First Impressions of ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
The ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine promises a significant boost in firepower for SCCY owners. ProMag is a well-known manufacturer in the aftermarket magazine space, and this extended magazine aims to address the relatively low capacity of the factory SCCY magazines. Its claim to fame is a whopping 32-round capacity, offering a considerable advantage in situations where more rounds are needed.
I initially sought out this product because I wanted to increase the capacity of my SCCY CPX-2 for home defense scenarios. The factory 10-round magazine always felt a bit limiting, especially considering the potential need for multiple follow-up shots. I was hoping the ProMag extended magazine would provide a more substantial reserve without sacrificing reliability.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid enough, though the finish wasn’t as refined as the factory SCCY magazine. The stainless steel construction seemed durable, but the black oxide finish had a slightly rough texture. Its significant length was immediately apparent, making me wonder about its impact on concealability.
Compared to a standard 10-round SCCY magazine and a 15-round Glock magazine (which I use for another pistol), the ProMag offering was noticeably longer and heavier. I chose it primarily for the increased capacity, hoping that the trade-offs in size and weight would be worth it in terms of added firepower. The extra rounds seemed worth trying, at least, for the range.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The potential for increased capacity was exciting, but I also had some reservations about reliability and ergonomics, given ProMag’s reputation for occasionally hit-or-miss quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine at an outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny day. I ran several drills, including rapid-fire sequences and reloading exercises, to evaluate its performance under different conditions. The goal was to push its limits and identify any potential weaknesses.
During the initial range session, I encountered several failures to feed within the first few magazines. It was frustrating, as I’d hoped that these magazines would give my SCCY a massive firepower upgrade for home defense. The ammunition was standard brass-cased 9mm, so the ammo was not the likely culprit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple range trips, the ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine has shown some improvement in reliability. However, it still experiences occasional failures to feed, especially when fully loaded. It may require a break-in period.
The magazine body itself seems durable, with minimal signs of wear and tear on the heat-treated steel. Cleaning the magazine is relatively straightforward, although disassembling it for a thorough cleaning can be a bit challenging due to the strong spring tension.
In comparison to my experience with factory SCCY magazines, the ProMag offering definitely falls short in terms of reliability. While the increased capacity is appealing, the occasional malfunctions make it difficult to trust in critical situations. It’s great for the range, however.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the SCCY CPX-1 and CPX-2 pistols chambered in 9mm Luger. It boasts a 32-round capacity, significantly exceeding the standard 10-round magazine.
The magazine body is constructed from heat-treated steel, providing enhanced durability and resistance to deformation. The magazine spring is formed from heat-treated chrome silicone wire, ensuring consistent feeding and long-lasting performance. The injection molded magazine follower promotes smooth and reliable round presentation.
The 32-round capacity offers a substantial advantage in high-stress situations, providing more rounds before needing to reload. The steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear. The spring and follower design contributes to reliable feeding, although, in my testing, this aspect was not perfect.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine’s primary function is to increase the capacity of the SCCY CPX-1 and CPX-2 pistols. When it feeds reliably, it definitely allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads.
However, as mentioned earlier, the magazine’s reliability can be inconsistent. Failures to feed can occur, especially when the magazine is fully loaded, impacting its overall usability. It is important to note that these failures diminish as the magazine is broken in.
While the increased capacity is a significant strength, the reliability issues are a notable weakness. It does not consistently meet the expectations of a reliable, high-capacity magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is straightforward, with a black oxide finish on the stainless steel body. The extended length of the magazine significantly impacts the ergonomics of the pistol, making it less concealable.
The added length extends significantly beyond the grip, potentially hindering comfortable concealed carry. There is no learning curve with the use of the magazine, as it loads like any other pistol magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The heat-treated steel construction suggests that the magazine should be quite durable. After several weeks of use, there are no visible signs of significant wear or damage.
The magazine is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Disassembly for thorough cleaning can be a bit challenging due to the spring tension, but it is manageable with the right tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself.
It is compatible with standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines, although the extended length may require larger or specialized pouches. No need for different grips or anything like that.
Pros and Cons of ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Greatly increases magazine capacity (32 rounds).
- Heat-treated steel construction enhances durability.
- Affordable price point compared to other extended magazines.
- Easy to load and operate.
- Provides extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads.
Cons
- Reliability can be inconsistent, with occasional failures to feed.
- Extended length negatively impacts concealability.
- Black oxide finish may not be as durable as other coatings.
Who Should Buy ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for range shooters or those seeking a higher capacity option for home defense, provided they are willing to accept the potential for occasional malfunctions. Those who prioritize firepower over concealability will also find it appealing.
Those who demand absolute reliability for concealed carry or duty use should probably skip this product, unless they can thoroughly test and verify its reliability in their specific firearm.
A must-have modification would be to test the magazine thoroughly with various types of ammunition to identify any potential feeding issues. Another would be to only load 30 or 31 rounds, instead of the full 32, to see if that improves reliability.
Conclusion on ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
The ProMag SCCY CPX-2/CPX-1 9mm Luger 32 Round Extended Pistol Magazine offers a significant increase in firepower for SCCY CPX-1 and CPX-2 owners. The price is justified for range use.
However, its inconsistent reliability is a major drawback. I would only recommend it for range use and not for concealed carry or home defense without thorough testing and verification.
If you’re willing to accept the occasional malfunction in exchange for the added capacity, then give it a try. Otherwise, stick with the factory magazines for critical applications. Be sure to practice with any new magazines at the range before trusting them for self-defense.