Let’s Talk About Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader promises to alleviate the tedious chore of loading AR-15 magazines. MagPump claims this hopper-fed system significantly reduces loading time and eliminates hand fatigue, appealing to high-volume shooters and those with dexterity issues. After years of manually loading mags, leaving my thumbs screaming after a long range day, I was eager to see if the Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader lived up to the hype.
I’d been searching for a reliable speed loader for some time. My primary motivation was increased efficiency during training sessions, allowing more time spent shooting and less time reloading. I’d considered other options like the LULA loader and various thumb-saver tools. I ultimately chose the Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader due to its promise of high-volume loading and its compatibility with my existing AR-15 magazines.
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader arrived in a relatively simple cardboard box. My initial impression was that it seemed well-built, with a solid feel to the polymer hopper and aluminum lever. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting a good balance between durability and portability. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would be as easy to use as advertised and drastically reduce my mag loading time.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader was at my local outdoor range. I loaded the hopper with approximately 75 rounds of 5.56 NATO ammunition. The initial pumping action felt smooth, but I quickly encountered issues.
The rounds didn’t always feed correctly, sometimes jamming within the mechanism. This required me to stop and manually adjust the ammunition, negating the time-saving benefit. While temperatures were mild and the conditions dry, the loader struggled to maintain a consistent feeding rate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions, I can confidently say that the Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader is inconsistent. Sometimes it performs admirably, loading magazines quickly and efficiently. Other times, it jams, misfeeds, or attempts to cram multiple rounds into the magazine simultaneously.
I have noticed no significant wear and tear, the polymer and aluminum construction appears robust. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient. However, the unreliable feeding makes it a frustrating tool. It hasn’t lived up to the expectations set by my past experiences with simpler, more reliable magazine loading tools.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader
Specifications
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader, manufactured by MagPump, is designed for loading AR-15 magazines with .223 Rem, 5.56 NATO, and .300 Blackout rounds. It features a 90-round capacity hopper constructed from lightweight and durable polymer, paired with machined aluminum and steel internal components. The dimensions are 4.55 X 9.35 X 13.00 inches, and it is compatible with all Mil-Spec AR-15 magazines.
The caliber compatibility ensures versatility across common AR-15 platforms. The 90-round capacity is sufficient for loading multiple magazines before needing a refill, reducing downtime. The aluminum and steel internals aim to improve durability and feeding reliability.
Performance & Functionality
When it works correctly, the Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader is impressively fast. It can load a 30-round magazine in well under a minute. However, its reliability is a significant drawback.
Its greatest strength is speed when it operates flawlessly. Its biggest weakness is its tendency to jam and misfeed, sometimes damaging magazines. The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader meets expectations for speed, but falls short in reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader features a primarily polymer construction. It makes it lightweight enough for easy transportation. The lever action is generally smooth, but requires a firm, deliberate motion.
The design aims for user-friendliness, but the jamming issues introduce a significant learning curve and frustration. The weight is manageable, but the unreliability detracts from the overall user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer exterior and metal internals suggest a decent lifespan. However, the internal mechanisms are prone to malfunction if the loader is forced while jammed. Regular cleaning is simple, but addressing internal malfunctions requires disassembly.
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader appears durable, but its longevity depends heavily on careful use and avoiding jams. Maintenance is straightforward but doesn’t address inherent design flaws.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader doesn’t offer much in the way of accessories. The MagDump accessory is sold separately. There are no apparent options for customization beyond that.
It does however claim compatibility with standard AR-15 magazines, offering broad utility.
Pros and Cons of Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader
Pros
- Significantly reduces loading time when functioning correctly.
- Eliminates hand fatigue associated with manual loading.
- Compatible with all Mil-Spec AR-15 magazines.
- Solid construction and durable materials.
- Relatively easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Prone to jamming and misfeeding.
- Can potentially damage magazines if rounds are forced.
- Inconsistent performance and unreliable operation.
Who Should Buy Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader?
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader is potentially perfect for high-volume shooters who prioritize speed and can tolerate occasional malfunctions. It would be useful for competitive shooters who need to load many magazines quickly at the range.
Those who should skip this product include individuals seeking a completely reliable and jam-free loading solution. Individuals who value simplicity and guaranteed performance over potential speed gains should consider alternative options. A must-have accessory is a magazine disassembly tool, as you may need to disassemble mags to remove stuck rounds due to jams.
Conclusion on Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader
The Magpump AR-15 Pro Magazine Loader presents a mixed bag. While it boasts impressive speed and reduces hand fatigue when functioning properly, its unreliability and tendency to jam are significant drawbacks.
The price of $219.00 seems excessive given its inconsistent performance. I would personally not recommend it at its current price point. While the idea of rapid magazine loading is appealing, the execution falls short of delivering a consistently reliable and hassle-free experience.