The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
In the world of .308/7.62 NATO rifles, magazine reliability is paramount. The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin promises a cost-effective solution for feeding your FN/FAL or compatible rifle, but does it deliver? I was initially skeptical, having seen mixed reviews on polymer magazines for this platform.
My quest for reliable, yet affordable, FAL magazines led me to the Thermold option. Metal FAL mags have skyrocketed in price and quality surplus is getting harder to find, creating a need for viable alternatives. The promise of a magazine potentially manufactured for Kel-Tec, at a fraction of the cost of a branded mag, piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Thermold mag felt surprisingly lightweight due to its Zytel nylon construction. The finish was a basic matte black, and the overall build felt robust enough for range use, but I immediately wondered about its long-term durability. Compared to my original steel FAL magazines, the Thermold offering was noticeably less rigid, raising concerns about potential feed lip deformation under pressure.
I considered options from Magpul and DSArms, both known for quality AR-style magazines. However, neither offered a comparable polymer FAL magazine at this price point, and the mixed user reviews on other aftermarket FAL mags pushed me towards the Thermold. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; while the material felt less premium than steel, the overall design seemed functional, and the price was certainly attractive.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Thermold mag was on a bright, sunny afternoon. I ran it through my Belgian FN/FAL, alternating between it and my steel magazines. Initially, loading was a bit stiff, requiring more force to seat the magazine, especially with a closed bolt.
The magazine functioned without issue for the first two loading cycles at the range. I was firing standard 7.62×51 NATO ammunition. After the second cycle I noticed that the magazine was difficult to seat, but I believed I could live with the issue because the price was right.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a few informal tests in the field, the Thermold mag started to show some weaknesses. The polymer construction held up reasonably well to repeated loading and unloading, but the feed lips showed slight signs of deformation after prolonged use. Cleaning was straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a cloth was usually sufficient.
Compared to my experience with steel FAL magazines, the Thermold offering was noticeably less reliable, particularly when subjected to rough handling. While my steel magazines have endured years of use and abuse with minimal issues, the Thermold mag occasionally exhibited feeding problems, especially when fully loaded. The most telling experiment was loading a magazine to capacity and leaving it for a few days, then testing for feeding issues; the top rounds seemed to be slightly misaligned.
Breaking Down the Features of Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon is designed for rifles chambered in .308 Winchester/7.62 NATO caliber, specifically those adhering to the metric FN/FAL pattern. It features a 20-round capacity, offering a standard loadout for most FAL variants. Constructed from Zytel nylon, the magazine is remarkably lightweight.
These specifications translate to a more affordable magazine option, but potentially at the expense of long-term durability. The 20-round capacity is standard for FALs. The Zytel nylon makes it lighter, reducing the overall weight of the rifle when fully loaded, which is great for carrying.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, the Thermold mag is a mixed bag. When new and properly seated, it feeds rounds reliably, with few instances of failure to feed. However, the seating issue can be a persistent problem. It doesn’t lock into place with the same confidence as a steel magazine.
The primary strength of the Thermold mag is its price point. Its primary weakness is seating and reliability. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly option.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is utilitarian, with a simple matte black finish and no frills. The Zytel nylon makes the magazine light but also contributes to a somewhat cheap feel. Ergonomically, the magazine is easy to grip. The exterior is generally smooth.
The build quality feels lighter and more flexible than that of steel magazines, and there is a slight learning curve to seating the magazine properly, especially under pressure. The material’s weight feels very different from steel and can be off-putting.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Thermold mag is questionable, based on my experience and other user reports. While the polymer construction is resistant to corrosion, the feed lips are prone to deformation over time, especially if the magazine is stored fully loaded. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a cloth and some mild solvent to remove any grime or debris.
The life expectancy of the magazine is likely shorter compared to steel alternatives, particularly under heavy use. Repair options are limited, given the polymer construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon doesn’t offer many customization options. There are no readily available aftermarket baseplates or followers designed specifically for it. Its compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to its unique design and dimensions.
While some users have experimented with modifying the magazine for improved feeding or durability, such modifications are not officially supported by Thermold and may void any potential warranty.
Pros and Cons of Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- More affordable than steel FAL magazines.
- Lightweight design reduces overall rifle weight.
- Functions reliably when new and properly seated.
- Compatible with metric pattern FN/FAL rifles and some Kel-Tec models.
- Corrosion-resistant polymer construction.
Cons
- Seating can be difficult, particularly with a closed bolt.
- Feed lips prone to deformation over time.
- Questionable long-term durability compared to steel magazines.
- Not ideal for rugged field use or tactical applications.
Who Should Buy Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin?
The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon is perfect for range shooters and casual FAL owners looking for an affordable way to supplement their magazine supply. This magazine is especially relevant for Kel-Tec RFB owners seeking a cost-effective alternative to proprietary magazines.
This is not for individuals who should skip this product. This mag isn’t for serious tactical users, hunters who subject their gear to extreme conditions, or anyone prioritizing absolute reliability over cost.
A must-have modification would be regularly inspecting the feed lips and overall body for cracks. Also keep an eye on any signs of warping.
Conclusion on Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon – 308 Winchester/7.62 NATO Caliber, 20 Rounds, Black, Aftermarket Origin
The Thermold 20 Round Black Mag For FN Falcon offers an affordable entry point into the world of FAL magazines. Its lightweight design and corrosion-resistant polymer construction are definite advantages. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations, including seating issues and questionable long-term durability.
At $13.99, the price is certainly justified for range use and casual plinking. I would recommend the Thermold mag with reservations.
If you are a Kel-Tec RFB owner on a budget, or a recreational shooter needing additional magazines for range practice, the Thermold mag could be a viable option. Just temper your expectations and consider it a consumable rather than a lifetime investment. Secure yours today and bolster your mag collection without breaking the bank!