The Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model Made a Bold First Impression
The Lancer L5AWM isn’t just another AR-15 magazine; it’s a statement. It promises the resilience of steel with the weight savings and durability of polymer, all wrapped in a package that looks as good as it performs. The L5AWM stands out with its translucent smoke finish, allowing you to quickly assess your remaining rounds.
For years, I’ve relied on standard metal magazines, often finding myself frustrated with dents, rust, and feed lip deformation. I needed a magazine that could withstand the rigors of tactical training, competition, and the occasional rough handling during outdoor excursions. I’d heard whispers of the Lancer L5AWM’s reputation, and the hybrid polymer/steel design intrigued me, suggesting a solution to the common magazine woes.
Upon unboxing, the Lancer L5AWM felt substantial, but surprisingly light. The smoke-colored polymer body was impeccably molded, with a texture providing a secure grip, even with gloved hands. The steel feed lips looked robust and precisely formed, hinting at reliable feeding.
Compared to standard aluminum GI mags, the Lancer L5AWM felt like a premium upgrade. I also considered Magpul PMAGs, but the Lancer’s steel feed lips swayed me, promising superior durability and resistance to deformation over the long haul. My initial impression was excitement; I felt like I’d found a magazine that could truly handle anything I threw at it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Lancer L5AWM involved a high-volume training session focused on rapid target acquisition and transitions. I used it in my primary AR-15, chambered in 5.56 NATO. I ran drills in both dry and slightly damp conditions.
The Lancer L5AWM performed flawlessly; it fed every round smoothly and locked the bolt back consistently after the last shot. I appreciated the translucent smoke finish, allowing quick visual confirmation of remaining rounds during rapid mag changes. There were no hiccups, no jams, and no feeding issues of any kind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lancer L5AWM has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has seen action in multiple range sessions, two carbine courses, and even a dusty weekend of tactical training in the high desert. Despite the abuse, there are no signs of cracks or deformation in the polymer body.
The steel feed lips show no signs of bending or wear. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a cloth and a brush is usually all it takes to keep it running smoothly. It significantly outperforms standard aluminum magazines that tend to dent easily and require more frequent cleaning to prevent malfunctions.
Breaking Down the Features of Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
Specifications
The Lancer L5AWM is a 20-round, detachable magazine designed for AR-15 platform rifles chambered in 223 Remington, 300 Blackout, and 5.56x45mm NATO. It features a hybrid design with a hardened steel feed lip assembly molded into a proprietary polymer body, aiming for the best of both worlds. The magazine body has aggressive texturing for enhanced grip.
The Lancer L5AWM’s hybrid design is critical to its performance; the steel feed lips ensure reliable feeding and prevent deformation, while the polymer body provides durability and weight savings. The 20-round capacity offers a balance between firepower and maneuverability, making it ideal for both tactical applications and hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Lancer L5AWM excels in its primary function: feeding ammunition reliably. Its steel feed lips ensure consistent and smooth feeding, even with various types of ammunition. The magazine locks into the AR-15 magwell securely and releases without any binding or resistance.
The Lancer L5AWM’s strength is its reliability; it has proven to be virtually malfunction-free in my testing. One minor area for improvement would be making the baseplate slightly easier to remove for thorough cleaning. It significantly exceeds the performance of standard GI mags in terms of durability and feeding reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lancer L5AWM is well-designed, prioritizing both functionality and ergonomics. The polymer body is molded with aggressive texturing that provides a secure grip, even in wet or gloved hands. The translucent smoke finish is a practical feature that allows for quick visual inspection of remaining ammunition.
The magazine feels robust and well-built, inspiring confidence in its durability. The only learning curve involves familiarization with the magazine release, which is standard for AR-15 platforms. The Lancer L5AWM’s weight is comparable to other polymer magazines, providing a comfortable balance for the rifle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lancer L5AWM is built to last, constructed with high-quality materials and a robust design. The steel feed lips are resistant to bending and deformation, ensuring long-term reliability. The polymer body is impact-resistant and can withstand the rigors of tactical training and outdoor use.
Maintaining the Lancer L5AWM is simple; a quick wipe down after each use is typically sufficient. Disassembly for a deeper clean is relatively straightforward, though the baseplate can be a bit stiff to remove. It’s designed for easy repair should a component ever need replacing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lancer L5AWM doesn’t require any additional accessories to function effectively. However, it is compatible with various magazine pouches and carriers designed for AR-15 magazines. While not a customization option in the traditional sense, the translucent smoke finish allows users to quickly identify the type of ammunition loaded, which can be crucial in certain situations.
It’s designed to work seamlessly with any standard AR-15 lower receiver. The hybrid design sets it apart, negating the need for any specific modifications. It benefits from the large ecosystem of AR-15 parts and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
Pros
- Unmatched Reliability: The hybrid polymer/steel construction ensures consistent feeding and prevents malfunctions.
- Exceptional Durability: The steel feed lips resist deformation, and the polymer body withstands impact.
- Visual Ammunition Check: The translucent smoke finish allows for quick assessment of remaining rounds.
- Enhanced Grip: The aggressive texturing provides a secure hold, even in adverse conditions.
- Lightweight Design: The polymer body reduces weight without sacrificing strength.
Cons
- Baseplate can be somewhat difficult to remove for cleaning.
- The price is slightly higher than standard GI mags, but the performance justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model?
The Lancer L5AWM is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who demands maximum reliability from their AR-15. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who value consistent feeding and durability. Hunters who need a dependable magazine in demanding conditions will also find it invaluable.
Those who prioritize absolute affordability above all else might consider standard aluminum magazines. However, the slight price difference is easily justified by the Lancer L5AWM’s superior performance and lifespan. A quality magazine pouch or carrier is a must-have accessory to protect and transport the Lancer L5AWM.
Conclusion on Lancer L5AWM 223 Rem 300 Blackout 5.56x45mm NATO AR-15 20rd Smoke Polymer/Steel Detachable – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model
The Lancer L5AWM is an outstanding AR-15 magazine that delivers on its promise of reliability, durability, and performance. The price is justified by the magazine’s exceptional quality and long lifespan. I wholeheartedly recommend the Lancer L5AWM to anyone seeking a premium AR-15 magazine that will consistently perform in demanding situations.
If you’re tired of unreliable magazines that cause malfunctions, the Lancer L5AWM is the upgrade you need. Invest in your peace of mind and experience the difference a truly dependable magazine can make. Upgrade your AR-15 with the Lancer L5AWM and never worry about magazine-related failures again.