First Impressions of Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine promises enhanced performance and reliability for competitive shooting. As someone with over a decade in the tactical and outdoor gear world, I’m always skeptical of “competition” branded gear. Does it actually deliver, or is it just marketing hype?
My interest in this magazine stemmed from chronic feeding issues with my custom-built Para-Ordnance P16 during local IPSC matches. The factory magazines, even after careful tuning, would occasionally choke, costing precious seconds and points. I needed a solution that offered consistent feeding and reliability under the stress of competition.
Upon receiving the Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The steel felt thicker and more substantial than the factory mags. The finish was a deep, even black, suggesting good corrosion resistance. Compared to the factory magazines and some aftermarket options from ProMag and Wilson Combat (which I use in my 1911), the Mec-Gar felt like a step up in quality. I was cautiously optimistic, leaning towards excited, hoping this would finally solve my feeding problems.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, specifically during a practice session for an upcoming IPSC match. I loaded up several magazines with 18 rounds of my preferred .40 S&W load (a 180-grain FMJ). Right away, I noticed the Mec-Gar magazine loaded smoother and easier than my existing mags. I ran through several drills, drawing, firing, and reloading, focusing on speed and consistency.
The Mec-Gar magazine performed flawlessly. There were no failures to feed, no double feeds, and no malfunctions of any kind. The rounds stripped cleanly from the magazine, and the slide locked back consistently after the last round. This was a significant improvement over my previous experiences.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and one actual IPSC match, the Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine continues to impress. It has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, and it hasn’t skipped a beat.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The finish remains intact, and the feed lips show no signs of deformation. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked rag is usually sufficient. Compared to the factory magazines, which required constant tweaking and cleaning to maintain some semblance of reliability, the Mec-Gar has been a significant upgrade, outperforming them in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine is specifically designed for Para-Ordnance P16 pistols chambered in .40 S&W. Its standout feature is its 18-round capacity, offering a significant advantage in competition. The magazine body is constructed from high-quality steel. This ensures durability and resistance to deformation under the stress of repeated loading and unloading. The black finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance, essential for maintaining performance in various environments.
The magazine also features a high-quality spring and follower designed for smooth and reliable feeding. The spring rate is optimized for the .40 S&W cartridge, ensuring consistent pressure on the rounds. This promotes reliable cycling. The follower is made from a durable polymer. This minimizes friction and enhances feeding smoothness. These specifications translate to a magazine that is built to withstand the rigors of competition. It provides consistent and reliable performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine excels in its primary function: reliably feeding .40 S&W ammunition into a Para-Ordnance P16. It’s highly accurate and reliable, providing consistent feeding, proper slide lock, and overall smooth operation. Its biggest strength is the elimination of feeding issues that plagued my previous magazines. A minor area for improvement might be a slightly more aggressive texture on the magazine body for easier gripping during fast reloads, but this is a very minor nitpick. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine focuses on functionality and durability. The steel construction gives it a solid, weighty feel. This instills confidence in its ability to withstand abuse. The magazine fits securely into the P16’s magazine well. It is easily seated during reloads. There is no noticeable learning curve. It is intuitive to load and use, even under pressure.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine is built to last. The steel construction and durable finish suggest a long service life. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine doesn’t require accessories. It’s a self-contained unit. However, magazine pouches are essential for carrying and deploying magazines during competitions or tactical scenarios. Mec-Gar magazines are generally compatible with most standard 1911/2011 magazine pouches designed for double-stack magazines.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Significantly improved reliability compared to factory magazines and some aftermarket options.
- High capacity (18 rounds) offers a competitive advantage in shooting sports.
- Robust steel construction ensures long-term durability.
- Smooth and consistent feeding eliminates malfunctions.
- Easy to load and maintain, enhancing usability.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than some budget aftermarket magazines.
- The smooth finish could benefit from more aggressive texturing for enhanced grip during reloads.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine?
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters, particularly those participating in IPSC or USPSA matches. It is also well-suited for anyone who relies on a Para-Ordnance P16 for self-defense and needs reliable, high-capacity magazines. Anyone experiencing feeding issues with their current P16 magazines will find this to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Someone primarily using their P16 for casual plinking might find the cost difficult to justify, given cheaper (though less reliable) alternatives. Likewise, individuals residing in states with magazine capacity restrictions will be unable to take advantage of the Mec-Gar’s 18-round capacity. Must-have accessories include high-quality magazine pouches for efficient reloads.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine
The Mec-Gar Para-Ordnance P16 Competition .40 Cal. 18 Round Rifle Magazine is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking improved reliability and performance from their Para-Ordnance P16. The price is justified by the magazine’s robust construction, high capacity, and flawless feeding. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone serious about competitive shooting or self-defense. If you’re tired of magazine-related malfunctions, this magazine is the answer. Upgrade your P16 today and experience the difference!