The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan Made a Bold First Impression
The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan promises to revolutionize the capacity and firepower of compatible 1919-style shotguns. Offered in both black and FDE, this drum magazine boasts a 30-round capacity, a substantial increase over standard stick magazines, and features an EZ LOAD wheel for simplified loading. This alone immediately piqued my interest, promising a blend of tactical advantage and user-friendly design.
I was in the market for a high-capacity solution for my AR-12 style shotgun. I needed a reliable magazine that would allow for extended shooting sessions without constant reloading, as I often participate in 3-gun competitions. Having previously used stick magazines, I wanted a solution that offered a higher round count without sacrificing reliability.
The Black River drum arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected. My first impression was of its robust construction. The weight felt substantial, suggesting durable materials, and the FDE finish was evenly applied. Compared to other drum magazines I’ve seen online, the Black River seemed more rugged and purposefully designed.
I considered Promag drums but was deterred by mixed reviews regarding reliability. I also looked at some cheaper, generic options, but ultimately decided on the Black River due to its specified compatibility with a wide range of 1919-style shotguns and its promise of heat-treated internal parts. My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism – could it really deliver on its promises of enhanced capacity and unwavering reliability?
Real-World Testing: Putting Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan was at an outdoor shooting range. I tested it in relatively dry conditions, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The initial loading process, using the EZ LOAD wheel, was surprisingly straightforward.
The Black River magazine performed impressively well, with only a single malfunction in the first 100 rounds. This malfunction was a failure to feed, easily cleared, and didn’t recur after that. Getting used to the added weight and bulk of the drum took some time, but the increased firepower was undeniably satisfying.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Black River magazine has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minor cosmetic scratches on the FDE finish from use, but no signs of significant wear or damage. I clean the magazine after each range session, paying particular attention to the feed lips and internal mechanisms.
It’s relatively easy to disassemble and clean. Compared to previous magazines I’ve used, the Black River performs exceptionally well. The high-capacity coupled with the ease of loading is a definite upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan
Specifications
The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is designed for 12 gauge shotguns. Its 30-round capacity significantly increases firepower. The magazine weighs in at 66 ounces (4.125 pounds) when empty.
It’s compatible with both 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells. All metal components are heat treated for extended lifespan, and it features a proprietary spring. This ensures consistent feeding and durability. The FDE/Tan finish provides a tactical aesthetic.
Performance & Functionality
The Black River magazine delivers on its primary function: providing a high-capacity, reliable feeding system for compatible shotguns. The EZ LOAD wheel drastically simplifies the loading process compared to traditional drum magazines, which often require significant finger strength and patience. It offers superior performance compared to standard capacity stick magazines.
The occasional malfunction I experienced early on disappeared with continued use, suggesting a break-in period is necessary. It’s a significant upgrade for anyone needing extended shooting sessions, but the weight is definitely a factor to consider.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black River magazine’s build quality is evident in its robust construction and durable materials. The weight, while substantial, contributes to the feeling of solidity and reliability. The FDE finish is well-applied.
The design is relatively user-friendly, though the added weight and bulk require some adjustment. The EZ LOAD wheel is a standout feature, making loading significantly easier and faster than traditional drum magazines.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its all-metal construction and heat-treated internal parts, the Black River magazine is built to last. The finish is resistant to scratching and wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication will likely extend its lifespan even further.
Disassembly for cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools. This makes maintenance manageable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is designed to work with 1919-style shotguns without requiring any specific accessories or modifications. Given the number of shotgun models that are compatible with it, there are no accessories that come with the drum. The magazine itself is the primary upgrade, enhancing capacity and firepower.
The magazine should work with any aftermarket parts or upgrades designed for 1919-style shotguns, as long as they don’t interfere with the magazine well or feeding mechanism. Always test for compatibility before relying on any specific accessory combination.
Pros and Cons of Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan
Pros
- Significantly increased firepower: 30-round capacity allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloading.
- EZ LOAD wheel: Simplifies the loading process, making it faster and easier than traditional drum magazines.
- Durable construction: All-metal components and heat-treated internal parts ensure longevity and reliability.
- Wide compatibility: Works with a broad range of 1919-style shotguns.
- Relatively easy to maintain: Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward.
Cons
- Weight: The loaded magazine adds considerable weight to the shotgun, which can impact handling and maneuverability, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios.
- Bulk: The drum magazine’s size can make the shotgun less streamlined and potentially more cumbersome to carry or store.
Who Should Buy Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan?
The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is perfect for competitive shooters participating in 3-gun competitions, tactical shooters needing extended firepower, and those seeking increased capacity for home defense. It’s also ideal for anyone who enjoys extended shooting sessions at the range without constant reloading.
Individuals prioritizing lightweight setups or those who find the added weight and bulk difficult to manage should skip this product. People with shotguns not explicitly listed as compatible should also avoid the drum unless they can confirm fitment.
A sling would be a must-have accessory to manage the added weight of the drum-fed shotgun.
Conclusion on Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan
The Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to maximize the firepower of their compatible 1919-style shotgun. The increased capacity and EZ LOAD wheel offer a significant advantage.
While the added weight and bulk are factors to consider, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for many users. I personally recommend the Black River magazine to anyone looking for a reliable, high-capacity solution.
If you want to take your 1919-style shotgun to the next level, the Black River 12 Gauge 30 Round RD Drum Magazine 1919 Shotgun BLACK / FDE Flat Dark EarthACK – 30 Rounds, FDE/Tan is an excellent choice. Consider upgrading and experience the difference yourself.