First Thoughts on the 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 promises to breathe new life into classic Smith & Wesson pistols. Mec-Gar is a name synonymous with quality magazines, often exceeding even factory specifications, and this offering for the venerable S&W 5900 series is no exception. I was intrigued to see if it lived up to the hype, given the spotty reputation some aftermarket magazines have.
I’ve always valued reliability over capacity in my firearms. But with some older S&W pistols, like the 659 I recently acquired, factory magazine options are becoming scarce and expensive. I needed a reliable, high-capacity magazine that wouldn’t break the bank, pushing me towards the Mec-Gar option.
Upon receiving the magazine, I was immediately impressed by the heft and the smooth nickel finish. It felt significantly sturdier than some generic aftermarket magazines I’ve encountered. The construction seemed robust, and the witness holes were cleanly punched and clearly marked.
Compared to the original, blued 14-round S&W magazine, the Mec-Gar felt like a step up in quality, not a compromise. I also considered ProMag’s offerings, but their inconsistent reviews steered me towards Mec-Gar’s proven track record. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism, eager to see how it performed at the range.
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
My first range trip with the Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin was at my local outdoor range. The weather was typical for a summer afternoon: hot and humid. I ran 200 rounds of various 9mm ammunition through the magazine, including FMJ and hollow points from different manufacturers.
The magazine loaded easily, and seated firmly in my S&W 659. I experienced zero malfunctions – no failures to feed, no double feeds, and no issues with the slide locking back after the last round. The increased capacity was immediately noticeable and welcome, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads.
There were no hiccups, even with slightly dirtier, cheaper ammo. I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth the entire process was, given that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be finicky during their break-in period.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and over 1000 rounds, the Mec-Gar magazine has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used it in various conditions, from dry and dusty range days to slightly damp mornings after rain. The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 continues to function flawlessly.
I have yet to observe any significant signs of wear and tear. The nickel finish has held up well, showing only minor scuff marks from repeated use. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring keep it running smoothly.
Compared to some of the older, original S&W magazines I have, the Mec-Gar arguably outperforms them in terms of feeding consistency. The Mec-Gar has exceeded expectations, becoming my go-to magazine for my S&W 659.
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 is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson 5900 series of pistols, including the 5906, 915, 910, and 659. Its 9mm caliber allows it to feed the ubiquitous and readily available 9mm cartridge. The magazine boasts a 17-round capacity, a significant increase over the original factory magazines.
The magazine is constructed from steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Its nickel finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance and a smooth, slick surface for reliable feeding. As an aftermarket option, it offers an alternative to increasingly scarce and expensive factory magazines.
The 17-round capacity is a significant advantage, providing more rounds per magazine compared to the original 14-round magazines, improving overall shooting experience. The steel construction ensures the magazine can withstand the rigors of regular use and adverse conditions. Mec-Gar’s reputation for producing high-quality magazines means this is not a cheap knock-off, but a well-engineered component.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin performs its job admirably, providing reliable feeding and consistent performance. Its enhanced capacity offers a distinct advantage. It offers exceptional accuracy and reliability.
The magazine’s primary strength lies in its flawless feeding and consistent lock-back after the last round. There are no significant weaknesses, and it functions as reliably as, or perhaps even more reliably than, the original factory magazines. It has met and exceeded my expectations for an aftermarket magazine, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution for my S&W 659.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin’s build quality is excellent, featuring robust steel construction and a smooth nickel finish. The magazine feels solid in hand and inserts easily into the magazine well. The witness holes are clearly marked, providing a quick and easy way to check remaining round count.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no modifications or adjustments for proper function. There is no learning curve; it operates just like a factory magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar MGSW5917 S&W 5900/915/910/659 Magazine 17RD 9mm Nickel – 9mm Caliber, 17 Rounds, Steel, Aftermarket Origin’s durable steel construction suggests it will last for many years with proper care. The nickel finish offers added protection against corrosion.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The magazine disassembles easily for thorough cleaning.
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 doesn’t come with any included accessories, as it’s a standalone magazine. There aren’t any specific customization options for the magazine itself.
However, it is compatible with standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines. It seamlessly integrates with any accessories that the host firearm (S&W 5900 series) would typically use. The compatibility with standard pouches is a practical consideration for those who carry spare magazines.
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
- Reliable feeding and consistent performance.
- Enhanced 17-round capacity.
- Durable steel construction with corrosion-resistant nickel finish.
- Easy to load and use, with clearly marked witness holes.
- Cost-effective alternative to increasingly scarce factory magazines.
Cons
- Nickel finish might not match all pistol finishes.
- Aftermarket magazines may not be accepted in all competitive shooting scenarios.
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 owners of Smith & Wesson 5900 series pistols who are looking to increase their magazine capacity and improve reliability. It’s also ideal for those who need a cost-effective replacement for worn or damaged factory magazines.
Those who prioritize a perfectly matching factory finish or require magazines strictly compliant with specific competition rules might want to explore other options. No must-have accessories or modifications are needed.
Conclusion on 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 an excellent addition to any S&W 5900 series pistol owner’s arsenal. Its reliability, increased capacity, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. The $22.99 price is justified, especially considering the scarcity and cost of original factory magazines.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable upgrade for their S&W 5900 series pistol. Upgrade your classic S&W with confidence and experience the Mec-Gar difference today!