First Impressions of Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
A reliable .22LR pistol, especially a Ruger Mark Series, is a cornerstone for many shooters, from novice plinkers to seasoned competitors. The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons promise to enhance that reliability and offer a simple yet effective upgrade, replacing what is often an overlooked part. Let’s dive in and see if these little buttons live up to the hype and offer a worthwhile improvement for your Ruger Mark pistol.
I’ve been shooting Ruger Mark pistols for years, and while the platform is generally reliable, the magazines can be a weak point, especially with extensive use. Often, the follower button wears down or gets lost, leading to feeding issues and frustration. I was looking for a durable, reliable replacement that could address this potential problem, and the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons seemed like a promising solution.
Upon receiving the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons, the first thing I noticed was the simple, clean design. They are small, black, and seemingly made of a robust polymer. The build quality appears solid, instilling confidence that they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Compared to the factory Ruger follower buttons, the Rim/Edge buttons have a more defined edge and a slightly different texture. While other aftermarket buttons exist, the Rim/Edge offering stood out due to its promise of a non-galling material designed for smoother operation. This, coupled with the affordable price, made it an easy choice.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. They seemed like a well-designed and practical upgrade, and I was eager to test them out and see if they could truly improve the reliability of my Ruger Mark IV magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test involved a trip to my local shooting range with my trusty Ruger Mark IV 22/45. I loaded up several magazines, each fitted with the new Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons, and proceeded to put them through their paces. The range conditions were typical – sunny with a slight breeze.
From the very first magazine, the difference was noticeable. The magazines loaded smoothly, and the rounds fed into the chamber with consistent reliability. There were no hiccups, no failures to feed – just smooth, consistent performance.
I noticed no issues or surprises after the first range session; the magazines performed flawlessly with the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons installed. The ease of loading and the consistent feeding were immediately apparent improvements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons continue to perform admirably. I’ve used them in various conditions, including a dusty outdoor range and a slightly damp indoor environment, without any degradation in performance. The buttons show no signs of significant wear and tear.
Cleaning and maintenance have been a breeze; I simply wipe them down with a cloth when cleaning the magazines. The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons have demonstrably outperformed the original Ruger buttons, which often become gritty and can contribute to feeding issues. They’ve proven to be a worthwhile investment in the long-term reliability of my Ruger Mark IV magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rim/Edge
- Color: Black
- Gun Model: Ruger Mark IV 22/45
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
- Gun Make: Ruger
- Material: Non-galling polymer
These specifications are crucial because they ensure compatibility with Ruger Mark Series magazines and promise smooth, friction-free operation. The non-galling material is especially important for maintaining reliable feeding over time.
Performance & Functionality
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons significantly improve the reliability and smoothness of magazine feeding in Ruger Mark Series pistols. Their non-galling material reduces friction, allowing the magazine follower to glide smoothly, resulting in fewer malfunctions and easier reloads. The main strength is improved feeding reliability, while a potential weakness could be long-term durability compared to metal options, though this hasn’t been an issue in my testing.
They absolutely meet my expectations. I was seeking a simple, affordable solution to improve magazine reliability, and the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons deliver on that promise.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons boast a simple, functional design. The black polymer construction feels robust and well-made. The buttons are lightweight and integrate seamlessly into the Ruger Mark Series magazines.
Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools. Even someone with minimal gun maintenance experience can easily replace the follower buttons.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons, made from a non-galling material, seem designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. While only time will tell their ultimate longevity, initial impressions suggest they will last a considerable time with proper care. They’re easy to clean and maintain, ensuring they continue to function optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are primarily a standalone replacement part and don’t directly interface with other accessories. However, improved magazine reliability enhances the overall shooting experience with any Ruger Mark Series pistol, potentially optimizing the performance of other upgrades like aftermarket triggers or optics.
Pros and Cons of Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
Pros
- Significantly improved magazine feeding reliability, leading to fewer malfunctions.
- Reduced friction due to the non-galling material, promoting smoother operation.
- Easy to install, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing experience.
- Affordable price, making it an accessible upgrade for any Ruger Mark Series owner.
- Durable construction promises long-term performance and reliability.
Cons
- Polymer construction might not be as durable as metal alternatives in extreme conditions, although this has not been apparent during my testing.
- The black color might not appeal to users seeking a more visually distinct upgrade.
Who Should Buy Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons?
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are perfect for Ruger Mark Series owners who want to improve the reliability of their magazines and ensure smooth, consistent feeding. They are particularly beneficial for competitive shooters, plinkers who fire hundreds of rounds regularly, and anyone who relies on their Ruger Mark pistol for training or small-game hunting.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are completely satisfied with the performance of their stock Ruger Mark Series magazines and are unwilling to spend even a small amount to potentially enhance performance. Also, if you prefer metal components over polymer, you might want to explore other options.
A must-have addition when installing these buttons is a good quality magazine cleaning brush to keep the magazine internals free from debris and ensure the smoothest possible operation.
Conclusion on Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are a simple yet effective upgrade for Ruger Mark Series magazines. They address a potential weak point in the platform and offer a tangible improvement in feeding reliability and smoothness.
At a price of $4.49 for a two-pack, the value proposition is undeniable. This is an inexpensive way to improve the performance of your Ruger Mark pistol and ensure it continues to function reliably for years to come.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons to any Ruger Mark Series owner seeking to enhance their firearm’s reliability. Upgrade your magazines today, and experience the difference a small change can make!