Let’s Talk About Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine is designed to feed the beast, offering a compact solution for those wielding the potent .50 Beowulf cartridge in their AR-15 platform. Manufactured by E-Lander for Alexander Arms, this magazine promises reliable feeding in a smaller package. I was intrigued by its potential for improved maneuverability and benchrest shooting.
I’ve been a .50 Beowulf enthusiast for years, appreciating the cartridge’s massive power and stopping capability. My primary issue was managing the bulk and length of standard-capacity magazines when shooting from a bench or tight hunting positions. I needed a shorter magazine that wouldn’t compromise reliability.
Upon receiving the Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine, I immediately noted its robust steel construction and clean black finish. It felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of field use. The weight was noticeable but acceptable given the materials.
Compared to the standard 7 or 10-round magazines, this 4-rounder seemed like a minimalist marvel. I considered alternatives like modifying existing 5.56 magazines, but the dedicated Alexander Arms design promised better reliability. I chose this magazine hoping for a streamlined profile and consistent feeding.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. I was eager to see if its compact size would translate into reliable performance, or if the reduced capacity would lead to feeding issues. I wanted a reliable, shorter magazine.
Real-World Testing: Putting Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine at my local shooting range. The weather was clear and dry, providing ideal conditions for evaluating its performance. I was focused on its ability to feed reliably and its impact on benchrest shooting.
The magazine proved easy to load, and it seated securely in my AR-15 lower. However, I immediately experienced issues with the last round failing to cycle correctly. The round consistently dead-headed into the breech face, resulting in a failure to feed.
I didn’t need any special skills to use it, as it is easy to load, but the last round issue was a concern. It seemed like the reduced spring pressure or altered feed angle was causing the problem. I was surprised and disappointed by this performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions, the issue with the last round remained consistent. The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine proved unreliable, especially when compared to the 7-round magazine I tested alongside it. This lack of consistency made me question its overall design.
After using the magazine for multiple sessions, I did not notice any significant wear or tear. It is still made of robust steel, but that does not compensate for the unreliable performance. Cleaning was straightforward.
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine disappointed me in comparison to the 7-round magazine. The 7 round magazine performed flawlessly, making the 4 round magazine’s issues all the more glaring. I expected better reliability from a dedicated magazine designed for the .50 Beowulf cartridge.
Breaking Down the Features of Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine
Specifications
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine is manufactured by E-Lander specifically for Alexander Arms. It is designed for the .50 Beowulf cartridge and compatible with AR-15 platforms.
- Caliber: .50 Beowulf
- Capacity: 4 rounds
- Material: Steel
- Color: Black
- Gun Model: AR-15
- Height: 1.75 inches
- Condition: New
These specifications are crucial for reliable .50 Beowulf feeding. The steel construction ensures durability, while the compact size improves maneuverability, but the reduced capacity needs to still cycle properly. The AR-15 compatibility is essential for seamless integration.
Performance & Functionality
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine struggles to reliably feed the last round. This issue significantly impacts its overall usability and undermines its intended purpose. It needs improvement.
The magazine’s primary strength is its compact size, which makes it easier to handle and use from a bench. However, its weakness lies in its feeding reliability, specifically with the last round. It does not meet expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine features a robust steel construction and a clean, functional design. The weight is appropriate for its size and material.
The magazine is generally user-friendly, with easy loading and secure seating in the AR-15 lower. However, the last-round feeding issue introduces a significant learning curve in diagnosing and mitigating the problem. The build quality is good, but the functionality is not.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine suggests good durability. It should last a long time with proper care.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. Disassembling and reassembling the magazine for cleaning is easy. The material is robust, though the magazine performance is poor.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine does not come with any specific accessories. It is designed as a standalone magazine.
There are no customization options for this particular magazine. It is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers. Additional baseplates are not compatible as this is a dedicated design.
Pros and Cons of Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine
Pros
- Compact size for improved maneuverability and benchrest shooting.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to load and securely seats in AR-15 lowers.
- Simple to disassemble and clean.
Cons
- Unreliable feeding of the last round.
- Performance does not justify the price.
Who Should Buy Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine?
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine is theoretically perfect for hunters or benchrest shooters who prioritize a compact magazine profile. The smaller form factor aids in easier handling and reduced interference when shooting from supported positions.
This product should be skipped by anyone who values reliable feeding above all else. The last-round issue makes it unsuitable for tactical applications or situations where consistent performance is critical. This is also not ideal for high-volume target shooters.
A must-have modification would be a redesigned follower and spring to address the last-round feeding issue. Until then, avoid this magazine.
Conclusion on Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine
The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine promised a compact and reliable feeding solution for the .50 Beowulf cartridge. However, its performance fell short of expectations due to a recurring issue with the last round failing to feed correctly.
The price of $44.79 is not justified given the magazine’s unreliability. I cannot recommend this product in its current form.
I would personally not recommend the Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 4 Rounds Magazine until the feeding issues are resolved. Consider other magazine options, like the 7 round magazine, for your .50 Beowulf AR-15. Avoid this magazine and look for more reliable options.