SAR USA ST45 12-Round Magazine Review
As an avid shooter and gun enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the new SAR USA ST45 12-Round Magazine. For those unfamiliar, the ST45 is a polymer magazine designed for 45 ACP cartridges, and I was eager to see how it would perform. In this review, I’ll dive into the pros and cons, features, and my personal experience with this product.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that caught my attention was the magazine’s sleek and modern design. The polymer construction is durable, lightweight, and feels solid in the hand. The contoured design provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to cycle through the rounds without any fatigue. The ST45 features a smooth, ambidextrous release lever and a durable spring that deploys with ease.
Capacity and Feed Performance
The 12-round capacity is impressive, and I was eager to test its performance. I loaded up the magazine with a mix of full metal jacketed 45 ACP rounds and hollow point rounds, and cycled through them without a hitch. The magazine fed smoothly, and the rounds dropped into the chamber without any issues. I didn’t encounter any misfeeds or hang-ups during testing.
Ease of Use
One of the standout features of the ST45 is its simplicity. The release lever is easy to operate, and the magazine drops free with a quick tug. The magazine itself is easy to load and unload, making it a breeze to maintain. I appreciated the clear labeling on the magazine, which indicates the capacity and compatibility.
Cons
- Feed Lip Issues: Despite the smooth feeding performance, I did encounter some issues with the feed lip getting in the way of the follower. This resulted in a few rounds getting stuck in the chamber. However, this was a minor issue that didn’t hinder my overall experience.
- Magazine Body Flex: While the polymer magazine is durable, I noticed some flex during heavy use. This didn’t affect the performance, but it did concern me for long-term reliability.
- Lack of Side-Wall Reinforcement: Unlike some higher-end magazines, the ST45 doesn’t feature side-wall reinforcement. This didn’t seem to affect performance, but it’s worth noting for those looking for added durability.
Pros
- Affordable: The ST45 is an affordable option for those looking for a reliable 45 ACP magazine.
- Smooth Feed: The magazine fed consistently throughout testing, with no misfeeds or hang-ups.
- Easy to Use: The release lever and loading/unloading process are straightforward and simple.
- Lightweight: The polymer construction keeps the magazine lightweight and easy to manage.
Conclusion
Overall, the SAR USA ST45 12-Round Magazine is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, affordable 45 ACP magazine. While it may not be perfect, the pros far outweigh the cons. The feed performance is smooth, the design is modern and appealing, and the magazine is easy to use. If you’re in the market for a new magazine or want to upgrade your existing setup, I recommend giving the ST45 a try.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Recommendation:
- If you’re a collector or new to shooting, start with the ST45 and upgrade as you become more comfortable.
- If you’re looking for a high-end magazine with added features, consider one of the more premium options on the market.
- If you’re on a budget, the ST45 is an excellent choice for an affordable, reliable option.
I hope this review helps you make an informed decision about the SAR USA ST45 12-Round Magazine. Happy shooting!
