First Impressions of Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine
The AK-47. An icon, a legend, a symbol of rugged reliability. And what feeds the beast? The magazine, of course. The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine aims to be a reliable, durable, and affordable option for AK enthusiasts. Its distinctive waffle pattern and polymer construction immediately suggest a modern take on a classic design, hinting at enhanced grip and resilience.
My journey to this magazine started with a common frustration. I had a few surplus steel magazines that were showing their age with dents and rust. I was looking for a more dependable and lighter option for range days and training courses.
Upon unboxing the Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine, the immediate impression was positive. The polymer felt robust and well-molded. The waffle pattern provided a secure grip, even with gloved hands. Compared to my older steel magazines, the US Palm felt significantly lighter, a welcome change for extended carry. I’ve used Magpul AK PMAGs and Bulgarian polymer magazines in the past. This US Palm magazine felt like a solid middle ground, offering a more aggressive texture than the PMAG and a potentially more durable build than some of the cheaper imports.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine looked the part, but only real-world testing would reveal its true performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine involved a standard function test with 120 rounds of mixed 7.62x39mm ammunition (brass and steel cased). The magazine was loaded and unloaded repeatedly. Then it was run through various drills, including rapid firing sequences and simulated tactical reloads. The conditions were relatively mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny, but the magazine was subjected to a dusty environment.
The initial performance was flawless. The magazine seated positively in my Century Arms WASR-10. It fed rounds smoothly with no failures to feed or double feeds. I was particularly impressed with how easily the magazine could be inserted and removed, even with gloves. After the session, the magazine showed some minor dust accumulation but otherwise looked and felt like new.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a carbine course, the Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine has proven to be remarkably reliable. I have put approximately 750 rounds through it with only one malfunction. This was a failure to feed that I attributed to a slightly damaged steel case round, not the magazine itself.
The magazine shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The polymer body is holding up well to repeated insertions and removals. The locking lugs remain intact. The finish, although not particularly noteworthy to begin with, shows no signs of fading or chipping. Cleaning the magazine is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my older steel magazines, the US Palm requires significantly less maintenance. This magazine is a significant improvement in terms of weight and durability compared to some of the surplus magazines I used to rely on.
Breaking Down the Features of Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine
Specifications
Manufacturer: Century Arms.
Caliber: 7.62x39mm, the ubiquitous AK round.
Magazine Capacity: 30 rounds, the standard for AK-47 magazines.
Material: High-strength polymer. The polymer construction reduces weight while maintaining durability.
Color: Clear. Offers a unique look with quick visual of round count.
Gun Make: Century Arms.
Gun Model: AK-47. Designed to fit most AK-47 pattern rifles.
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine’s specifications highlight its intended role as a reliable, lightweight, and durable magazine for the AK-47 platform. The choice of polymer is key to its weight reduction and resistance to corrosion. The 30-round capacity is standard, providing ample firepower for most applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine performs exceptionally well. The magazine feeds reliably with various types of ammunition. It locks positively into the magazine well and ejects smoothly. The unique waffle pattern provides a secure grip, even in wet or gloved conditions.
Its primary weakness, if any, is its polymer construction, which might be less resistant to extreme heat than steel magazines. However, for most civilian applications, this is unlikely to be a significant issue. The magazine exceeds expectations in terms of reliability and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine features a well-thought-out design. The waffle pattern not only enhances grip but also adds structural rigidity. The magazine is lightweight and comfortable to handle. The clear body allows the user to have quick visual of the round count remaining, without removing the magazine.
There is no significant learning curve. The magazine functions just like any other AK-47 magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine is built to last. The high-strength polymer is resistant to impacts and abrasion. The magazine is also easy to maintain. A simple wipe down after each use is usually sufficient.
Repairing the magazine is generally not necessary. However, replacement followers and floorplates are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most AK-47 magazine pouches and loading devices. Aftermarket followers and floorplates are available from various manufacturers. While customization is limited, the magazine’s inherent design and functionality are generally sufficient for most users. The clear body stands out from the crowd of solid color AK magazines.
Pros and Cons of Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding with various ammunition types.
- Durable polymer construction.
- Lightweight design.
- Enhanced grip due to the waffle pattern.
- Visual round count via clear body.
Cons
- Clear polymer may be less resistant to extreme heat than steel magazines.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine?
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine is perfect for: AK-47 enthusiasts looking for a reliable and durable magazine, range shooters who want a lightweight option, and tactical shooters who need a magazine with enhanced grip. It also is great for anyone looking for an affordable magazine.
Who should skip this product? Those who require extreme temperature resistance (e.g., sustained full-auto fire in desert environments) might consider steel magazines instead.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality magazine pouch is recommended for convenient carry and protection. A speed loader can also be helpful for quickly filling the magazine.
Conclusion on Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine
The Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine is a well-designed, reliable, and affordable option for AK-47 owners. Its durable polymer construction, enhanced grip, and reliable feeding make it an excellent choice for range use, training, and tactical applications.
At a price of $25.89, the value proposition is excellent. The magazine offers performance and durability comparable to more expensive options.
I would definitely recommend the Century Arms US Palm Standard AK-47 30-Round 7.62x39mm Rifle Magazine. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable AK-47 magazine, this is a great choice. Upgrade your AK today and experience the difference!