First Impressions of ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is an aftermarket drum magazine designed to significantly increase the capacity of the popular Springfield Hellcat pistol. As a firearms enthusiast and someone who values both concealability and firepower, the promise of 50 rounds in a relatively compact package immediately piqued my interest. I’ve always been drawn to innovative solutions that push the boundaries of firearm design, and this magazine seemed to fit the bill.
I was searching for a way to extend my range time without constant reloading, and I’ve also considered the potential benefits in a self-defense scenario where higher capacity could be advantageous. While extended magazines aren’t new, the drum design for a subcompact pistol like the Hellcat felt like a unique approach.
Upon receiving the ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine, my initial impression was mixed. The polymer construction felt sturdy enough, but I was slightly concerned about its long-term durability compared to steel magazines. Its weight was noticeable, even unloaded. It was heavier than the factory magazines, but this was expected given the increased capacity. Compared to standard capacity magazines, the ProMag offering felt substantial.
I had considered other extended magazines, but the drum design offered a significantly higher capacity than any standard stick magazine. Also, the ProMag‘s price point was competitive, making it an attractive option to test.
My initial excitement was tempered by a degree of skepticism. Would it feed reliably? Would the added weight affect the Hellcat’s handling? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine was at an outdoor shooting range on a moderately warm day. I ran through a variety of drills, focusing on rapid fire, slow, controlled shots, and magazine changes. The magazine was loaded with 115 grain full metal jacket ammunition.
The biggest initial challenge was simply getting used to the sheer size and weight of the magazine. It definitely altered the balance of the Hellcat. After the first few rounds, there were multiple failures to feed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and hundreds of rounds, the ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine showed a slight improvement in reliability. However, failures to feed remained a recurring issue, particularly in rapid-fire scenarios. The polymer construction has held up surprisingly well, with no visible cracks or damage.
Cleaning the magazine proved to be relatively straightforward, although disassembling the drum mechanism was a bit fiddly. Compared to the factory Hellcat magazines, the ProMag required more frequent cleaning due to its increased capacity and complexity. While it offered a significant increase in capacity, the reliability issues ultimately made it less appealing than using multiple factory magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine boasts a 50-round capacity for 9mm Luger ammunition. It is specifically designed for the Springfield Armory Hellcat pistol. The magazine body is constructed from a proprietary DuPont Zytel based polymer. It has an injection-molded follower, and its magazine spring is formed from heat-treated chrome silicon wire.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the magazine’s capacity, durability, and reliability. The polymer construction aims to balance weight and strength, while the chrome silicon spring is intended to ensure consistent feeding.
Performance & Functionality
When it comes to performance, the ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is a mixed bag. While it delivers on its promise of increased capacity, its reliability is questionable. The frequent failures to feed detract significantly from its usability.
The sheer round capacity of the magazine is the standout strength. However, the magazine’s unreliability requires significant improvement. While it exceeds expectations in round count, it falls short in overall dependability.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine‘s build quality is adequate, with the polymer construction feeling reasonably robust. The added weight, particularly when fully loaded, does affect the Hellcat’s balance and handling.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, although loading the drum can be time-consuming and requires some practice. It has a steeper learning curve compared to standard magazines.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine appears to be reasonably durable. There have been no signs of cracking or breakage in its polymer body.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring regular cleaning to ensure proper feeding. Disassembly and reassembly can be a bit tricky at first, but it becomes easier with practice.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited since it’s a magazine.
It’s designed specifically for the Springfield Hellcat, so compatibility with accessories from other brands is not a primary concern. The compatibility with standard Hellcat magazine releases is a key feature, ensuring easy integration.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Massive 50-round capacity significantly reduces the need for frequent reloads.
- Polymer construction offers a decent balance of weight and durability.
- Relatively affordable compared to other high-capacity magazine options.
- Easy to clean and maintain with basic tools.
- Direct fit for the Springfield Hellcat pistol with no modifications required.
Cons
- Frequent failures to feed can be a significant issue.
- Added weight and bulk can negatively affect handling.
- Polymer construction raises concerns about long-term durability.
Who Should Buy ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine might appeal to competitive shooters who want to minimize reloading during stages. Also, gun enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with high-capacity magazines could be interested.
Those prioritizing reliability and consistent performance in self-defense or duty applications should probably skip this product. Stick to factory magazines for those purposes. A magazine loader is almost a must-have accessory to manage the high round count.
Conclusion on ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Springfield Hellcat 9mm 50-Round Pistol Magazine is an interesting concept that, unfortunately, falls short in execution. While it delivers on the promise of a significantly increased capacity, the reliability issues are difficult to ignore.
At a price of $98.79, the value proposition is questionable, especially when considering the potential for malfunctions. I would not personally recommend it for serious applications where reliability is paramount. It’s more of a novelty item for range use than a serious tactical tool. If you’re looking for increased firepower, proceed with caution and be prepared to address potential feeding issues.