Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round Review

Why I Chose the Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round: A Hands-On Review

As someone who’s spent over a decade putting gear through its paces in everything from dusty workshops to demanding field conditions, I’ve learned the hard way that a rifle’s performance often hinges on its smallest components. For my Savage Mark II, a rifle that’s proven itself to be a remarkably accurate and versatile platform for rimfire fun, the factory magazine was a persistent bottleneck. The original 5-round unit felt more like an afterthought, interrupting the flow of shooting and leaving me wanting more. This is precisely why I sought out the Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round.

My decision to move to a higher-capacity magazine was driven by a simple desire for more uninterrupted shooting sessions. Fumbling with a 5-round magazine when targets are readily available quickly becomes tiresome, especially on days when the .22LR ammunition is flying. I considered aftermarket options, but given the established reputation of Savage Arms for producing reliable firearms, sticking with a factory-produced magazine felt like the safest bet for compatibility and function. The immediate impression upon arrival was one of practical utility – it’s a magazine, designed to hold rounds and feed them reliably. There’s a certain relief in knowing I’ve addressed a known limitation of my rifle with a direct solution.

Real-World Testing: Putting Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for a first shakedown. I loaded it to its full capacity of 10 rounds, a stark contrast to the restrictive 5-rounder I was accustomed to. The magazine slid smoothly into the rifle’s well, a reassuring tactile confirmation of proper fit. The first few cycles of cycling the bolt and dry firing felt positive, with no initial stiffness or sticking.

Loading the magazine was straightforward, the follower moved freely, and the 10 rounds seated without excessive effort. Firing the first magazine was a revelation; the increased capacity meant fewer interruptions and a more consistent shooting rhythm. I ran several magazines through the rifle that day, and the performance was consistent, with no feed or extraction issues observed. I did notice that the magazine’s plastic construction felt a bit lightweight compared to some all-metal magazines I’ve handled on other platforms, but for a .22LR, this is often a trade-off for weight and cost.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the subsequent months, this 10-round magazine has become a staple at nearly every .22LR range trip. I’ve subjected it to hundreds of rounds, experiencing a variety of ammunition types from budget bulk packs to slightly higher-grade match rounds. It has performed admirably across the board. I’ve intentionally let it sit loaded for extended periods, exposed it to the light dust and grime common in outdoor shooting environments, and even accidentally dropped it onto a concrete floor once – a minor mishap that fortunately resulted in no visible damage or functional compromise.

The durability has been impressive for its polymer construction. There are no visible cracks, and the spring remains robust, consistently pushing rounds up for feeding. Cleaning is as simple as any detachable magazine: a quick wipe-down and occasional compressed air blast to clear any debris. Compared to the original 5-round magazine, which sometimes felt a bit finicky, this 10-round unit has been a workhorse. While not as robust as a steel magazine, for its intended purpose and the prevalent use of .22LR, its longevity and reliability have exceeded my initial expectations given its somewhat basic construction.

Breaking Down the Features of Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round

Specifications

The Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round is designed to be a direct replacement or upgrade for the standard magazines found in a range of Savage Arms and Lakefield bolt-action rimfire rifles. Its primary specification is its 10-round capacity, offering a significant increase over the common 5-round magazines often included with these rifles. Constructed primarily from durable black polymer, it offers a lightweight yet functional solution for holding ammunition.

The magazine is chambered for both .22 Long Rifle (LR) and .17 Mach 2 (17M2), making it a versatile option for owners of rifles chambered in either of these popular rimfire calibers. Its design is specifically for the Savage Mark II series and compatible Lakefield models, ensuring a precise fit within the firearm’s magazine well. The package typically includes one such magazine. This increased capacity is a key benefit for shooters looking to spend more time on target and less time reloading.

Performance & Functionality

Functionally, this magazine performs its core duty with commendable reliability. It reliably feeds .22LR cartridges into the chamber of my Savage Mark II rifle. The internal mechanism, comprising a spring and follower, consistently presents rounds to the bolt for chambering. This consistency is crucial for maintaining a smooth shooting experience, especially during rapid fire sequences.

The primary strength lies in its ability to hold and reliably feed 10 rounds, significantly enhancing shooting sessions. A minor limitation, often noted by users and evident in its construction, is the polymer build. While lightweight, it doesn’t possess the same inherent ruggedness as a steel magazine and might be more susceptible to damage from extreme impacts. However, for its intended use and considering the price point, its performance is more than adequate.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Savage Arms magazine is focused on utility and compatibility. Its black polymer construction provides a clean, utilitarian aesthetic that blends well with the rifle’s synthetic stocks. The exterior features a textured surface that aids in grip, making it easier to seat and remove, even with cold or slightly damp hands.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward and intuitive. Loading the rounds is a simple push-and-seat process, with the follower guiding the last round effectively. The magazine’s dimensions are well-matched to the Savage Mark II’s magazine well, allowing for a secure and wobble-free fit. There is no complex disassembly required for basic cleaning, adding to its user-friendly design.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this 10-round magazine has proven itself to be reasonably robust for typical rimfire use. After hundreds of cycles, the polymer body shows minimal signs of wear, and the internal spring retains its tension. It’s built to withstand the repeated insertion and removal typical of range use.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse under water, a blast of compressed air, or a simple wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep it in optimal working order. There are no intricate parts to worry about, and the follower moves freely, suggesting good internal tolerances. For long-term storage, keeping it clean and dry is the best approach to ensure its continued reliable function.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round is a standalone component, and as such, it does not typically come with any additional accessories. Its purpose is to function as a reliable ammunition carrier and feeder for compatible Savage Arms and Lakefield firearms. There are no inherent customization options for the magazine itself; its design is fixed.

However, its compatibility with .22LR and .17M2 calibers means that users can customize their shooting experience by selecting from a vast array of ammunition types. The real “customization” comes from the rifle it’s installed in, allowing for different scopes, stocks, or barrel configurations to be paired with the enhanced magazine capacity.

Pros and Cons of Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round

Who Should Buy Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round?

This magazine is an excellent choice for any owner of a Savage Mark II or compatible Lakefield rifle who desires a more fluid and uninterrupted shooting experience. If you find yourself frequently reloading your standard 5-round magazine and wish to spend more time on target, this 10-round option is a worthwhile upgrade. It’s ideal for casual plinking, practice sessions, and even some informal competition where sustained firing is beneficial.

Those who should perhaps reconsider are individuals seeking an ultra-heavy-duty magazine for extreme survival scenarios or those who exclusively shoot very specific, high-precision rounds where magazine consistency might be a borderline concern (though this is unlikely with .22LR). For most practical uses of the Savage Mark II, this magazine is a great fit. A complementary item would simply be more of these magazines, allowing for quick swaps between shooting sessions without the need for immediate reloading.

Conclusion on Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round

The Savage Arms Magazine MK II 22LR/17M2 B 10 Round is a solid, reliable upgrade that significantly enhances the usability of the Savage Mark II platform. Its 10-round capacity effectively transforms the shooting experience, minimizing downtime and maximizing range time. While the black polymer construction might not scream “bomb-proof,” it offers a good balance of weight, durability, and cost-effectiveness for its intended purpose.

Considering its price point of $31.89, it represents a good value proposition, especially when compared to the frustration of a 5-round magazine. I would absolutely recommend this magazine to any Savage Mark II owner looking to improve their shooting sessions. It’s a simple, effective solution to a common limitation, and it performs as advertised, making it a go-to accessory for anyone wanting to get more out of their rimfire rifle.