First Impressions of Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine
In the AR-15 world, magazines are more than just feeding devices; they’re critical components impacting reliability and performance. Enter the Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine, a clear polymer magazine designed for those who want a quick visual check of their ammunition status. This magazine promises a blend of durability and functionality, something I’m always keen to explore, and it stands out due to its translucent body offering an immediate assessment of remaining rounds.
For years, I’ve been a proponent of quality magazines, recognizing their importance in a reliable AR-15 platform. My decision to try the Mission First Tactical (MFT) EXD 15-round magazine stemmed from a desire for a reliable, mid-capacity option that allowed for quick ammo checks. After a few questionable experiences with some budget magazines that led to multiple FTF (failure to feed), I was looking for a product I could trust in both training and competition scenarios.
My first impression upon receiving the Mission First Tactical EXD magazine was positive, due to its sturdy feel and clear body. The polymer felt robust, and the translucence offered a clear view of the dummy rounds I loaded for inspection. It wasn’t as lightweight as some of the ultra-light polymer mags I’ve used, but the added weight gave a sense of durability.
Compared to my standard metal GI mags or Magpul PMAGs, the MFT EXD offered a different perspective. I chose this over other clear magazines I’ve seen primarily because of Mission First Tactical’s reputation for building durable and reliable polymer products. I was particularly excited by the potential for easy round-count verification and jam diagnosis during training.
I was cautiously optimistic upon first receiving the Mission First Tactical EXD. While I appreciated the clear design and solid construction, I was eager to put it through its paces at the range to ensure it could live up to the Mission First Tactical name. Reliability is paramount, and a clear magazine is useless if it doesn’t consistently feed rounds.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15 magazine at my local outdoor shooting range, a place I frequent to test gear in realistic conditions. I ran it through a variety of drills, including rapid fire exercises, malfunction clearing drills, and slow, precise target engagements to assess its overall functionality. The weather was typical for a summer day: hot and humid, presenting a good test of the magazine’s performance in less-than-ideal conditions.
During the initial testing, the Mission First Tactical EXD performed admirably. It seated positively in my AR-15’s magwell, and rounds fed smoothly without any hiccups. The clear body was a major advantage, allowing me to quickly verify my round count and diagnose a potential feeding issue when I induced a malfunction (simulating a double feed).
I found the Mission First Tactical EXD easy to use, requiring no real adjustment period. The magazine inserted and released smoothly, and the texture provided a secure grip, even with sweaty hands.
Initially, I was pleasantly surprised by the magazine’s performance, as I was expecting the clear polymer to feel cheaper, or less reliable. However, the MFT EXD held its own against my other magazines, feeding rounds reliably and providing a valuable visual reference.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mission First Tactical EXD has proven to be a reliable addition to my range kit. It has seen action in multiple training sessions, a carbine course, and even a local 3-gun competition. The magazine has held up remarkably well, demonstrating excellent durability and consistent feeding.
Despite repeated use and exposure to various conditions, the Mission First Tactical EXD shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The polymer body has resisted cracking and deformation, and the feed lips remain intact. The spring tension feels as strong as when it was new.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a cloth after each range session has been sufficient to keep the Mission First Tactical EXD in top condition. I’ve also disassembled it a couple of times to clean the interior, a process that is straightforward and easy to perform.
The Mission First Tactical EXD has consistently outperformed some of the cheaper polymer magazines I’ve used in the past. Its reliability and durability are comparable to my Magpul PMAGs, while the clear body offers a unique advantage in terms of round-count visibility. I have had zero issues with failure to feed, even when the magazines have been left loaded for extended periods.
Breaking Down the Features of Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine is designed to reliably feed .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition in AR-15 platform rifles. It has a 15-round capacity, which is compliant in certain states with magazine capacity restrictions. The magazine body is constructed from a durable, translucent polymer, allowing for easy visual assessment of remaining rounds.
The magazine is compatible with standard AR-15 rifles and carbines. Its construction prioritizes longevity and consistent performance.
The 15-round capacity offers a balance between capacity and practicality, making it suitable for both range use and certain tactical applications. The clear polymer body allows for quick and easy visual confirmation of remaining rounds and facilitates the identification of potential malfunctions, such as double feeds. These specifications translate to a reliable and user-friendly magazine that enhances the overall AR-15 shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15 magazine excels in its primary function: reliably feeding ammunition into an AR-15 rifle. I experienced no failures to feed during my testing, and the magazine consistently locked back the bolt on an empty chamber.
The magazine’s strength lies in its reliable feeding and visual round-count verification. Areas for improvement might include stippling to increase grip, especially when the magazine is wet.
The Mission First Tactical EXD met my expectations for a quality AR-15 magazine, providing consistent and reliable performance. The clear body exceeded my expectations by providing a valuable visual aid that boosted my confidence during training exercises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mission First Tactical EXD boasts a well-thought-out design. The polymer body feels rugged and durable, and the clear material offers a unique aesthetic.
The magazine’s ergonomics are excellent, with a comfortable feel in the hand and a smooth insertion into the magwell. There is no noticeable learning curve; it functions just like any other standard AR-15 magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experiences, the Mission First Tactical EXD is built to last. The polymer construction resists cracking and deformation, even after repeated use and exposure to the elements.
The magazine is easy to disassemble and clean, allowing for thorough maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures continued reliability and prolongs the magazine’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15 magazine doesn’t require any specific accessories for functionality. However, users can enhance its usability with magazine pouches or carriers for convenient storage and access.
While the magazine itself offers limited customization options, it is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine loaders, making reloading faster and easier. The Mission First Tactical EXD is designed to work seamlessly with any standard AR-15 platform rifle.
Pros and Cons of Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding: Consistently feeds rounds without any malfunctions.
- Clear body: Provides easy visual verification of remaining rounds and aids in malfunction diagnosis.
- Durable construction: The polymer body is rugged and resistant to wear and tear.
- Easy maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning process.
- Legal for restrictive states: 15-round capacity is compliant in many jurisdictions.
Cons
- May not appeal to users preferring standard capacity magazines.
- Clear polymer might not be preferred by those wanting a low-profile look.
Who Should Buy Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine?
The Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15 magazine is perfect for shooters in states with magazine capacity restrictions, such as hunters and sport shooters who need compliant magazines. It’s also ideal for those who value the ability to quickly check their round count and diagnose malfunctions visually. This magazine provides immediate feedback on the status of the firearm’s ammunition.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer standard-capacity magazines or those who prioritize a completely opaque magazine for tactical applications. It is not a must-have, but certainly advantageous.
Conclusion on Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine
Overall, the Mission First Tactical EXD AR-15, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, 15 Round Rifle Magazine is a reliable and functional addition to any AR-15 owner’s collection, especially for those in capacity-restricted states. Its clear body offers a unique advantage for round-count verification and malfunction diagnosis, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
At $25.99, the price is justified considering the magazine’s features and reliability. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a dependable 15-round magazine with added visual benefits.
I would personally recommend the Mission First Tactical EXD to anyone looking for a high-quality, compliant AR-15 magazine. Give the Mission First Tactical EXD a try and experience the benefits of a reliable, clear polymer magazine for yourself!