First Impressions of ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
The Browning Hi-Power, or P35, is a legend. A firearm that has served militaries and law enforcement agencies across the globe for decades, its reliable design and comfortable ergonomics have earned it a devoted following. For owners of this classic pistol, finding reliable magazines can be a challenge, especially considering the original magazines can be quite expensive or difficult to source. That’s where the ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine steps in, promising a cost-effective solution for increased capacity and reliable feeding.
My interest in this ProMag magazine stemmed from a desire to enhance the performance of my own Hi-Power. I was specifically looking for a magazine that could reliably feed rounds and increase my capacity without sacrificing the firearm’s original feel. Original Browning magazines are increasingly expensive, and I needed a more affordable option for range use and training.
The ProMag magazine arrived in a standard blister pack. The first thing I noticed was its blued steel construction, which appeared robust. The magazine felt solid in hand, with a weight that suggested quality, though not as refined as an original Browning magazine. Comparing it to an original 10-round magazine, the ProMag’s slightly extended length was immediately apparent, promising the advertised 13-round capacity. While Mec-Gar also makes Hi-Power magazines known for reliability, the ProMag was significantly cheaper, making it an attractive option for high-volume use. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would perform as well as it looked.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag magazine at my local shooting range. The range provides a controlled environment perfect for assessing magazine reliability. I ran a series of drills focusing on rapid fire and magazine changes. The weather was dry and mild, ideal for shooting.
Initially, the ProMag magazine presented some feeding issues. The first few magazines experienced failures to feed, with the slide failing to fully chamber the round. After lubricating the magazine with a dry lubricant and running several more cycles, the feeding improved significantly.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past few months, I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through the ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine. After the initial break-in period, the magazine has become noticeably more reliable. There have been occasional failures to feed, occurring roughly once every 100 rounds.
The blued steel finish is showing some wear around the feed lips, which is expected with repeated use. I clean the magazine after each range session, disassembling it and wiping down the interior with a lightly oiled cloth. Compared to my original Browning magazines, the ProMag requires more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm Luger. This ensures compatibility with the Hi-Power platform.
- Magazine Capacity: 13 Rounds. This provides a significant increase over the original 10-round magazines, especially for those in states where higher capacity magazines are permitted.
- Material: Heat Treated Steel. This construction offers durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Follower Material: Injection Molded Polymer. The polymer follower ensures smooth and reliable feeding.
- Spring Material: Chrome Silicone Wire. This spring offers consistent pressure and long-lasting performance.
- Finish: Blued. This provides a protective layer and a classic look.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and longevity of the magazine. The heat-treated steel construction ensures the magazine can withstand repeated use, while the chrome silicone wire spring provides the necessary force to feed rounds reliably. The increased capacity offers a tactical advantage and can be beneficial for competitive shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine performs adequately, but it’s not without its flaws. As mentioned earlier, there were initial feeding issues that required a break-in period and lubrication. Once broken in, the magazine’s reliability improves significantly.
The magazine functions well for general range use and target practice. Its primary weakness is its occasional unreliability compared to factory magazines. It meets the basic expectation of holding and feeding ammunition, but doesn’t always exceed expectations in terms of flawless operation.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag magazine’s design is functional, if not particularly refined. The blued steel construction feels solid, but the finish isn’t as smooth as factory magazines. The magazine’s weight is comparable to other steel magazines, which adds a sense of durability.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, though the initial stiffness of the spring can make loading the full 13 rounds challenging. The magazine is simple to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, with no complex mechanisms or tricky parts.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine should provide a reasonable service life. The heat-treated steel construction is resistant to bending and deformation, while the blued finish offers some protection against corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Maintaining the magazine is relatively straightforward. Disassembling it for cleaning involves simply depressing the follower and sliding off the baseplate. Cleaning the interior with a solvent and lubricating the spring and follower is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is a standalone product, and no specific accessories or customization options are available. However, it’s compatible with any standard Browning Hi-Power or P35 that accepts factory magazines. There are no compatibility concerns with aftermarket grips, sights, or other accessories. The magazine is intended as a direct replacement or supplement to existing magazines.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than original Browning magazines, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters.
- Increased Capacity: Holds 13 rounds compared to the standard 10-round magazines, offering a tactical advantage.
- Durable Construction: Made from heat-treated steel, ensuring resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning.
- Readily Available: Easy to find at many online retailers and gun stores.
Cons
- Reliability Issues: May experience occasional failures to feed, especially during the initial break-in period.
- Finish Wear: Blued finish can show wear around the feed lips with repeated use.
- Stiff Spring: The spring can be quite stiff, making loading the full 13 rounds challenging.
Who Should Buy ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for Browning Hi-Power owners who are looking for an affordable way to increase their magazine capacity for range use and target practice. It’s also suitable for those who need extra magazines for training or competition but don’t want to spend a fortune on original factory magazines.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who require absolute reliability in a defensive or duty firearm. Those who demand the highest level of performance should stick with factory magazines or other premium aftermarket options like Mec-Gar.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality magazine loader to assist with loading the stiff magazine spring.
Conclusion on ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Browning Hi-Power/P35 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine offers a compelling value proposition for Browning Hi-Power owners seeking increased capacity at an affordable price. While it may not match the flawless reliability of factory magazines, its durable construction and increased capacity make it a worthwhile addition to your range kit.
At $33.99, the price is justified for what you get: a functional, if not perfect, magazine that allows you to shoot more between reloads. I would recommend it with the caveat that it might require a break-in period and regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
If you’re looking to expand your Hi-Power’s capabilities without breaking the bank, give the ProMag a try. Just remember to keep it clean, well-lubricated, and understand its limitations. Happy shooting!