Let’s Dive into ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine is a budget-friendly option for M&P 40 owners looking for extra magazines, especially in states with capacity restrictions. Manufactured by ProMag, these magazines promise durability through their heat-treated steel construction and chrome silicon springs. They aim to provide reliable feeding in your M&P 40, offering a cost-effective alternative to factory magazines.
Living in a state with magazine capacity limits, expanding my collection of reliable 10-round magazines for my Smith & Wesson M&P 40 was a necessity. Factory magazines can be expensive, so I was on the hunt for a more affordable option that wouldn’t compromise on performance. The promise of ProMag’s steel construction and positive user reviews led me to give these a try.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazines felt sturdy, but the finish wasn’t as refined as my factory S&W magazines. They have a blued steel appearance, and the polymer base plate didn’t quite sit flush with the magazine body on all three units I ordered. Despite these minor cosmetic concerns, the magazines felt solid enough to warrant range testing.
I considered magazines from Mec-Gar and ETS, known for their quality and reliability, but the ProMag offering had a price point that was too attractive to ignore for range use. The Mec-Gar magazines consistently receive high praise, but their cost is significantly higher per unit. I opted to test the ProMag magazines for potential cost savings, betting on their steel construction and positive user feedback regarding functionality.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While they didn’t have the same level of fit and finish as the factory magazines, they felt robust enough to warrant a thorough test at the range. Only time and rounds downrange would reveal if these magazines could live up to their promise of reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazines at my local outdoor shooting range. The conditions were relatively mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various .40 S&W ammunition through the three magazines, including Federal American Eagle, Winchester White Box, and some reloads.
The magazines loaded easily and locked into my M&P 40 with a positive click, although one magazine required a slightly firmer push than the others. Initially, all three magazines fed rounds without issue, but after the first 50 rounds, one magazine started experiencing occasional failures to feed. These failures manifested as the slide failing to fully chamber the next round, requiring a tap-rack-bang to resolve.
The ProMag magazines did require a bit of getting used to, especially compared to the smooth operation of the factory S&W magazines. The slightly rougher finish and the occasional feeding issue on one magazine demanded more attention to detail during loading and firing. I had to pay closer attention to ensuring the rounds were properly seated in the magazine.
After the first range session, I was a bit concerned about the reliability of one of the magazines. The failures to feed were infrequent but concerning, especially for a defensive firearm. I disassembled all three magazines for cleaning and inspection, hoping to identify any obvious causes for the malfunction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several more range sessions, totaling over 500 rounds fired through the ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazines, the initial feeding issues on one magazine persisted, albeit with decreasing frequency. The other two magazines performed flawlessly throughout the testing period.
Signs of wear and tear were evident, particularly on the magazine that experienced feeding issues. The bluing on the feed lips showed wear, and the polymer follower had some minor scuffing. The two magazines that functioned without issue showed minimal signs of wear.
Maintenance involved regular cleaning after each range session, using a standard gun cleaning solvent and a nylon brush. The magazines were relatively easy to disassemble and clean, but the spring tension was significant, requiring caution during reassembly. I applied a light coat of oil to the springs and followers after cleaning.
Compared to my experience with factory S&W magazines, the ProMag magazines are noticeably less refined in their operation and long-term reliability. While the two that functioned flawlessly were acceptable for range use, the third magazine’s occasional failures to feed made it unsuitable for defensive purposes. Ultimately, the factory magazines outperformed the ProMag magazines in overall reliability and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine is chambered in .40 S&W and has a 10-round capacity, adhering to magazine restrictions in certain states. The magazine body is constructed of heat-treated steel, providing structural rigidity and resistance to deformation.
The spring is precision wound using heat-treated chrome silicon wire, designed for consistent pressure and reliable feeding. The base and follower are injection molded from polymers selected for their durability and resistance to wear.
The blue color differentiates this magazine from other offerings and might aid in identifying it within a range bag. The magazine is designed for Smith & Wesson M&P 40 pistols, ensuring compatibility with this specific firearm platform. It’s crucial to ensure proper fit and function with your specific pistol model.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine functions adequately for range use, providing acceptable reliability for training and practice. As previously noted, one of the three magazines I tested experienced occasional failures to feed, impacting its overall performance.
The magazine’s primary strength is its affordability, offering a cost-effective alternative to factory magazines for high-volume shooters. Its weakness lies in its inconsistent reliability compared to higher-quality magazines like those from Smith & Wesson or Mec-Gar. Improvement is needed in quality control to ensure consistent feeding and prevent malfunctions.
For casual range use, the ProMag magazines meet basic expectations, providing a functional magazine at a reasonable price. However, for serious shooters or those relying on their firearm for self-defense, the inconsistent reliability may not be acceptable. I would recommend factory magazines or Mec-Gar magazines for those scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine features a blued steel body, providing a rugged and durable appearance. The polymer base plate offers a secure grip during magazine changes.
The weight of the steel construction contributes to a solid feel in hand, but the slightly rough finish is less comfortable compared to smoother factory magazines. The design is simple and functional, but the overall fit and finish could be improved.
The magazine design presents a slightly noticeable learning curve due to its slightly tighter tolerances and potential for needing a more assertive seating. This can be improved with use, but remains a factor in comparison to factory magazines.
Durability & Maintenance
The heat-treated steel construction of the ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine suggests a reasonable lifespan with proper care. The durability of the spring is a key factor in long-term reliability, and the chrome silicon wire should provide adequate resistance to fatigue.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Disassembly and reassembly require caution due to spring tension, but the process is relatively simple with basic tools. With proper care, the magazine should provide a reasonable service life, but its long-term durability may not match that of factory magazines.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard magazine components. There are limited customization options available for this specific magazine.
Aftermarket base plates may be available from other brands, allowing for enhanced grip or increased capacity where legal. It is crucial to ensure that any aftermarket accessories are compatible with the magazine body and do not compromise its reliability. The ProMag magazine is compatible with standard M&P 40 magazine pouches and carriers.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it a budget-friendly option for stocking up on magazines.
- Durable heat-treated steel construction for the magazine body.
- Compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 40 pistols.
- Functions acceptably for range use and training (with the caveat of potential reliability issues in some units).
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
Cons
- Inconsistent reliability compared to factory S&W magazines (one of the three units tested experienced occasional failures to feed).
- Fit and finish are less refined than factory magazines.
- May require a slightly firmer push to seat properly in the pistol.
Who Should Buy ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for casual range shooters looking for an affordable way to expand their magazine collection. It is also suitable for individuals living in states with magazine capacity restrictions who need 10-round magazines.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who rely on their firearm for self-defense or law enforcement purposes due to the potential for inconsistent reliability. It’s also not for those who demand the highest level of fit and finish.
A must-have accessory for these magazines is a reliable magazine pouch or carrier for easy access and secure storage. Regular cleaning and lubrication are also recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion on ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Overall, the ProMag Smith&Wesson M&P 40 .40S&W 10 Round Pistol Magazine presents a mixed bag of pros and cons. Its affordability is its most compelling feature, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters.
The value proposition is reasonable if you understand the potential for some units to exhibit less-than-perfect reliability. Given my experience, I would recommend these magazines primarily for range use, and with the understanding that they might not perform as consistently as factory magazines.
I would personally recommend the ProMag magazines for those seeking affordable range magazines with the caveat that I cannot guarantee the same flawless functionality as factory magazines. If absolute reliability is paramount, investing in factory magazines or magazines from reputable brands like Mec-Gar is the better choice. Make an informed decision, weigh your priorities, and happy shooting!