First Impressions of ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is an aftermarket magazine designed to dramatically increase the capacity of your Canik TP9 pistol. From ProMag, a company known for its high-capacity magazines, this offering promises to extend your time at the range and potentially provide a tactical advantage. I was immediately intrigued by the prospect of fewer reloads and a more sustained shooting experience with my Canik TP9.
I’ve always been a fan of maximizing the capabilities of my firearms, and high-capacity magazines are a great way to do that. I was seeking a reliable magazine with a significantly higher round count than the factory magazines. This would ideally reduce the need for frequent reloads during training sessions and competitive shooting scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the magazine’s size. It’s significantly longer than the standard Canik TP9 magazines, as expected with a 50-round capacity. The DuPont Zytel based polymer construction felt robust, though slightly lighter than I anticipated. The build quality appeared solid, but only time and testing would reveal its true durability.
Compared to other high-capacity magazines I’ve used, like those from Magpul for AR-15s, the ProMag offering felt slightly less refined in its polymer molding. I chose the ProMag over a competitor’s steel magazine due to the weight savings promised by the polymer construction. I was initially excited about the potential for increased firepower and extended range sessions. However, a small part of me remained cautiously optimistic, knowing that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be hit or miss in terms of reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny day. I loaded the ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine with 50 rounds of standard 115-grain 9mm ammunition. Inserting it into my Canik TP9, I immediately noticed the added weight and length, requiring a slightly different grip.
The first few rounds fired without issue, but around the 10th round, I experienced a failure to feed. Clearing the malfunction, I continued shooting, only to encounter another failure to feed around the 25th round. Despite these hiccups, the ProMag performed reasonably well, especially considering it’s a high-capacity, aftermarket magazine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use and approximately 500 rounds fired through the ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine, its reliability has remained somewhat inconsistent. I still experience occasional failures to feed, particularly when the magazine is fully loaded. The polymer body shows some minor signs of wear and tear, particularly around the feed lips.
Cleaning the magazine is relatively straightforward, requiring only a basic disassembly and cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents. Compared to my experience with factory Canik magazines, the ProMag falls short in terms of overall reliability. It hasn’t completely disappointed, but it certainly hasn’t exceeded expectations either.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the Canik TP9 series of pistols. It is chambered in 9mm Luger and boasts a generous 50-round capacity. The magazine body is constructed from a proprietary DuPont Zytel based polymer.
The follower is injection molded, and the magazine spring is formed from heat-treated chrome silicon wire. These specifications are important because they dictate the magazine’s capacity, durability, and overall reliability. The 50-round capacity allows for extended shooting sessions with fewer reloads. The polymer construction balances weight and strength.
Performance & Functionality
When it functions properly, the ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine allows for unparalleled firepower in a 9mm pistol platform. However, the aforementioned reliability issues detract from its overall performance. The magazine’s primary strength lies in its high capacity, but its weakness lies in its occasional feeding problems. While it provides a significant increase in ammunition capacity, it doesn’t consistently deliver on that promise.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is designed to be lightweight and durable. The polymer construction keeps the weight manageable, even when fully loaded. The extended length of the magazine requires a slightly adjusted grip, but it’s generally comfortable to hold.
However, the magazine’s dimensions can make it cumbersome to carry concealed. The DuPont Zytel based polymer feels reasonably sturdy, but not as robust as some steel alternatives.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine appears to be reasonably durable, though long-term reliability remains a concern. The polymer body should withstand typical wear and tear. Cleaning the magazine is simple, requiring only basic disassembly and cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents. Regular maintenance will likely be necessary to ensure optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t offer much in the way of accessories or customization options. It is a self-contained unit designed specifically for the Canik TP9. It is not compatible with any grip extensions or other modifications. However, it should work with most standard magazine pouches designed for high-capacity pistol magazines.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Extremely high 50-round capacity allows for extended shooting sessions.
- Polymer construction keeps the weight manageable.
- Relatively easy to disassemble and clean.
- Provides a significant firepower advantage in certain situations.
- Affordable compared to some other high-capacity magazines.
Cons
- Prone to occasional failures to feed, particularly when fully loaded.
- Polymer construction may not be as durable as steel alternatives.
- Extended length can make it difficult to carry concealed.
Who Should Buy ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters who require high-capacity magazines for certain events. It’s also suitable for recreational shooters who enjoy extended range sessions without frequent reloads. This magazine could be beneficial for individuals seeking a higher capacity option for home defense scenarios, provided they test its reliability extensively beforehand.
This product is NOT for individuals who prioritize absolute reliability above all else. Law enforcement or military personnel who rely on their firearms in life-threatening situations should stick with factory magazines. Must-have accessories would include a reliable magazine loader to assist with loading all 50 rounds.
Conclusion on ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a high-capacity magazine for their Canik TP9. While its reliability isn’t perfect, the sheer amount of firepower it provides is undeniable. At $94.89, the price is justified for the potential benefits it offers.
I would cautiously recommend it to recreational shooters and competitive shooters who are willing to accept the possibility of occasional malfunctions. It’s a fun accessory to have for the range, but it’s not something I would trust my life with. Ultimately, the ProMag Polymer Canik TP9 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is a product with potential, but it requires thorough testing and careful consideration before relying on it.