First Thoughts on the MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black
In the world of AR-10 and SR-25 platforms, reliable magazines are not a luxury; they are a necessity. The MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black promises enhanced durability and improved feeding in these demanding rifles. Could this be the solution for frustrating magazine failures?
I was drawn to this magazine because I needed a more robust and dependable option for my AR-10. My existing metal magazines were showing signs of wear and weren’t always feeding rounds smoothly. The advertised features of this magazine, particularly the enhanced polymer and anti-tilt follower, suggested a potentially superior solution.
Unboxing the MISSION FIRST TACTICAL magazine, I immediately noted the solid feel and aggressive texturing. The polymer felt noticeably thicker and more rigid than some other polymer magazines I’ve handled. The black finish was uniform and appeared durable.
Compared to my standard metal AR-10 magazines, this one felt like a deliberate upgrade. While metal magazines have a certain cachet, their susceptibility to dents and corrosion can be a problem. This MISSION FIRST TACTICAL magazine seemed designed to address those specific weaknesses. I was genuinely excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the MISSION FIRST TACTICAL magazine involved a mix of drills and slow-fire accuracy testing with my AR-10. I used a variety of .308 Winchester ammunition, including both FMJ and hunting rounds. The weather was clear and dry, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The magazine loaded easily and locked into the rifle with a solid click. Throughout the first 100 rounds, I experienced zero malfunctions. The rounds fed smoothly, and the bolt locked back reliably after the last round.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black has consistently performed without issue. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from near-freezing to over 90 degrees, and in dusty conditions. There are no signs of cracks or deformation in the polymer body.
Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a cloth and a brush is all that’s typically needed. Compared to my experience with other polymer magazines that sometimes warp or crack, this one remains impressively stable. It has definitely exceeded my initial expectations for a polymer magazine in this caliber.
Breaking Down the Features of MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black
Specifications
- Caliber: 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of AR-10 and SR-25 pattern rifles chambered in these popular calibers.
- Capacity: 20 Rounds. A good balance between capacity and maneuverability, especially compared to shorter 10-round magazines.
- Finish: Black. A non-reflective, durable finish that blends well with most AR-10/SR-25 rifles.
- Material: Next generation long glass fiber polymer. This is a key feature, promising increased strength and resistance to deformation.
- Floor Plate: Flared floor plate. This aids in magazine handling and provides a secure grip during magazine changes.
- Follower: Four-way anti-tilt self-lubricating follower. Ensures reliable feeding and prevents common magazine-related malfunctions.
- Spring: Long-life stainless steel spring. Provides consistent pressure for reliable feeding over an extended service life.
Performance & Functionality
The MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black performs its primary function flawlessly: reliably feeding .308 Winchester/7.62 NATO ammunition into an AR-10/SR-25 platform. Its reliability is its strongest asset. It consistently feeds rounds without jams or misfires.
The enhanced polymer construction and anti-tilt follower contribute significantly to this reliability. There is minimal wobble when inserted into the magazine well. The smooth feeding action inspires confidence, particularly during rapid-fire scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is functional and ergonomic. The ribbed front and rear gripping surface provides a secure hold, even with gloved hands. The flared floor plate aids in magazine changes, especially in high-stress situations.
The magazine’s weight is comparable to other polymer magazines in this category. It’s light enough to not add significant weight to the rifle but substantial enough to feel durable. The slightly oversized bolt catch also contributes to ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The long glass fiber reinforced polymer construction suggests excellent durability. After several months of use, there are no signs of cracking or significant wear. Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down after use is usually sufficient.
The tool-less disassembly with double floor plate safety release tabs simplifies cleaning and maintenance. This is a significant advantage compared to magazines that require tools for disassembly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black doesn’t require any specific accessories. Its design is intended to be functional and reliable out of the box. The paint pen dot matrix on the magazine body allows for easy marking and identification.
While there are no specific customization options, the magazine is compatible with standard AR-10/SR-25 magazine pouches and carriers. This makes it easy to integrate into existing gear setups.
Pros and Cons of MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistently feeds rounds without malfunctions, ensuring smooth operation of the rifle.
- Enhanced Durability: The long glass fiber reinforced polymer construction withstands rough handling and harsh conditions.
- Improved Grip: Ribbed front and rear gripping surfaces provide a secure hold, even with gloved hands.
- Easy Maintenance: Tool-less disassembly simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
- Anti-Tilt Follower: Prevents common magazine-related malfunctions, contributing to overall reliability.
Cons
- Polymer Construction: While durable, polymer may not be as resistant to extreme heat as steel magazines.
- Black Finish Only: Limited color options might not appeal to users who prefer different aesthetics.
Who Should Buy MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black?
The MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black is perfect for AR-10 and SR-25 owners who prioritize reliability and durability. This includes tactical shooters, hunters, and anyone who relies on their rifle in demanding environments. Competitive shooters who require consistent feeding will also appreciate the enhanced features.
Those who primarily use their AR-10/SR-25 in controlled range environments and are satisfied with standard metal magazines may not see a significant benefit. If you require magazines capable of withstanding extreme heat (such as sustained full-auto fire), steel magazines might be a better option.
There are no must-have accessories, but a good quality magazine pouch is recommended for carrying spare magazines. Applying paint to the dot matrix can also help with quick identification.
Conclusion on MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black
The MISSION FIRST TACTICAL EXTREME DUTY POLY MAG 20RD 7.62X51 NATO/.308 WIN AR10/SR25 M110 PATTERN – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black is a well-designed and highly reliable magazine. At a price of $19.99, it offers excellent value. Its enhanced durability, anti-tilt follower, and easy maintenance make it a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-10 or SR-25 owner.
I would definitely recommend this magazine. If you’re looking for a dependable and rugged magazine for your .308 platform, give this one a try. Upgrade your AR-10/SR-25 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!