Let’s Dive into Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish magazine is a crucial component for anyone seeking to utilize the formidable .450 Bushmaster round in their AR-15 platform. Designed specifically for the Ruger AR-556, this 5-round steel magazine promises reliability and durability when feeding straight-walled, large-bore ammunition. This magazine is not just another accessory; it’s an engineered solution to a common problem: reliably feeding the .450 Bushmaster in an AR-15.
I’ve always been on the hunt for reliable large-bore magazines for my AR platform. Many of my hunting grounds require straight-walled cartridges, and the .450 Bushmaster is a top performer. Feeding issues plague many aftermarket magazines, making the Ruger magazine a potential solution to the inconsistencies that I face.
Upon receiving the magazine, the first thing I noticed was the robust steel construction. The black finish looked durable and the overall feel was solid, reassuring me of its potential longevity. This contrasted sharply with some of the polymer magazines I’ve used in the past, which often felt flimsy and prone to cracking.
Compared to other .450 Bushmaster magazines on the market, particularly those from generic manufacturers, the Ruger magazine stood out due to its seemingly superior construction and the backing of a reputable firearms company. I had considered a similar magazine from a smaller brand, but ultimately, the proven track record of Ruger swayed my decision. Initial impressions were positive; the heft and finish indicated a commitment to quality that I hoped would translate to reliable performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish was at my local shooting range. I was keen to see if it lived up to its promise of reliable feeding with the .450 Bushmaster rounds. The weather was mild, with clear skies and a slight breeze.
The magazine loaded easily into my AR-556 lower, and the first five rounds cycled flawlessly. I experienced no jams or misfeeds, which was a significant improvement compared to previous experiences with aftermarket magazines. The rounds chambered smoothly, giving me confidence in the magazine’s performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a recent hog hunt, the Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish has proven its reliability. Through approximately 200 rounds, it has consistently fed ammunition without issue. I’ve experienced no degradation in performance, regardless of weather conditions.
The black finish shows minor wear marks from insertion and removal, but the magazine body remains structurally sound. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down after each use is usually sufficient. Compared to some of the cheaper options I’ve used, this Ruger magazine delivers consistent feeding, which boosts confidence during hunts and range sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish
Specifications
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish is specifically engineered for AR-15 platforms chambered in .450 Bushmaster. It boasts a 5-round capacity, conforming to hunting regulations in many areas. The magazine’s body is constructed from laser-welded 410 stainless steel.
It features an internal bracing system. It also has a black finish for corrosion resistance. These specifications are critical because the .450 Bushmaster is a straight-walled, large-bore cartridge. This requires a magazine designed with specific internal geometry to ensure proper alignment and feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish performs its primary function exceptionally well: reliably feeding .450 Bushmaster ammunition. Its construction ensures proper alignment and prevents the common issue of rounds nose-diving during cycling. While the 5-round capacity might be a limitation for some, it’s perfectly suited for hunting applications where capacity restrictions often apply.
The magazine’s greatest strength is its consistent and reliable feeding. It inspires confidence that each round will chamber without issue. A potential area for improvement might be offering higher capacity options for states or scenarios where they are permitted. Overall, the magazine meets and exceeds expectations for a purpose-built .450 Bushmaster magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish is built with durable materials. The magazine feels robust in hand, providing confidence in its ability to withstand rough handling in the field. The black finish provides a non-reflective surface.
The magazine loads easily and seats positively in the magazine well. The straight-walled design of the .450 Bushmaster limits overall ergonomic improvements. However, it is easy to handle and manipulate.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 410 stainless steel, the Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish is built to last. The steel construction resists deformation and cracking. The black finish provides a degree of corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments.
Maintenance is simple. A basic cleaning after each use helps remove any debris or fouling. With proper care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish is primarily designed as a standalone magazine, with limited customization options. It is compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and carriers. Aftermarket magazine followers are not generally available for this specific magazine due to its specialized design.
Some users may opt to add magazine couplers for quick reloads in certain situations. The magazine is primarily designed to function with the Ruger AR-556 platform. Compatibility with other AR-15 lowers chambered in .450 Bushmaster may vary, so testing is recommended.
Pros and Cons of Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: The internal bracing system ensures consistent and smooth feeding of .450 Bushmaster rounds, minimizing the risk of jams or misfeeds.
- Durable Construction: Made from laser-welded 410 stainless steel with a black finish, the magazine is built to withstand harsh conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
- Specifically Designed for .450 Bushmaster: Unlike generic magazines, this one is engineered to support straight-walled, large-bore rounds in an AR-15 magazine well.
- Easy to Maintain: The magazine’s simple design makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward, ensuring it remains in optimal working condition.
- Backed by Ruger: The Ruger name provides assurance of quality and reliability.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: The 5-round capacity may not be suitable for all users, particularly those seeking higher capacity options for competitive shooting or tactical applications.
- Proprietary Design: Due to its specialized design, aftermarket customization options and accessories are limited.
Who Should Buy Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish?
This magazine is perfect for hunters who utilize the .450 Bushmaster cartridge in their AR-15 platform. It’s also ideal for shooters who prioritize reliability and durability. Those residing in areas with magazine capacity restrictions will also find this magazine suitable.
Those seeking higher capacity magazines or extensive customization options should skip this product. It might also not be the best fit for those who frequently use AR-15s for tactical applications where larger magazine capacities are preferred. A must-have accessory is a quality AR-15 magazine pouch to protect the magazine during transport and use.
Conclusion on Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish
The Ruger 90679 AR-556 450 Bushmaster 5 Round Steel Black Finish is a well-engineered and reliable magazine. It provides a crucial function for AR-15 owners looking to utilize the .450 Bushmaster cartridge. The price is justified given the quality of construction and the peace of mind that comes with reliable feeding.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone needing a dependable .450 Bushmaster magazine for their AR-15. Don’t compromise on reliability; invest in the Ruger 90679 and experience the difference it makes in your shooting experience. Get yours today and experience the reliability that Ruger is known for!