The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin magazine is a specialized component designed to enhance the performance and reliability of AR-15 platforms chambered in the increasingly popular 300 AAC Blackout caliber. Manufactured by Lancer, known for their advanced composite magazines, this 20-round magazine stands out with its translucent smoke finish, allowing users to visually inspect their round count, a feature I’ve found incredibly useful in dynamic shooting scenarios. For years, I struggled with consistent feeding from my 300 Blackout AR, often resorting to single-loading subsonic rounds for hunting.
My quest for the perfect magazine to reliably cycle both supersonic and subsonic rounds in my 300 Blackout AR-15 led me directly to the LANCER L5AWM. After countless jams and misfeeds with standard 5.56 magazines, clearly not optimized for the 300 BLK’s unique cartridge dimensions, I knew I needed a dedicated solution. The promise of improved feeding geometry and durable construction from Lancer was enough to pique my interest.
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. The translucent smoke finish immediately caught my eye, and the magazine felt incredibly solid in hand. Compared to standard aluminum AR magazines, the Lancer’s polymer construction felt more robust and confidence-inspiring. I considered Magpul’s 300 Blackout PMAG, but the Lancer’s hybrid polymer-steel design seemed more durable, plus the translucent body was a major selling point.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The LANCER L5AWM looked and felt like a premium product. I was eager to get to the range and see if its performance matched its appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the LANCER L5AWM 300BLK at my local shooting range, focusing on both supersonic and subsonic 300 Blackout ammunition. The range offered a controlled environment to assess feeding, cycling, and overall reliability. I ran the magazine through several drills, including rapid-fire sequences and slow, deliberate shots, varying the angle of the rifle to test for potential feeding issues.
The Lancer performed flawlessly from the start. Unlike my previous experiences with 5.56 magazines, there were no failures to feed, no double feeds, and no bolt override malfunctions. The rounds chambered smoothly and consistently, regardless of whether they were supersonic or subsonic. The magazine’s specialized internal geometry seemed to make all the difference.
There was no need to “break-in” the magazine. Straight out of the package, it worked perfectly. This was a welcome surprise, considering the issues I’d had with other magazines in the past.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a few hunting trips, the LANCER L5AWM 300BLK has continued to impress. The magazine shows no signs of wear and tear. The polymer body remains intact, and the feed lips have not deformed or cracked.
Cleaning the magazine is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a cloth or a brush is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The Lancer has proven to be incredibly reliable and easy to maintain.
Compared to my previous experiences with substandard magazines, the LANCER L5AWM has been a revelation. It has completely eliminated the feeding issues I was experiencing, allowing me to focus on shooting. The Lancer outperforms anything else I’ve tried in my 300 Blackout AR.
Breaking Down the Features of LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE is specifically designed for the 300 AAC Blackout caliber and has a 20-round capacity. The magazine body is constructed from a translucent smoke-colored polymer. This allows for easy visual inspection of the remaining ammunition.
The magazine features a hardened steel feed lip assembly, providing increased durability and resistance to deformation under stress. This is crucial for reliable feeding. The non-tilt follower is designed to ensure consistent cartridge alignment and prevent jams.
The LANCER L5AWM is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) product, meaning it’s built to the same standards as magazines supplied directly to firearm manufacturers. This ensures a high level of quality and compatibility. The magazine weighs approximately 4.8 ounces empty.
These specifications are critical for the reliable function of a 300 Blackout AR-15. The dedicated 300 Blackout magazine geometry ensures proper feeding of the shorter, wider 300 BLK cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK performs exceptionally well. Its primary function is to reliably feed 300 Blackout ammunition into an AR-15 platform, and it does this consistently. The magazine’s design ensures smooth cycling of both supersonic and subsonic rounds.
Its strength lies in its reliability. The magazine eliminates common feeding issues associated with using standard 5.56 magazines for 300 Blackout. The only area for potential improvement would be offering a higher capacity option for those who prefer a larger magazine.
The LANCER L5AWM exceeds expectations. It has transformed my 300 Blackout AR-15 from a frustrating range toy into a reliable and enjoyable firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The LANCER L5AWM features a robust hybrid design. It features a polymer body mated to a steel feed lip assembly. The translucent smoke finish is visually appealing and practical. The magazine feels solid and well-built in hand.
The magazine is designed to be user-friendly. The internal geometry aids in smooth feeding, which is a huge benefit. The translucent body helps keep a quick round count.
Durability & Maintenance
The LANCER L5AWM is built to last. The steel feed lips provide excellent resistance to wear and deformation. The polymer body is impact-resistant and withstands temperature extremes. With proper care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent will keep the magazine functioning optimally. The Lancer can also be easily disassembled for more thorough cleaning, if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK does not require any specific accessories for operation. The magazine is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself, but it works seamlessly with any AR-15 lower receiver designed to accept standard STANAG magazines.
It is also compatible with most aftermarket magazine baseplates designed for AR-15 magazines. This provides some degree of customization.
Pros and Cons of LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- The dedicated 300 Blackout design ensures reliable feeding and cycling of both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. It fixes the issues that 5.56 magazines have.
- The translucent smoke body allows for quick and easy visual round count assessment.
- The hardened steel feed lips provide exceptional durability and resistance to deformation.
- Its simple design and easy maintenance make this magazine easy to clean and reliable to own.
- The OEM origin guarantees a high level of quality and compatibility.
Cons
- The 20-round capacity may be limiting for some users who prefer higher capacity magazines.
- The polymer body, while durable, may not be as resistant to extreme abuse as a steel magazine.
Who Should Buy LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin?
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK is perfect for anyone who owns an AR-15 chambered in 300 AAC Blackout and demands reliable feeding and performance. It’s especially well-suited for hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical users who rely on their firearm in demanding conditions. This is also a perfect magazine for anyone who wants to shoot both supersonic and subsonic rounds with no issues.
Those who should skip this product might include individuals who primarily shoot 5.56/.223 and do not own a 300 Blackout AR-15. Also, if you absolutely require a 30 or 40 round magazine, this may not be what you need.
A must-have accessory to go with the Lancer is a high-quality magazine pouch designed for AR-15 magazines. This will protect the magazine and ensure quick and easy access during reloads.
Conclusion on LANCER L5AWM 300BLK 20RD TRANS SMOKE – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, OEM Origin
The LANCER L5AWM 300BLK is an exceptional magazine that delivers on its promise of reliable 300 Blackout feeding. Its durable construction, user-friendly design, and clear round-count window make it a standout product in a crowded market. At $15.49, the price is definitely justified considering the performance and reliability it offers.
I would absolutely recommend the LANCER L5AWM 300BLK to anyone looking for a dedicated 300 Blackout magazine. If you’re tired of dealing with feeding issues and want a magazine you can rely on, look no further. Upgrade your 300 Blackout AR-15 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make.