First Impressions of ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine promises to drastically increase the capacity of the already impressive Shadow Systems CR920. Offering more than double the standard magazine capacity, this magazine aims to deliver enhanced firepower and extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads. ProMag aims for reliability and durability with its heat-treated steel construction and chrome silicon spring.
I’ve always appreciated the compact size of my CR920 for concealed carry, but I often wished for more rounds at the range. The standard 13-round magazine necessitates constant reloads during drills, disrupting the flow of training. I hoped this ProMag magazine would solve this issue, providing more capacity without sacrificing reliability.
Upon unboxing, the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine felt solid, the steel construction giving it a reassuring heft. The black oxide finish appeared durable, and the magazine spring felt strong. Compared to the factory Shadow Systems magazines, this ProMag offering is noticeably longer and heavier due to its increased capacity.
I considered other high-capacity magazines, but many had mixed reviews regarding reliability, and some weren’t specifically designed for the CR920. The ProMag, while having its detractors in some circles, offered a seemingly robust construction and a capacity that was hard to ignore, especially at its price point. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, knowing that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be finicky.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on various drills, including rapid-fire sequences and controlled pairs. Conditions were dry and sunny, presenting no immediate environmental challenges. Initial loading of the magazine was straightforward, although the last few rounds required significant effort.
The first few magazines fed without issue, but by the third magazine, I experienced several failures to feed. These malfunctions occurred randomly, regardless of the type of ammunition used. This initial unreliability was concerning, as a magazine needs to function consistently for practical use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and hundreds of rounds, the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine still showed signs of unreliability. While the failure rate decreased slightly with use, it never reached the level of reliability I demand from a magazine. Some range days had only one or two malfunctions, while others presented failures every other magazine.
Visually, the magazine showed minimal wear and tear, the black oxide finish holding up well to repeated use. Cleaning the magazine was relatively simple, the steel body easily wiped down, and the spring and follower accessible for thorough maintenance. Ultimately, despite diligent cleaning and maintenance, the magazine’s inconsistent performance was a major disappointment.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine is designed for the Shadow Systems CR920 chambered in 9mm Luger. Its primary feature is its extended 32-round capacity. The magazine body is constructed from heat-treated steel, offering enhanced strength and durability.
The magazine spring is formed from heat-treated chrome silicon wire, designed to maintain consistent tension and feeding reliability. The magazine follower is injection-molded polymer, intended for smooth and reliable cartridge feeding. The black oxide finish provides corrosion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
In theory, the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine should provide a significant increase in firepower for the Shadow Systems CR920. However, in practice, its performance was inconsistent, resulting in frequent failures to feed. While the increased capacity is a definite plus, the unreliability significantly detracts from its overall functionality.
The magazine’s primary strength is its high capacity, allowing for extended shooting sessions with fewer reloads. However, its weakness lies in its inconsistent feeding, which makes it unsuitable for defensive purposes or competition. It fell short of expectations, failing to provide the reliable performance necessary for serious use.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine is built with a robust steel body, providing a reassuring sense of durability. The added length increases the weight of the pistol, especially when fully loaded, which can affect handling. The magazine design isn’t inherently flawed, but its execution suffers from reliability issues.
Loading the magazine, especially the last few rounds, requires considerable force. The ergonomics are adequate, but the magazine’s primary issue stems from its questionable internal components affecting reliable feeding. A user may experience challenges loading this magazine to full capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine suggests it will last a long time, resistant to typical wear and tear. The black oxide finish offers good corrosion resistance, provided it is properly maintained. With regular cleaning and maintenance, the magazine should theoretically endure years of use, although its internal reliability remains a concern.
Disassembly and cleaning are relatively straightforward, with no specialized tools required. Regular maintenance is essential to help mitigate potential feeding issues, though it won’t completely resolve the core reliability problems. The ease of maintenance is a plus, but it doesn’t compensate for the performance shortcomings.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine itself does not offer any specific customization options. However, being a magazine, it’s compatible with any standard CR920 accessories that don’t interfere with magazine insertion or function. There are no readily available aftermarket baseplates or followers specifically for this magazine.
Compatibility with other brands is limited to those that also fit the CR920 platform and magazine well dimensions. This ProMag magazine is specifically designed for the Shadow Systems CR920.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- High Capacity: Offers 32 rounds, significantly increasing firepower and reducing the need for frequent reloads.
- Durable Construction: Made from heat-treated steel with a black oxide finish for enhanced strength and corrosion resistance.
- Affordable: Relatively inexpensive compared to other high-capacity magazines.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning.
- Compatible: Designed specifically for the Shadow Systems CR920.
Cons
- Unreliable Feeding: Prone to failures to feed, which significantly impacts its practicality.
- Difficult Loading: Requires considerable force to load the last few rounds.
- Added Weight: Increases the overall weight of the pistol, especially when fully loaded.
Who Should Buy ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine might be suitable for those seeking high capacity for range use only. It may also appeal to those willing to experiment and potentially modify the magazine for improved reliability. This magazine isn’t a reliable option for concealed carry.
Those who prioritize consistent reliability for self-defense or competition should skip this product. Users looking for a dependable extended magazine for their CR920 should seek alternative options from reputable manufacturers known for their quality control. If considering this magazine, no must-have accessories are needed, but consider purchasing extra factory magazines for reliability.
Conclusion on ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine promises a lot with its extended capacity and durable construction. Unfortunately, its inconsistent feeding issues severely undermine its value. While the price is attractive, the lack of reliability makes it difficult to recommend for anything beyond casual range use.
The value proposition is questionable, as the magazine’s unreliable performance detracts from its utility. I would not personally recommend the ProMag Steel Shadow Systems Cr920 9mm 32-Round Pistol Magazine for self-defense or any situation where reliability is paramount. If you’re looking for a dependable extended magazine for your CR920, explore other options, even if they come with a higher price tag.