First Impressions of ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine
The ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine is a replacement magazine designed for several classic Smith & Wesson 9mm pistols. Marketed as a reliable and affordable alternative to factory magazines, it promises to deliver consistent feeding and performance for owners of these legacy firearms. The ProMag magazine aims to breathe new life into aging pistols, ensuring they remain viable options for range use, competition, or even self-defense.
My search for this magazine stemmed from a frustrating experience at the range. My trusty S&W 5906, a pistol I inherited from my grandfather, had started experiencing frequent failures to feed. Suspecting the original magazines were the culprit after years of use and storage, I sought a cost-effective solution to restore its reliability. I needed a magazine that offered similar capacity and dependable performance without breaking the bank.
Upon receiving the ProMag magazine, my initial impression was a mixed bag. The blued steel construction appeared robust enough, but the finish seemed a bit rough around the edges compared to the factory magazines. The weight was comparable, and the dimensions appeared to match, giving me some initial hope. Compared to Mec-Gar magazines, known for their quality, the ProMag felt slightly less refined, and its price reflected that. I chose the ProMag for its affordability, hoping it would provide acceptable performance despite my slight reservations.
My first impression wasn’t overwhelmingly positive, but I wasn’t immediately disappointed either. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see how it would perform at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at an outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I loaded the ProMag magazine with 15 rounds of standard 115-grain 9mm FMJ ammunition. The magazine seated firmly in my S&W 5906 with a reassuring click.
During the first few magazines, I experienced a couple of failures to feed, where the slide failed to fully chamber a round. This occurred more frequently with the ProMag than with my remaining original S&W magazine. The magazine also seemed to have trouble seating fully when fully loaded, requiring a more forceful slam home than I was used to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the ProMag magazine showed both improvements and persistent issues. The initial feeding problems decreased slightly after the first 100 rounds, suggesting a break-in period. However, it remained less reliable than the original S&W magazines.
There were no obvious signs of significant wear and tear, though the blued finish started to show some slight scratches around the magazine well. I made sure to clean and lubricate the magazine after each use, paying particular attention to the follower and spring. This maintenance routine seemed to help reduce some of the feeding issues. While it improved over time, the ProMag still occasionally failed to lock the slide back on the last round, a frustration not experienced with my factory S&W magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine is chambered in 9mm Luger. It has a 15-round capacity, constructed from heat-treated steel and finished with a blued coating. The magazine features an injection-molded polymer follower and a magazine spring formed from chrome silicone wire.
These specifications are essential for reliable feeding and durability. The 15-round capacity provides ample firepower, while the steel construction ensures it can withstand the stresses of repeated use.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag magazine’s primary function is to reliably feed ammunition into compatible S&W pistols. It performs adequately, though not flawlessly. Its biggest weakness lies in its occasional feeding issues and failures to lock the slide back.
It meets the basic expectation of holding and feeding rounds but falls short of the reliability offered by factory magazines or higher-end aftermarket options. It definitely needs improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine is designed as a standard double-stack pistol magazine. It is compatible with specified S&W models. The blued steel construction feels solid but lacks the refinement of higher-end magazines.
There is no learning curve. It’s easy to load and insert into the pistol, however, some users might find the magazine difficult to seat when fully loaded.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests good durability. Only time will tell how well it holds up to long-term use. It is easy to disassemble for cleaning and lubrication, a crucial step in maintaining its functionality.
Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensuring the longevity and reliability of this magazine. Pay attention to the spring, follower, and feed lips.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is a standard replacement magazine, so it doesn’t inherently offer customization options. However, some users might experiment with aftermarket followers or springs to improve its performance.
The magazine is designed to function with the standard components of the S&W pistols it is designed for. While not specifically designed to be customized, users are able to find 3rd party accessories that may improve it’s performance.
Pros and Cons of ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Affordable: The ProMag magazine is significantly cheaper than factory or premium aftermarket options.
- 15-Round Capacity: Offers a decent capacity for range use or competition.
- Compatible with Classic S&W Pistols: Extends the life and usability of older, reliable firearms.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design makes cleaning and lubrication straightforward.
Cons
- Inconsistent Reliability: Occasional feeding issues and failures to lock the slide back.
- Rough Finish: Lacks the refined feel of higher-quality magazines.
- Seating Issues: Can be difficult to seat fully when fully loaded.
Who Should Buy ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who own S&W 5900, 910, 915, or 459 series pistols. It is also a good choice for those who need extra magazines for range use and are willing to accept a slight reduction in reliability compared to factory magazines.
Individuals who rely on their S&W pistol for self-defense or competitive shooting where consistent performance is critical should probably skip this product. They should invest in higher-quality magazines from reputable manufacturers like Mec-Gar.
A must-have modification to consider would be purchasing a new follower and/or spring. This would increase the likelihood of feeding issues and failure to lock the slide back.
Conclusion on ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine
The ProMag S&W 5900/910/915/459 9mm Luger 15 Round Double Stack Pistol Magazine offers a budget-friendly way to keep classic S&W pistols running. However, its inconsistent reliability is a significant drawback. The price is justified for casual range use, but serious shooters should consider investing in higher-quality options.
Personally, I would recommend it with reservations. It’s a decent option for extending the life of a beloved firearm on a budget, but be prepared for occasional hiccups. If flawless reliability is paramount, explore alternative magazines. Consider this magazine a starting point. Get out and shoot. You might find you’ll want to get a higher quality magazine after this one gets you back in the game.