What Happened When I Tried the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine promises to increase the capacity of the Ruger LCP, a popular concealed carry pistol, without significantly impacting its concealability. As someone who values both capacity and comfort when carrying, I was eager to test this magazine and see if it lived up to the hype. The ProMag name carries a mixed reputation, so I approached this review with cautious optimism.
My search for a higher-capacity magazine for my Ruger LCP stemmed from a desire for increased peace of mind. While the LCP is incredibly easy to conceal, its standard 6-round magazine felt limiting. I wanted something that offered a better balance between concealability and firepower.
Upon receiving the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine, my initial impression was decent. The steel construction felt robust, and the blue finish was uniform, although not aesthetically crucial for a concealed magazine. I immediately compared it to the factory Ruger LCP magazine; the ProMag was noticeably longer.
I considered other extended magazines from Ruger and MagGuts, but ultimately chose the ProMag due to its reported capacity and lower price point. Price was a consideration, but reliability was paramount. My first impression was a mix of excitement and apprehension; would it function reliably, or would it be another aftermarket magazine that promises more than it delivers?
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine to my local shooting range for its initial test. I ran several magazines worth of ammunition through it, using a variety of .380 ACP loads, including FMJ and JHP rounds. The magazine initially required a firm “love tap” to seat properly in my Ruger LCP.
Performance was initially disappointing; the magazine experienced multiple failures to feed within the first few magazines. The issues occurred primarily with hollow-point rounds, which are crucial for self-defense. The reliability issues were concerning, especially since my LCP runs flawlessly with the factory magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial range session, I dedicated time to troubleshooting the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine. I thoroughly cleaned the magazine, inspected the feed lips, and ensured the spring was properly seated. I continued to experience occasional failures to feed over several range trips.
Durability appeared to be acceptable; the steel magazine body showed no signs of bending or cracking. However, the polymer baseplate exhibited some wear after repeated insertions and removals. Maintenance was straightforward; the magazine disassembled easily for cleaning.
Compared to my experience with the factory Ruger LCP magazines, the ProMag fell short in terms of reliability. The factory magazines have proven to be consistently reliable, while the ProMag exhibited intermittent feeding issues. This inconsistency made me question its suitability for self-defense purposes.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
-
Caliber: .380 ACP. This magazine is designed specifically for the .380 ACP cartridge, matching the chambering of the Ruger LCP.
-
Magazine Capacity: 10 Rounds. This is the key selling point, offering a significant increase over the LCP’s standard 6-round capacity.
-
Material: Steel magazine body with a polymer baseplate and follower. The steel construction is intended to enhance durability, while the polymer components contribute to weight reduction.
-
Color: Blue. The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine features a blue finish on the steel body.
The 10-round capacity is valuable for those seeking increased firepower in a compact package. The steel construction theoretically enhances durability and resistance to deformation. However, the actual performance depends on the quality control during manufacturing.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine’s primary function is to feed ammunition reliably into the Ruger LCP. However, my testing revealed inconsistent performance, with failures to feed occurring more frequently than desired. This negatively impacts its usability and detracts from the overall shooting experience.
The primary strength of the ProMag is its increased capacity; however, this is undermined by its reliability issues. The magazine needs improvement in its feeding reliability, particularly with various types of ammunition. It unfortunately did not meet my expectations for consistent and reliable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s build quality is acceptable, with a solid steel body and a functional, though somewhat basic, polymer baseplate. The magazine’s weight is noticeable compared to the factory magazine, but not excessively burdensome. The ergonomics are adequate, although the extended length of the magazine does alter the grip slightly.
The magazine is reasonably user-friendly, disassembling easily for cleaning and maintenance. There is a slight learning curve in ensuring it’s properly seated in the magazine well. The extended length might not be comfortable for all users, especially for deep concealment.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel magazine body should provide adequate durability for typical use. However, the polymer baseplate may be susceptible to wear and tear over time. Maintaining the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help ensure proper function.
The longevity of the magazine will depend on usage frequency and maintenance practices. The feed lips are a critical area to monitor for signs of wear or deformation, as they directly impact feeding reliability. Proper storage and care can extend the magazine’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily available customization options specifically for this magazine, such as different baseplates or followers. Aftermarket accessories for the Ruger LCP itself, such as grips and lasers, remain compatible with the pistol when using this magazine.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased capacity from 6 to 10 rounds. This is the primary benefit for those seeking more firepower.
- Steel construction offers decent durability. The steel body should withstand regular use.
- Affordable price point. The ProMag is generally cheaper than factory magazines or other aftermarket options.
Cons
- Reliability issues with feeding, especially with hollow-point ammunition. This is a significant drawback that affects its suitability for self-defense.
- The extended length may impact concealability and comfort for some users. The added length can make it more difficult to conceal the LCP effectively.
- Questionable long-term durability of the polymer baseplate. The baseplate may be prone to wear and tear.
Who Should Buy ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine?
The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine may be suitable for individuals who prioritize increased magazine capacity and are willing to accept a potential compromise in reliability. It might be acceptable for range use or as a backup magazine, but I would hesitate to recommend it for primary self-defense purposes without extensive and successful testing with your chosen ammunition.
Individuals seeking guaranteed reliability and consistent feeding should skip this product. Those who rely on their Ruger LCP for personal protection and demand unwavering performance should stick with factory magazines or explore other high-quality aftermarket options with proven track records.
A must-have modification would be thorough testing with your carry ammunition. Also, consider investing in higher-quality magazines from more reputable manufacturers.
Conclusion on ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine
The ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine offers the allure of increased capacity for the popular Ruger LCP. However, my experience revealed significant reliability issues that overshadow this benefit. The inconsistent feeding, particularly with hollow-point ammunition, raises concerns about its suitability for self-defense.
The price is attractive, but the value proposition is diminished by the magazine’s performance. Reliable function is paramount in a defensive firearm, and the ProMag falls short in this critical area. I cannot confidently recommend the ProMag Ruger LCP .380 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine for self-defense purposes.
If you decide to purchase it, be sure to thoroughly test it with your chosen ammunition and be prepared for potential issues. Consider investing in higher-quality magazines from reputable manufacturers for reliable performance. Always prioritize reliability when it comes to your personal safety.
Read the full article here
