First Impressions of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine
The AR-15 platform is known for its modularity, but finding reliable magazines for less common calibers like the .450 Bushmaster can be a real headache. That’s why the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine immediately caught my eye. ASC, a manufacturer known for its robust magazines, promised a solution that addressed the feeding issues often associated with this larger caliber in the AR-15.
I was looking for a magazine that could consistently feed the .450 Bushmaster rounds without fail. My previous attempts with modified .223 magazines were… less than ideal, resulting in frequent jams and misfeeds. The promise of a dedicated magazine built from durable materials was precisely what I needed to solve this problem and ensure reliable performance with my .450 Bushmaster AR build.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt substantial and well-made. The stainless steel body exuded quality, and the black follower offered a nice visual contrast. Compared to the flimsy, polymer magazines I’d previously experimented with, this ASC magazine felt like a serious upgrade.
I had considered a few other options, primarily modified AR-15 magazines designed for the .450 Bushmaster. Ultimately, I chose the ASC magazine because of ASC’s reputation for quality and the dedicated design for the .450 Bushmaster, hoping it would finally eliminate the persistent feeding issues I’d been experiencing. My initial impression was definitely excitement tempered with cautious optimism; could this magazine finally deliver the reliability I craved?
Real-World Testing: Putting Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine at my local shooting range, which has a decent outdoor setup. The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle, which is common for this area during this time of year. I wanted to see how the magazine performed under less-than-ideal conditions.
The magazine was surprisingly easy to load, even with the large .450 Bushmaster rounds. During the first few magazines, I experienced zero failures to feed. This was a monumental improvement over my previous setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a few hundred rounds, the ASC magazine continues to perform flawlessly. I have yet to experience a single malfunction related to the magazine. This gives me confidence that it will continue to perform reliably in the field.
The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to rain and humidity. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experiences with modified magazines, this ASC magazine is in a different league entirely. The reliability alone makes it a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ammunition Storage Components (ASC).
- Caliber: .450 Bushmaster. This is a big bore round designed for taking down large game.
- Capacity: 7 rounds. The reduced capacity is necessary to accommodate the larger diameter of the .450 Bushmaster cartridge within the AR-15 magazine well.
- Material: 410 Series Stainless Steel Body. The use of stainless steel ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
- Finish: Stainless Steel with Black Marlube/Black Follower. The Marlube coating provides enhanced lubricity and reduces friction, aiding in smooth feeding.
- Follower: Enhanced Anti-Tilt Polymer Follower with PTFE. The anti-tilt design and PTFE coating further contribute to reliable feeding.
- Spring: Chrome Silicon Springs. Chrome silicon provides consistent pressure and long-term durability.
- Floor Plate: 300 Series SS Floor Plate with Black Oxide Coating for Corrosion Resistance. This provides corrosion resistance.
- Gun Model: AR-15. Specifically designed to function with AR-15 lower receivers modified to accommodate the .450 Bushmaster cartridge.
These specifications are crucial for the .450 Bushmaster’s reliable functionality within the AR-15 platform. The stainless steel construction and Marlube coating ensure smooth feeding. The anti-tilt follower minimizes the chances of misfeeds and jams.
Performance & Functionality
The Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine performs its job exceptionally well. The most important aspect is its reliability; it feeds rounds consistently and without issue. The magazine’s construction ensures that rounds are properly aligned for smooth chambering.
The magazine exceeds my expectations, especially given my past experiences with unreliable .450 Bushmaster magazines. There’s nothing that needs improvement, based on my experiences.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine is well-built, with a robust stainless steel body and a smoothly finished black follower. The weight is appropriate for a stainless steel magazine. It provides a feeling of durability without being excessively heavy.
The magazine is easy to load and insert into the AR-15’s magazine well. There is virtually no learning curve; it operates just like a standard AR-15 magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that this magazine will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend its lifespan even further.
Disassembly for cleaning is simple, requiring only basic tools. The stainless steel body resists corrosion and is easy to wipe clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine does not come with any specific accessories. It is compatible with any standard AR-15 lower receiver modified to accept the .450 Bushmaster cartridge. There are no specific customization options for the magazine itself, but it functions seamlessly with aftermarket AR-15 components.
Pros and Cons of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle MagazinePros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistently feeds .450 Bushmaster rounds without malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel body ensures long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Easy to Load and Use: Functions just like a standard AR-15 magazine.
- Anti-Tilt Follower: Further enhances feeding reliability.
- Simple Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: 7-round capacity may be limiting for some users, although it is due to the round size.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than standard AR-15 magazines, but justified by the specialized design and improved reliability.
Who Should Buy Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine?
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistently feeds .450 Bushmaster rounds without malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel body ensures long-lasting performance and corrosion resistance.
- Easy to Load and Use: Functions just like a standard AR-15 magazine.
- Anti-Tilt Follower: Further enhances feeding reliability.
- Simple Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: 7-round capacity may be limiting for some users, although it is due to the round size.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than standard AR-15 magazines, but justified by the specialized design and improved reliability.
This magazine is perfect for hunters who use .450 Bushmaster AR-15 rifles for deer, hogs, or other big game. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters who want a reliable magazine for their .450 Bushmaster AR build.
Anyone experiencing feeding issues with their .450 Bushmaster AR-15 should consider this magazine. If one primarily shoots .223/5.56 and only occasionally uses the .450 Bushmaster, the higher price point might not be worth it.
A quality AR-15 optic and a comfortable sling are essential accessories for a .450 Bushmaster AR build. A good cleaning kit is also necessary to maintain the magazine and rifle properly.
Conclusion on Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine
The Ammunition Storage Components AR-15 450 Bushmaster Stainless Steel 7 Round Rifle Magazine is an outstanding product that delivers on its promise of reliability and durability. The price is justified by its specialized design and improved performance compared to other magazines on the market.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone who owns a .450 Bushmaster AR-15. If you’re tired of misfeeds and unreliable performance, this magazine is the solution you’ve been looking for. Upgrade your .450 Bushmaster AR-15 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!