First Thoughts on the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model
The Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model is a dedicated magazine designed specifically for Ruger‘s Mini-14 platform chambered in the increasingly popular 300 AAC Blackout cartridge. As an experienced tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless AR-15 magazines adapted for 300 Blackout, often with mixed results. This magazine promised to be different – a true OEM product from Ruger, designed from the ground up for reliable feeding of this unique cartridge in the Mini-14.
I was drawn to this product because I’ve been a long-time fan of the Mini-14 and recently acquired one in 300 Blackout. I was looking for magazines that would offer flawless function with both subsonic and supersonic loads, something that modified AR mags often fail to deliver. Upon receiving the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model, my initial reaction was… concern.
The overall appearance seemed solid enough, typical Ruger quality in terms of the black finish and laser etching of “300 AAC Blackout” on the side. However, the feel was… off. Compared to other Ruger Mini-14 magazines I own, this one felt slightly flimsy. I immediately compared it to some AR-15 300 Blackout magazines from Magpul and Lancer. While those are built for a different platform, their polymer construction felt more robust than the steel used in the Ruger mag. My excitement waned, replaced by cautious optimism that real-world testing would validate (or invalidate) my concerns.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model was at my local shooting range. I had a mix of supersonic and subsonic 300 Blackout ammunition on hand, ready to put this magazine through its paces. Unfortunately, my initial concerns were immediately validated.
The magazine simply would not seat properly in my Mini-14 300 Blackout. I tried multiple times, with varying degrees of force, but the magazine refused to lock into place. It was as if the dimensions were slightly off, preventing the magazine catch from engaging. This was a major disappointment, and frankly, rendered the magazine completely useless from the outset.
Extended Use & Reliability
Given the initial failure to even seat the magazine, extended use testing was impossible. There’s no wear and tear to report because the magazine never saw any actual use. Maintenance and care are irrelevant when the product is fundamentally incompatible with the firearm it’s designed for. My previous experiences with Ruger OEM magazines have generally been positive, making this experience even more perplexing.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model
Specifications
- Caliber: 300 AAC Blackout. This is a critical specification, as the 300 Blackout has different dimensions than 5.56 NATO, requiring a magazine designed for its unique shape.
- Capacity: 20 Rounds. A decent capacity for hunting or target shooting, providing ample rounds without being excessively bulky.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a tactical aesthetic.
- Model: Ruger Mini-14 300 Blackout. Clearly identifies the intended rifle platform.
- Origin: OEM (Ruger). Suggests quality control and compatibility, which, unfortunately, was not the case in my experience.
These specifications should translate to a reliable feeding experience, assuming the magazine is properly dimensioned for the intended rifle. The 20-round capacity is a good balance, and the OEM designation implies quality control. The 300 Blackout caliber designation is essential for proper ammunition feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The performance of the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model was abysmal. It failed to seat properly in my Mini-14, making it completely non-functional. The magazine’s primary function – feeding ammunition – was impossible to test due to this fundamental flaw.
There are no strengths to report, only a significant and critical weakness: incompatibility with the intended firearm. This failure to function completely undermined any potential benefits of the magazine’s design or specifications. It falls far short of expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality appeared acceptable at first glance, with a standard steel construction and black finish. However, the feel was noticeably less robust than other Ruger magazines I own. The magazine’s user-friendliness is non-existent, as it could not be properly inserted into the rifle.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the inability to use the magazine, assessing its long-term durability is impossible. Maintaining a magazine that cannot be used is a pointless exercise.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no accessories included with the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model. Customization options are irrelevant given the magazine’s failure to function in the first place.
Pros and Cons of Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model
Pros
- OEM Ruger product * (In theory, this should guarantee quality and compatibility).*
- 20-Round capacity * (If it actually worked, this would be a decent capacity).*
- 300 AAC Blackout Specific * (Designed for optimal feeding of this cartridge, again, in theory).*
Cons
- Does not fit the Ruger Mini-14 300 Blackout rifle.
- Questionable build quality compared to other Ruger magazines.
- Completely non-functional.
Who Should Buy Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model?
No one should buy the Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model in its current state. Given the documented issue of incompatibility, purchasing this magazine is a gamble with a high probability of failure. Individuals seeking reliable magazines for their Ruger Mini-14 300 Blackout should explore alternative options.
Conclusion on Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model
The Ruger MAG 20-300 BO 20RD – 300 AAC Blackout Caliber, 20 Rounds, OEM Origin, Ruger Model is, unfortunately, a complete failure. Despite being an OEM product from a reputable manufacturer, the magazine is fundamentally incompatible with the intended firearm. At a price of $26.99, the value proposition is non-existent, as the magazine is essentially a useless piece of metal.
I cannot recommend this product. Potential buyers should steer clear until Ruger addresses the compatibility issues and improves the overall build quality. Save your money and look for alternative magazine options that are known to function reliably with the Mini-14 300 Blackout. It is disappointing to see such a product from a manufacturer with the reputation of Ruger.