Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm Review

First Impressions of Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm promises a simple and effective way to convert your existing 5.56/.223 PMAGs into 9mm magazines for your AR-9 build. This eliminates the need for dedicated 9mm magazines and magwell adapters, streamlining your setup and keeping your muscle memory consistent. The idea of using standard PMAGs with my AR-9 intrigued me, so I decided to give the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm a try.

I’d been looking for a more cost-effective way to feed my 9mm AR without investing in a pile of dedicated stick magazines. The promise of using readily available PMAGs was a huge draw. I also wanted to keep my reload drills consistent across platforms.

Upon receiving the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm, I was immediately impressed with the simplicity of the design. It felt solid and well-made, despite being primarily polymer. Compared to dedicated 9mm magazines, the EndoMag system seemed much more modular and adaptable.

I also considered purchasing a dedicated 9mm lower receiver with a Glock magazine adapter, but this would’ve been a significantly larger investment. The EndoMag promised a similar functionality for a fraction of the cost. My initial impression was positive; the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm seemed like a clever solution, and I was eager to test it out.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm at my local indoor shooting range using a PSA Gen4 slick side 9mm upper with an 8.5-inch barrel. I ran several different types of 9mm ammunition, including standard 115-grain FMJ, 124-grain FMJ, and 147-grain JHP rounds.

The first few magazines ran flawlessly, with smooth feeding and consistent ejection. The last round bolt hold open (LRBHO) feature worked perfectly, just like Mean Arms advertised. No modifications or adjustments were needed during this first range session.

I did experience a few failures to eject after the first 50 rounds, but this was resolved by ensuring the EndoMag was fully seated in the PMAG.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm has proven to be reasonably reliable, but not without some quirks. I now have well over 500 rounds through the adapter.

While the polymer construction has held up well, I’ve noticed some wear on the ejector tab. Consistent cleaning and lubrication are crucial to maintaining reliable function. Compared to dedicated 9mm magazines, the EndoMag requires a bit more attention to ensure consistent performance.

There have been a few instances where the bolt failed to lock back after the last round, which I attribute to the ejector spring weakening over time. Overall, the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm is a decent solution, but it requires more maintenance than a standard magazine to maintain its functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm

Specifications

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm is designed to convert Gen 2 or Gen 3 5.56/.223 PMAG housings into 9mm magazines. It is compatible with standard AR lowers and 9mm uppers using Glock or Colt variant 9mm bolt carrier groups. The magazine capacity is listed as 10 rounds, though higher capacity options may be available depending on local regulations.

The EndoMag is constructed primarily of polymer. It also features a steel feed lip insert and a spring-loaded ejector. These specifications are important because they directly impact the EndoMag’s compatibility, reliability, and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm performs its primary function adequately. It allows you to use 9mm ammunition in an AR-15 platform without a dedicated 9mm lower receiver. The strengths lie in its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The weaknesses include occasional feeding issues, wear on the ejector tab, and the need for more frequent cleaning.

While it meets the basic expectation of converting a PMAG to 9mm, it doesn’t quite match the reliability of a dedicated 9mm magazine. The LRBHO (last round bolt hold open) functionality is generally reliable, although it can sometimes be inconsistent as the ejector spring weakens.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm boasts a simple, drop-in design that’s easy to install in a PMAG. The polymer construction keeps the weight down, and the overall feel is similar to that of a standard PMAG. There’s a slight learning curve to ensure proper seating of the EndoMag within the PMAG, but this becomes second nature after a few uses.

The modular design allows you to quickly switch between 5.56 and 9mm by simply swapping the EndoMag insert. This is a significant advantage for those who want to maintain the same manual of arms across multiple calibers.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm is acceptable, but not exceptional. The polymer body has held up well, but the ejector tab is a known point of wear. With regular cleaning and lubrication, it can last for a reasonable amount of time, but replacement may be necessary eventually.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring only occasional disassembly and cleaning. However, it’s crucial to inspect the ejector tab regularly for any signs of damage or excessive wear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, because it utilizes standard PMAGs, you can take advantage of various PMAG accessories. This includes magazine couplers, caliber indicators, and enhanced baseplates. The EndoMag is also compatible with most 9mm AR-15 uppers that use Glock or Colt-style magazines.

The modularity offered by using standard PMAGs is a significant advantage, allowing you to tailor your magazines to your specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm

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Who Should Buy Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm?

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts who want to experiment with the 9mm platform without investing in a dedicated lower receiver. It is also suitable for shooters who want to maintain a consistent manual of arms across different calibers. This product will also benefit budget-conscious builders looking for a cost-effective 9mm AR magazine solution.

Those who prioritize absolute reliability and are willing to invest in dedicated 9mm magazines should skip this product. Someone who is unwilling to perform regular maintenance and cleaning should also avoid it. A must-have accessory is a high-quality PMAG.

Conclusion on Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm

The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm offers a unique and affordable solution for converting your existing PMAGs to 9mm. While it may not be as reliable as dedicated 9mm magazines, it provides a cost-effective way to experiment with the AR-9 platform and maintain consistent muscle memory.

The price is justified for those seeking a budget-friendly and modular option. The Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm is a worthwhile investment if you understand its limitations and are willing to perform regular maintenance.

I would recommend the Mean Arms EndoMag 9mm to anyone looking to dip their toes into the AR-9 world without breaking the bank. Give it a try and see if it fits your needs – you might be surprised at how well it performs!