The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin promises to breathe new life into a classic series of Smith & Wesson pistols. Offering a high-capacity, flush-fitting design, this aftermarket magazine aims to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the S&W 5900, 915, 910, and 659 models. As a seasoned firearms enthusiast and tactical gear specialist, I was eager to see if this magazine could live up to the reputation of Mec-Gar, a manufacturer known for its reliable and high-quality magazines.
My journey to finding this magazine began with a desire to upgrade my trusty S&W 5906, a pistol I’ve owned and cherished for years. While the original magazines functioned adequately, their lower capacity felt outdated compared to modern 9mm handguns. I wanted to increase my round count without sacrificing the classic feel and balance of my S&W.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the magazine’s solid construction and gleaming nickel finish. The steel body felt robust and well-made, inspiring confidence in its durability. The magazine felt substantial without being excessively heavy, suggesting a good balance between strength and weight.
Several other aftermarket magazines were available, but I chose the Mec-Gar due to their long-standing reputation for producing magazines that meet or exceed OEM standards. I had read countless positive reviews praising Mec-Gar’s reliability and perfect fitment, which ultimately swayed my decision. My initial excitement was high, fueled by the expectation that this magazine would significantly improve my S&W’s performance and capacity.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin to my local shooting range for its inaugural test. I wanted to evaluate its performance under controlled conditions. The weather was slightly humid, typical for a summer afternoon in my region.
The magazine loaded easily and seated perfectly into my S&W 5906, locking in place with a reassuring click. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid firing and magazine changes. The magazine fed smoothly and consistently, with no failures to feed or eject.
The first-time use was impressive. The magazine provided a noticeable improvement in capacity without any compromise in reliability. I experienced no issues or unexpected surprises, which boosted my confidence in its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve used it in various conditions, from dry and dusty range days to slightly damp outdoor shooting sessions. The magazine has shown no signs of wear and tear, maintaining its smooth feeding and reliable operation.
Cleaning and maintaining the magazine is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a cloth and occasional disassembly for a more thorough cleaning is all it requires. The nickel finish is resistant to corrosion, further simplifying maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket magazines, the Mec-Gar significantly outperforms them in terms of reliability and durability. Some cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past suffered from feeding issues and premature wear, but the Mec-Gar has proven to be a superior product in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and user experience. It is chambered in 9mm caliber, making it compatible with a wide range of ammunition types. The magazine has a 17-round capacity, providing a significant increase over standard S&W magazines.
The magazine is constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear. It features a nickel finish, which enhances its corrosion resistance and provides a sleek appearance. Being an aftermarket origin magazine means it’s designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, offering a reliable alternative to factory magazines. These specifications matter because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability, longevity, and overall performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin excels in its primary function: reliably feeding ammunition into the firearm. Its smooth feeding and consistent performance contribute to improved accuracy and reduced malfunctions. One of its key strengths is its high capacity, which provides a significant advantage in shooting sports or self-defense situations.
While the magazine is generally excellent, there is always room for improvement. The nickel finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to scratches with heavy use. However, this is a minor cosmetic issue that does not affect the magazine’s functionality. Overall, the Mec-Gar magazine meets and often exceeds expectations, offering a reliable and high-capacity solution for S&W pistol owners.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. The build quality is exceptional, with precisely stamped steel and a smooth, consistent finish. The magazine feels solid and well-constructed in the hand, inspiring confidence in its durability.
The Mec-Gar magazine is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or unloading. The magazine is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability. The flush-fitting design ensures it doesn’t protrude excessively from the magazine well.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is built to last, thanks to its high-quality steel construction and durable nickel finish. With proper care and maintenance, it can withstand years of use without significant degradation in performance. Maintaining the magazine is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dirt and debris, which can interfere with the magazine’s feeding reliability. Lubricating the magazine spring and follower ensures smooth and consistent operation. Following these simple maintenance steps can significantly extend the lifespan of the magazine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is primarily a standalone product, but its compatibility with various S&W pistol models offers a degree of “customization.” Owners can use the magazine in different S&W 5900, 915, 910, and 659 series pistols, effectively expanding its versatility. While there are no specific accessories designed exclusively for this magazine, it is compatible with standard magazine pouches and loaders designed for 9mm magazines.
The magazine’s compatibility with S&W pistols and standard accessories makes it a versatile addition to any S&W owner’s collection. While it may not offer extensive customization options, its reliable performance and enhanced capacity make it a valuable upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- High Capacity: The 17-round capacity significantly increases firepower compared to standard S&W magazines.
- Reliable Feeding: Consistent and smooth feeding ensures reliable operation and reduces malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: High-quality steel and nickel finish provide excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- Flush Fit: The flush-fitting design maintains the pistol’s original aesthetics and balance.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning make it easy to maintain the magazine’s performance.
Cons
- Nickel Finish Scratches: The nickel finish can be prone to scratches with heavy use, which is a minor cosmetic issue.
- Aftermarket Origin: Some purists may prefer OEM magazines, but Mec-Gar is a high-quality alternative.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin?
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is perfect for S&W 5900, 915, 910, and 659 owners looking to increase their firearm’s capacity and improve its reliability. It is also ideal for competitive shooters who need a high-capacity magazine for enhanced performance. Owners of older S&W pistols looking to modernize their firearm’s capabilities will find this magazine to be an excellent choice.
Individuals who strictly prefer OEM magazines or those who prioritize aesthetics over functionality might want to skip this product. Those who own S&W pistols not listed as compatible should also avoid this magazine. A must-have accessory for this magazine is a quality magazine pouch for convenient carry and quick access.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin
In summary, the Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin is a high-quality, reliable, and well-designed aftermarket magazine that significantly enhances the performance of S&W 5900, 915, 910, and 659 series pistols. Its enhanced capacity, durable construction, and smooth feeding make it an excellent upgrade for any S&W owner. At a price of $22.99, the Mec-Gar magazine offers excellent value for money, providing a significant improvement in performance and capacity without breaking the bank.
I would personally highly recommend the Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin to anyone looking to upgrade their S&W pistol. It is a worthwhile investment that will improve your shooting experience and provide added peace of mind. Upgrade your S&W today and experience the difference a Mec-Gar magazine can make!