Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round Review

Field Test Review of the Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round

For anyone who owns a Mossberg 802 Plinkster or the half-pint variant, the Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round is more than just a spare part; it’s a gateway to uninterrupted shooting sessions and a critical component for reliable operation. My own experience with this particular magazine stems from a frustrating afternoon at the range where my single factory magazine decided to call it quits mid-string. The need for a dependable replacement became immediately apparent, pushing me to seek out an official Mossberg offering to ensure compatibility and performance.

Upon arrival, the magazine presented itself with a no-nonsense, utilitarian design. The black polymer construction felt solid, not flimsy, and the fit within the rifle’s magazine well was snug, without being overly tight. It’s a stark contrast to some aftermarket options that can feel like a compromise. I had briefly considered a slightly higher capacity magazine, but the standard 10-round count for the .22LR caliber felt appropriate for the intended use of the rifle, which often involves plinking and casual target practice. My initial impression was one of quiet satisfaction; this looked like a part that was built to function.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of this 10-round magazine took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I loaded it up with a variety of .22LR ammunition, from standard velocity to high velocity, to see how it would handle different loads. The magazine fed smoothly into the Mossberg 802 Plinkster, and the bolt cycled correctly with each of the ten rounds.

Conditions were fair: mild temperatures with a slight breeze, but no significant dust or moisture to contend with. The ease of use was immediately apparent; the magazine loaded and ejected with the familiar feel of a factory-original part. No real surprises here, just reliable function.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, and having cycled through over a hundred rounds via this particular magazine, it has held up remarkably well. I’ve kept it loaded and unloaded it multiple times, and there are no visible signs of stress on the polymer or the follower. The springs still feel strong, and rounds consistently seat properly.

Compared to some budget magazines I’ve used for other firearms, this Mossberg unit demonstrates a superior level of durability and consistent performance. Cleaning has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down and occasional light oiling is all that’s needed. I haven’t encountered any jamming or feeding issues, which is the hallmark of a reliable magazine.

Breaking Down the Features of Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round

Specifications

This Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round is engineered specifically for the Mossberg International 802 Plinkster and 801 Half-Pint rifle models. It boasts a 10-round capacity, making it ideal for standard shooting sessions without being overly cumbersome. The magazine is constructed from a durable, black polymer, which offers a good balance of weight and resilience.

This caliber is the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle, a popular choice for its affordability and manageable recoil, making it perfect for target practice and plinking. The single 10-round magazine comes as a single unit, ready to slot into your firearm. These specifications are crucial because they dictate how much ammunition you can carry and how reliably it will feed into your rifle.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, this magazine performs its duty admirably. The primary job of a magazine is to reliably feed ammunition into the chamber, and this Mossberg magazine excels at that. I experienced consistent feeding with various types of .22LR ammunition, a critical factor for any shooter who values uninterrupted firing sequences.

Its strengths lie in its reliable feeding mechanism and the secure way it holds rounds. The main weakness, if one can call it that, is its standard 10-round capacity. While perfectly adequate for many scenarios, those seeking extended firing without reloads might find it limiting compared to higher-capacity options. However, for its intended purpose with the Plinkster, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine is functional and robust. The black polymer construction feels solid in the hand, and the textured surfaces, though subtle, provide a good grip for magazine changes. The follower is smooth, ensuring that rounds present themselves to the bolt consistently.

Its ergonomics are straightforward; it’s designed to fit seamlessly into the rifle’s magazine well with a positive lock-up. There’s no learning curve here – it’s a drop-in replacement or addition that works as expected. The only minor annoyance, common to many magazines, is ensuring the last round seats perfectly, but this is a minor point in an otherwise excellent design.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its polymer construction and the inherent nature of .22LR cartridges, this magazine is designed for longevity under typical use. It’s not intended to be a disposable item, and with proper care, it should last for thousands of rounds. The materials used are resistant to corrosion and impacts that are common in outdoor environments.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning to remove debris that could impede the follower’s movement. I haven’t experienced any failures or damage, even after a couple of instances where the magazine was dropped onto softer ground. The overall impression is that this is a well-built component that should serve its owner for a long time.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone replacement part. There are no inherent customization options for the magazine itself, beyond ensuring you have enough of them. Compatibility with other aftermarket magazines for the 802 Plinkster can be hit or miss, making this official Mossberg option a safe bet.

Pros and Cons of Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round

Who Should Buy Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round?

This magazine is an essential purchase for owners of the Mossberg 802 Plinkster or 801 Half-Pint rifles who need reliable spare magazines or replacements for their factory units. It’s ideal for recreational shooters, plinkers, and anyone who frequents the range for casual target practice with their .22LR rifle. Those who prioritize consistent performance and don’t want to deal with potential aftermarket compatibility issues will find this a perfect fit.

Those who absolutely need higher ammunition capacity might need to look at alternative rifle platforms or accept the limitations of the Plinkster’s design. A must-have accessory would be a magazine pouch or a simple way to store spare magazines securely when not in use, especially if you plan on carrying multiple loaded units.

Conclusion on Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round

The Mossberg Magazine 802 PLINK 22LR 10 Round stands as a testament to the importance of quality components for firearm reliability. It performs its primary function flawlessly, ensuring that your Mossberg rifle can continue to shoot without interruption. For its price, the value proposition is strong; you get a durable, well-made magazine that is guaranteed to work with your firearm.

I would personally recommend this magazine without hesitation to any owner of the relevant Mossberg models. It’s a straightforward, no-frills upgrade or replacement that eliminates potential feeding frustrations and lets you focus on the enjoyment of shooting. If you own a Plinkster, having at least one extra of these is a wise investment for uninterrupted range time.