First Impressions of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine
Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical gear, I’ve developed a keen eye for quality, and a healthy skepticism for anything that claims to be the “best.” When I first encountered the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine, I was cautiously optimistic, drawn in by the promise of enhanced performance and reliability. The ASC brand claimed to go above and beyond current industry standards.
I was looking for magazines that could reliably feed rounds in my AR-15 during training exercises and potential emergency situations. My old magazines, a mixed bag of brands, were starting to show their age, with some exhibiting feeding issues and general wear. The promise of stainless steel construction and enhanced anti-tilt followers made the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine a compelling option.
Upon receiving the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine, I immediately noted its weight – heavier than my standard aluminum magazines. The steel construction felt robust, promising durability, and the finish appeared even and well-applied. Compared to my standard aluminum GI mags, and even Magpul PMAGs, the ASC magazine felt like it was built for serious use.
I chose the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine over other options because of the stainless-steel construction. I hoped this choice would increase corrosion resistance, a crucial factor in my humid climate. My initial impression was a mix of excitement and apprehension; I was eager to test its performance, but wary of potential issues given the mixed reviews I had seen online.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at an outdoor shooting range, under relatively mild conditions. I loaded the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine with 5.56 NATO rounds and inserted it into my AR-15. Immediately, I noticed a slight tightness compared to my standard magazines.
The first few rounds fed smoothly, but by the tenth round, I experienced a failure to feed; the bolt carrier group failed to fully chamber the round. Clearing the malfunction, I continued shooting, only to encounter two more failures within the same magazine. This initial experience was far from confidence-inspiring.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, I subjected the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine to further testing, including multiple range sessions and even a simulated tactical training scenario. The magazine continued to exhibit intermittent failures to feed, particularly when fully loaded or under rapid-fire conditions. I estimate a failure rate of about 5-10%, which is unacceptable for a magazine intended for serious use.
Despite its robust construction, the magazine showed signs of wear on the feed lips after only a few hundred rounds. Cleaning was relatively straightforward, although the internal components were slightly more difficult to access compared to simpler magazine designs. Compared to my experience with Magpul PMAGs, which have proven incredibly reliable over thousands of rounds, the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine was a significant disappointment.
Breaking Down the Features of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine is designed for AR-15/M-16 platforms chambered in .223/5.56. It has a 30-round capacity and is constructed primarily of steel. The magazine body is steel, while the floor plate is 300 Series SS with a black oxide coating for corrosion resistance.
The magazine features chrome silicon springs and an enhanced anti-tilt polymer follower with PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) coating. It is heat treated to increase durability. These specifications suggest a focus on ruggedness and reliability, but my real-world testing revealed some shortcomings.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine falls short of expectations. While it initially seemed promising, the frequent failures to feed severely compromise its functionality. The magazine’s primary function – reliably feeding ammunition – is not consistently achieved.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials. However, its weaknesses, particularly the feeding issues, outweigh these positives. Unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations for reliability in a critical component like a magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s steel construction gives it a solid feel, but also contributes to its heavier weight compared to polymer alternatives. The finish is well-applied and provides some resistance to scratches and wear. Ergonomically, the magazine is similar to other standard AR-15 magazines, with no notable advantages or disadvantages.
The build quality appears to be generally good, although the internal components seem somewhat rough. The anti-tilt follower is a welcome feature, but it did not prevent the feeding issues I experienced.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests that the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine should be relatively durable. However, the wear on the feed lips after limited use raises concerns about its long-term lifespan. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Disassembly for thorough cleaning is slightly more complex than with simpler magazine designs. While the materials are corrosion-resistant, regular cleaning is still necessary to prevent malfunctions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine itself does not offer any customization options. However, it is compatible with most standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers. There are no specific accessories designed solely for this magazine.
Compatibility with standard AR-15 platforms and accessories is a plus. But, the magazine’s unreliable performance detracts from any potential benefits of accessory compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Durable steel construction. This promises longevity and resistance to damage, although the feed lips showed premature wear in my testing.
- Corrosion-resistant materials. The 300 Series SS floor plate with black oxide coating helps protect against rust and corrosion.
- Enhanced anti-tilt follower. Designed to improve feeding reliability, though it didn’t prevent malfunctions in my experience.
Cons
- Frequent failures to feed. This is a critical flaw that renders the magazine unreliable for serious use.
- Heavier than polymer magazines. The steel construction adds noticeable weight.
- Questionable QC. Reported crooked welds and lip size issues.
Who Should Buy Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine?
This magazine might be suitable for someone looking for a range-only magazine, if they are willing to accept a higher risk of malfunctions. Individuals who prioritize absolute reliability, such as tactical shooters or those using their AR-15 for home defense, should avoid this product. This is not a reliable magazine for a mission-critical rifle.
I would suggest new springs, followers, and a thorough inspection before trusting them. I would recommend high quality alternatives like Magpul PMAGs or Duramags.
Conclusion on Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine
In summary, the Ammunition Storage Components AR-15/M-16 30 Round Rifle Magazine promises durability and reliability, but ultimately falls short in delivering consistent performance. The frequent failures to feed are a significant concern that outweighs its potential benefits. At $29.99, the price is not justified given the magazine’s unreliability.
I would not personally recommend this magazine, and advise potential buyers to invest in more proven and dependable alternatives. Save your money and get a better magazine. Your life may depend on it.