First Impressions of Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine promises to enhance the capacity and reliability of a classic line of Ruger pistols. Mec-Gar is renowned for its quality magazines, often exceeding the performance of factory-supplied options, making this an intriguing upgrade for Ruger owners seeking increased firepower and dependable feeding. As someone who’s spent years relying on Ruger pistols in various demanding situations, I was keen to see if this magazine lived up to the hype and addressed some of the shortcomings I’ve experienced with standard capacity mags.
I’ve always believed that the Ruger P-series pistols are underrated workhorses, known for their ruggedness. However, a frequent gripe I’ve had is the limited capacity of the factory magazines, especially in scenarios where increased round count is crucial. This led me to seek out a high-capacity option without sacrificing reliability, and the Mec-Gar magazine seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-constructed. The blued finish was evenly applied and the metal floor plate sat flush, giving it a professional and robust appearance. Compared to the factory 15-round magazines, the Mec-Gar‘s slightly extended length was noticeable but didn’t seem overly cumbersome, promising a comfortable grip and balanced feel.
I considered ProMag and ETS magazines, but their mixed reviews regarding reliability steered me towards the proven reputation of Mec-Gar. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of increased capacity without compromising the legendary reliability of Ruger pistols. I was eager to test this magazine in real-world scenarios and see if it could truly enhance the performance of my Ruger P89.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine at my local shooting range. The range provides a controlled environment to assess the magazine’s feeding, reliability, and overall functionality. I ran several drills, including rapid-fire exercises and malfunction clearing, to simulate real-world scenarios.
The magazine performed flawlessly in dry conditions. Loading was smooth, and the rounds chambered without any hiccups. I encountered no feeding issues or failures to eject during the initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mec-Gar magazine has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has endured numerous range sessions and even a few practical shooting competitions. Despite the extended use, I have experienced no significant degradation in performance.
The blued finish shows some minor wear marks, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect functionality. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring keep it running smoothly. It significantly outperforms the aftermarket magazine I had previously used, providing consistent and reliable feeding.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine boasts several key specifications. It is chambered in 9mm Luger, compatible with Ruger P85, P89, P93, P94, and P95 pistols. The magazine features a 20-round capacity and a blued finish, constructed with a heat-treated carbon steel tube and a high-impact polymer follower.
These specifications are critical for enhancing the firearm’s performance. The 20-round capacity provides a significant advantage in situations requiring a high round count. The heat-treated carbon steel tube ensures durability and resistance to deformation under pressure.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine significantly enhances the functionality of compatible Ruger pistols. Its reliability is outstanding, consistently feeding rounds without malfunctions. This contrasts sharply with some aftermarket magazines that can be prone to jamming.
The magazine’s design facilitates smooth and consistent feeding. The high-impact polymer follower reduces friction and ensures proper round presentation. Its extended capacity meets expectations for those requiring additional firepower.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar magazine is designed with both functionality and user comfort in mind. Its build quality is excellent, featuring robust materials that inspire confidence. The blued finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a degree of corrosion resistance.
The magazine’s extended length doesn’t negatively impact ergonomics. It provides a comfortable grip and balanced feel. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the magazine, making it user-friendly even for novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine is built to last. The heat-treated carbon steel tube provides exceptional durability, resisting deformation and wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure a long service life.
Disassembly for cleaning is relatively straightforward. Simple tools, like a punch or multi-tool, can be used to remove the floor plate. The magazine can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning and inspection.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it integrates seamlessly with standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines. Aftermarket floor plates are available for further customization.
The magazine’s compatibility extends to various Ruger P-series pistols. It works well with popular accessories like speed loaders. Further customization options could include different follower materials or enhanced springs.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Offers a significant increase in firepower with 20 rounds. This is invaluable in situations where a higher round count can be crucial.
- Exceptional Reliability: Delivers consistent and dependable feeding, outperforming many other aftermarket options. This reliability translates to greater confidence in critical situations.
- Robust Construction: Features a heat-treated carbon steel tube and a high-impact polymer follower, ensuring durability and longevity. The robust construction provides assurance that the magazine will withstand rigorous use.
- Seamless Compatibility: Integrates perfectly with Ruger P85, P89, P93, P94, and P95 pistols. Drop-in replacement requires no modifications.
- Mec-Gar Quality: Mec-Gar’s reputation for high-quality magazines ensures a product that meets or exceeds OEM standards. Shooters can trust in the product’s reliability due to the manufacturer’s expertise.
Cons
- Blued Finish Wear: The blued finish can show wear marks over time, although this is primarily cosmetic. This doesn’t affect the magazine’s functionality, some users may prefer a more durable coating.
- Extended Length: The extended length of the magazine may not be ideal for concealed carry, potentially printing more than standard-capacity magazines. While the increased capacity is beneficial, it does add to the overall size.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine?
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine is perfect for shooting enthusiasts. It’s also great for home defense, and competition shooters who want an edge in magazine capacity. Owners of compatible Ruger P-series pistols who desire increased firepower without sacrificing reliability will greatly benefit.
This product may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its extended length. It’s also not necessary for those who are satisfied with the capacity of standard magazines. Those prioritizing a flush-fitting magazine for maximum concealability should explore other options.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine
The Mec-Gar RUGER P85/89/93/94/95 9mm Luger 20 Round Blued Magazine is a worthy upgrade for compatible Ruger pistol owners. Its increased capacity, exceptional reliability, and robust construction make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s gear. While the blued finish may show wear over time, the performance and functionality of this magazine are undeniable.
At $37.08, the price is justified by the quality and performance gains. I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone seeking to enhance the capabilities of their Ruger P-series pistol. Upgrade your Ruger today and experience the Mec-Gar difference.