First Impressions of Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB
The Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB promises the reliability of steel with the weight and durability of polymer. It’s a magazine designed to bridge the gap between legacy metal magazines and modern polymer options. I’ve seen a growing trend of shooters needing compliant magazines without sacrificing performance, and I was eager to see how Lancer Systems addressed this challenge with their limited capacity version.
Living in a state with capacity restrictions, finding reliable magazines has always been a challenge. I needed a magazine that could withstand the rigors of training and competition without compromising on feeding reliability. The Lancer Systems reputation for quality, particularly their hybrid steel-polymer design, made this a very compelling option.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust feel of the magazine. The opaque black polymer body felt solid, and the steel feed lips were impeccably molded into the body. Comparing it to my standard GI aluminum magazines, the Lancer felt significantly more durable, while being lighter than my Magpul PMAGs.
I had been using standard aluminum GI mags and Magpul PMAGs, but the GI mags are prone to denting and feeding issues, and the PMAGs, while reliable, lack the reassuring steel feed lips. The Lancer Systems L5AWM seemed to offer the best of both worlds. Initially, I was excited by the prospect of a magazine that could handle .223/5.56 and even .300BLK, but I tempered my enthusiasm until I could put it through its paces at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lancer Systems L5AWM at my local outdoor shooting range, focusing on rapid firing drills and malfunction clearing exercises. The conditions were sunny and dry, around 75 degrees Fahrenheit – ideal weather for a range day. I used both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition to assess versatility.
The magazine loaded smoothly to its 10-round capacity, although the last round required a bit of extra force. Inserting the fully loaded magazine on a closed bolt was indeed a bit stiff, as Lancer Systems mentioned, but releasing the bolt on an open chamber was seamless. During rapid firing, I experienced no feeding issues or failures to extract.
After the first use, I was pleasantly surprised by the magazine’s performance. The initial loading stiffness was a minor inconvenience compared to the flawless cycling. I did notice that the limiting device affects how easy the magazine can be seated when fully loaded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lancer Systems L5AWM has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve run over 500 rounds through it in various range sessions and training drills. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the polymer body or steel feed lips.
Cleaning the magazine is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve disassembled it a couple of times to inspect the internal limiter, which remains securely in place. Compared to my older GI magazines, which have developed dents and occasional feeding issues, the Lancer L5AWM has been a significant upgrade.
The durability and consistent performance have significantly exceeded my expectations. It outperformed my GI mags and matched the reliability of my PMAGs, while offering a superior feel in terms of build quality. This magazine is now a mainstay in my range bag.
Breaking Down the Features of Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB
Specifications
The Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB is designed for AR-15 platforms and accepts .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition, and is even compatible with .300BLK. It features a 10-round capacity, due to the permanently installed capacity limiter, making it compliant in restricted states. The magazine body is constructed from a proprietary polymer, and the feed lips are made of hardened steel.
This hybrid design is significant because it offers the resilience of steel where it’s most critical (the feed lips) and the lightweight durability of polymer for the body. The 10-round capacity makes it legally compliant in restrictive states. The compatibility with multiple calibers, including .300BLK, adds versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Lancer Systems L5AWM performs exceptionally well, offering consistent feeding and reliability. I experienced no malfunctions during testing, even with rapid firing and varied ammunition types. The magazine’s limiting device, while reducing capacity, does not negatively affect feeding performance.
The only real weakness is the slightly stiff seating when fully loaded on a closed bolt. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall reliability and durability. The Lancer L5AWM meets and even slightly exceeds expectations, especially considering its compliant status.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the polymer body providing a solid and comfortable grip. The magazine feels robust in hand, and the aggressive surface texturing enhances grip, even with wet or gloved hands. There’s a slight learning curve to the seating issue, but otherwise, it’s very user-friendly.
The opaque black finish gives it a tactical look, and the aggressive texturing provides a solid purchase. The hybrid polymer/steel design results in a strong and lightweight magazine. Overall the design is well thought out.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lancer Systems L5AWM is designed to last. The hardened steel feed lips and robust polymer body make it resistant to damage. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down after use is usually sufficient.
The steel feed lips are key to its longevity, as they resist deformation and cracking, unlike some all-polymer designs. With proper care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lancer Systems L5AWM does not come with any specific accessories, but it is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and loading devices. While there are no direct customization options for the magazine itself, aftermarket magazine baseplates can be added for improved grip and drop-free performance. It is compatible with most AR-15 accessories.
The lack of included accessories is not a significant drawback, as most users already have compatible gear. The compatibility with aftermarket baseplates allows for some degree of personalization and performance enhancement.
Pros and Cons of Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB
Pros
- Exceptional reliability: Consistent feeding with various ammunition types.
- Hybrid steel/polymer design: Offers the strength of steel and the lightweight durability of polymer.
- Durable construction: Resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life.
- Compliant capacity: Legal in states with magazine capacity restrictions.
- Compatible with .223/5.56/.300BLK: Versatile for different AR-15 builds.
Cons
- Stiff seating when fully loaded on a closed bolt.
- The 10 round capacity may be a turn off for users in unrestricted states.
Who Should Buy Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB?
The Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE is perfect for shooters in states with magazine capacity restrictions who demand reliability and durability. It’s ideal for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and recreational shooters who want a dependable magazine without sacrificing performance. It also makes a great option for anyone running a .300BLK upper in a capacity restricted state.
Those who live in states without magazine capacity restrictions and prioritize higher capacity magazines should skip this product. A must-have modification would be an enhanced magazine baseplate for improved grip and faster reloads.
Conclusion on Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB
The Lancer Systems L5AWM LIMITED 10/30 MAGAZINE – .223/5.56/.300BLK, 10/20, OPAQUE BLACK 155BDDDB is a top-tier magazine that delivers on its promise of reliability and durability, particularly for those in capacity-restricted states. At $27.49, the price is justified given the quality of construction and consistent performance. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a compliant magazine that doesn’t compromise on quality.
If you need magazines that are legally compliant without sacrificing performance, the Lancer Systems L5AWM is a no-brainer. Upgrade your AR-15 today with these exceptional magazines!