Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine Review

First Impressions of Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine

In a world saturated with AR-15 magazines, the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine promises something different: reliable 9mm feeding and ejection in a standard AR lower without the need for a magwell adapter. This magazine seeks to solve a common problem for AR enthusiasts wanting to build a 9mm AR pistol or carbine without dedicated 9mm lowers. Its integrated ejector and last-round hold-open feature are intriguing, suggesting a well-thought-out solution.

As someone who enjoys building and tinkering with AR platforms, I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of creating a reliable 9mm AR. The biggest hurdle has consistently been magazine compatibility and ejection reliability, often requiring dedicated 9mm lowers or finicky magazine adapters. I was hoping this Mean Arms magazine would offer a simpler, more elegant solution.

Upon receiving the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, the first thing I noticed was its solid feel. The injection-molded polymer construction felt robust, and the magazine had a reassuring weight to it. The built-in ejector was a unique feature that immediately caught my eye; its design seemed robust and purposeful.

Compared to traditional AR-15 magazines or even dedicated 9mm AR magazines from other manufacturers, the ExoMag stood out due to its self-contained ejection system. While other 9mm conversion options often require modifications to the bolt or rely on separate ejectors, the Mean Arms design integrates it directly into the magazine. This integrated design promised a simpler setup, avoiding the complexities and potential failure points of other conversion methods.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The design appeared solid, but the real test would be in its performance. I was both eager and a little skeptical, hoping it would live up to its promise of reliable 9mm AR functionality.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag to my local outdoor shooting range for its initial trial. I paired it with a standard Mil-Spec AR-15 lower and a 9mm upper receiver with a blowback operating system. I brought a variety of 9mm ammunition, including 115-grain FMJ, 124-grain FMJ, and 147-grain JHP, to assess its feeding reliability with different bullet profiles.

The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle threatening to become a full-blown rain. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, I wanted to test the ExoMag’s performance in a slightly challenging environment. Loading the magazine was straightforward, and it seated positively into the magazine well.

The first few rounds fed without issue, and the bolt cycled smoothly. However, after about five rounds, I experienced a failure to eject, with the spent casing getting caught between the bolt and the chamber. I cleared the malfunction and continued shooting.

Over the course of the first 50 rounds, I experienced intermittent failures to eject, roughly one every 5-7 rounds. This was a disappointing start, and I realized that the ExoMag might require some tweaking or specific ammunition preferences. Despite the ejection issues, the magazine’s last-round hold-open feature worked flawlessly, indicating that part of the design was functioning as intended.

Extended Use & Reliability

After the initial range session, I spent some time analyzing the malfunctions. It appeared that the ejector wasn’t consistently making solid contact with the spent casings, leading to the ejection failures. I decided to try a few modifications and adjustments to see if I could improve its reliability.

Over the next few weeks, I tested the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag in multiple range sessions, logging over 500 rounds. I experimented with different buffer weights and spring combinations to fine-tune the cycling of the 9mm upper. I also tried different cleaning and lubrication methods to ensure the magazine was operating at its best.

While the ejection issues persisted to some extent, I did notice some improvement with certain ammunition types. Lighter, faster 115-grain FMJ ammunition seemed to cycle more reliably than heavier 147-grain JHP rounds. The magazine also seemed to perform better when it was thoroughly cleaned and lightly lubricated.

Despite my efforts, the ExoMag never achieved the level of reliability I would expect from a dedicated 9mm AR magazine. I still experienced occasional failures to eject, which would be unacceptable in a self-defense or competition setting. However, the magazine did prove to be reasonably durable, showing no significant signs of wear and tear after hundreds of rounds. Cleaning the magazine was relatively simple, and the polymer construction resisted corrosion and damage.

In comparison to my previous experiences with dedicated 9mm AR lowers and magazines, the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag fell short in terms of reliability. While it offered the convenience of using a standard AR-15 lower, its inconsistent ejection made it a less desirable option for serious 9mm AR builds. However, the last round bolt hold open feature proved reliable through all testing.

Breaking Down the Features of Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine

Specifications

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine is designed for use with standard Mil-Spec and Commercial AR-15 lower receivers, chambered in 9mm Luger. Its magazine capacity is 10 rounds, adhering to restrictions in certain states. The magazine’s body is constructed from injection-molded polymer, offering both durability and corrosion resistance.

A high-tensile steel spring and polymer follower ensure consistent feeding. The standout feature is the built-in ejector, designed to reliably eject spent 9mm casings from a blowback-operated AR-9 upper. It also boasts a last-round hold-open feature, ensuring the bolt locks back after the final shot.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the magazine’s compatibility, durability, and functionality. The polymer construction ensures it can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. The steel spring and polymer follower are essential for smooth and consistent feeding. Most importantly, the integrated ejector and last-round hold-open are designed to provide reliable 9mm AR performance without modifications to the lower receiver.

Performance & Functionality

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag’s primary function is to reliably feed and eject 9mm ammunition in an AR-15 platform. While it feeds ammunition relatively well, the ejection reliability is where it falls short. The magazine consistently experienced failures to eject, even after extensive testing and adjustments.

The main strength of the ExoMag is its ability to function within a standard AR-15 lower receiver without requiring a dedicated 9mm lower or a magwell adapter. The last-round hold-open feature is another positive aspect, working consistently throughout my testing. However, the inconsistent ejection is a significant weakness that needs to be addressed.

The magazine partially meets expectations. The convenience of using a standard AR lower is appealing, but the ejection reliability issues detract from its overall performance. While it offers a unique solution, the magazine’s reliability needs to be improved to make it a viable option for serious 9mm AR enthusiasts.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag features a straightforward and functional design. The injection-molded polymer construction feels sturdy and well-made. The magazine has a standard AR-15 magazine profile, making it easy to handle and insert into the magazine well.

The magazine’s weight is comparable to a standard AR-15 magazine, and its textured surface provides a secure grip. There is no significant learning curve to using the magazine. It functions similarly to a standard AR-15 magazine, making it easy to load and operate.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag appears to be reasonably durable, thanks to its polymer construction and robust design. After hundreds of rounds of testing, the magazine shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The polymer body resists scratches and impacts, and the steel spring maintains its tension.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The magazine disassembles easily for cleaning, and the polymer construction is resistant to corrosion and chemical damage. Overall, the ExoMag seems built to last, provided that the ejection issues can be resolved.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag itself does not come with any additional accessories, and its design does not lend itself to extensive customization. The primary customization option is the ability to use it in conjunction with a standard AR-15 lower receiver and a 9mm AR upper.

The magazine is compatible with most Mil-Spec and Commercial AR-15 lower receivers. This compatibility offers a level of modularity and versatility, allowing users to build a 9mm AR pistol or carbine without needing specialized components. However, it’s important to note that the magazine’s performance may vary depending on the specific 9mm AR upper and ammunition used.

Pros and Cons of Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine

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Who Should Buy Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine?

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts looking to experiment with building a 9mm AR pistol or carbine without investing in a dedicated 9mm lower receiver. It may also appeal to budget-conscious builders seeking a more affordable entry point into the 9mm AR platform. Those who primarily target shoot and are willing to experiment with different ammo types and buffer setups to achieve acceptable reliability may also find it useful.

However, those seeking a highly reliable 9mm AR for self-defense, competition, or tactical applications should skip this product. The inconsistent ejection issues make it unsuitable for situations where consistent performance is critical. It is also not recommended for those unwilling to tinker with their AR platform or experiment with different ammunition and buffer setups.

A must-have modification would involve a thorough inspection and possible modification of the ejector itself to ensure consistent and positive contact with the spent casing.

Conclusion on Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine

The Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag, AR-15, 10 Round Rifle Magazine offers an intriguing solution for converting a standard AR-15 lower to 9mm. However, its inconsistent ejection reliability is a significant drawback that overshadows its convenience and affordability. While the concept is sound, the execution needs improvement.

At $37.99, the price is reasonable for what it offers, but the value proposition is diminished by the ejection issues. While the Mean Arms Ejectored ExoMag promises compatibility with a standard AR lower without an adapter, the reliability issues need to be addressed for it to be a truly compelling option.

I would hesitate to recommend this product in its current form. While it has the potential to be a valuable addition to the 9mm AR market, the inconsistent ejection issues make it difficult to endorse. Until the reliability is improved, it’s best suited for those willing to experiment and tinker with their AR platform.