First Impressions of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E is a seemingly simple component, but its reliability is crucial to the AR-15 platform. After years of using various magazines, I was looking for a robust and consistently feeding option for my primary AR. This particular magazine, from Ammunition Storage Components (ASC), caught my eye due to its advertised durability and the visually distinct orange follower, promising enhanced feeding.
What prompted me to seek out this magazine was a recurring problem with inconsistent feeding in one of my ARs. The existing magazines, a mix of brands, were proving unreliable. I needed a magazine known for consistent performance and durability under stress, something that could withstand regular range use and, potentially, more demanding tactical applications.
Upon receiving the ASC magazine, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the aluminum body. The black finish was even and appeared durable, and the orange follower offered a stark contrast, making it easy to verify the magazine was either empty or loaded at a glance. Compared to some cheaper steel magazines I’ve used, this felt more substantial and better made.
Compared to Magpul PMAGs, which are polymer and known for their reliability, the ASC magazine offers a different feel, more akin to traditional metal magazines. I also considered Lancer L5AWM magazines, which combine a polymer body with a steel-reinforced feed lip, but the all-aluminum construction of the ASC seemed better suited for potentially rough handling. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – it appeared well-made and potentially very reliable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E at my local shooting range. It was a typical range day, sunny and relatively dry. I ran approximately 200 rounds of .223 Remington ammunition through the magazine, mixed between brass and steel cased ammo.
The magazine performed flawlessly during the initial testing. Loading was smooth, and the rounds chambered without any hesitation or failures to feed. There were no issues with the bolt locking back on the last round.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the ASC magazine has proven to be a reliable performer. It has been subjected to several range sessions, including a particularly dusty outdoor environment. The black finish has held up well, with only minor signs of wear around the feed lips.
Maintenance has been minimal. I typically disassemble and clean the magazine after each range session. The aluminum construction cleans easily, and the orange follower shows no signs of degradation. Comparing it to some of my older, less reliable magazines, the ASC has consistently outperformed them, providing reliable feeding and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E
Specifications
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E boasts a few key specifications. It is chambered for .223 Remington/5.56mm NATO, making it versatile for use with various AR-15 rifles. The magazine capacity is 30 rounds, a standard for AR-15 magazines.
The magazine is constructed from aluminum with a black finish, providing a balance of durability and weight. It features an orange follower, enhancing visibility and aiding in smooth feeding. These specifications are important because they dictate the reliability and usability of the magazine. A durable aluminum construction ensures the magazine can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Performance & Functionality
The ASC magazine performs its job effectively. It consistently feeds rounds without issue. The magazine’s functionality stands out due to the smooth feeding and reliable bolt lock-back.
Its strength is definitely in its consistent feeding. A potential weakness might be the aluminum construction is more susceptible to dents than polymer. Overall, it meets my expectations for a reliable AR-15 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the ASC magazine is solid. The aluminum is sturdy and the magazine feels well-constructed. It is also relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the rifle.
The magazine is user-friendly. It loads easily and inserts smoothly into the magazine well. There isn’t much of a learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction suggests good longevity. The black finish appears durable. It is easy to disassemble, clean, and maintain, which ensures continued reliable performance.
Maintenance involves simple cleaning after use. Keeping the magazine clean and free of debris is key to longevity. It appears the magazine will last a long time if properly cared for.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E is fairly standard in design, so there are no customization options. However, the magazine is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 platform rifles and accessories, such as magazine couplers. While there aren’t specific ASC-branded accessories, it’s designed to work seamlessly with any standard AR-15.
Pros and Cons of Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: Consistently feeds .223/5.56 rounds without issue.
- Durable Construction: Made from sturdy aluminum for long-lasting use.
- High Capacity: Holds 30 rounds, ideal for range sessions and tactical scenarios.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning process.
- Visual Confirmation: The orange follower allows for easy verification of magazine status.
Cons
- Aluminum Denting: More susceptible to dents compared to polymer magazines.
- No Customization: Limited to its stock configuration with no additional features.
Who Should Buy Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E?
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts seeking a reliable and durable magazine. It is well-suited for tactical shooters, range users, and anyone who values consistent feeding and ease of maintenance. Those needing extreme durability might consider polymer alternatives.
Someone who prioritizes lightweight magazines might look elsewhere. A must-have modification would be a magazine loader to speed up loading at the range.
Conclusion on Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E
The Ammunition Storage Components ASC AR Family Rifle Magazine Orange Follower .223 Remington Black Aluminum 30/rd 1617B86E offers reliable performance and solid construction at a reasonable price of $17.89. The price is justified by its durability and consistent feeding. I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable AR-15 magazine.
If you’re seeking a magazine that will consistently perform in various conditions and last through extensive use, the ASC is an excellent choice. Add a few to your kit and experience the difference a quality magazine can make.