First Impressions of ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine promises to increase the capacity of a unique and iconic firearm. The PS-90/P-90 platform is known for its compact bullpup design and high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge, making it a favorite for those seeking a blend of firepower and maneuverability. The potential for 50 rounds on tap adds another layer of appeal.
My journey to acquiring this magazine stemmed from a desire for increased capacity during range sessions and potential tactical scenarios. The standard magazine capacity, while adequate, often left me wanting more sustained firepower without frequent reloads. A higher capacity magazine would reduce the need for constant reloads, especially during training exercises or in a potential self-defense situation.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazine felt surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its polymer construction. The magazine’s construction initially felt less robust compared to the factory magazines, but this was expected considering the difference in materials and price point. The translucent polymer allows for a quick visual check of remaining rounds.
Compared to the factory FN magazines and other aftermarket options, the ProMag stood out due to its price and claimed capacity. I considered metal alternatives, but ultimately opted for the ProMag to test the viability of a high-capacity, polymer magazine in this platform. I was cautiously optimistic, knowing that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be hit-or-miss.
My initial impression was a mix of excitement and trepidation. I was eager to test the promised 50-round capacity, but also aware of potential reliability issues often associated with aftermarket magazines. The proof, as they say, would be in the shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine at an outdoor shooting range on a clear, dry day. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the magazine’s functionality and reliability. I loaded the magazine with 50 rounds of factory 5.7x28mm ammunition and inserted it into my PS-90.
The first few rounds cycled smoothly, but by round 10, I experienced a failure to feed. Clearing the malfunction, I continued shooting, but the issues persisted intermittently throughout the first 25 rounds. After the initial break-in period, the cycling became more consistent, but still experienced occasional hiccups.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and multiple range sessions, the ProMag magazine’s reliability improved somewhat, but remained inconsistent. I estimate I put around 500 rounds through it, and while it never became completely reliable, it did become more manageable. There were still failures to feed, especially with certain brands of ammunition.
The polymer construction held up surprisingly well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear. The magazine body did exhibit some minor scuff marks from repeated insertions and removals, but nothing that impacted functionality. Cleaning the magazine was straightforward, requiring only disassembly and wiping down the internal components.
Compared to the reliability of the factory FN magazines, the ProMag fell short. The factory magazines consistently performed flawlessly, while the ProMag required constant vigilance and clearing of occasional malfunctions. While the high capacity was alluring, the trade-off in reliability was a significant drawback.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the FN PS90 and P90 platforms. Its key specification is the 50-round capacity, a significant increase over standard capacity magazines. The magazine body is constructed from a proprietary DuPont Zytel-based polymer.
The ProMag magazine also features an injection-molded follower and a heat-treated chrome silicon wire spring. These specifications aim to provide reliable feeding and consistent spring pressure. The polymer construction contributes to a lighter overall weight compared to steel magazines, potentially improving handling.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine aims to provide increased firepower and reduced reloading frequency. Unfortunately, the reliability issues significantly hampered its performance. The failures to feed detracted from the overall shooting experience.
The ProMag magazine’s primary strength is its increased capacity, but its weaknesses lie in its inconsistent feeding. The magazine did not meet my expectations for reliable performance. The factory magazines significantly outperformed the ProMag in terms of consistent and flawless operation.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag magazine’s polymer construction makes it lightweight and easy to handle. The translucent design allows for quick visual confirmation of round count. The magazine’s build quality felt adequate for a polymer magazine at its price point, but did not inspire the same confidence as the factory magazines.
There was no significant learning curve associated with using the ProMag magazine. It inserts and locks into the PS-90 in a similar manner to the factory magazines. However, due to the aforementioned reliability issues, I could not recommend this magazine for tactical or defensive use.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine seems reasonably durable for a polymer magazine. It shows no signs of significant wear after several range sessions. Disassembly for cleaning is relatively simple.
The ProMag magazine appears designed for easy maintenance. It doesn’t seem that any specific tools are needed to complete regular maintenance. Given the simple construction, the magazine should last for a moderate amount of time with the understanding that malfunctions are possible, and in some cases, perhaps even expected.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options specific to the magazine itself. The primary customization would be related to the firearm for which the magazine is designed, like optics, slings, and other additions.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Holds 50 rounds, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
- Lightweight: Polymer construction makes it lighter than steel alternatives.
- Visual Round Count: Translucent polymer allows for easy monitoring of remaining rounds.
- Affordable: Significantly cheaper than factory magazines or other high-capacity options.
Cons
- Inconsistent Reliability: Frequent failures to feed during testing.
- Polymer Construction: May not be as durable as steel magazines.
Who Should Buy ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine might be suitable for recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity and are willing to tolerate occasional malfunctions. It could also be a decent option for training or practice scenarios where reliability is not paramount.
This magazine is NOT recommended for tactical applications, self-defense situations, or anyone who demands absolute reliability from their firearms. Anyone seeking a reliable magazine for serious use should stick with factory FN magazines. I highly encourage anyone to consider this important distinction before purchase.
A must-have accessory would be a magazine loader, as loading 50 rounds can be tedious. If experiencing reliability issues, trying different brands of ammunition might help.
Conclusion on ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer FN PS-90/P-90 5.7x28mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine offers the allure of increased capacity at an affordable price. However, its inconsistent reliability makes it a questionable choice for anything beyond recreational shooting. The value proposition is diminished by the potential for malfunctions.
Personally, I would not recommend this magazine for anyone relying on their PS-90 for self-defense or tactical purposes. While the price is tempting, the lack of consistent performance outweighs the cost savings. If you are looking for guaranteed reliability, stick with the factory FN magazines.