Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round Review

Discovering the Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round: My Take

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned to appreciate the nuances of reliable gear. The Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round is one such piece that, while seemingly simple, plays a critical role in the functionality of a specific firearm. My search for reliable spare magazines for my Savage B.Mag rifle, particularly in the dwindling market for these specific units, led me to this product. The inability to easily source OEM magazines had become a growing frustration, impacting my ability to maximize range time and preparedness.

Upon receiving the magazines, my initial impression was one of cautious optimism tempered by familiarity. The packaging was standard, and the magazines themselves presented a no-frills, functional aesthetic typical of Savage’s approach to core components. They felt solid, with a polymer construction that promised durability for the common stresses of handling and insertion. I had considered generic aftermarket options, but the proprietary nature of the B.Mag system and the mixed reviews for non-OEM parts steered me back towards the factory offering. Finding them in stock at Optics Planet was a welcome relief, offering a sense of renewed confidence in maintaining my rifle’s operational readiness.

Real-World Testing: Putting Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round to the Test

My testing primarily took place at my local outdoor shooting range and during extended practice sessions in my personal firearms workshop. These environments simulate the typical conditions under which a B.Mag rifle and its magazines would be used for both recreational shooting and potential varmint control. I focused on evaluating the magazines’ fit, feeding reliability, and ease of handling during rapid fire and slower, deliberate shooting sequences.

The magazines performed admirably in various conditions, from dusty outdoor ranges to the controlled environment of my workshop. I conducted multiple loading and unloading cycles, observing how the feed lips and follower interacted with the ammunition. There were no instances of jams or misfeeds attributed directly to the magazines during these tests, which speaks to their quality. The insertion into the rifle felt secure, and magazine changes were generally smooth, though not without a slight learning curve.

First Use Experience

The initial use of the Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round presented a slight operational challenge, as noted by some users. Loading the magazine to its full 8-round capacity requires a specific technique. It necessitates pressing down firmly on the cartridges while simultaneously sliding them into place, a process that feels less intuitive than some other magazine designs. This “push and slide” motion can initially be a bit stiff, especially when loading the final rounds.

However, once loaded, the magazine integrated seamlessly with the Savage B.Mag rifle. The bolt cycled smoothly over the rounds during function tests, and extraction of spent casings was clean. The tactile feedback when the magazine seated into the rifle was positive, indicating a secure fit. Despite the loading friction, the performance during live fire was consistently reliable, which ultimately proved more important than the initial loading awkwardness.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and hundreds of rounds, these magazines have held up exceptionally well. The polymer construction shows minimal signs of wear, with no cracks, deformities, or noticeable degradation in its ability to retain cartridges. The internal follower remains free of excessive debris, likely due to the enclosed nature of the magazine’s design. This reliability over time is crucial for any firearm accessory intended for dependable use.

Maintenance for these magazines is straightforward, primarily involving occasional cleaning to remove dust and powder residue. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth or a soft brush is usually sufficient. They don’t require any specialized lubricants or complex disassembly, making them user-friendly for ongoing care. Compared to some older, metal-bodied magazines I’ve used in other platforms, these Savage units feel more robust and less prone to denting or bending, which can impede feeding.

Breaking Down the Features of Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round

Specifications

The Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round is constructed to be a direct replacement or additional magazine for the Savage B.Mag rifle. It boasts a 8-round capacity, specifically designed for the potent .17 Winchester Super Magnum cartridge. The magazine is manufactured by Savage Arms, ensuring a factory fit and finish.

The primary material is a durable polymer, which contributes to its relatively lightweight yet sturdy feel. Its color is a standard black, blending discreetly with the rifle’s aesthetics. The quantity per package is typically one magazine, sold as a new item.

• Manufacturer: Savage Arms
• Color: Black
• Magazine Capacity: 8 Round
• Caliber: .17 Winchester Super Magnum
• Gun Model: Savage B.Mag
• Quantity: 1
• Condition: New

These specifications are critical because they define the magazine’s compatibility and performance envelope. The 8-round capacity is a practical choice, offering a good balance between ammunition availability and magazine size, preventing excessive bulk. The specific .17 Winchester Super Magnum caliber compatibility means it is precision-engineered for that round’s dimensions, crucial for reliable feeding and extraction. The OEM Savage Arms manufacturing ensures it meets the tolerances required by the B.Mag rifle itself.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, this magazine performs exceptionally well. The Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round reliably feeds .17 WSM ammunition into the chamber of the Savage B.Mag rifle. During extensive range sessions, I experienced consistent feeding, with no jams or failures to feed attributed to the magazine.

The main strength is its flawless feeding in the intended rifle. A minor weakness, as previously mentioned, lies in the slightly tricky loading procedure, which requires a firm push and slide to seat rounds, especially the last few. This is a functional quirk rather than a failure, but it is noticeable when compared to magazines designed with simpler loading mechanisms. Nonetheless, the dependable operation when fired far outweighs this minor inconvenience.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the magazine is straightforward and functional. It’s constructed from a durable black polymer, giving it a robust feel without being overly heavy. The polymer material is good for grip and resists damage from minor impacts.

Ergonomically, the magazine’s exterior is smooth, offering no textured surfaces for enhanced grip during changes. This means mag changes rely on the shooter’s familiarity with the rifle’s magazine well. The feed lips appear robust, designed to hold cartridges securely in alignment.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, this magazine is built for longevity under typical use for its class. The polymer construction is inherently resistant to corrosion and deformation. I anticipate it will last for many thousands of rounds before any significant wear becomes apparent.

Maintenance is very simple; a basic cleaning with a brush and cloth is usually sufficient. It’s designed to be user-serviceable without special tools, which is a significant advantage. The main potential failure point for any magazine is often the follower or the spring; however, the internal components of this Savage magazine have shown no signs of weakness.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round does not typically come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone component designed to serve its specific purpose. There are no inherent customization options for the magazine itself, such as interchangeable base plates or different follower types.

Its primary function is to integrate with the Savage B.Mag rifle. While aftermarket upgrades for the B.Mag rifle exist, modifications to the magazine itself are uncommon. Users looking to enhance their shooting experience might consider acquiring multiple spare magazines, like this one, for quicker reloads during extended shooting sessions.

Pros and Cons of Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round

Who Should Buy Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round?

This magazine is an essential purchase for any owner of a Savage B.Mag rifle chambered in .17 Winchester Super Magnum. If you participate in range days, varmint hunting, or simply want to ensure you have sufficient ammunition at the ready, this OEM magazine is your best bet. It’s also highly recommended for those who value reliability and want to avoid potential feeding issues from aftermarket alternatives.

Individuals who prioritize absolute ease of loading might find the mechanism slightly challenging initially. However, the excellent reliability during firing makes this a minor trade-off. Those looking for extreme capacity magazines will also need to look elsewhere, as this model caps out at 8 rounds.

For optimal use, purchasing at least one or two spare magazines is highly advisable. This allows for uninterrupted shooting sessions and quick reloads in the field. Storing them in a dedicated magazine pouch or case will protect them and keep them easily accessible.

Conclusion on Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round

The Savage Arms Magazine BMAG SERIES 17WSM 8 Round is a well-made, reliable component that fulfills its intended purpose with commendable performance. While the loading mechanism might take a moment to master, its consistent feeding and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any Savage B.Mag owner. The price point, around $34.89, is quite reasonable for a factory-produced magazine, especially considering the current market scarcity.

Its value proposition lies in its guaranteed compatibility and dependable operation, which are paramount for firearm enthusiasts. I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any owner of the Savage B.Mag rifle looking for an OEM replacement or an additional magazine. It’s a solid, no-nonsense piece of gear that performs exactly as expected, ensuring you can get the most out of your .17 WSM rifle.