Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD Review

The Honest Truth About the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD

When you’re out in the field, at the workshop, or on the range, having reliable equipment is paramount. I’ve learned this through years of using and abusing gear across diverse environments. My search for a dependable magazine for my Savage Model 93, specifically chambered for both .22 Magnum and .17 HMR, led me to the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD. This particular magazine caught my eye because it promised to be a direct OEM replacement, aiming to restore my rifle’s feeding reliability.

The initial need for this magazine arose after experiencing a few frustrating feeding issues with my Savage 93R17 FV. While the rifle itself is a fantastic platform for rimfire plinking and small game hunting, a faulty or worn magazine can turn a good day into a bad one very quickly. I was tired of having to clear malfunctions when the opportunity for a precise shot presented itself. I considered some aftermarket options, but the thought of potential compatibility headaches made me lean towards sticking with what the rifle was designed for.

Upon receiving the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD, my first impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. It felt substantial in hand, with a smooth, matte black blued steel finish that looked and felt durable. There were no sharp edges or obvious defects, which is always a good sign with firearm components. My immediate feeling was a sense of cautious optimism; it looked the part, but the real test would be in performance.

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range, a familiar setting where I’ve put countless pieces of equipment through their paces. I loaded the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD with .17 HMR rounds, ensuring a firm seating. The magazine inserted into the Savage 93R17 FV with a satisfying click, indicating a proper fit.

During a session of rapid firing, where I cycled through about 50 rounds, the magazine performed flawlessly. There were no feeding failures, no jams, and the bolt cycled smoothly after each shot. I also tested it with .22 Magnum ammunition, and the experience was identical – consistent and reliable feeding with every trigger pull. This ease of use was a welcome change from the intermittent issues I had been experiencing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range days and a couple of informal plinking sessions over the course of a few weeks, the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD has proven its worth. It has now seen well over 200 rounds across both calibers without a single hiccup. The blued steel shows no signs of significant wear, and the internal spring still retains a healthy tension.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep the blued finish looking good and prevent rust. Compared to some older, worn factory magazines I’ve encountered for other rifles, this one feels significantly more robust and less prone to developing feed issues over time. It certainly holds up well against the memory of less reliable, third-party alternatives I’ve had to deal with in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD

Specifications

The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, and its specifications reflect that. It boasts a 5-round capacity, which is a standard capacity for rimfire rifles where quick follow-up shots are less critical than hunting or precision practice. This capacity is ideal for maintaining a low profile or for situations where weight and bulk are a concern.

The magazine is constructed from blued steel, a traditional material known for its durability and corrosion resistance, especially when properly maintained. This material choice contributes to the overall perceived sturdiness of the unit. It’s specifically designed for the Savage Model 93 rifle and is compatible with both .22 Magnum and .17 HMR cartridges, a crucial feature for shooters who own rifles capable of chambering either round. This dual-caliber compatibility makes it a versatile accessory.

The black color of the magazine is understated and blends well with most rifle finishes. As a single unit (quantity 1), it’s an easy replacement or spare part. The 5-round capacity is a defining characteristic, offering a balance between ammunition on hand and magazine size. This specification directly impacts how often you need to reload, influencing the flow of shooting activities.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – feeding ammunition reliably – the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD performs exceptionally well. It consistently delivers cartridges to the chamber of my Savage 93R17 FV without any of the typical rimfire magazine issues like failure to feed, stovepipes, or misfires. The interaction between the magazine lips and the bolt’s extraction/ejection cycle is smooth and predictable, ensuring that each round is presented correctly.

The key strength of this magazine lies in its OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) design. This means it’s built to the exact tolerances specified by Savage Arms for their rifles, minimizing potential compatibility or performance issues. Its main weakness, if one could even call it that, is its limited 5-round capacity, which might be a drawback for those who prefer a higher volume of fire or extended shooting sessions without reloading. However, for its intended purpose as a standard capacity magazine, it meets and exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point relative to potential aftermarket issues.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Savage Arms magazine is functional and robust. The blued steel construction lends it a classic, utilitarian feel that speaks to durability. The finish is smooth and evenly applied, providing a good grip without being overly aggressive.

Ergonomically, it’s a standard detachable box magazine; it’s designed to slot easily into the rifle’s magazine well and eject with the press of the magazine release. There’s no learning curve involved for anyone familiar with bolt-action rimfire rifles. The 5-round capacity contributes to a compact profile, making it easy to handle and insert even when wearing gloves. The overall feel is one of solid engineering, built for the specific demands of rimfire shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD appears to be built for longevity. The blued steel is a proven material for resisting wear and tear in firearm components. I haven’t noticed any signs of stress on the feed lips, nor has the spring shown any indication of weakening after being loaded and unloaded multiple times.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A light application of gun oil or a silicone cloth is sufficient to keep the exterior protected from moisture and prevent corrosion. The internal mechanism is straightforward, consisting of the spring and follower, which are unlikely to require anything more than occasional dusting. Potential failure points in magazines often involve weak springs or worn feed lips; this unit seems to be constructed with these in mind to avoid such issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

This Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD comes as a standalone unit. It doesn’t include any additional accessories or offer inherent customization options in terms of swappable parts. Its design is fixed and optimized for its specific role.

However, its true compatibility lies in its integration with the Savage Model 93 rifle platform. It is designed to work seamlessly with the rifle’s existing feeding mechanism. While there isn’t a way to “customize” the magazine itself, its perfect fit and function within the rifle make it an essential component that enhances the overall shooting experience. Some shooters might opt for a second or third magazine to expedite reloads, but the magazine itself is a complete, self-contained unit.

Pros and Cons of Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD

Who Should Buy Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD?

This Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD is an ideal purchase for any owner of a Savage Model 93 rifle that chambers either .22 Magnum or .17 HMR. It is particularly suited for those who prioritize proven reliability and authentic performance over potentially cheaper, but less predictable, aftermarket alternatives. It’s perfect for hunters who need a dependable spare magazine in the field or for range shooters who value consistent feeding for their practice sessions.

Those who should probably skip this particular magazine are individuals looking for extended-capacity magazines (e.g., 10-round or higher) for their Savage 93, as this model is fixed at a 5-round capacity. Also, users who primarily shoot suppressed or at extreme distances might prefer a magazine that allows for more tactical reloads, though this is a minor consideration for most. A must-have accessory for anyone buying this magazine would be a dedicated magazine pouch or sleeve to protect it when carried as a spare.

Conclusion on Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD

The Savage Arms Magazine 93MAGNM 22M/17HMR 5RD delivers exactly what it promises: reliable and consistent ammunition feeding for the Savage Model 93 rifle. Its blued steel construction speaks to its durability, and its OEM design ensures a perfect fit and function with both .22 Magnum and .17 HMR cartridges. While the 5-round capacity might not appeal to everyone, it’s a standard and functional choice for many rimfire applications.

Considering its performance, build quality, and the peace of mind that comes with using a genuine Savage Arms part, the price of $31.89 feels justified, especially when compared to the potential frustrations of unreliable aftermarket magazines. I would highly recommend this magazine to any Savage Model 93 owner looking for a replacement or an additional magazine. It’s a solid, dependable piece of equipment that performs its duty without fuss, making it a worthwhile addition to your shooting kit.