First Impressions of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E aims to deliver reliable feeding for your AR-15 in a compact package. Featuring an aluminum body, a high-visibility orange follower, and a 20-round capacity, this magazine promises both durability and functionality.
My search for a dependable, shorter-capacity magazine for bench shooting and hunting scenarios led me to this particular model. Full-size 30-round magazines can sometimes be cumbersome, and I wanted something more streamlined.
The initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The ASC magazine felt sturdy, the aluminum construction felt robust, and the black finish gave it a tactical look. The bright orange follower was a welcome sight, indicating an emphasis on easy visual confirmation of remaining rounds.
Compared to my existing steel GI magazines and a polymer Magpul PMAG, the ASC stood out due to its aluminum construction and 20-round capacity. While the PMAG offers similar capacity options, I was curious to test the durability and feeding reliability of an aluminum magazine. I chose the ASC hoping for enhanced durability and improved feeding compared to standard GI mags.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The magazine felt well-made, but the true test would be in its performance on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ASC AR-15 magazine was at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested it with a variety of .223 Remington ammunition, ranging from standard FMJ rounds to heavier grain hunting loads.
Performance was generally positive. The magazine seated easily in my AR-15, and the initial loading of rounds was smooth. I experienced no immediate feeding issues, with all rounds cycling reliably through the action.
The ease of use was noteworthy. The magazine was intuitive to load, and the orange follower provided a clear visual indication of remaining rounds. There were no unexpected surprises or malfunctions during the initial shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the ASC magazine has proven to be a dependable addition to my range gear. It has seen action in both dry and slightly damp conditions without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Durability has been excellent so far. The hard-coat anodized aluminum body shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated loading, unloading, and dropping on the range surface.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each shooting session is all that’s required to keep it in good working order. Compared to some of my older GI mags, which require more frequent cleaning and lubrication to prevent rust, the ASC is significantly easier to maintain.
Overall, the ASC magazine has outperformed my expectations. It’s a reliable, durable, and easy-to-maintain magazine that has become a regular part of my range setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E
Specifications
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E boasts several key specifications:
- Caliber: .223 Remington. This makes it compatible with AR-15 platforms chambered in .223 and 5.56 NATO.
- Magazine Capacity: 20 Rounds. A good compromise between capacity and maneuverability, especially in bench shooting or hunting situations.
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet durable construction.
- Finish: Hard Coat Anodized per MIL-A-8625 Type III class I. This protects the aluminum from corrosion and wear.
- Follower: Orange Polymer. The high-visibility follower aids in easy round count checks and reliable feeding.
- Color: Black. A standard tactical finish.
- Gun Model: AR-15. Designed specifically for AR-15 platform rifles.
- Gun Type: Rifle. Intended for rifle use only.
- Quantity: 1. Sold as a single unit.
- Included Accessories: Standard. No additional accessories are included.
These specifications contribute significantly to the magazine’s performance. The aluminum construction offers a good balance of weight and durability. The hard coat anodizing ensures long-term resistance to the elements. The orange follower is a simple yet effective feature that enhances usability.
Performance & Functionality
The ASC AR-15 magazine performs its core function – feeding rounds reliably into the AR-15 – exceptionally well. I have experienced no malfunctions related to magazine feeding across hundreds of rounds fired.
The primary strength lies in its consistent feeding. The magazine spring provides ample force to push rounds into the chamber smoothly. The orange follower glides effortlessly within the magazine body, minimizing friction and ensuring reliable round presentation.
A potential weakness is the 20-round capacity. While ideal for certain scenarios, it may be limiting in situations where a higher capacity is desired. Ultimately, the magazine meets my expectations for a reliable and durable 20-round AR-15 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commendable. The aluminum body feels solid and well-constructed, without any noticeable flex or weakness. The magazine weighs noticeably less than a comparable steel magazine, contributing to a lighter overall rifle setup.
The magazine is user-friendly. It seats easily into the magazine well, and the slightly textured surface provides a secure grip during loading and unloading. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the ASC magazine is built to last. The hard-coat anodized finish provides excellent resistance to scratches and corrosion.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring are all that is needed to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E does not include any additional accessories. Due to its standard AR-15 magazine dimensions, it is compatible with most AR-15 magazine pouches and loading devices. Aftermarket magazine baseplates may also be compatible, although I have not personally tested any.
Pros and Cons of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: Consistently feeds rounds without malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum with a hard-coat anodized finish for long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight Design: The aluminum construction contributes to a lighter overall rifle setup.
- Easy to Maintain: Requires minimal cleaning and lubrication.
- High-Visibility Follower: The bright orange follower allows for easy visual confirmation of remaining rounds.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: The 20-round capacity may not be sufficient for all scenarios.
- Aluminum Material: While durable, aluminum can be more susceptible to damage than steel in extreme conditions (though the anodizing helps).
Who Should Buy Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E?
This magazine is perfect for: Bench shooters who prefer a shorter magazine for easier prone shooting. Hunters who appreciate the reduced weight and lower profile of a 20-round magazine. Sport shooters looking for reliable and durable magazines for range practice.
Those who require high capacity magazines for tactical or competitive purposes should skip this product. Users operating in extreme conditions where magazine durability is paramount might also consider steel magazines instead.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch to protect the magazine during storage and transport. A speed loader can also be beneficial for faster and easier reloading.
Conclusion on Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR-15 Magazine .223 Rem Black Aluminum with Orange Follower 20/rd A445460E is a solid choice for AR-15 owners seeking a reliable, durable, and lightweight 20-round magazine. Its consistent feeding, robust aluminum construction, and easy maintenance make it a worthwhile addition to any range bag.
At $31.99, the price is justified considering the magazine’s quality and performance. It offers a good balance between cost and functionality, making it a competitive option in the AR-15 magazine market.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable 20-round option for their AR-15. If you value reliability, durability, and ease of use, the ASC AR-15 magazine is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your AR-15 setup today and experience the difference!