First Impressions of ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine promises to enhance the shooting experience with the popular Taurus TX22 pistol, a firearm known for its affordability and enjoyable .22 LR caliber. ProMag is a well-known manufacturer in the aftermarket magazine industry, and this magazine aims to offer increased capacity and reliable feeding. Will it live up to the expectations of a seasoned shooter like myself?
I’ve been a firearms enthusiast and tactical gear specialist for over a decade, and I’ve seen my fair share of magazines, both good and bad. I was looking for a higher-capacity magazine for my Taurus TX22. The factory 16-round magazine is decent, but an extra round, especially during extended range sessions or small game hunting, can make a difference.
Upon receiving the ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine, my initial impression was fairly neutral. The polymer construction felt lighter than the factory magazine, which could be a plus or a minus depending on individual preferences. It was packed in simple blister packaging, which is functional but not particularly exciting.
Compared to magazines from Sig Sauer or Glock, the fit and finish appeared less refined. Ultimately, I chose this magazine over competitors like Keep Shooting or other generic brands due to ProMag‘s established presence in the market, hoping for a balance between price and reliability. My first impression left me cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground for the ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine was my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was moderately warm, with a slight breeze. I loaded the magazine to its full 17-round capacity and inserted it into my Taurus TX22.
The magazine seated with a positive click, and the first round chambered without issue. During the first few magazines, I experienced a few failures to feed, which was concerning. I cleared the malfunctions and continued to test, focusing on my grip and ensuring the magazine was fully seated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, I’ve put a few hundred rounds through the ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine. It started to perform more consistently after the initial break-in period. The malfunctions decreased significantly, but not entirely.
The polymer construction shows minimal signs of wear and tear. Regular cleaning and light lubrication have been sufficient for maintenance. Compared to my experience with factory Taurus magazines, the ProMag offering is not quite as reliable, but it’s an acceptable trade-off for the increased capacity. I experienced approximately one failure to feed every three magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
Manufacturer: ProMag.
Gun Model: Taurus TX22.
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle.
Magazine Capacity: 17 Round.
Material: DuPont Zytel based polymer body.
Spring: Heat treated chrome silicon wire.
Follower: Injection molded polymer.
This magazine’s specifications are crucial because they determine its compatibility and performance. The 17-round capacity offers a significant advantage over standard magazines, while the polymer construction aims for durability without adding excessive weight. The heat-treated spring is essential for reliable feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine performs adequately, but not flawlessly. It offers increased capacity, but at the cost of some reliability. The primary strength is the added round, while the main weakness is the occasional failure to feed, especially with certain types of ammunition.
It mostly meets expectations, although I wished for the performance of the factory Taurus magazine. The added capacity almost makes up for the performance deficit.
Design & Ergonomics
The polymer construction of the ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine keeps the weight down, which is noticeable compared to metal magazines. It is comfortable to hold and manipulate. The design is functional but unremarkable.
There is a minimal learning curve. The magazine is easy to load and insert.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine seems reasonably durable, given its polymer construction. With proper care, it should last a reasonable amount of time. Cleaning is simple, requiring only basic tools and solvents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine comes with no additional accessories. It is designed specifically for the Taurus TX22 and does not require any customization. Compatibility with aftermarket baseplates designed for Taurus magazines might be possible, but this has not been tested.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased capacity: Offers 17 rounds compared to the factory 16-round magazine, providing a slight edge during range sessions or small game hunting.
- Lightweight construction: The polymer body keeps the weight down, which can be beneficial during extended use.
- Affordable price: It provides a budget-friendly option compared to factory magazines, making it accessible for shooters on a tighter budget.
- Easy to load: The magazine is easy to load.
- Compatible: Designed specifically for the Taurus TX22.
Cons
- Reliability: Occasional failures to feed, especially during initial use.
- Polymer Build: The build quality and material choice may affect long-term durability compared to metal magazines.
Who Should Buy ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for recreational shooters who own a Taurus TX22 and want increased capacity without breaking the bank. It is also suitable for those who prioritize lightweight gear and are willing to accept slightly reduced reliability. It can also make a good option as a spare magazine for range sessions.
This product should be skipped by competitive shooters or anyone who requires absolute reliability in their firearms. Those shooters should stick with the factory Taurus magazines.
Must-have accessories or modifications? It’s recommended to purchase a magazine loader to ease the loading process, especially for those with limited hand strength.
Conclusion on ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Polymer Taurus TX .22 LR 17-Round Pistol Magazine offers a reasonable upgrade in capacity for Taurus TX22 owners at an affordable price. It isn’t without its flaws, particularly the occasional failure to feed. The value proposition is decent, considering the increased capacity and lower cost compared to factory magazines.
I would personally recommend this magazine with reservations. The price is justified if you are looking for a budget-friendly option for range use. However, if reliability is paramount, it’s best to stick with factory Taurus magazines.
Consider adding this magazine to your Taurus TX22 setup if you need more capacity and are willing to accept the occasional hiccup. Just remember to test it thoroughly before relying on it for serious use.