ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine Review

First Impressions of ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine promises increased firepower for a popular concealed carry pistol. ProMag aims to deliver a high-capacity option without sacrificing reliability. Is it a game-changer, or just added bulk?

I’ve always been a proponent of carrying extra ammunition, especially given the unpredictable nature of self-defense situations. The standard CR920 magazine capacity felt limiting, pushing me to explore high-capacity alternatives. My search prioritized reliability and a flush-fitting design that wouldn’t compromise concealability too much.

Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazine felt surprisingly lightweight due to its polymer construction. The finish appeared smooth and consistent, and the spring tension felt appropriate. It looked a bit longer than the factory magazine but didn’t seem unwieldy at first glance.

I considered other extended magazines from different manufacturers, but ProMag’s reputation for affordable alternatives and the CR920’s specific fitment swayed my decision. Some competitor magazines had mixed reviews regarding feeding issues, and I hoped to avoid that. I was cautiously optimistic but also aware that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be a gamble.


Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine at an indoor shooting range. The controlled environment allowed me to focus on magazine functionality without external distractions. I ran approximately 150 rounds of mixed 9mm ammunition (various grain weights and brands) through it.

The magazine loaded easily, and the initial insertion into the CR920’s magwell was smooth. However, the first few rounds felt a little stiff, requiring slightly more force to chamber. There were no failures to feed or eject, but the slide failed to lock back on the last round twice during the first three magazines.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent range use, the ProMag magazine started to perform more reliably. The slide lock issue diminished significantly after about 300 rounds. I started incorporating the ProMag magazine into my regular practice drills, including rapid reloads and malfunction clearances.

Despite the initial hiccups, the magazine has held up reasonably well with no visible cracks or deformities. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring keeps it running smoothly. Compared to my factory magazines, the ProMag requires slightly more frequent cleaning to maintain consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the Shadow Systems CR920 pistol chambered in 9mm Luger. Its primary feature is its increased capacity, holding 30 rounds compared to the factory magazine’s capacity. The magazine body is constructed from a proprietary DuPont Zytel-based polymer.

The injection-molded follower is designed for smooth feeding. A heat-treated chrome silicon wire forms the magazine spring, ensuring reliable tension and longevity. These specifications aim to provide a durable and functional high-capacity magazine for the CR920.

Performance & Functionality

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine delivers on its promise of increased capacity. It allows for significantly more rounds before needing to reload. The initial slide lock failures were concerning, but the magazine has become more reliable with use.

One drawback is the added length, which affects concealability. The magazine protrudes noticeably further than the factory magazine, making it less suitable for deep concealment. While functional, it’s not without its compromises.

Design & Ergonomics

The polymer construction keeps the weight manageable, even when fully loaded. The magazine’s slightly textured surface provides a decent grip during reloads. The extended length, however, impacts the CR920’s overall ergonomics, especially for concealed carry.

The fit and finish are acceptable for an aftermarket magazine. While it doesn’t feel quite as refined as the factory magazine, it integrates reasonably well with the CR920. The increased length does make it slightly more difficult to seat the magazine fully when the slide is forward.

Durability & Maintenance

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine appears to be reasonably durable, despite being made of polymer. After hundreds of rounds, there are no signs of cracking or significant wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent malfunctions, especially with high-capacity magazines.

Disassembly for cleaning is relatively straightforward, although it requires slightly more effort than cleaning a standard Glock magazine. The polymer construction makes it resistant to corrosion, which is a plus for humid environments. While not indestructible, it should provide a reasonable lifespan with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine itself doesn’t offer much in terms of customization. It’s a standalone unit designed to increase capacity. There are no readily available aftermarket baseplates or extensions.

However, the magazine is compatible with any CR920 that accepts standard factory magazines. It can be paired with various holster options, although finding a holster that accommodates the extended length might require some searching. The ProMag magazine functions well with aftermarket CR920 accessories like triggers and compensators.

Pros and Cons of ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine

Pros

  • Increased capacity offers a significant advantage in potential self-defense situations.
  • Lightweight polymer construction keeps the overall weight manageable.
  • Affordable price point compared to some other high-capacity options.
  • Improved reliability after an initial break-in period.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

  • Reduced concealability due to the extended length.
  • Initial issues with slide lock on empty.
  • Polymer construction might not be as durable as steel magazines.


Who Should Buy ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine?

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for range enthusiasts and competitive shooters who want higher capacity without frequent reloads. It can also be beneficial for home defense scenarios where concealability is not a primary concern.

Individuals prioritizing deep concealment or those who demand absolute reliability right out of the box should skip this product. A reliable factory magazine might be a better option for everyday carry. A magazine loader could make loading this high-capacity magazine easier.

Conclusion on ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine

The ProMag Polymer Shadow Systems CR920 9mm 30-Round Pistol Magazine provides a cost-effective way to boost your CR920’s firepower. While it’s not without its drawbacks, the increased capacity and manageable weight make it a worthwhile addition for specific uses. The price is reasonable, and the increased capacity is definitely worth considering.

I would recommend this magazine with a caveat: be prepared to invest some time in breaking it in and ensuring consistent reliability. If you’re looking for an affordable way to extend your range sessions or have a higher capacity option for home defense, give the ProMag a try. Consider purchasing two or more to rotate magazines for long-term reliability.

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