The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons: A Review After Real Use
A reliable firearm is only as good as its ability to feed ammunition consistently, and that’s where often-overlooked components like magazine follower buttons play a crucial role. The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons for Ruger Mark Series pistols aim to address common issues with these small but vital parts. My search for more robust replacements began after experiencing occasional feeding hiccups that I suspected were linked to worn or inconsistent factory followers. I also saw a need for spares, as these tiny pieces have a knack for disappearing into the ether. Initial impressions upon receiving the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons were positive; they possess a clean, uniform appearance and a feel that suggests a more durable material than the standard plastic. While I briefly considered generic aftermarket options, their unbranded nature and uncertain material composition steered me back toward a known manufacturer for this critical component. My immediate reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, anticipating an end to those minor feeding frustrations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons to the Test
My testing grounds for these small but critical components were primarily my local indoor shooting range and my home workshop where I perform routine firearm maintenance. The goal was to simulate consistent use and observe how these buttons held up under typical conditions. I loaded and unloaded magazines repeatedly, focusing on the smooth travel of the follower and the crisp engagement of the slide lock.
First Use Experience
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons were installed into several magazines for my Ruger Mark IV 22/45. The installation process was straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond basic magazine disassembly knowledge. They simply clicked into place where the original followers had been.
During my first range session, I noticed an immediate improvement in the smoothness of the follower’s movement as I manually cycled the slide. Reloads felt slightly slicker, and the last-round hold-open mechanism engaged with more crispness. I experienced no feeding issues whatsoever across a variety of ammunition types, which can sometimes be sensitive to follower performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons have proven themselves to be a reliable upgrade. The non-galling material appears to be performing as advertised, showing no signs of premature wear or binding, even after being exposed to the fine dust common in indoor shooting environments.
Cleaning is as simple as it was with the OEM parts. I found no need for any special care; a quick wipe-down during routine magazine cleaning is all that’s required. Compared to the OEM followers that can sometimes feel a bit gritty or develop a slight stickiness over time, these Rim/Edge units maintain their smooth operation.
Breaking Down the Features of Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are designed to enhance the functionality and longevity of specific firearm magazines. Their apparent simplicity belies a thoughtful approach to improving a critical firearm component. Understanding their specifications and how they translate to performance is key to appreciating their value.
Specifications
The product is offered by Rim/Edge and comes in a 2-pack. These follower buttons are specifically designed for the Ruger Mark IV 22/45, compatible with the .22 Long Rifle caliber. The material is described as non-galling, which is a significant detail for reducing friction.
These specifications matter because they directly impact reliability and ease of use. The non-galling material is crucial for ensuring the magazine follower glides smoothly within the magazine body. This smooth glide is essential for consistent feeding of cartridges into the chamber and for the proper function of the slide lock when the magazine is empty. The specific fit for the Ruger Mark IV 22/45 ensures correct engagement and prevents potential malfunctions that could arise from an ill-fitting part. The 2-pack offering is practical, providing both a replacement for a worn part and a spare for future needs.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a magazine follower button is to reliably push rounds upwards and ensure the last round locks the slide. The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons perform this duty exceptionally well. I noticed a definite improvement in the smoothness of the follower’s travel within the magazine.
This smoothness translates directly into more reliable feeding. There were no instances of “failure to feed” or “failure to chamber” during my testing, even when using magazines that had previously exhibited minor hiccups with OEM followers. The updated styling also provides a slightly sharper look, which is a minor but appreciated aesthetic enhancement.
Design & Ergonomics
While the term “button” might suggest something complex, these are fundamentally simple, molded components. The design is functional, ensuring it mates correctly with the magazine spring and the magazine’s internal geometry. The non-galling material also contributes to the tactile feel; it’s smooth but not slippery.
The unique appearance is a subtle nod to customization. It allows for easy visual confirmation that a magazine has been upgraded, which can be useful for quickly identifying your preferred magazines. The fit into the magazine itself was snug and secure, with no rattling or looseness.
Durability & Maintenance
The promised non-galling material is the key to the durability of these follower buttons. Unlike some plastics that can wear down or develop rough spots over time, this material is designed to resist friction-induced damage. This means they should maintain their smooth performance for a very long time.
Maintenance is minimal, which is ideal for a small, easily lost component. They are an integral part of the magazine’s internal mechanism and require no special cleaning beyond what one would normally do for their magazines. Their robust construction suggests they will outlast the typical wear and tear experienced by standard magazine followers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are a standalone replacement part, so there are no additional accessories that come with them. However, their purpose is to be a customization option for existing magazines. The unique appearance serves as a visual indicator of this upgrade.
The benefit here is that you are not buying a whole new magazine; you are simply upgrading a critical internal part of your existing ones. This offers a cost-effective way to improve the reliability of your current Ruger Mark Series magazines.
Pros and Cons of Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
Pros
- Non-galling material significantly reduces friction for smoother follower travel.
- Designed to easily replace lost, worn, or broken OEM follower buttons.
- Updated styling provides a clean, sharp look and easy visual identification.
- Enhances overall firearm reliability by ensuring consistent feeding.
- Comes in a convenient 2-pack, providing a spare part.
Cons
- Specifically designed for Ruger Mark IV 22/45, limiting broader application.
- As small parts, they can still be lost if proper care is not taken during disassembly.
Who Should Buy Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons?
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons are an excellent choice for owners of the Ruger Mark IV 22/45 pistol who are looking to enhance their firearm’s reliability. If you’ve ever experienced feeding issues or simply want to ensure optimal performance from your magazines, these are a worthwhile investment. They are particularly suitable for those who perform their own firearm maintenance and understand the importance of component quality.
Anyone seeking to proactively replace worn parts or maintain a stock of critical spares will also find value here. However, if you do not own a Ruger Mark IV 22/45, these specific follower buttons will not be applicable. For those with compatible firearms, consider purchasing a couple of these packs to outfit all your magazines for maximum reliability.
Conclusion on Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons
The Rim/Edge Magazine Follower Buttons deliver on their promise of improved reliability and smoother operation for the Ruger Mark IV 22/45. The non-galling material and thoughtful design make a noticeable difference in how the magazine functions, leading to more consistent feeding and a better overall shooting experience. For a price of $4.49 for a 2-pack, the value proposition is strong, offering a significant upgrade to an often-overlooked component without the cost of entire new magazines. I would wholeheartedly recommend these to any owner of the specified Ruger models who prioritizes dependable performance. They are a simple, cost-effective, and effective solution for maintaining and boosting firearm reliability.