MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin Review

First Thoughts on the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin

The MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin is more than just a magazine; it’s a lifeline for owners of the Rock Island Armory (RIA) 22TCM/9mm pistols. These magazines, manufactured by MECGAR, promise a reliable and high-capacity feeding solution for a somewhat niche firearm. The Armscor 22TCM/9mm is a unique platform and extra magazines are essential, making this aftermarket option a potentially vital purchase.

My RIA 22TCM/9mm, a fascinating hybrid pistol, only came with one magazine, which severely limited its practical use at the range. I was looking for a reliable, high-capacity magazine that could handle both the bottlenecked 22TCM round and the 9mm, as the pistol is designed to convert between calibers. Aftermarket magazines can sometimes be hit-or-miss, so I was cautiously optimistic about the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR.

Upon receiving the magazine, my initial impression was positive. The black finish looked durable, and the 17-round capacity felt substantial. Picking it up, it feels solid, with a reassuring weight that suggests quality construction. Compared to some generic aftermarket magazines I’ve used in the past, this one felt much more robust, hinting at better reliability.

I considered ProMag and some generic 1911 magazines, but the specific design requirements of the 22TCM/9mm pistol, particularly the feed lip geometry needed for both calibers, made me choose the MECGAR. I chose this one for its positive reviews and the MECGAR reputation for quality. I was excited to test it and see if it lived up to the hype, and a little relieved to find a magazine specifically designed for this somewhat uncommon firearm.

Real-World Testing: Putting MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a sunny day, but the air had a slight chill, around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. I ran both 9mm and 22TCM rounds through it, alternating magazines every few shots.

The magazine seated firmly into the magwell of my RIA 1911, clicking in with a positive and reassuring sound. Loading was smooth, and the rounds stacked neatly within the magazine body. I experienced zero feeding issues with either the 9mm or 22TCM ammo. The magazine functioned flawlessly right out of the box, which was a pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions spanning a few months, the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR has proven itself to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, in varying conditions from dry and dusty to slightly damp, without a single malfunction attributable to the magazine. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the magazine body or feed lips.

Cleaning the magazine is straightforward, with easy disassembly for thorough maintenance. It outperforms the original factory magazine in terms of round capacity and feels just as robust. This gives me added peace of mind during longer range sessions and training scenarios. It certainly exceeded my expectations for an aftermarket magazine.

Breaking Down the Features of MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin

Specifications

The MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. Its caliber is designed for both 22TCM and 9mm, making it versatile for owners of the RIA combo pistols. The capacity is 17 rounds, offering a significant increase over standard 1911 magazines. The finish is a durable black coating, which resists corrosion and wear. It is of aftermarket origin, manufactured by MECGAR, a well-regarded magazine manufacturer.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the firearm’s functionality. The dual-caliber compatibility ensures that you don’t need separate magazines for each caliber. A higher capacity reduces the frequency of reloads, which is beneficial in training or competitive shooting. The durable finish protects the magazine from the elements, extending its lifespan.

Performance & Functionality

The MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR performs exceptionally well, providing reliable feeding for both 22TCM and 9mm rounds. Its greatest strength is its consistency; it feeds rounds smoothly and without hiccups. There are no noticeable weaknesses in its design or function. It meets and exceeds expectations, delivering the high-capacity and reliable performance it promises.

Design & Ergonomics

The MECGAR magazine’s design is simple yet effective. It is built with high-quality steel and coated with a durable black finish. The magazine feels solid and well-constructed in hand, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The loading process is straightforward, and the magazine seats easily into the magwell.

Durability & Maintenance

The MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR appears to be built to last. The steel construction and durable finish make it resistant to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. It is designed for easy disassembly, allowing for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The magazine itself doesn’t offer specific customization options, as it’s a self-contained component. However, it’s compatible with magwell extensions designed for RIA 1911 pistols, which can aid in faster reloads. It is also compatible with aftermarket base pads that can further enhance grip and ergonomics during magazine changes.

Pros and Cons of MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin

Who Should Buy MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin?

The MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR is perfect for Rock Island Armory 22TCM/9mm owners looking to increase their magazine capacity and improve reliability. It’s also ideal for competitive shooters or those who train frequently and need more rounds between reloads. This magazine is a great addition for those who value dependable performance and durability in their firearm accessories.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who do not own an RIA 22TCM/9mm pistol with a magwell, as it’s not compatible with other firearms. Also, those who prefer strictly OEM magazines might want to consider other options, although MECGAR‘s reputation is excellent.

A must-have accessory to pair with this magazine would be a quality magazine pouch for easy access and storage. A magwell extension for the RIA 1911 can also enhance reload speed and efficiency.

Conclusion on MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin

Overall, the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin is an excellent aftermarket magazine for the RIA 22TCM/9mm pistol. Its high capacity, dual-caliber compatibility, and reliable feeding make it a worthwhile investment for any owner of this firearm. The price of $30.99 is justified by its performance and durability, making it a solid value.

I would personally recommend this magazine without hesitation. It has significantly improved my range experience with my RIA 22TCM/9mm, and I trust it to perform reliably. If you own this pistol and are looking for extra magazines, the MAG ARMSCOR 22TCM/9MM 17RD MECGAR is a must-buy.