First Impressions of ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine
The ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine promises to address a common frustration for owners of the Mossberg 715T: limited magazine capacity. As someone who’s spent years advising customers on tactical gear, I’ve seen firsthand how a larger magazine can significantly improve the shooting experience. I was eager to see if this ProMag offering lived up to the hype.
My .22 plinking sessions were constantly interrupted by the need to reload the factory 10-round magazine. This became tiresome, especially when teaching new shooters who needed consistent trigger time. I needed a reliable, high-capacity magazine that wouldn’t break the bank or compromise the rifle’s functionality.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag magazine felt solid, noticeably heavier than the factory magazine. The steel construction immediately instilled confidence, unlike some aftermarket plastic magazines I’ve handled. The polymer body extension appeared well-molded, and the overall build seemed robust enough to withstand regular use.
Compared to other high-capacity .22 LR magazines on the market, the ProMag stood out due to its steel construction. Many competing options rely heavily on polymer, which can be prone to cracking or warping over time. I chose this magazine hoping its durability would outweigh any potential feeding issues associated with aftermarket magazines. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine looked and felt like a serious upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for assessing the magazine’s basic functionality. Loading the magazine was initially stiff, requiring significant thumb pressure, but I expected this to improve with use.
The first few magazines cycled flawlessly, allowing me to fire strings of .22 LR rounds without interruption. However, after about 75 rounds, I experienced a few failures to feed. These malfunctions seemed to occur more frequently as the magazine emptied.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine presented a mixed bag of results. The initial stiffness during loading lessened somewhat, but loading remained more challenging than the factory magazine. The magazine has held up well with no major signs of wear and tear.
I clean the magazine after every range visit, using a brush and CLP to remove any residue. The ProMag disassembles easily for cleaning, although reassembling the spring can be a bit fiddly. Compared to my experience with other aftermarket magazines, the ProMag’s reliability is about average; not perfect, but not terrible either.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is designed specifically for the Mossberg 715T .22 LR rifle. It features a 25-round capacity, significantly increasing the rifle’s firepower compared to the factory 10-round magazine. The magazine body is constructed from heat-treated steel for durability, with a polymer body extension to accommodate the extra rounds.
The magazine spring is formed from music wire, known for its strength and resistance to fatigue. The follower is injection molded. These specifications are critical because they directly influence the magazine’s reliability, longevity, and overall shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
When it runs smoothly, the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine dramatically enhances the fun factor of shooting the Mossberg 715T. The increased capacity reduces the frequency of reloads, allowing for longer and more enjoyable shooting sessions. The primary weakness is its occasional failure to feed.
The ProMag meets expectations in terms of increased capacity and durability, but it falls short in terms of consistent reliability. It’s a step up from the factory magazine in terms of round count but a step down in terms of jam-free operation.
Design & Ergonomics
The steel construction of the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine gives it a solid, robust feel. The added weight is noticeable compared to the factory magazine, but it’s not excessive. There isn’t a significant learning curve, although loading can take some practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The heat-treated steel body of the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine suggests it should last for years with proper care. Disassembly for cleaning is relatively straightforward, and the magazine can be easily wiped down with a cloth and solvent. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent malfunctions and ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is a standalone product and doesn’t require additional accessories. However, its increased capacity pairs well with other upgrades for the Mossberg 715T, such as optics or aftermarket triggers. Compatibility with other accessories isn’t a concern, as the magazine simply replaces the factory version.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine
Pros
- Significantly increased 25-round capacity allows for longer shooting sessions with fewer reloads.
- Steel construction provides excellent durability and a robust feel.
- Relatively easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
- Offers a more affordable alternative to some other high-capacity magazines.
- Direct replacement for the factory magazine, requiring no modifications to the rifle.
Cons
- Occasional failures to feed can disrupt shooting sessions.
- Loading can be stiff, particularly when new.
- The added weight might be noticeable for some users.
Who Should Buy ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine?
The ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is perfect for recreational shooters and plinkers who want to spend more time shooting and less time reloading. It’s also suitable for those who want to increase the firepower of their Mossberg 715T for pest control or small game hunting. Individuals looking for a 100% reliable, jam-free magazine should probably skip this product.
A speed loader designed for .22 LR magazines would be a must-have accessory to alleviate the stiffness of loading.
Conclusion on ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine
The ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine offers a compelling upgrade for Mossberg 715T owners seeking increased firepower. While it’s not without its flaws, the 25-round capacity and steel construction make it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s arsenal. The price of $31.89 is reasonable considering the increased capacity and durability compared to the factory magazine.
I would recommend this magazine with a caveat: be prepared for occasional malfunctions and factor in the cost of a speed loader. Despite its shortcomings, the ProMag Steel/Mossberg 715T .22 LR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is a significant improvement over the factory magazine and a fun addition to any range day. Upgrade your Mossberg 715T today and experience the joy of extended shooting sessions.