First Thoughts on the Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model
The Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model promises to be a high-capacity, reliable magazine for a classic pistol. Mec-Gar has a solid reputation in the industry as an OEM and aftermarket magazine manufacturer, and this magazine aims to provide P228 owners with a flush-fitting 15-round option. My initial hope is that this magazine will deliver the same level of reliability and durability I’ve come to expect from Mec-Gar products, particularly given the crucial role a magazine plays in firearm function.
I was drawn to this magazine because I wanted to increase the capacity of my Sig P228 without sacrificing concealability. The original 13-round magazines are good, but I always felt the need for just a little more capacity. The promise of a flush-fitting 15-round magazine from a reputable manufacturer like Mec-Gar was exactly what I was looking for.
Unboxing the magazine, my first impression was positive. The blued steel finish looked clean and well-applied, and the magazine felt solid in my hand. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting a good balance between durability and manageability.
Compared to the factory Sig Sauer 13-round magazines and some cheaper aftermarket options I’ve used in the past, the Mec-Gar magazine immediately felt like a step up in quality. I’ve had issues with feeding and reliability in the past with some cheaper magazines, so quality was very important to me. The Mec-Gar magazine’s reputation for reliability heavily influenced my decision to purchase it.
My first impression was definitely excitement, tempered by a little bit of healthy skepticism. While Mec-Gar has a great reputation, aftermarket magazines can sometimes be finicky. I was eager to get to the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for late spring – a bit humid with a slight breeze. I loaded the magazine with 15 rounds of 115-grain FMJ ammunition and inserted it into my Sig P228.
The magazine seated firmly with a reassuring click. The first few rounds chambered smoothly, and I experienced no immediate issues. I ran through several magazines, focusing on rapid-fire drills and controlled pairs.
Initially, the spring felt a little stiff, making the last couple of rounds a bit difficult to load, but this loosened up with use. Beyond that, the magazine performed flawlessly. There were no failures to feed, no double feeds, and no issues with the slide locking back after the last round.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, using a variety of ammunition types, including FMJ, hollow points, and even some +P rounds. It continues to function without issue.
The blued finish has held up well, showing only minimal signs of wear around the feed lips and magazine catch. I clean the magazine after each range session, wiping it down with a lightly oiled cloth. It is a very simple process. I have also disassembled it a few times for a more thorough cleaning.
Compared to some other aftermarket magazines I’ve used, the Mec-Gar magazine has far exceeded my expectations. It performs just as well as the factory Sig Sauer magazines, and the extra two rounds of capacity are definitely a welcome addition. I would purchase more without hesitation.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model
Specifications
The Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model features a 9mm caliber, making it specifically designed for the Sig P228 chambered in 9mm. It has a 15-round capacity, increasing the firepower compared to the standard 13-round magazines. The magazine is of aftermarket origin, manufactured by Mec-Gar, a well-respected magazine manufacturer.
The magazine’s steel construction ensures durability and resistance to deformation, critical for reliable feeding. Its blued finish provides a layer of corrosion resistance and a sleek, professional look. The flush fit design maintains the original dimensions of the P228 grip, aiding in concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model performs exceptionally well. It feeds ammunition smoothly and reliably, ensuring consistent cycling of the firearm. The increased capacity is a significant advantage, providing more rounds without compromising concealability.
The only initial weakness was the stiffness of the spring, but this resolved with use. Overall, the magazine meets and exceeds my expectations for performance and reliability, offering a significant upgrade over standard capacity magazines. It’s a huge advantage to have those extra rounds in a defensive situation.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust, and the construction is precise. The blued steel finish is evenly applied and provides a smooth, non-slip surface.
The magazine is designed to be user-friendly, seating easily and releasing cleanly. There is no significant learning curve. It is very intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and blued finish, the Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to maintain its performance and prevent corrosion.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward, requiring no special tools. With a little care, this magazine should provide reliable service for a very long time. I expect to get years of use from it.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model does not come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be a direct replacement for the factory magazines.
While there are no specific customization options for the magazine itself, it is compatible with any Sig P228 that accepts standard magazines. It simply provides improved reliability and higher capacity.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Offers 15 rounds, providing a significant advantage over standard 13-round magazines.
- Reliable Feeding: Ensures smooth and consistent cycling of ammunition.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel with a blued finish for long-lasting performance.
- Flush Fit: Maintains the original dimensions of the P228 grip for comfortable carry and concealment.
- Reputable Manufacturer: Mec-Gar is known for producing high-quality, reliable magazines.
Cons
- Stiff Spring Initially: May require some break-in period for easier loading.
- Blued Finish Wear: The blued finish can show wear over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model?
The Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model is perfect for Sig P228 owners who want to increase their firearm’s capacity without sacrificing reliability or concealability. It is also ideal for those who use their P228 for concealed carry or home defense, as the extra rounds can be a significant advantage in a high-stress situation.
Those who prioritize a strictly original factory magazine may want to skip this product. However, given Mec-Gar’s reputation and quality, this magazine provides comparable or even superior performance at a potentially lower cost.
A magazine loader can be a must-have accessory for easier and faster loading. A good cleaning kit is recommended for regular maintenance to ensure reliable performance.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model
Overall, the Mec-Gar Sig P228 Magazine 15RD 9mm Blued – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Sig P228 Model is an excellent upgrade for any Sig P228 owner. The price is justified by the increased capacity, reliable performance, and durable construction.
I would highly recommend this magazine to anyone looking to improve their P228’s firepower without compromising its original design or reliability. If you’re looking for a high-quality, high-capacity magazine for your Sig P228, this is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the Mec-Gar difference!