First Thoughts on the Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl
In the world of precision rifles, the Bergara B-14 series has carved a significant niche for itself, known for its accuracy and value. The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is a crucial component, often overlooked but essential for reliable feeding and consistent performance. This review delves into the specifics of this 5-round AICS magazine, designed for Bergara’s B-14 rifles chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester, exploring its functionality, durability, and overall contribution to the rifle’s performance.
Having spent years in the field and on the range, one recurring issue I’ve observed is magazine-related feeding problems, which can turn a fantastic rifle into a frustrating paperweight. I was specifically seeking a reliable, durable, and cost-effective magazine solution for my Bergara B-14 chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor to ensure smooth, consistent cycling during competitive shooting events. The arrival of the Bergara magazine was met with keen anticipation, eager to see if it could live up to the Bergara reputation.
Upon unboxing, the Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine immediately impressed with its solid construction and robust feel. The magazine body felt sturdy in hand, suggesting a build quality designed to withstand the rigors of field use. Compared to some generic AICS magazines I’ve used in the past, this one felt noticeably more substantial and well-made.
When considering magazine upgrades, I also looked at offerings from Magpul and MDT. I ultimately chose the Bergara magazine due to its direct compatibility with my B-14 rifle, as well as its reputation for reliable feeding within the Bergara platform. My first impression was definitely positive; this magazine seemed like a well-engineered piece of kit that could genuinely enhance my rifle’s performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl to the Test
First Use Experience
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine’s inaugural test occurred at a local shooting range during a precision rifle practice session. The weather was mild, but the dusty conditions provided a decent test of the magazine’s ability to function reliably even with potential debris intrusion. Loading the magazine was straightforward, and it seated positively into the magazine well of my B-14 rifle.
During the initial rounds, the magazine performed flawlessly, feeding rounds smoothly and consistently into the chamber. I experienced no malfunctions, such as failures to feed or double feeds, which boosted my confidence in the magazine’s reliability. The only minor issue was the slightly stiff spring tension when loading the last round, but this is common with new magazines and typically improves with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use in various shooting scenarios, the Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my rifle. It has seen action in both controlled range environments and more challenging field conditions during informal shooting sessions. I have observed no signs of significant wear and tear.
The magazine continues to feed rounds smoothly, even after being subjected to dirt and minor impacts. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth removes any accumulated debris. In comparison to some aftermarket AICS magazines I’ve used, the Bergara magazine stands out due to its consistent feeding and robust construction, significantly outperforming cheaper alternatives in terms of reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl
Specifications
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is specifically designed for Bergara B-14 rifles chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. It adheres to the AICS (Accuracy International Chassis System) magazine pattern, ensuring compatibility with rifles that accept AICS magazines. The magazine has a 5-round capacity, making it suitable for hunting and precision shooting where lower capacity magazines are often preferred or required.
The magazine body is constructed from durable steel, providing resistance to impacts and deformation. This robust construction contributes to the magazine’s overall reliability and longevity. The spring is made from high-quality spring steel, designed to maintain consistent tension and ensure reliable feeding over extended use. The dimensions are standard AICS, fitting snugly into compatible rifle chassis and bottom metal.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is to reliably feed cartridges into the chamber of the rifle. In this regard, it excels, providing smooth and consistent feeding with both 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester ammunition. Its strengths lie in its robust construction and reliable spring tension, minimizing the risk of malfunctions such as failures to feed or double feeds.
While the 5-round capacity may be a limitation for some users, it is perfectly adequate for hunting and precision shooting, and it is often a requirement in certain jurisdictions or competitive shooting scenarios. One area for potential improvement would be the inclusion of witness holes or markings to allow for a quick visual assessment of the remaining rounds. Despite this minor omission, the magazine meets expectations and performs its intended function admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine features a straightforward and functional design. The steel construction gives it a solid, durable feel in the hand, and the matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface. The magazine is designed to seat securely in the magazine well of compatible rifles, with a positive locking mechanism that prevents accidental dislodgement.
The ergonomics are simple but effective; the magazine is easy to grip and insert/remove, even with gloved hands. The magazine body is relatively smooth, without any sharp edges or protrusions that could snag on clothing or gear. There is no noticeable learning curve; the magazine is intuitive to use and requires no special training or techniques.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is built to last, thanks to its robust steel construction and high-quality spring. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple: remove the magazine from the rifle, disassemble it if necessary (though typically not required for routine maintenance), and wipe down the internal and external surfaces with a clean cloth.
Occasional lubrication of the spring and follower with a dry lubricant can help to maintain smooth feeding. The magazine is designed to withstand the rigors of field use, including exposure to dirt, moisture, and minor impacts. Given its sturdy construction and ease of maintenance, the Bergara magazine offers excellent long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine itself does not have any inherent customization options. However, its compatibility with the AICS magazine pattern means that it can be used with a wide range of rifles and chassis systems that accept AICS magazines. This allows users to customize their overall rifle setup with various stocks, chassis, and bottom metal configurations.
The magazine is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories designed for AICS magazines, such as magazine extensions and base pads. However, these accessories are not strictly necessary, as the magazine performs well in its stock configuration. The key is to ensure that any accessories used are of high quality and designed to work reliably with AICS magazines.
Pros and Cons of Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: Feeds both 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester rounds smoothly and consistently.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust steel for long-lasting performance.
- AICS Compatibility: Adheres to the AICS magazine pattern, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of rifles and chassis.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design allows for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- Cost-Effective: Offers excellent value for its performance and durability.
Cons
- 5-Round Capacity: The limited capacity may not be ideal for all users or applications.
- No Witness Holes: Lacks witness holes for quick visual assessment of remaining rounds.
Who Should Buy Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl?
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is perfect for hunters, precision shooters, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and durable magazine for their Bergara B-14 rifles or other AICS-compatible rifles. It is also a good choice for individuals who live in jurisdictions with magazine capacity restrictions. Anyone looking for a high quality, low-capacity magazine for their AICS compatible rifle will be well-served.
Individuals who need higher capacity magazines for tactical applications or those who prefer magazines with visual round indicators should skip this product. A must-have modification is ensuring that the rifle bottom metal is properly adjusted for reliable feeding with AICS magazines. This is usually a one-time setup, but it is important to ensure proper function.
Conclusion on Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl
The Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl magazine is a well-designed and robust accessory that enhances the reliability of Bergara B-14 rifles and other AICS-compatible platforms. Its durable construction, reliable feeding, and AICS compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for hunters, precision shooters, and competitive shooters. The price is certainly justified, considering its performance and durability.
I would personally recommend the Bergara magazine to anyone seeking a high-quality, low-capacity AICS magazine. Upgrade your rifle today with the Bergara Rifles BA0002 B-14 5rd AICS 6.5 Creedmoor/308 Win Bergara B-14 Bl and experience the difference that a reliable magazine can make!