First Impressions of E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine promises durability and reliability in a market saturated with polymer alternatives. E-Lander Mags, a manufacturer known for its steel magazines tested by specialized military forces, claims these magazines can withstand extreme combat conditions. With its focus on a robust steel body, enhanced follower, and protective coating, this magazine piqued my interest as a potentially superior option for my AR-15.
My aging collection of aluminum magazines was starting to show its wear. Dents and feeding issues were becoming more frequent, so I sought a more robust solution. I’d heard whispers about the resilience of steel magazines, and the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine specifically was mentioned for its combat-proven heritage.
Unboxing the magazine revealed a solid, well-constructed piece of equipment. The steel body felt substantial and reassuringly heavy in my hand. The black coating appeared even and durable, and the follower moved smoothly within the magazine body.
Compared to my standard aluminum GI mags and a few Magpul PMAGs, the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine felt like a different beast altogether. The PMAG offered lightweight convenience, while the GI mags were simple and inexpensive. But the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine conveyed a sense of rugged, unwavering reliability that the others lacked.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The claims of military testing and extreme durability set a high bar, but the initial feel of the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine suggested it might just live up to the hype. Would it feed reliably? Would it withstand abuse? Time at the range would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine took place at my local outdoor range. I subjected the magazine to a variety of drills, including rapid-fire strings and controlled pairs. The weather was clear and mild, offering ideal testing conditions.
The magazine fed flawlessly through the first few hundred rounds. I experienced no malfunctions or feeding issues, even during rapid fire. The follower moved smoothly, and the magazine locked positively into my AR-15’s magwell.
Despite being blocked to only 20-rounds, the magazine felt properly balanced and offered good grip during reloads. After extended shooting, the magazine’s body was only slightly warm to the touch, suggesting good heat dissipation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine continues to impress. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a dusty training course and a rainy hunting trip. It has performed admirably in all environments.
The magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The coating has held up well, with no significant scratches or blemishes. The magazine body remains free of dents, despite being dropped on hard surfaces multiple times.
Cleaning and maintaining the magazine is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a cloth and a brush is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I’ve disassembled the magazine a few times for more thorough cleaning, and the process is simple and intuitive.
Compared to my previous experience with aluminum magazines, the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine is a clear winner in terms of durability and reliability. I no longer worry about magazine-related malfunctions, and I have complete confidence in its ability to perform under pressure.
Breaking Down the Features of E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine is built for AR-15 platforms chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. Its steel body provides exceptional durability. It has a 20-round blocked capacity, making it compliant in certain jurisdictions.
The magazine features an enhanced follower with Teflon coating to ensure smooth and reliable feeding. A specially designed reinforced floorplate offers added protection against impacts. The high resistance body coating is designed to withstand harsh environments and resist corrosion, tested to endure up to 96 hours of salt spray.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the magazine’s performance, reliability, and longevity. The steel body provides superior strength and resistance to damage compared to aluminum or polymer magazines. The enhanced follower ensures consistent feeding, reducing the risk of malfunctions.
Performance & Functionality
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine excels in its primary function: reliably feeding ammunition into an AR-15. I experienced zero feeding issues during my testing, regardless of ammunition type or firing rate. The magazine locks positively into the magwell and ejects cleanly when released.
Its strength lies in its robust construction and reliable feeding. Its only potential weakness is the reduced capacity due to the blocking mechanism, but this is a necessary compromise for compliance in certain areas. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality AR-15 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s steel body provides a solid and reassuring feel. The black coating provides a smooth, non-slip surface that is comfortable to handle. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this magazine.
The reinforced floorplate is slightly thicker than standard floorplates, which can make it easier to grip and manipulate during reloads. The blocked capacity is only a minor design issue, and it does not affect the magazine’s overall ergonomics or usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine is built to last. The steel body and durable coating provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning and maintaining the magazine is simple. Disassembly is straightforward, and all parts are easily accessible for cleaning. Regular lubrication of the follower can help ensure smooth and consistent feeding.
Accessories and Customization Options
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine comes standard with its enhanced follower and reinforced floorplate. There are no readily available customization options specific to this magazine.
However, the magazine is compatible with most standard AR-15 magazine pouches and loading devices. You can use aftermarket magazine couplers to join two magazines together for faster reloads. Also, since this magazine is made for AR-15 platforms, it can be used on other AR-platform firearms.
Pros and Cons of E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The steel body provides superior strength and resistance to damage.
- Reliable Feeding: The enhanced follower ensures smooth and consistent feeding.
- Corrosion Resistance: The high resistance body coating protects against rust and corrosion.
- Easy Maintenance: Disassembly and cleaning are simple and straightforward.
- Combat Proven: Tested by military forces and proven in extreme conditions.
Cons
- Blocked capacity limits round count in certain areas.
- Slightly heavier than aluminum or polymer magazines.
Who Should Buy E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for AR-15 owners who prioritize durability and reliability over lightweight convenience. It’s ideal for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who relies on their rifle in demanding environments. This magazine also suits those who live in areas where magazine capacity is restricted.
Those who prioritize minimal weight or require higher magazine capacities should consider other options. Also, shooters on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives adequate for casual range use.
A magazine loader makes loading rounds easier, but it is not necessarily a must-have.
Conclusion on E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine
The E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine is a top-tier option for those seeking a durable and reliable AR-15 magazine. Its steel construction, enhanced follower, and corrosion-resistant coating make it a standout performer in demanding conditions. While the blocked capacity might be a drawback for some, the overall value proposition is excellent for users who prioritize function and longevity.
The price is justified by the magazine’s exceptional build quality and proven performance. I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a high-quality AR-15 magazine that can withstand serious abuse.
If you’re ready to upgrade from flimsy aluminum magazines and experience the confidence of a truly durable and reliable feeding system, then the E-Lander Mags AR-15 5.56 NATO Blocked Rifle Magazine is worth the investment.