First Impressions of Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine
The Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine immediately grabs your attention with its unique design, promising a blend of lightweight construction and high-capacity firepower. This magazine piqued my interest because I’ve been searching for a reliable, high-capacity option for my AR-15 that doesn’t add excessive weight, especially during extended range sessions and potential multi-gun competitions.
My journey to this particular magazine started with a familiar problem: the limitations of standard 30-round magazines. Reloading frequently can be a hindrance during training exercises and competitive shooting. I needed a solution that offered more rounds without sacrificing maneuverability or reliability.
The first thing I noticed unboxing the Warrior Systems magazine was its distinctive skeletonized design and the flat dark earth (FDE) finish. The aluminum construction felt robust, yet surprisingly light, suggesting a good balance between durability and weight reduction. Compared to standard steel magazines and even polymer drums, the Warrior Systems magazine stood out with its unique aesthetic and promise of reduced weight.
I picked this over other high-capacity options like drum magazines primarily because of its form factor. Drum magazines, while offering high capacity, can be bulky and unwieldy. I was definitely excited about the potential of a 50-round magazine that felt more like an extended standard magazine.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Warrior Systems magazine was at my local shooting range. I wanted a controlled environment to assess its feeding reliability and overall performance. The range offered a mix of static targets at varying distances, allowing me to evaluate the magazine’s impact on my shooting rhythm.
I ran several drills, including rapid-fire strings and controlled pairs, to test the magazine’s ability to keep up with a demanding shooting pace. The magazine was loaded with standard 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. From the start, the loading process was straightforward, similar to any standard AR-15 magazine.
There were no immediate issues after the initial use. The magazine fed rounds smoothly into my AR-15 without any noticeable hiccups.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Warrior Systems magazine has held up well, becoming a regular part of my range kit. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it in varying conditions, including a particularly dusty day at an outdoor range. I’ve also tested it after leaving it loaded for several weeks to see if there were any spring tension issues.
So far, the magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The FDE finish has proven to be quite durable, with only minor scratches visible. Cleaning is pretty straightforward; I use a standard magazine brush and solvent to remove any carbon buildup or debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, off-brand magazines, the Warrior Systems offering is a significant step up. It’s consistently reliable, which is crucial for serious training and competition.
Breaking Down the Features of Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine
Specifications
The Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine boasts several key specifications. It is chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition, ensuring compatibility with standard AR-15 platforms. The magazine has a 50-round capacity, offering a substantial increase over standard 30-round magazines.
The body is constructed from aluminum, which balances durability and weight. Its finish is a flat dark earth (FDE) Cerakote, chosen for its resistance to wear and corrosion. Designed for AR-platform rifles, the magazine is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver built to Mil-Spec standards.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the magazine’s performance and usability. The high capacity reduces the need for frequent reloads, improving efficiency during training or competition. The aluminum construction ensures the magazine can withstand the rigors of regular use without adding significant weight to the rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The Warrior Systems magazine performs its job admirably, providing reliable feeding and consistent performance. Its primary strength lies in its high capacity, which allows for longer shooting sessions without interruption. The magazine feeds rounds smoothly and consistently, minimizing malfunctions.
One potential weakness is that the skeletonized design might allow more dirt and debris to enter the magazine compared to a fully enclosed design, although I have not seen any evidence of this affecting performance. I haven’t noticed any degradation of performance yet, but it’s something to monitor over time.
Overall, the magazine meets and even exceeds my expectations. It delivers the promised high capacity without sacrificing reliability or adding excessive weight.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Warrior Systems magazine is excellent. The aluminum construction feels solid and robust, while the skeletonized design gives it a distinctive look. The FDE finish is evenly applied and appears durable.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, although the skeletonized design can take some getting used to during loading. There’s no significant learning curve, however. The magazine fits snugly into my AR-15’s magazine well, and the release mechanism functions smoothly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Warrior Systems magazine appears to be quite durable. The aluminum construction is resistant to bending and deformation, and the FDE finish is holding up well to regular use. I anticipate that it will last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Maintaining the magazine is simple. Regular cleaning with a magazine brush and solvent is sufficient to remove any fouling or debris. The magazine disassembles easily for more thorough cleaning if necessary, but the skeletonized design does make it a bit more tedious.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warrior Systems magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it’s compatible with standard AR-15 magazine pouches and loading tools. Since it follows the AR-15 magazine form factor, there is no need for brand specific upgrades. You may want to use a magazine loader if you do a lot of shooting, due to the higher capacity.
The magazine itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization options beyond the color choice. It’s designed to be a reliable, high-capacity magazine that integrates seamlessly with existing AR-15 setups.
Pros and Cons of Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine
Pros
- High capacity (50 rounds) significantly reduces the need for frequent reloads.
- Lightweight aluminum construction for enhanced maneuverability.
- Durable FDE finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- Reliable feeding ensures consistent performance.
- Unique skeletonized design enhances aesthetics.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard-capacity magazines.
- Skeletonized design might allow more debris to enter the magazine.
Who Should Buy Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine?
The Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical trainers, and anyone who values reduced reload times and increased firepower. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate unique and well-designed accessories for their AR-15s.
If you’re on a tight budget or primarily use your AR-15 for casual target practice, you might want to skip this product and stick with standard-capacity magazines. Someone who avoids aluminum magazines should also skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality magazine loader to make filling the 50-round capacity easier and faster.
Conclusion on Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine
The Warrior Systems Warrior Skeletonized AR-15 50 Round 5.56x45mm FDE Rifle Magazine is a well-designed, high-capacity magazine that delivers on its promises. It’s lightweight, durable, and reliable, making it a valuable addition to any AR-15 owner’s collection.
The price is justified by the increased capacity, quality construction, and enhanced shooting experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-performance magazine that stands out from the crowd. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference a high-capacity magazine can make!