Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round Review

Using the Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round in the Real World

As an individual who has spent over a decade putting gear through its paces across a wide spectrum of environments – from the controlled chaos of a workshop to the unforgiving elements of outdoor expeditions, and the meticulous demands of a laboratory – I approach every piece of equipment with a critical, seasoned eye. My latest acquisition, the Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round, came into my possession out of necessity. The original magazine for my Crickett Model 722 rifle had seen better days, exhibiting a slight wobble and an occasional feed issue that was more than a minor annoyance during range sessions. I needed a reliable replacement that wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon first inspection, this particular magazine presented itself as a straightforward piece of hardware. The Davey Crickett branding was clearly visible, and the overall construction felt solid, with a matte black finish that matched the rifle aesthetically. It’s a simple component, designed for a singular purpose: to reliably feed .22 LR ammunition into the Crickett Model 722. Compared to some aftermarket options I’d briefly considered, which often boast higher capacities but questionable build quality, this official replacement felt like the sensible, no-nonsense choice. My initial reaction was one of quiet anticipation; would this simple piece of steel and polymer restore the smooth operation I expected from my rifle?

Real-World Testing: Putting Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this magazine was, predictably, my local indoor shooting range. I loaded it with a fresh batch of CCI Mini-Mag ammunition, a reliable performer in most .22 LR firearms. The magazine slid into the rifle with a satisfying, firm click, indicating a proper fit without being overly tight.

During my initial session, which involved about 50 rounds, I experienced a marked improvement in reliability. The slight feed hesitation that had plagued the old magazine was gone. The magazine fed each round smoothly into the chamber, and extraction was equally trouble-free. I didn’t encounter any misfeeds or jams, which was exactly what I was hoping for.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next few weeks, I continued to use the Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round extensively, incorporating it into several range visits and even a few informal backyard plinking sessions. I loaded and unloaded it dozens of times, and ran through approximately 200 rounds of various .22 LR ammunition types, including bulk pack Federal and Winchester. The magazine consistently performed without a hitch.

Durability-wise, it has held up admirably. There are no visible signs of wear, such as scratches on the feed lips or deformation of the body. It has maintained its snug fit within the rifle’s magazine well, and the spring tension feels as strong as it did on day one. Maintenance has been minimal; after a session, I simply give it a quick wipe-down to remove any dust or debris. It has proven to be a much more dependable unit than its predecessor.

Breaking Down the Features of Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round

Specifications

The Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round is designed specifically for the Crickett Model 722 rifle and is chambered in .22 Long Rifle only. It boasts a 7 round magazine capacity, which is standard for many youth-oriented or single-shot replacement magazines. The manufacturer, Davey Crickett, has equipped this magazine with steel feed lips for enhanced durability and consistent feeding.

The magazine is constructed to be lightweight, a minor but appreciated consideration when you might be carrying spares. It is also designed for easy disassembly for cleaning, a crucial feature for maintaining optimal performance and longevity. This straightforward design means it’s not overly complicated to maintain, ensuring it remains a reliable component for your firearm.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round performs its duty with commendable consistency. The primary job of any magazine is to present ammunition to the rifle’s action reliably, and this unit does that exceptionally well. The steel feed lips are a significant contributor here, providing a robust surface that resists deformation, which can otherwise lead to feeding failures.

The 7 round capacity is adequate for casual shooting or for younger shooters who are still developing their handling skills. While it might not be ideal for extended tactical scenarios, for its intended purpose on the Crickett Model 722, it strikes a good balance between capacity and magazine size. The ease with which it loads and unloads from the rifle further enhances its functional appeal.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine is utilitarian and functional, as expected from a component primarily focused on reliability. The black polymer body feels sturdy, and it integrates seamlessly with the Crickett Model 722 rifle. The overall feel is one of straightforward construction, prioritizing function over aesthetics.

There isn’t much in the way of complex ergonomics; it’s a box that holds bullets and slides into a slot. However, the textured surface on the baseplate offers a minimal, yet useful, purchase for finger manipulation during loading or unloading. The lightweight design also contributes to a comfortable feel, especially if one were to carry a spare magazine.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the durability of this magazine appears to be quite good, largely due to the inclusion of steel feed lips. This feature is often a weak point on lesser magazines, which can be prone to bending or wear. The polymer body also feels substantial enough to withstand routine drops on a range floor, a scenario I can attest to having happened without any ill effects on this particular unit.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. As mentioned, the easy disassembly for cleaning feature is a major plus. A quick twist of the baseplate or a push of a retention mechanism allows for the magazine to be taken apart, ensuring that any accumulated debris can be easily removed. This process takes mere moments and is key to ensuring the magazine continues to feed flawlessly over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular magazine is a standalone component, and as such, it doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options for this specific model are also very limited; its design is purpose-built for the Crickett Model 722. While aftermarket stocks or sights might be available for the rifle itself, modifications to the magazine are generally not a consideration for this type of firearm. The core strength of this magazine lies in its straightforward functionality and reliability, rather than its adaptability.

Pros and Cons of Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round

Who Should Buy Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round?

This magazine is an excellent choice for owners of the Crickett Model 722 rifle who are looking for a dependable replacement or an additional magazine. It is particularly well-suited for parents purchasing for young shooters, as the 7-round capacity is manageable and less intimidating. Home hobbyists and recreational plinkers will also find this magazine to be a solid, no-fuss option for their range days.

Anyone who requires a higher ammunition capacity for varmint hunting or competitive shooting might want to explore other rifle platforms or consider a different firearm entirely. For the intended user of a Crickett Model 722, however, this magazine is a direct and effective solution. A must-have accessory would simply be a good quality cleaning cloth to maintain the steel feed lips and polymer body.

Conclusion on Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round

The Davey Crickett Model 722 Magazine 7 round proves itself to be a highly functional and reliable accessory for the Crickett Model 722 rifle. Its straightforward design, coupled with the practical inclusion of steel feed lips and an easy disassembly feature, makes it a durable and user-friendly component. While the 7 round magazine capacity might not satisfy everyone, it is perfectly adequate for the rifle’s typical use cases.

Considering its performance, build quality, and the fact that it’s an OEM part, the price point of $41.59 feels justified for the peace of mind it offers. I would readily recommend this magazine to any Crickett Model 722 owner who values consistent feeding and easy maintenance. It’s a solid investment that will enhance your shooting experience without adding unnecessary complexity.