First Impressions of Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine
The Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine is a beast of a magazine designed for a beast of a rifle. It’s not every day you see a 30-round magazine for the venerable .30-06 Springfield, a cartridge more commonly associated with bolt-action rifles and classic autoloaders. Ohio Ordnance Works’ decision to create such a high-capacity magazine for their H.C.A.R. (Heavy Counter Assault Rifle) certainly piqued my interest.
My search for a reliable high-capacity magazine for my H.C.A.R. led me to this product; factory magazines can sometimes be expensive and hard to come by. I was looking for something rugged, dependable, and capable of feeding .30-06 rounds reliably in a semi-automatic platform.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt substantial and robust. The all-steel construction is immediately apparent, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand serious use and abuse. The black finish is utilitarian and should provide decent corrosion resistance.
While there aren’t many direct competitors making 30-round .30-06 magazines (given the H.C.A.R.’s unique position), I considered modifying M1 Garand magazines for higher capacity before finding this. Ultimately, a dedicated magazine from the manufacturer seemed like the more reliable and less headache-inducing option. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – I was eager to see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine was at my local outdoor range. The weather was typical for early spring: cool and a bit damp. I ran several full magazines through the H.C.A.R., focusing on smooth, consistent firing.
The magazine seated securely and locked into place with a positive click. Feeding was smooth and consistent for the first two magazines. However, by the third magazine, I experienced two failures to feed, with the rounds getting hung up halfway into the chamber.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial hiccups, I cleaned the magazine thoroughly and applied a light coat of dry lubricant. Subsequent range sessions have been much more positive. The magazine has since seen several hundred rounds of mixed .30-06 ammunition.
Durability appears to be excellent; the steel construction has held up well with no signs of bending or cracking. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe-down with a cloth and occasional use of a magazine brush are all that’s needed. Compared to my experience with surplus M1 Garand magazines (known for occasional feeding issues), this magazine, once broken in and properly maintained, has proven to be more reliable overall.
Breaking Down the Features of Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine is purpose-built for the Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R. rifle. It boasts a 30-round capacity, providing significant firepower in a .30-06 platform.
It is chambered in .30-06 Springfield, the classic American rifle cartridge. The magazine’s body is constructed from robust steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Its black finish helps protect against corrosion. The magazine’s high capacity makes it suitable for situations where sustained fire is required, increasing the overall effectiveness of the H.C.A.R. rifle.
Performance & Functionality
When it’s running smoothly, the magazine performs admirably. Its 30-round capacity greatly enhances the H.C.A.R.’s ability to deliver sustained fire. The primary weakness I’ve observed is its sensitivity to dirt and debris; keeping it clean is essential for reliable feeding.
It largely meets my expectations after the initial break-in and cleaning. With proper maintenance, the magazine feeds rounds reliably.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s all-steel construction contributes to its solid, durable feel. The weight is noticeable when fully loaded, but that’s a given considering the caliber and capacity. The magazine’s design is purely functional, prioritizing reliability and durability over aesthetics.
There isn’t a significant learning curve; it functions like any standard rifle magazine. Seating and releasing the magazine are intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine, with its all-steel construction, should last for many years with proper care. Maintenance involves regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Replacing the magazine spring periodically (every few thousand rounds) might be necessary to maintain optimal feeding performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
There aren’t any specific accessories designed solely for this magazine. However, magazine pouches designed for AR-10 or similar large-frame rifles often work well. The magazine is compatible with the H.C.A.R. rifle as designed by Ohio Ordnance Works, with no further modifications required.
Pros and Cons of Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- High capacity (30 rounds): Provides significantly increased firepower compared to standard .30-06 magazines.
- Robust steel construction: Ensures durability and longevity, even under harsh conditions.
- Reliable feeding (after break-in and cleaning): Offers consistent performance when properly maintained.
- Designed specifically for the H.C.A.R.: Guarantees compatibility and proper fit.
- Relatively easy to maintain: Cleaning is straightforward.
Cons
- Sensitivity to dirt and debris: Requires regular cleaning to prevent malfunctions.
- Relatively expensive: Compared to standard capacity magazines, the price is higher.
Who Should Buy Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for H.C.A.R. owners who want increased firepower and magazine capacity. It benefits those who engage in tactical shooting, competitive shooting, or simply want a higher round count at the range.
Those who should skip this product are shooters on a tight budget. Also those who are unwilling to commit to regular magazine cleaning, or those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality magazine pouch for carrying spare magazines and a magazine brush for cleaning.
Conclusion on Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine
The Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R., .30-06 Springfield, 30 Round Rifle Magazine is a specialized but valuable accessory for H.C.A.R. owners. Its increased capacity and robust construction offer a significant advantage in many shooting scenarios.
While the price is somewhat steep at $114.97, the enhanced firepower and reliability (when properly maintained) justify the cost for serious H.C.A.R. users. I would recommend this magazine to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their Ohio Ordnance Works H.C.A.R. Invest in one, keep it clean, and experience the .30-06 in a whole new light!