First Thoughts on the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The 5.7x28mm round. It’s a high-velocity, bottlenecked cartridge that has carved out a unique niche in the firearms world, thanks in large part to the FN Herstal P90 and Five-seveN pistol. As more AR platforms are chambered in this potent round, the need for reliable, high-capacity magazines becomes paramount. Enter the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin.
I’ve been running 5.7x28mm ARs for years, but factory magazines are notoriously expensive and sometimes hard to find. I was on the hunt for a cost-effective alternative that wouldn’t compromise reliability. The promise of 32 rounds of 5.7x28mm in a standard AR-15 magazine footprint definitely piqued my interest.
Upon receiving the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, my initial impression was surprisingly positive. It felt solid, not flimsy like some aftermarket magazines can. The polymer construction seemed robust, and the spring tension felt appropriate right out of the packaging.
Compared to factory FN Five-seveN magazines, or even some of the older, proprietary 5.7 AR mags on the market, the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin stood out due to its compatibility with standard AR-15 lowers. I had previously considered using magazine well adapters to convert my standard AR-15 lower to accept FN P90 magazines, but the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin eliminates this need, providing a more streamlined solution. My initial excitement was definitely tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, common with aftermarket magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin was at my local outdoor range. I loaded it up with 32 rounds of Federal American Eagle 40-grain FMJ. I wanted to run it through its paces in a controlled environment.
The magazine seated easily into my AR-57 upper receiver. I experienced zero issues locking the bolt back on an empty magazine. During the first few magazines, I experienced no failures to feed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and hundreds of rounds downrange, the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from a sweltering 95°F to a chilly 30°F. I’ve also exposed it to dusty range conditions.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, aside from minor cosmetic scratches. The polymer body seems resistant to cracking or deformation. I typically clean the magazine after each range session, which involves disassembling it and wiping down the body, follower, and spring. The process is straightforward and requires no specialized tools.
Compared to some of the older, less reliable 5.7x28mm AR magazines I’ve used in the past, the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is a significant step up. It consistently feeds rounds without issue and has quickly become my go-to magazine for range days.
Breaking Down the Features of Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed specifically for AR-15 platforms chambered in 5.7x28mm. It features a 32-round capacity, which is a significant advantage over lower-capacity factory magazines. The magazine is constructed from a durable polymer material, and the origin is listed as “Aftermarket.”
The 5.7x28mm caliber dictates the magazine’s internal geometry. This is designed to properly feed the bottlenecked cartridge. The 32-round capacity provides ample firepower, reducing the need for frequent reloads. This is especially important in tactical situations or during extended range sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is to reliably feed 5.7x28mm ammunition into an AR-15 platform. In my experience, it performs this task admirably. I have experienced no malfunctions directly attributable to the magazine itself.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its reliable feeding, high capacity, and affordable price. A potential weakness could be its aftermarket origin. Some shooters may prefer factory magazines for perceived reliability. However, the performance of the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin has exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed to fit seamlessly into standard AR-15 magazine wells. Its polymer construction keeps the weight down without sacrificing durability. The magazine body features a textured surface for enhanced grip.
The magazine is relatively easy to load, although the final few rounds can require some effort due to the spring tension. Disassembly for cleaning is simple and intuitive. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin appears to be built to last. The polymer construction is resistant to impacts and abrasion. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the spring will help to ensure its longevity.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward. Replacement springs and followers are readily available if needed, further extending the magazine’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is primarily a standalone product. It does not require any specific accessories for proper function.
Users can potentially customize the magazine with aftermarket baseplates for easier handling or identification. The magazine is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver designed to accept standard AR-15 magazines, making it broadly compatible with a wide range of platforms.
Pros and Cons of Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- High capacity (32 rounds). Provides ample firepower and reduces the need for frequent reloads.
- Reliable feeding. I have experienced no malfunctions directly attributable to the magazine.
- Affordable price ($25.99). Significantly less expensive than factory 5.7x28mm magazines.
- Durable polymer construction. Resists impacts and abrasion.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simple disassembly and readily available replacement parts.
Cons
- Aftermarket origin could be a concern for some users who prefer factory magazines.
- Loading the final few rounds can require significant effort due to spring tension.
Who Should Buy Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for:
- AR-15 owners chambered in 5.7x28mm seeking a reliable and affordable high-capacity magazine.
- Competitive shooters who need a high round count without frequent reloads.
- Tactical shooters who prioritize firepower and reliability in a dynamic environment.
Those who should skip this product:
- Shooters who are strictly committed to using only factory magazines, regardless of cost.
- Individuals who require magazines specifically designed for other firearm platforms.
A must-have modification would be a magazine loader specific to AR15 platforms. This will drastically reduce the amount of effort required to fully load the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin.
Conclusion on Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive factory 5.7x28mm magazines. Its high capacity, durable construction, and consistent feeding make it a worthwhile addition to any AR-15 owner’s arsenal.
At a price of $25.99, the value proposition is excellent. You get a high-capacity magazine that performs comparably to, or even better than, some of the more expensive options on the market.
I would personally recommend the Magazine MK4 /AR15 5.7x28mm 32rd – 5.7mm x 28mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable 5.7x28mm magazine for their AR-15. Don’t let the “Aftermarket Origin” deter you; this magazine delivers solid performance and is a great way to enhance the capabilities of your 5.7x28mm AR-15. Pick one up and experience the difference!