First Impressions of Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black
The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black magazine is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but its importance to a smooth-functioning bolt-action rifle cannot be overstated. A reliable magazine is essential for consistent feeding and cycling, especially when the pressure is on during a hunt or at the range. I was looking for a dependable magazine compatible with multiple calibers for my Savage Arms rifle, and this Stevens offering seemed like a potential solution.
For years, I’ve struggled with aftermarket magazines that promised the world but delivered frustrating failures to feed. I needed something that I could trust in any situation, whether it was a precision shot at a whitetail or rapid follow-up shots on varmints. The promise of compatibility with .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, and 6.5 Creedmoor calibers was especially intriguing, as it would simplify my gear and reduce the number of magazines I needed to carry.
My initial impression upon receiving the Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black was positive, but cautious. The black finish was clean and even, and the magazine felt solid in my hand, though a bit lighter than my existing steel magazines. I had previously used some Magpul AICS magazines, but wanted a steel option this time. I was hoping the Stevens magazine would provide similar reliability at a more reasonable price point.
Was I excited? I wouldn’t say “excited” is the right word for a rifle magazine, but I was definitely hopeful. I was hoping for a reliable and versatile magazine that would enhance the performance of my rifle. Only real-world testing would reveal if the Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black could truly deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black was at my local shooting range. I loaded it with .308 Winchester rounds and inserted it into my Savage Arms 110. The magazine seated securely with a positive click, which was reassuring.
I ran through several strings of fire, focusing on smooth bolt manipulation and observing the feeding process. There were no initial issues; the rounds fed smoothly and consistently. I then switched to 6.5 Creedmoor rounds and repeated the process, again without any hiccups.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black has proven to be surprisingly reliable. I’ve used it extensively at the range and on several hunting trips in varying conditions. I’ve exposed it to dust, mud, and even a bit of light rain, and it has continued to function flawlessly.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well, and the magazine body remains straight and unbent, despite some rough handling. Cleaning is simple; I typically just wipe it down with a cloth and apply a light coat of oil to the internal components.
This magazine has certainly exceeded my expectations, particularly considering its price point. It has become my go-to magazine for both range practice and hunting situations. I can confidently say it outperforms some of the more expensive magazines I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black
Specifications
The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black magazine is designed specifically for Savage Arms and Stevens bolt-action rifles chambered in .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, and 6.5 Creedmoor. It has a 5-round capacity. The magazine body is made of blued steel.
The blued finish offers a degree of corrosion resistance. This is critical for maintaining reliable feeding in various environments. The 5-round capacity is a good balance between capacity and profile, making it suitable for both hunting and range use.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any magazine is to reliably feed ammunition into the rifle’s chamber. The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black performs this task admirably. I experienced no failures to feed or double feeds throughout my testing.
The magazine’s strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. It’s a straightforward design with no unnecessary frills, which contributes to its reliability. While not a high-capacity option, the 5-round capacity is often preferred in hunting situations, where regulations may limit magazine size.
Design & Ergonomics
The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black features a simple, functional design. The blued steel gives it a classic look and provides a durable exterior. While not exceptionally lightweight, it feels sturdy in the hand and seats firmly in the rifle’s magazine well.
There’s no complicated latch or release mechanism; it functions just as you’d expect a standard magazine to. There’s a slight learning curve in how much force is needed to fully seat the magazine when fully loaded, but this is the only element that required any “getting used to”.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black is built to last. The steel construction can withstand considerable abuse, and the blued finish resists corrosion effectively. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
I foresee this magazine lasting for many years with proper care. The design is simple enough that there are no small parts likely to break or wear out prematurely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black is a standalone magazine and doesn’t offer much in the way of customization options. It is designed to work seamlessly with Savage Arms and Stevens rifles that accept AICS-pattern magazines.
There are no specific accessories designed exclusively for this magazine. It is compatible with any standard AICS-pattern magazine pouch or carrier.
Pros and Cons of Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black
Pros
- It offers excellent reliability, providing consistent feeding in multiple calibers.
- The robust steel construction ensures durability, even in harsh conditions.
- It’s affordable, offering great value for the money.
- The 5-round capacity is ideal for hunting and conforms to most regulations.
- The simple design makes maintenance easy.
Cons
- The blued finish, while durable, may require more diligent maintenance than stainless steel in extremely corrosive environments.
- It’s only compatible with rifles that accept AICS-pattern magazines, limiting its versatility.
Who Should Buy Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black?
This magazine is perfect for hunters who use Savage Arms or Stevens rifles chambered in .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, or 6.5 Creedmoor. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters who want a reliable and affordable magazine for their bolt-action rifle. Anyone who needs a durable and dependable magazine for common short-action calibers will also benefit.
Those who need a higher capacity magazine or who don’t own a compatible rifle should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a magazine pouch for easy carrying and quick access in the field.
Conclusion on Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black
The Stevens 56305 5rds 243Win/308Win/6.5Creedmoor Black is a surprisingly excellent magazine. It offers outstanding reliability, durable construction, and multi-caliber compatibility at an affordable price. The price is definitely justified, considering the consistent performance and peace of mind it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable feeding solution for their Savage Arms or Stevens rifle. Don’t let the simple design fool you; this magazine is a workhorse that will consistently deliver. Invest in a few of these magazines, and you’ll be well-prepared for your next hunting trip or range session.