First Impressions of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine promises to breathe new life into classic Smith & Wesson pistols. Mec-Gar is a well-respected name in the magazine manufacturing world, known for their quality and reliability, often being the OEM supplier for many firearm manufacturers. This magazine, designed for the S&W 5900 series, 915, 910, and 695 models, boasts a 17-round capacity, a high-impact polymer follower, and a heat-treated carbon steel tube, a combination that piqued my interest as a long-time S&W enthusiast.
My journey to finding this magazine stemmed from a desire to enhance the capacity and reliability of my vintage S&W 5906. Factory magazines, while dependable, are often scarce and expensive, and I was looking for a modern, readily available alternative. The promise of increased capacity and the Mec-Gar reputation made this magazine an appealing choice.
Upon receiving the magazine, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and construction. The blued steel finish looked clean and professional, and the magazine felt substantial in my hand without being overly heavy. The polymer follower moved smoothly within the tube, and the floor plate fit snugly against the magazine body.
I had considered ProMag alternatives, but their spotty reputation steered me towards the Mec-Gar. Original S&W magazines command a premium, making the Mec-Gar a more budget-friendly solution. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if this magazine could live up to its promise of reliable performance and high capacity.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine took place at my local outdoor range. I subjected it to a variety of 9mm ammunition, from standard 115-grain FMJ to heavier 147-grain hollow points. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The magazine loaded easily and seated firmly in my S&W 5906. Throughout the first 100 rounds, I experienced no feeding issues or malfunctions of any kind. The rounds chambered smoothly, and the slide locked back reliably after the last round.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mec-Gar magazine has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, and it continues to function flawlessly. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated loading and unloading.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep the magazine in good working order. Compared to some aftermarket magazines I’ve used in the past, the Mec-Gar has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. This magazine inspires confidence in the platform.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is chambered in 9mm Luger, making it compatible with a wide range of ammunition. The magazine has a capacity of 17 rounds, offering a significant increase over standard capacity magazines.
The body is constructed from heat-treated carbon steel, providing strength and durability. The follower is made from high-impact polymer, ensuring smooth and reliable feeding. A high-tensile music wire spring contributes to consistent cartridge presentation.
These specifications are crucial for reliable performance. The steel construction ensures the magazine can withstand the rigors of repeated use. The polymer follower minimizes friction and prevents jams, while the high-capacity spring guarantees consistent feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine excels in performance and functionality. Its reliable feeding and consistent slide lockback inspire confidence. It is a crucial quality in any magazine.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its robust construction, high capacity, and smooth operation. However, it lacks a witness window, making it difficult to determine the exact number of rounds remaining. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a high-capacity aftermarket magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s blued steel finish provides a professional and durable appearance. The weight feels balanced, contributing to a comfortable grip when loaded in the pistol. The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or unloading.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine is built to last. Its steel construction and robust spring ensure longevity. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines. There are no inherent customization options for this magazine.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased capacity: 17 rounds significantly exceeds standard magazine capacity.
- Reliable feeding: High-quality materials and construction ensure smooth and consistent feeding.
- Durable construction: Heat-treated carbon steel provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Reputable manufacturer: Mec-Gar is a trusted name in magazine manufacturing.
- Enhanced reliability for older pistols: Breathe new life into older S&W models.
Cons
- No witness window: Makes it difficult to quickly determine the remaining round count.
- Blued finish can show scratches: The blued finish is durable but can show scratches over time.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for owners of S&W 5900 series, 915, 910, or 695 pistols who want increased capacity and enhanced reliability. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters looking for an edge. Individuals who prioritize knowing the exact number of rounds remaining at a glance might want to consider alternatives with witness windows.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch designed for double-stack 9mm magazines for convenient carry and quick access. No modifications are inherently necessary.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine
The Mec-Gar S&W 5900 Series 915/910/695 17 Round Pistol Magazine is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to improve the performance and capacity of their compatible Smith & Wesson pistol. The price is justified by the magazine’s quality, reliability, and increased capacity. I would highly recommend it to fellow S&W enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a dependable, high-capacity magazine for your classic S&W, look no further. Upgrade your firearm today and experience the Mec-Gar difference!