First Thoughts on the ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model
The ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine promises to transform your Saiga 12-gauge shotgun into a serious firepower platform. With a 20-round capacity, it aims to deliver a significant increase in ammunition availability compared to standard magazines. As someone deeply involved in both the tactical and sporting shooting worlds, I was eager to see if this aftermarket drum lived up to the hype and addressed some of the shortcomings often associated with box magazines in the Saiga platform.
I’ve always felt the Saiga 12 was held back by its limited magazine capacity and occasional feeding issues, particularly with cheaper ammo. The allure of a drum magazine was the promise of smoother, higher-volume shooting and a more intimidating profile. My primary goal was to find a reliable, high-capacity feeding solution for my Saiga 12, capable of handling various 12-gauge loads.
Unboxing the ProMag SAI-A6, I immediately noted its robust polymer construction. The drum felt solid, though noticeably heavier than standard magazines. The steel reinforcement inserts hinted at an attempt to enhance durability and feeding reliability. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, appreciating the apparent ruggedness while remaining wary of potential fitment issues, a common concern with aftermarket Saiga parts. Compared to other aftermarket Saiga magazines, I chose this due to the promise of 20-round capacity and the ProMag reputation, hoping for better reliability than some of the cheaper alternatives I had seen fail.
I was excited about the potential for increased firepower and tactical applications. However, I was also realistic, knowing that aftermarket drums can be finicky and require adjustments. The mention of potential modification in the product description definitely tempered my expectations somewhat.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the ProMag SAI-A6 was at my local shooting range, under relatively controlled conditions. I brought a variety of 12-gauge ammunition, including birdshot, buckshot, and some heavier slug loads. I wanted to see how the drum handled different types of ammunition and feeding pressures.
Initial insertion required a bit of force, confirming my suspicion about the need for potential modification. After some wiggling, it locked in place. I loaded the drum with 20 rounds of birdshot, and upon attempting to cycle the action, I immediately encountered a failure to feed. The bolt failed to strip a round from the drum. After carefully examining the drum, I determined that the feed lips were sitting too high for my particular receiver.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, I dedicated time to modifying and testing the ProMag SAI-A6. Using a Dremel tool, I carefully trimmed the feed lips as suggested in some online forums, making small adjustments and testing repeatedly. It took several hours of patient work to achieve a decent fit.
Even after modification, reliability was still inconsistent. The drum fed birdshot reasonably well, but buckshot and slugs experienced frequent failures to feed. The polymer construction appeared to be holding up well, with no visible cracks or stress marks. Cleaning the drum was straightforward, although disassembly for deep cleaning proved slightly challenging due to the spring tension. Compared to my experience with factory Saiga magazines, which are generally quite reliable with a wide range of ammunition, the ProMag drum required significantly more effort and still fell short in terms of consistent performance. The need for constant monitoring and occasional clearing of jams made it less than ideal for tactical applications.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model
Specifications
The ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine is designed specifically for the Saiga 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun.
Caliber: 12 Gauge. This drum is explicitly designed for 12-gauge shotguns only.
Capacity: 20 Rounds. This provides a substantial increase in firepower compared to standard Saiga magazines.
Finish: Black. The black finish offers a tactical look and provides some resistance to wear and corrosion.
Model: Saiga. Designed exclusively for Saiga 12-gauge shotguns.
Origin: Aftermarket. Not a factory magazine, so fitting issues can occur.
Construction: High-impact super strength black polymer with steel reinforcement inserts. This construction aims for a balance between durability and weight.
Overall Diameter: Approximately 7 inches. Its significant size can affect handling.
These specifications translate to a high-capacity feeding device that prioritizes durability and increased firepower. However, the aftermarket origin introduces potential compatibility issues that require careful consideration.
Performance & Functionality
When properly fitted and tuned, the ProMag SAI-A6 can deliver a significant increase in sustained firepower. However, achieving that state of proper fitment and tuning is challenging and frequently requires user modification.
Strengths: High capacity, relatively durable polymer construction, intimidating appearance. The increased round count can be advantageous in certain situations.
Weaknesses: Requires modification for many Saiga variants, inconsistent feeding with some ammunition types, increased weight affects handling. The need for modification makes it less user-friendly.
Unfortunately, the performance is often inconsistent. The drum only meets expectations after significant user intervention.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag SAI-A6‘s design focuses on maximizing capacity within a relatively compact drum format. The polymer construction keeps the weight manageable, though it’s still noticeably heavier than a standard 10-round magazine.
The build quality is decent for a polymer drum magazine. However, the steel reinforcement inserts could be more substantial to further improve reliability. There is a moderate learning curve.
The drum’s large size can make the Saiga somewhat unwieldy. Loading the drum can be time-consuming, though a speed loader helps significantly.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction appears to be reasonably durable, though long-term reliability remains to be seen. The steel reinforcement inserts are a welcome addition, but I would like to see even more robust reinforcement.
Maintenance involves periodic cleaning to remove powder residue and debris. Disassembly for deep cleaning is possible but requires caution due to spring tension.
With proper care, the ProMag SAI-A6 should last for a reasonable amount of time, but it’s not as robust as a factory magazine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag SAI-A6 doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, a speed loader designed for Saiga magazines is highly recommended to ease the loading process.
There are no direct customization options for the drum itself. But it is compatible with any Saiga 12 that can accept aftermarket magazines after modification, provided the magazine well is modified properly.
It is NOT compatible with Vepr-12 shotguns without significant modification.
Pros and Cons of ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model
Pros
- High 20-round capacity.
- Relatively durable polymer construction with steel reinforcement.
- Intimidating appearance and potential for increased firepower.
- Affordable price compared to some other aftermarket drums.
- Can be made to function reliably after significant modification.
Cons
- Requires modification to fit many Saiga 12 variants.
- Inconsistent feeding with some types of ammunition, even after modification.
- Increased weight and bulk affect handling.
- Aftermarket origin leads to potential reliability issues.
- Loading can be slow without a speed loader.
Who Should Buy ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model?
The ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine is perfect for Saiga 12 owners who are comfortable with modifying their firearms and are seeking a high-capacity option for range use or competition. It could also appeal to those who prioritize intimidating aesthetics.
This drum is NOT suited for users who want a drop-in solution and are unwilling to tinker with their firearms. Those who depend on absolute reliability for tactical or defensive purposes should also be cautious.
A must-have accessory is a Saiga magazine speed loader. Having various types of ammunition to test reliability after modification is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine 20RD 12ga Black Polymer – 12 Gauge Caliber, 20 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, Saiga Model
The ProMag SAI-A6 Saiga Shotgun Drum Magazine is a mixed bag. The promise of a 20-round capacity is appealing, and the polymer construction seems reasonably durable.
At a price of $84.49, the value proposition is questionable, considering the likely need for significant modification and the potential for continued reliability issues. I would only recommend it to experienced Saiga owners who are comfortable with firearm modification and willing to invest the time and effort to fine-tune its performance.
Ultimately, the ProMag SAI-A6 offers a significant increase in firepower. However, it requires a considerable investment of time and effort to achieve reliable function. Proceed with caution, and be prepared to get your hands dirty.