Potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly research user reviews before considering this magazine. A high-capacity magazine is only useful if it actually works.