SGM Tactical Glock Drum Magazine

You don't have to be a mathematician to know 50 is better than 33, 17, 15, or even 10. That's the simplest reasoning you need to pick yourself up a 50 round drum magazine for your Glock pistol, Keltec Sub 2000 Glock model, or your AR15 chambered in 9mm that accepts Glock magazines. When I first learned that SGM Tactical was importing these polymer drum magazines, I had to at least get one. Luckily, they were only about $69.00 at the time. That must have been an introductory price, because lately the price for these on retail shelves has almost doubled do to demand. Who doesn't want an entire box of 9mm cartridges loaded and ready in a single magazine?

Well, those who don't like the magazine weighing down their firearm down like a brick tied to the wrist. At least it gets lighter as you shoot, sort of countering the fatigue you may start to feel holding up the additional pounds. For pistol users, the drum obviously presents a holstering issue, unless you wear suspenders. Also, loading all 50 rounds into the magazine is a longer process.... more of a sit down, and make small talk to pass the time away experience. The ratcheting lever makes it easier, and with practice you could speed up the pace quite a bit. Be aware though if you ratchet too far and carelessly drop a round in the stack improperly it can end up backward to perpendicular. All and all aside from the unconventional nature of its shape, size, and weight, what's not to love!?! Firing a 50 round volley of finger-numbing of freedom is some of the funnest and most expensive time you can have at the range.

For carbine owners who insisted on having a platform that takes advantage of the abundance and quality of Glock magazines in the world, this SGM Tactical Drum Magazine is a little black treasure. Both the Keltec Sub 2000 9mm Glock model and various AR-15 platforms that accept Glock mags are what the SGM drum was designed to shine in. The stick portion of the magazine that goes in the magwell is about the same size as a 17 round magazine, so it will fit the Sub2k well, and protrude a bit low on AR15 platforms. That may be a turn off for those who dream of Lone Wolf G9 carbines or other builds such as DDLES, but thats the nature of the beast. Any shorter and you'd be getting less rounds, to a point where the tried and true 33rd "happy stick" would be a better option.

The only other Glock compatible drum magazine on the market is the Beta C-Mag, which is twice the size and over twice the price of this drum. I would recommend finding one of these Korean made drums at a good price and at least getting one or two just for an investment, if your current state of residency allows it.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The only 50 round drum magazine available for Glocks and Firearms that accept Glock magazines.

Target Market:  Glock owners, Keltec Sub-2000 owners, 9mm AR-15 owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Finger lever moves the follower down and takes up tension
• 50 Rounds
• Polymer construction with steel internals
• Fits all Glock 34, 17, 19 & 26 models, all Generations
• Made in Korea (imported by SGM)

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?:

"I received this drum mag on Saturday and I have to say, WOW! It is well-built, doesn't feel cheap and the built-in loader is great! I am very impressed with this mag. I have cycled it in my G19 and KT Sub2K with no problem. I got it from Mississippi Auto Arms for $69.99 (email flash sale), they have since gone up to $129.99 but Bud's has them for $89.99." Glocktalk.com Review

"Ive put around 500 rounds through this magazine with no issues. The quality and value of this drum magazine seems to be exceptional. You might not want to use it for military applications... but for range use, screwing around or for a truck gun, this is a good option" Military Arms Channel

Price point:

• MSRP = $149.95
• Retail = $122.99

I need it now! Availability:  Readily available online at Brownells or locally.

Our Rating:

Pros:

• No winding
• Ratchet lever makes loading easy by taking tension off the follower
• Polymer construction makes it light as possible, still pretty rugged

Cons:

• No windows for bullet count
• If bolt is not open you will damage the locking slots on the drum tower
• No steel feed lips
• No bolt hold open when empty due to roller style follower
• Made in Korea

Score: 7.0 Good

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

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Pearce Grip Glock Plus XL Magazine Extension

Another great addition you can make to your Glock arsenal is a magazine extension. Not only does it give you extra surface area if your gorilla mits didn't quite fit on a particular Glock frame, but increases your magazine capacity. If you own a Glock as opposed to say a 1911, you probably already side with the reasoning that "more bullets are better" for the possibility of confronting multiple assailants. So why settle for the standard high capacity magazines from the factory when you can add a few more rounds by installing an "Extendo" as the kids call it?

Adding a Pearce Grip Glock Plus XL Magazine Extension is advertised to increase your 9mm magazine capacity (double stack only) by three rounds. If you want to add on to your 40SW or 357SIG magazine, you get an extra 2 rounds. If you are a very loyal Glock Fanboy and rock the 45 GAP round, you will earn just one extra bullet in the magazine.

I bought a couple Pearce extendos and added them to a 15rd and 17rd magazine. In both cases I found adding the last round (20th for the 17rd, 18th for the 15rd) was almost impossible, and could see the feed lips start to warp under the strain of forcing that 3rd extra bullet that Pearce claims you can achieve. After leaving two extra rounds in and giving the mag time to relax, I still could not add the 3rd round. It's conceivable that you could remove one or two loops from the magazine spring to give more room but I did not wish to make that commitment. The mags weren't brand new / stiff, but perhaps a mag with over 1000 rounds and years of loading/unloading would have more 'give' to add that last widow-maker.

In a Glock 22 15rd 40SW magazine I found adding the 2nd additional round was also difficult but not impossible, and feel more comfortable with the lifespan of the magazine itself when fully loaded to 17rds, and the same applies to .357SIG.

My recommendation is for Glock 19 Gen 2 & 3 owners to pick up a few, which effectively will give you the same capacity as a Glock 17 using 17 round magazines. Of course, you could just use a 17 magazine in the Glock 19 if the gap / overhanging magazine isn't a concern to you. But these extensions do give a more professional look and operational feel.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Adds capacity to Mid and Full Size Glock high capacity magazines

Target Market: Glock owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Add three rounds to the 9mm magazine capacity, two rounds to the 40SW and 357SIG and one round to the 45GAP models.
•  Fits Glock Models: 17-19, 22-26, 31, 32, 34, 35, 37, 38
• Made from High Impact Polymer and withstand drop tests at temperatures from -20 F to 350 F.
• Bottom of base has 5 recessed dots for filling in with paint (mag identification)

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black only

What others are saying?: "This magazine extension added three rounds to my gen 4 GLOCK 26 9mm magazines. Perhaps those who have had problems adding three rounds were using earlier GLOCK magazines. Two notes on squeezing three additional rounds in your gen 4 GLOCK 26:
1. Load the newly-extended magazine to maximum capacity (be it 11 or 12). Then unload and reload repeatedly until all 13 fit. This took three load/unload cycles for me.
2. My magazines have between 600 and 800 rounds through them and typically are stored loaded to capacity. Perhaps the springs are just broken in. Your GLOCK loves to be used...take it to the range!

I began to experience ftf's with this grip extension. I assume this is caused by too much tension on the spring. Decreasing to 12 rounds solved the problem. To be totally, 100% reliable for personal defense or concealed carry, I've been loading only 11 rounds in these magazines. They do provide a VERY solid feel for my small-ish hands with a CTC Laser Guard. "  Daniel Hood, Amazon User

Price Point:

MSRP: $9.95 Retail: As low as $6.99 at local retailers

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Pearce Grips or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Front grip texture matches Gen 3 frontstrap texture
• Provides pinky ledge for those with bigger hands
• Baseplate included has slots that interface with rails molded in interior or extension for positive interface
• Aids in retrieval from pouches for more dexterous reloads

Cons:

• Last round of advertised capacity increase is very difficult to add without a magloader.
• Witnessed deformation of the feed lips when installed on a Glock 17rd magazine and attempting to load 20th 9mm round.
• Increased strain on spring

Score: 7.0 Good

HexMag HX30-AR Magazine Review

Being the host of the AR-15 Podcast, I was asked by the Powers That Be over at the Firearms Insider to take a look at a new MSR magazine offering manufactured by Hexmag. I examined the magazines that arrived and was struck by the feel of these new magazines.  They feel substantial and more durable than some of the lesser quality magazines on the market today.  I think we all know who the 800 pound gorilla in the room is when it comes to polymer magazines, and these seemed quite comparable.  Sure, they don’t have the years of experience working with polymer that the top dog has, but for a first offering, these magazines are real nice. One of the chief features that seems to distinguish these magazines from the pack is the inclusion of a purpose designed interchangeable follower/latchplate system called the HexID Color Identification System.  The intent of HexID seems geared to give end users the ability to color code their magazines for quick visual differentiation when they are loaded with different ammunition types or even different calibers.  I like to see manufacturers who are willing to push the envelope and defy convention.

My time at the range with the Hexmags proved to my satisfaction that their design and manufacture was on par with my expectations for any magazine.  They were reliable and I had no difficulties that were in any way attributable to the magazines.  I don’t want you to think that I torture tested these magazines, because I didn't.  I looked through some of the promotional material and a few YouTube sources.  There doesn't appear to be anything earth shattering to indicate poor design or poor materials performance, so I didn't think I could add anything productive by undertaking my own torture tests.

One last thing that I think is important to note is that Hexmag offers a lifetime warranty on these magazines.  I think you must applaud any company that is willing to stand by the products they manufacture.

The only criticism I have about the magazines is one that has absolutely nothing to do with their quality or capabilities.  While I applaud Hexmag’s innovation and creativity, I don’t know why I need the HexID system.  It seems like a solution that was searching for a problem.  In the past I've never felt such a compelling need to differentiate my magazines that I had to seek out a DIY solution for my magazines.  Now don’t get me wrong, I would spend my hard earned money on these magazines.  I just wouldn't spend money on the different colors of follower/latchplate sets.

I still like where Hexmag was going with the design and implementation of the HexID system and to me that says a great deal about Hexmag’s potential and capabilities.  With novel innovations and a willingness to stretch envelopes, I have no doubt Hexmag has the potential to innovate in ways that will attract even more fans.  So in conclusion, I don’t think you can go wrong buying Hexmag HX30-AR magazines.

Firearms Insider Reviews ‑ 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Interchangeable follower/latchplate system: HexID Color Identification System

Target Market: Owners of AR-15 rifles that can use STANAG magazines.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Impact Resistant Fiber-reinforced Nylon Polymer Construction
• Raised Hexagon Pattern for Improved Manipulation
• Tool-free Latchplate Design for Quick Disassembly
• HexID Color Identification System
• Lifetime Warranty
• Made in the USA!

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Color coded magazines using HexID

What others are saying?: "In sum, my impression of the HX30-AR magazine was a very positive one. While I wouldn’t suggest PMag owners selling off their stock and buying a pile of new HX30-ARs, I think I might choose the HX30-AR over the Gen M2 Pmag if I were looking to buy new magazines." ‑ Nathaniel F, The Firearms Blog

Price point:

• MSRP = $14.99
• Retail = $10.99

I need it now! Availability:  The HexMag Magazine is available right now at Apex Gun Parts

Our Rating:

+-Reliable +-Reasonably Priced +-Sturdy Construction +-Good Materials +-Lifetime Warranty 

- HexID just doesn’t seem like a compelling feature

Score: 7.5

Reed's Links:

Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool Review

Last week, Zack, from Lone Wolf Distributors, and formerly of Gun Guy Radio, posted on Lone Wolf’s Facebook seeking two people to review a new tool from them. I jumped on it and got the tool.

The Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool is an insanely simple tool designed to disassemble any of Glock’s magazines, including the new .380. The way it works, you simply slide the tool onto the baseplate. There are three slots that correspond with each size magazine(9mm/.40/.357/45GAP, 45/10mm, and .380). There are also two holes that correspond to the different mags. They are engraved with “Small”, for the .380, and “Large”, for everything else. Once you insert the mag, you push your Glock Tool(or any stiff punch) through the correct hole, and it depresses the mag plate button. Once that’s done, place the tool with the magazine oriented “bullets-forward” onto a hard surface, and push the mag body down. The tool holds the plate, while you slide the body off of it. When you pull the tool off, you can place your thumb over the baseplate, to catch the spring, and slide it the rest of the way off. It’s really that simple, or maybe even simpler than I just made it sound.

Lone Wolf posted this video to show the operation. There’s no sound, but it’s incredibly simple.

The review sample I received was aluminum “in the white”, but the final product will be black anodized. They also told me that you can have them custom engraved, if you’d like. They are also offering it as a package with the Glock Tool, for those people that got a Gen 4, lost their tool, or just want an extra.

Bottom line, if you own a single Glock magazine, you’ll want this tool!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This tool makes Glock magazines effortless to disassemble.

Target Market: ALL Glock owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Solid aluminum
• Fits all Glock magazines
• Simple disassembly of mags

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The tool is only available in black, at this time.

What others are saying?: “Does save some time and aggravation especially if you're taking apart a lot of mags all at once.” - Hank Strange

Price Point:

• MSRP = $14.95 (tool only)
• MSRP = $24.90 (with Glock tool)

I need it now! Availability: At this time, the Magazine Disassembly tool is only available directly from Lone Wolf Dist.

Our Rating:

+-Effortless magazine disassembly +-Compatible with all Glock mags +-Solid aluminum

Score: 9.5

Blade-Tech Revolution AR-15/M4 Double Mag Tek-Lok

Everyone owns their firearms and related accessories for their own reasons and to me my firearms and related accessories are an addicting and expensive hobby that possess additional utility that I hope to never need to use. Im talking about defensive applications. I think spending thousands of dollars on plate carriers/chest rigs, 30 magazines, and every tactical doo-dad is not money well spent. Much rather apply that to ammo to train with. Therefore I approach that very distant secondary purpose of defense with a minimalistic outlook on my gear. So instead of a big 6 magazine chest rig with crossdraw holster plastered on it I resort on a basic rig consisting of an Uncle Mikes Instructors Belt, Blackhawk CQC Holster and double mag pouches. I realized that I was neglecting training in or having the ability to carry AR magazines, this caused me to search for a means of doing so. Having experience with some of Blade-Techs other products I didn’t hesitate when I came across this product on Amazon. I enjoy the fact that this product does not take up precious horizontal real estate allowing me to have space for other things. This product is not for everyone but if it appeals to you its fantastic.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: High Quality holsters and accessories. 

Target Market: 3 Gunners or other competition shooters.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Proprietary polymer blend
• Wont warp under extreme heat (300 degrees)
• Does not become brittle during extreme cold
• Adjustable retention screws for personal preference

Key Benefits:

• The main benefit of this design is the saving of belt space by stacking the carriers out versus taking up horizontal real estate on your rig.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: So this product also comes in a single pouch but the great variety comes from the attachment variations possible through Blade-Tech’s shop. You can get anything from a 3” duty loop to MOLLE as the attachment style so these carriers can really fit into anyone loadout.

What others are saying?: From what I gather from the product page on amazon most everyone likes this product giving it a 4 or 5 star rating. Only negative comments were due to ergonomics possibly caused by other gear deficiencies. Amazon Product Page Review

Price point:

• MSRP = $45-$55 depending on configuration Blade-Tech Shop
• Retail = $55 free shipping. Amazon

I need it now! Availability: Blade-Tech products can be found in local stores, but for the best selection online retailers such as Amazon, Brownells, or Blade-Tech’s own site are going to be your best options for finding what you want.

Our Rating:

+-Fantastic retention +-Compatible with polymer magazines +-Durable +-Fast and easy attaching and detaching from rig

--Tek-Lok system has too much wiggle room when used with certain width belts

Score: 8.5 Great

Featured FFL:  I recommend Dynamic Combat Solutions of Wayne, NJ for my firearms needs including full FFL, gunsmithing, and customization services. Dynamic Combat Solutions

My Links:

• Guns of Hollywood Podcast
• NJ Gun Blog

Plinker Tactical M&P 15-22 35 Round Magazine Review

By Michael Hart

I came across this magazine in early 2013, I was looking for extra mags for my S&W 15-22 at a local gun show, but no one had any factory mags for sale, but they did have plenty of these 35 rounders, plenty of vendors were willing to sell me as many as I wanted, but the average price of $35 made me think about it real hard.  As I walked down to the last booth, I decided I had to make a purchase because I did not want to feel like I wasted a $10 entry fee.

As I was grabbing for a couple boxes of .38 rounds and an AR15 ProMag magazine for $7.50, the vendor told me he was willing to let the Plinker Tactical mag go for $19, so I took it.

Off to the range I go, I start to load the mag and from the get go, I note to myself that this is the last magazine I will be buying from Plinker Tactical, it has no thumb assist for the spring and I was only willing to load 30 rounds due to the fear of damaging the rounds, as I write this and have visited plinkertactical.com, I notice that they must have plenty of complaint because they offer a "load assist" for $7.99.  Now to the positive, it is made of a durable polymer and I did not have any problems inserting it into the rifle and have not had a problem cycling rounds.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Plinker Tactical does guarantee this magazine 100% against breakage for life, it is a product made in the U.S.A., the website claims that it is solvent and impact resistant, and I have not tested to say other.

Target Market: This product is suited for anyone who is looking for more magazines for their 15-22.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Durable
• Cycles well
• Fits well in the rifle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Plinker Tactical M&P 15-22 35 Round Magazine is available in black, flat dark earth, and  OD green.

What others are saying?: “I was in the market for a Smith & Wesson magazine for my M&P 15-22. I bought this one since I could not find a S&W mag. This works fine, I should have purchased more than one.” - Miffinlake, Cabelas Customer Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $29.99
• Retail = $19.88

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase this magazine from many retailer, including Cabelas, Midway USA, and directly from Plinker Tactical.

Our Rating:

+ Feeds well

- Hard to load to full capacity without the tool

Score: 5.0 Mediocre