Let’s Dive into PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine isn’t your everyday AR magazine; it’s designed specifically for those using the larger .458 SOCOM cartridge in an AR-15 platform. PRI (Precision Reflex, Inc.) is a well-respected name in the AR-15 world, known for quality components and innovative designs. The magazine is intended to allow AR-15 owners to use their rifles for hunting larger game or for specialized applications that benefit from the .458 SOCOM round.
My interest in this magazine stemmed from a desire to reliably feed .458 SOCOM rounds in my AR-15 build. I was experiencing feeding issues with standard 5.56 magazines and needed a dedicated solution.
Upon unboxing, the PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine felt robust and well-constructed. The polymer body felt solid, and the magazine had a reassuring weight to it. Initially, I was impressed with the overall build quality.
Compared to standard 5.56 magazines, or even some of the .458 SOCOM magazines made by lesser-known brands, the PRI magazine seemed a step above. I chose this magazine over others, hoping that a reputable brand like PRI would ensure reliable feeding. My initial impression was optimistic, but cautious, knowing that real performance would be judged at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test with the PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine was at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for testing new equipment.
I immediately noticed the difference in feeding compared to standard 5.56 magazines. However, I experienced some initial hiccups with the first few rounds failing to chamber correctly, but I assumed this was just a break-in period. After about ten rounds, the magazine seemed to “settle in,” and the feeding became smoother.
There were no major issues or surprises after the initial hiccup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine has proven to be relatively reliable, though not flawless. The polymer body shows no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being tossed into range bags and used in multiple drills.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use. Compared to my earlier experiences with modified 5.56 magazines, the PRI magazine is a noticeable improvement in terms of consistent feeding. It outperforms those makeshift solutions, but not necessarily competing dedicated .458 SOCOM magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine is designed with specific features for .458 SOCOM compatibility. It holds 4 rounds of .458 SOCOM ammunition.
The magazine body is constructed from a durable polymer, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. It is black in color. It is specifically designed for the AR-15 platform.
The PRI magazine’s dimensions are slightly wider than standard AR magazines to accommodate the larger diameter of the .458 SOCOM cartridge. This is crucial for ensuring proper feeding and preventing jams.
Performance & Functionality
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine performs its primary job of feeding .458 SOCOM rounds into an AR-15 reasonably well. It provides a much more reliable feed than trying to use standard AR-15 magazines.
Its main strength is its dedicated design for the .458 SOCOM, which minimizes the chances of misfeeds. One weakness, however, is its limited 4-round capacity, which may be a concern for some users. It meets expectations for reliability, but the low capacity can be a drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with the polymer body feeling robust and well-made. The magazine is comfortable to handle and inserts smoothly into the magazine well of my AR-15.
There’s a slight learning curve in understanding how to properly load the magazine to ensure the rounds are seated correctly. The magazine’s design is functional, but not particularly innovative.
Durability & Maintenance
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine appears to be built to last, with the polymer body showing no signs of cracking or deformation after several months of use. Maintenance is simple, primarily involving cleaning the inside of the magazine to remove any debris.
With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches. There are no readily available customization options beyond potentially adding a magazine pull.
Pros and Cons of PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Dedicated .458 SOCOM design ensures more reliable feeding compared to standard AR-15 magazines.
- Durable polymer construction provides long-lasting performance.
- Smooth insertion and ejection from the AR-15 magazine well.
- Reputable PRI brand offers a sense of confidence in quality.
- Simple maintenance for easy cleaning and care.
Cons
- Limited 4-round capacity may not be sufficient for all users.
- Relatively expensive compared to standard AR-15 magazines.
- Reports of initial feeding issues/break-in period from some users.
Who Should Buy PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for: .458 SOCOM AR-15 owners looking for a reliable feeding solution, hunters using .458 SOCOM for larger game, and competitive shooters in specific .458 SOCOM divisions.
Those who should skip this product: Individuals who don’t own a .458 SOCOM AR-15, those who need a higher capacity magazine, and those on a very tight budget.
A must-have accessory: A reliable AR-15 lower receiver designed for the .458 SOCOM cartridge is required for proper performance.
Conclusion on PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine
The PRI AR Style 4 Round Rifle Magazine is a solid choice for anyone needing a dedicated magazine for their .458 SOCOM AR-15. While it has a limited capacity and a slightly higher price point, its reliability and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about using the .458 SOCOM cartridge.
The price is justified by the improved feeding reliability and the peace of mind that comes with using a product from a trusted brand. I would personally recommend it to anyone struggling with feeding issues in their .458 SOCOM AR-15 build. Invest in this magazine to ensure smooth and reliable performance with your .458 SOCOM AR-15.