Beretta 92 Magazines

[Hambo]

I'm looking for serious feedback on Beretta 17 round or Mec Gar 18 round magazines. Anybody using either of them? I'm always interested in more ammo on board, but not at the cost of reliability.

[GJM]

In order of preference:

1) MecGar 18

2) OEM PVD

3) everything else.

Ernest Langdon and Bill Wilson concur on MecGar.

[Clay]

Mec-Gar 18 round "Optimum" mags are excellent. When it comes to the Beretta 92/M9, as long as you stick to Mec-Gar, Beretta, or the currently available (2010 production) Check-Mate Industries magazines, you are fine.

I get all my 92 mags from Midway, BTW. I haven't found anyone that can beat their prices and service.

[GJM]

GregCoteLLC hits it out of the park on selection, service and price.


http://www.gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=97_126&products_id=574

[Lon]

I'm looking for serious feedback on Beretta 17 round or Mec Gar 18 round magazines. Anybody using either of them? I'm always interested in more ammo on board, but not at the cost of reliability.

I have both. I prefer the MG. I like the extra round, the finish and the base pad is lower profile. They both function 100%.

[GardoneVT]

I'm looking for serious feedback on Beretta 17 round or Mec Gar 18 round magazines. Anybody using either of them? I'm always interested in more ammo on board, but not at the cost of reliability.

MecGar or bust. The 17 round factory mags which ship with the Beretta 92A1 are a close second, followed by the PVD M9A1 type.

CheckMate mags are training articles only, as far as I'm concerned. Every time my Berettas closed on an empty chamber , it was with a CheckMate GI spec mag. No malfunctions with any of the Beretta or MecGar offerings, and given that they're about half the price of HK mags I'd not even consider any other option.

[Trooper224]

The 18 round MecGars are my number one choice, they're excellent. So far I've fired around six thousand rounds through six of them without an issue. I have six of the Checkmate mags and every single one failed to lock the slide back on empty, right out of the wrap. I installed Wolff springs and they work fine now, but I won't buy any more and these are all current production. MecGar's are primary for me with OEM Beretta mags as a second choice.

[Jeep]

The 18 round MecGars are my number one choice, they're excellent. So far I've fired around six thousand rounds through six of them without an issue. I have six of the Checkmate mags and every single one failed to lock the slide back on empty, right out of the wrap. I installed Wolff springs and they work fine now, but I won't buy any more and these are all current production. MecGar's are primary for me with OEM Beretta mags as a second choice.

I like MecGars, but I have had no problems at all with current Checkmate magazines, and if I'm going to drop magazines, I'd rather do it with a $15 magazine than a $25 one. Still, your report makes me pause. I wonder why the difference in performance?

[GJM]

I like MecGars, but I have had no problems at all with current Checkmate magazines, and if I'm going to drop magazines, I'd rather do it with a $15 magazine than a $25 one. Still, your report makes me pause. I wonder why the difference in performance?

$10 :)

Kidding aside, if Ben Stoeger, Ernest Langdon and Bill Wilson all use the 18 round MecGar, that is good enough for me. Plus, my experience with them has been excellent, after following their lead.

Wilson Combat sells the MecGar on their website and says this:

You’ll gain super reliability and additional round capacity with these high quality replacement Beretta® 92-series magazines.

These completely re-engineered magazines fit and function better than any factory magazine and meet or exceed all military specifications. Tempered steel tube treated with a black, anti-friction coating ensures drop-free operation and smooth feeding in extreme duty environments. Enhanced spring and anti-tilt, self-lubricating nylon follower feeds every type of bullet profile flawlessly. Witness holes in the rear side on both models provide visual round count.

[Trooper224]

I like MecGars, but I have had no problems at all with current Checkmate magazines, and if I'm going to drop magazines, I'd rather do it with a $15 magazine than a $25 one. Still, your report makes me pause. I wonder why the difference in performance?

My thinking ran along the same lines. Continually dropping mags on asphalt and concrete is hard on plastic base pads. I bought the Checkmates with the idea that a steel floorplate will be more durable and they are, as well as cheaper overall cost. However, the springs failed to lock the slide back every time. The needed spring replacement puts them in the range of the OEM mags in terms of price. The springs were noticeably weaker than the MecGars or Beretta mags. I'm a fan of Checkmate 1911 magazines, but not so much with these.

The MecGars really are excellent magazines as expected. I also have a couple of the 20 rounders and I'm very pleased with them.

[Hambo]

That's good to hear. I'll get some on the way.

[JonInWA]

Check-Mate has a lifetime warranty on their magazines, which they're very genuine about-call them, and they'll make things right. I'm sponsored by them, but the sponsorship came about via my appreciation for and extended work with their magazines, both for Beretta 92 and 1911. I've been running about 8 of their dry film 92 magazines literally for years, with some kept loaded literally for years (as part of my long-term testing protocol) and I've had zero spring issues.

It sounds like there may have been a bad batch of springs. Call them; it'll be speedily resolved. Please PM me if any assistance is needed.

Best, Jon

[Chuck Haggard]

I can't speak to the Mec Gar Beretta mags, but I had about 20 of their mags for the 3rd gen S&W double stack 9mms. Their 17 and 20 round mags were superb. I had zero issues from them. We had dozens of officers buying those mags back when we carried the S&Ws, never heard any issues from any of them.

[Jeep]

Check-Mate has a lifetime warranty on their magazines, which they're very genuine about-call them, and they'll make things right. I'm sponsored by them, but the sponsorship came about via my appreciation for and extended work with their magazines, both for Beretta 92 and 1911. I've been running about 8 of their dry film 92 magazines literally for years, with some kept loaded literally for years (as part of my long-term testing protocol) and I've had zero spring issues.

It sounds like there may have been a bad batch of springs. Call them; it'll be speedily resolved. Please PM me if any assistance is needed.

Jon: I tried the Check Mates on your recommendation here and as I said, mine have worked very well. I also have Mec-Gar's, but I like the Check Mate price and they seem to be fine magazines.

Best, Jon

[Trooper224]

I have no desire to waste any further time on Checkmate Beretta magazines and company intentions don't make my pistol function. All six of my new magazines exhibited the same problem, this is not a sample of one but a trend. Overall I think CMI makes a quality product as their 1911 mags are my go-to option. However, I have no reasonable expectation that new magazines will work any better than the current ones did. Therefore, it simply isn't worth my time to mess with it when other quality options are available.

[Up1911Fan]

How "flush fitting" are the 18 round MecGar's? The size of the baseplate on the 92A1 add's a bit of length.

[Trooper224]

How "flush fitting" are the 18 round MecGar's? The size of the baseplate on the 92A1 add's a bit of length.

Here's one in place.
http://m2.i.pbase.com/o9/64/521964/1/156403422.movJUkLn.Berettamods006.JPG

[1986s4]

Another vote for the MecGars. Mine have been faultless for years. I have both the 18 rounders and an older polished blue 15 round mag. I have a 1 CMI 15 round mag for the SIG P226. It seems high quality but I won't be buying any more, it came with the pistol. With so many good options in Beretta magazines I see zero reasons to take a chance on Checkmate.
Good options in Beretta Magazines:
MecGar
Beretta
MDS [maybe a subsidiary of Beretta]

[Jeep]

Another vote for the MecGars. Mine have been faultless for years. I have both the 18 rounders and an older polished blue 15 round mag. I have a 1 CMI 15 round mag for the SIG P226. It seems high quality but I won't be buying any more, it came with the pistol. With so many good options in Beretta magazines I see zero reasons to take a chance on Checkmate.
Good options in Beretta Magazines:
MecGar
Beretta
MDS [maybe a subsidiary of Beretta]

I understand what you are saying, but I don't think there is much downside in trying a considerably less expensive magazine for training--especially if you are bouncing them around a bit. I've done that enough with the Check-Mates that I'd be perfectly happy to use them for carry or HD (except for the fact that the Mec Gars hold a few more rounds).

[Lyonsgrid]

Anyone have any experience with these MecGar 15 round mags with the org. flush style base plates? I've been wanting to try a few for carry duty. The thinner base plate, although a very small difference, may just add a little more comfort or conceal better.

http://i675.photobucket.com/albums/vv118/elliott6229/mecgar.jpg (http://s675.photobucket.com/user/elliott6229/media/mecgar.jpg.html)

[Kyle Reese]

Lyonsgrid,
Those look similar to the mags included with my SIG P226 last year. They (and other Mec-Gar mags) are generally good to go.

[JSGlock34]

I apparently cracked the baseplate of a Beretta 17 round magazine while at the range today. Anyone know where I can source a replacement?

[LHS]

I've used primarily the OEM 15-rounders for about 11 years now. When the AWB died, Beretta was giving them away at (IIRC) the IDPA Nationals, and I managed to source a pair from that. Those two mags were my carry mags for years, and now have been relegated to training mags. They still work without issue. I've got some of the OEM 17-rounders, but haven't really put any through their paces. I've use Mec-Gar 15-rounders a lot as well, and never had an issue. I've also used the MG extended 20s with no complaints, though not nearly as much as the standard-sized mags.

Bill, Ernest and a lot of other switched-on folks swear by the MG 18s, and that should speak volumes. I just haven't felt the need to upgrade when I have an EOTW-sized stockpile of OEM 15s that work just fine.

[ralph]

The price of Beretta mags was one of the first things that literally shocked me.. After a few years of buying HK mags,this was very refreshing.. Quality high capacity factory mags for right around $20 a pop. Really, how can you go wrong here? I bought a few 17 rnd mags from Midway, with the 2-15 rnd mags that came with the pistol, I figure I'm good in the mag dept. for quite some time. When I got the mags from Midway, I was impressed with the quality, These are really nice considering their cost.

[JSGlock34]

I've used just about every Beretta OEM magazine (standard 15 round, 15 round PVD, 17 round). I've never had a problem with the 15 round magazines; the cracked baseplate on my 17 round magazine has been the only trouble I've encountered.

I've used the Mec-Gar 18 round magazines and I've had zero problems. If you look around you can find them for $20. Given the choice I'd buy and carry the Mec-Gars, but the 15 round Beretta OEM offerings are excellent.

Looks like Beretta will release a 17 round PVD magazine with the M9A3...might be the new heat. I wonder if the basepad has been altered for the military magazines though.

I'll probably call Beretta tomorrow and see if they can send a replacement basepad. None of the usual suspects seem to carry these.

[Sal Picante]

Cross posting this info from another thread...

MecGar magazines - they have a taper that eliminates the "lip" on the front of the magazine.
(http://shopwilsoncombat.com/Beretta-92_M9-Magazine-9mm-18-Round-Mec-Gar/productinfo/NW388/ - In case you're wondering...)

Additionally, just for reference, the 18rd MecGar's fit the CZ basepad from the Ben Stoeger Pro Shop (http://www.benstoegerproshop.com/CZ-75-85-SP01-Easy-Off-Aluminum-Basepad-p/cz-sf1-a.htm)

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s353/sh/af648798-3c66-477f-a4c5-33eed6cde6d9/7513f91d77494ed3/res/7e192878-2883-4920-a664-50bf4b19aca1/2015-09-14%2012.13.38.jpg

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s353/sh/af648798-3c66-477f-a4c5-33eed6cde6d9/7513f91d77494ed3/res/5f338b0d-373b-4f58-8c61-be5da6217f1f/2015-09-14%2012.13.54.jpg

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s353/sh/af648798-3c66-477f-a4c5-33eed6cde6d9/7513f91d77494ed3/res/127ad669-7b43-4e31-8b35-1e743bdd8f5c/2015-09-14%2012.14.09.jpg

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s353/sh/af648798-3c66-477f-a4c5-33eed6cde6d9/7513f91d77494ed3/res/e650e49b-d57e-454f-88a1-f46b4084835c/2015-09-14%2012.14.31.jpg

[Sal Picante]

That's so odd... Try the public link to all the pictures...

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s353/sh/af648798-3c66-477f-a4c5-33eed6cde6d9/7513f91d77494ed3

[Jared]

Beretta has (or had) blue guns for the 92A1 like that on their web store. I had one and sent it to a holster maker to get some sweet 92A1 holsters made. They came with two weighted mags, one weighted as an empty, one weighted like a full one. Pretty slick.

[S Jenks]

Slight thread drift, but has anyone ever had issues with the MecGar 18s dropping randomly from the P226 while firing? I've had this happen five times between a practice session and during a local competition at Sig in Epping. I haven't been able to replicate it when using the factory 15 rounders. Pistol is the P226 Elite SAO with approximately 500 rounds through it.

I know the mags were fully seated and I'm confident that I'm not inadvertently pressing the mag release. The magazines exhibit a small amount of wobble when seated but I cannot pull the magazine from the pistol without depressing the mag release. It doesn't seem to be related to the number of rounds left in the magazine. Ammunition used was Winchester 124gr NATO.

Is it possible for the bullet nose of an overly-long cartridge to press against the mag catch as it is advanced in the magazine? I'm not seeing any copper transfer on the mag catch. Every search I've made refers to the P938 having a similar issue but nothing in regards to the P226.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[YVK]

At a recent match a partially spent 18 round McGar Beretta mag went inoperable after a drop, with a follower and remaining rounds stuck solidly mid - tube. Had to take it apart. First and only occurrence, just an FYI.

[Edwin]

I really wish that MecGar would update the Hi Power magazines to include taper so I don't have to dremel the sharp angles off.

[JSGlock34]

Cross posted from the Beretta 92 thread (https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?7408-Beretta-92-FS-Compact-(and-general-Beretta-love-lately)) with minor edits and updates.

In comparison to my other pistols, I've acquired a somewhat diverse array of magazines for the Beretta 92, with three different manufacturers and five distinct variations represented in my collection. I've posted on these magazines before, but now that I've been regularly shooting a Beretta 92 variant over the past two years, I've made some observations and developed some preferences. I have no affiliation with any manufacturer. I've now used the following magazines...

1. Beretta OEM 15 round magazine
2. Beretta OEM 15 round PVD sand resistant magazine
3. Beretta OEM 17 round magazine
4. Check-Mate Industries (CMI) 15 round magazine
5. Mec-Gar 18 round magazine

Here are a few representatives...

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-3_zpsvagqroja.jpg
http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-2_zps8vjerbqc.jpg
http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-1_zpsrol7gw1b.jpg

(Pictured L-R: CMI 15 rnd (2005), CMI 15 rnd (2014), Beretta OEM 15 rnd, Beretta OEM PVD 15 rnd, Beretta OEM 17 rnd, Mec-Gar 18 rnd, 'Original Equipment' 18 rnd)


Beretta OEM 15 Round Magazines (Standard and PVD Sand Resistant)

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-6_zpsmkep172b.jpg
(Beretta OEM 15 Round Magazine - L, Beretta OEM PVD Sand Resistant 15 Round Magazine - R)

I acquired the standard 15 round magazines when I purchased a Beretta M9, and the 15 round PVD sand resistant magazines came standard with my Wilson Combat Beretta 92G Brigadier Tactical. Both magazines have proven reliable with both the M9 and the Brigadier Tactical. The sand resistant magazines have some visually apparent differences, mainly the deletion of the cut-out for the original 92 heel release, the addition of a vertical debris channel, and the distinctive PVD coating. The sand resistant magazines are marketed as the most reliable of the 92 magazines ("Choose the ultimate in reliability with the same magazine found on the battle-tested M9A1..."), and for those operating under extreme environmental conditions, perhaps they provide a measure of additional reliability. Under range conditions, I've yet to notice a difference in performance, though the price premium for the PVD is considerable, and I was able to find the standard magazines for under $15 during the holidays. Anyone would be well served by either of these magazines.

Beretta OEM 17 Round Magazines

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-9_zpsnfnlrwl6.jpg
(Beretta OEM 17 Round Magazine)

Looking to stick with OEM magazines, I found the 17 round magazines on sale for under $20 each and purchased three. The 17 round magazine was originally created for the 90-Two and comes standard with the 92A1. I've found the 17 round magazines are a bit tougher to load than the 15 round magazines, but it is hardly an issue. While the 17 round magazines have proven functionally reliable, their durability leaves something to be desired. The issue is the plastic floor plate - all three of the magazines have developed cracks, some severe. One magazine in particular looks to be hanging on by a thread, and I'm confident that it is only a matter of time before it fails catastrophically. As such, these magazines have been relegated to practice use only.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-10_zpszdsqh44s.jpg
(Floor plate damage)

The obvious answer is to replace the floor plate - unfortunately, a call to Beretta USA customer service revealed that Beretta doesn't sell the floor plate as a replacement part. It is possible to source replacement floor plates from overseas (via Brignoli (http://www.brignoliarmi.com/3/hunting-articles-beretta-special-parts-rubber-pads)), and thanks to this thread (shout-out to Edwin) I've learned that there are a number of after market options, such as these units from Springer Precision (http://shop.springerprecision.com/category.sc;jsessionid=068BE244D89A88973CAD5FC3252 BBE01.m1plqscsfapp02?categoryId=53)and Shockbottle (http://www.benstoegerproshop.com/Beretta-Easy-Off-Aluminum-Extended-Basepad-p/bx-sf1.htm). However, the price of these floor plates exceeds the purchase price of the original magazines. Beretta indicates that these magazines will accept a standard floor plate, though that will look somewhat unusual. Considering this state of affairs, I do not recommend the 17 round Beretta magazines, as there are better options available for the money.

I note that Beretta has recently released a PVD coated sand resistant version of the 17 round magazine (http://www.berettausa.com/en-us/mag-90two-spec-duty-pvd-9-17-pvd-9mm-17-unpackaged/c83734/)which will come standard with the M9A3. Based on my experience with the 17 rounders, I'm a bit concerned that this is the magazine Beretta has chosen for the M9A3. I recently had the opportunity to closely examine this magazine (along with the M9A3) and the floor plate looks identical. I'm hopeful that this new magazine will be supported by spare parts, but I've seen no such indication (yet).

Check-Mate Industries (CMI) 15 round Magazines

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-5_zpstdihxrsq.jpg
(Check-Mate Industries 15 Round Magazine (2005) - L, Check-Mate Industries 15 Round Magazine (2014) - R)

The troubles of the issued Check-Mate Industries (CMI) magazines have been discussed at length elsewhere. I originally acquired four (new in wrapper) of the military issue CMI magazines in a trade when I purchased my M9. All were 2005 manufacture with the dry film coating. Obviously considering my less than stellar experience with the plastic floor plate on the Beretta 17 round magazines, the metal floor plate on the CMI magazines is a welcome feature. Unfortunately, these magazines often produce failures to lock back in both the M9 and the Brigadier Tactical. CMI has a lifetime warranty on the magazines and quickly replaced the first two that had developed problems, as well as providing new springs and followers for the other two magazines. The new magazines have not been much of an improvement, and also have occasional failures to lock back on an empty magazine. As such, I've also relegated the CMI magazines to range use only. While I was pleased with CMI's customer service, there are better options.

Mec-Gar 18 Round Magazines

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-16_zpsrdccatoj.jpg
(Mec-Gar 18 Round Magazine - L, 18 Round 'Original Equipment' Magazine - R)

The Mec-Gar magazines are highly recommended on this forum, and in my own experience this is the best Beretta 92 magazine available. It has the most capacity of any of the standard sized magazines, yet the 18 rounder is easy to load. I've dropped these magazines on concrete countless times, and I've seen no indication of damage. These magazines have proven functionally reliable and durable. A little bit of searching on the internet will reveal these magazines are available from a number of sources for under $20.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/Mags-15_zps0btbn9fc.jpg
(Mec-Gar 18 Round Magazine - L, 18 Round 'Original Equipment' Magazine - R)

I've discovered two versions of this magazine, both available from CDNN. Aside from the manufacturer markings, the magazines appear identical. One is listed as a Mec-Gar Magazine (http://www.cdnnsports.com/magazines/92f-9mm-18rd-flush-anti.html#.VePHhHiLGng), and Mec-Gar is engraved on both the front of the magazine and on the side. The other is listed simply as 'Original Equipment' (http://www.cdnnsports.com/magazines/beretta-92-18rd-9mm-anti-friction-magazine.html#.VePHeniLGng), but is not engraved Mec-Gar (though both magazines are marked 'Made in Italy' and 'M9' in identical fonts). Those markings appear to account for the $9 price difference on CDNN, as in all other ways these magazines appear identical.

The 18 round Mec-Gar is my preferred magazine for carry and practice.

[Sal Picante]

^^ So much win

[Sal Picante]

Beretta Blue Gun: http://www.berettausa.com/en-us/beretta-92a1-inert-training-aid-2-magazines-/e00554/

[Matt O]

Beretta Blue Gun: http://www.berettausa.com/en-us/beretta-92a1-inert-training-aid-2-magazines-/e00554/

Thanks for mentioning the blue gun, I had no idea that existed. It'll be nice to practice mag changes without chewing up my practice pistol. I assume the blue gun's magwell is unbeveled as per the stock 92A1?

[JSGlock34]

The 17 round magazines continue to cling to life.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/DSC_0169_zpsmzhsz94x.jpg

I tried using a standard 15 round baseplate with the 17 round magazine; as Beretta stated it does fit.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/DSC_0159_zpsxebrdqbc.jpg
17 round magazine w/ 17 round baseplate on left, 17 round magazine w/ 15 round baseplate on right

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/DSC_0161_zpsctuehdfl.jpg
17 round magazine w/ 17 round baseplate on left, 17 round magazine w/ 15 round baseplate on right

However, it does look kinda goofy and I'm wondering if the gap could prove problematic (looks like it could snag on clothing, etc). Here is what it looks like fully inserted.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/DSC_0164_zpsphwon2ge.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x131/JSGlock34/DSC_0162_zpsosusj1z7.jpg

The 15 round baseplate will keep these serviceable for range use, but the 18 round Mec-Gar magazines remain the best option.

[Edwin]

Are the baseplates between the 18 and 17 rounders different? I wonder if I could use the Springer 17 round baseplates on the 18 round mags.

[JSGlock34]

Are the baseplates between the 18 and 17 rounders different? I wonder if I could use the Springer 17 round baseplates on the 18 round mags.

I've tried the 18 round baseplate on the 17 round magazine, and it fit, but there is still a gap between the magwell and baseplate. I did not think to try the reverse, considering my experience with the 17 round baseplates. I wonder if they would work with the 18 rounders; the 17 round magazine has added length, and the baseplate is designed to give the appearance of an extended base plate though the magazine itself actually extends below the magwell. The baseplate may well fit, but I'm not sure it would actually seat in the magazine well if attached to an 18 round magazine.

I'll see if I can play with these Legos later this week.

[Jared]

I wonder if one of the CZ basepads from Ben Stoeger pro shop would work on there. They're supposed to be the ones to use on the Mec Gar 18 round mags, maybe they'd fill the gap better. Of course, then you're putting a $25 base pad on a $20 mag.

[SteveB]

Wilson Combat offers the following service:

[BER-MAGRFB] Magazine Refurbish - New Spring, Follower, Base Plate and Refinish Tube $20

No idea if you can get baseplates from them.

[Sal Picante]

Sorry - didn't see this until now (road trip!): yes, very square and small until you've beaten the crap out of it!

:)

[Kyle Reese]

Sale on Original Equipment 18 round Beretta 92 mags at CDNN (http://www.cdnnsports.com/magazines/beretta-92-18rd-9mm-anti-friction-magazine.html#.VgNWXlUVhBc) - $16.88 per unit.

I've used them in my 92 G w/o issue.

[JSGlock34]

Great mags - thanks for highlighting the sale! I just bought four more...

[JSGlock34]

If anyone is looking for new floor-plates for the 17 round Beretta OEM magazines, you can get them at Brownells.

http://www.brownells.com/userdocs/products/p_913000422_2.jpg
BERETTA USA Bottom, Mag. C96 11RD, Plastic Mfr Part: C55057 $7.99 (http://www.brownells.com/magazines/handgun-magazines/magazine-parts/magazine-floorplates/bottom-mag-c96-11rd-plastic-bottom-mag-c96-11rd-plastic-sku913-000-422-54705-111271.aspx)

My search-fu is apparently weak, as I've been looking for these floor-plates quite some time, and had checked the Brownells website repeatedly. With the M9A3 releasing soon and using 17 round magazines, I decided to query Beretta USA to see if they would offer the floor-plates as a spare part. This time Beretta USA customer service sent me a link to Brownells. I'd never thought to search for 'Bottom, Mag. C96 11RD, Plastic' - but this is the same part on the 17 round magazines. I purchased three last week and replaced the cracked plates on my magazines. At $7.99 a piece, this doesn't change my opinion of the 17 round magazine, particularly when the 18 round Mec-Gars are available for $16.88 at the link Fred provided. In any case, here's the link...(apparently I must have bought the last three, as they are out of stock now...)

[Lyonsgrid]

FWIW - I ran (6) different Mec-Gar 18 rd mags this weekend at Langdon's class. Just shy of 1K rounds without any issues. They also seem to eject faster than my Beretta 17's when empty.

[JSGlock34]

Is the following Fred's link?

http://www.cdnnsports.com/magazines.html?brand=383&caliber=14

Also, Sportsmans Depot has 18rd Mec-Gars for $14.99 (link was provided by someone in another thread here on PF):

http://www.sportsmans-depot.com/products/MECGAR-MAG-BER-92-ANTI-FRICTION-BLUE-18RD-OEM-MAG9218.html

This is the link Fred posted to the $16.88 mags at CDNN. (http://www.cdnnsports.com/magazines/beretta-92-18rd-9mm-anti-friction-magazine.html#.Vg8ptHiLGnh)

[LSP972]

... and given that they're about half the price of HK mags I'd not even consider any other option.

Sorry about this thread drift, but curiosity overwhelms me… what possible bearing does the price of HK magazines have to do with the relative value of Beretta 92 magazines???

.

[1986s4]

Widener's is having a sale on magazines in general including Beretta mags.

[JSGlock34]

Are the baseplates between the 18 and 17 rounders different? I wonder if I could use the Springer 17 round baseplates on the 18 round mags.


I've tried the 18 round baseplate on the 17 round magazine, and it fit, but there is still a gap between the magwell and baseplate. I did not think to try the reverse, considering my experience with the 17 round baseplates. I wonder if they would work with the 18 rounders; the 17 round magazine has added length, and the baseplate is designed to give the appearance of an extended base plate though the magazine itself actually extends below the magwell. The baseplate may well fit, but I'm not sure it would actually seat in the magazine well if attached to an 18 round magazine.

I'll see if I can play with these Legos later this week.

Finally remembered to play around with this. I tried a 17 round baseplate on a standard 15 round magazine; as I suspected, it did not seat. The magazine appears fully inserted, but in reality it is not and does not engage the magazine release. Same should hold true for the Mec-Gars.

[Blood_Brothers_2017]

The M9 will NOT accept the 'M9A1' (aka 17rd mags) unless you put slide in that 1st round.

[JSGlock34]

The M9 will NOT accept the 'M9A1' (aka 17rd mags) unless you put slide in that 1st round.

Not sure I'm following you...the 17 round magazines are not M9A1 magazines, but come standard with the 92A1 (or the poorly named 90-TWO). The M9A1 comes standard with the 15 round PVD coated sand resistant magazines.

The yet to be released M9A3 uses 17 round PVD coated magazines, which are already available via the Beretta USA website.

However, all of these magazines are compatible across all Beretta 92 pistols. I've used the 17 round magazines in the M9 without any problem (well, save the floor plate cracking that I've documented previously in this thread). What may not be compatible are small parts across magazines - for example, as we were discussing earlier, the 17 round magazine floor plate will fit a 15 round magazine, but will not allow a 15 round magazine to seat properly. The reason is that the 17 round magazine body is actually slightly longer than the 15 round magazine body in order to accommodate the two extra rounds. This extra length is concealed by the shape of the floor plate.

[Jared]

The M9 will NOT accept the 'M9A1' (aka 17rd mags) unless you put slide in that 1st round.

My standard 92F and G models work perfectly fine with Beretta 15, and 17 round mags as well as Mec Gar 18 and 20 rounders while loading any of them all the way to full capacity. Come to think of it, all my 92 variants work with all of these mags. I don't know where you got your info, or if you got some bad mags, but something is wrong with your statement.

[LHS]

I finally picked up some of the 18rd MecGars recently and started using them. I ran them in a 2-gun match here locally, and they ran like tops. The one thing I noticed is that they are very hard to seat on a closed slide with the full 18 rounds loaded. I started downloading them to 17rds and had no more issues. I'll run them in a couple more matches, and if all continues to be well, I'll start using them for carry instead of the factory 15s.

[Sal Picante]

I finally picked up some of the 18rd MecGars recently and started using them. I ran them in a 2-gun match here locally, and they ran like tops. The one thing I noticed is that they are very hard to seat on a closed slide with the full 18 rounds loaded. I started downloading them to 17rds and had no more issues. I'll run them in a couple more matches, and if all continues to be well, I'll start using them for carry instead of the factory 15s.

Once the springs takes a bit of a set, they'll seat on 18 rds... :)

[TCinVA]

I've never used anything but factory Beretta mags in my 92 pistols...but when EL told me the Mec-Gar anti-friction mags are GTG it was enough to get me to buy some.

[sparky-kb]

when EL told me the Mec-Gar anti-friction mags are GTG it was enough to get me to buy some.

Yeah, I just picked some up too. Can't beat good mags $15.00 a piece either.

[LHS]

I've never used anything but factory Beretta mags in my 92 pistols...but when EL told me the Mec-Gar anti-friction mags are GTG it was enough to get me to buy some.

When he and Bill both sang their praises, I took that as A Clue.

[OnionsAndDragons]

I love MecGar AF mags of pretty much any flavor they make. My favorite Sig and Beretta mags hands down.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Casey]

Another vote for the Mec-Gar AFC 18 rounders. I've got a set of eight that I've been using for about a year and a half and roughly five thousand rounds. I did experience some feeding issues with Tula that may or may not have been magazine-related, but with brass cased ammo, the magazines have been 100% reliable.

[incogneato]

Also, Sportsmans Depot has 18rd Mec-Gars for $14.99 (link was provided by someone in another thread here on PF):

http://www.sportsmans-depot.com/products/MECGAR-MAG-BER-92-ANTI-FRICTION-BLUE-18RD-OEM-MAG9218.html

WOW... Thanks for sharing that!

[BigT]

Not exactly the same mag but hopefully useful. I use the Mec Gar mags in my Shadow. Very very similar to the Beretta models. 10 000 rounds through the set of six (2x 19 round afc and 4x 17 round afc) since March. No issues at all.

Being the the gamer fag that I am , they do get cleaned if they touch the ground in matches , but they're never cleaned in practice.

I would not not hesitate to carry Mec Gars if I carried a Pizza Gun ,CZ or Sig. In fact I would choose them over factory.

[Nephrology]

are these the OEM PVD coated mags? Or is ACT-MAG not the OEM mag manufacturer?

http://gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=126&products_id=1588

[Dave J]

are these the OEM PVD coated mags? Or is ACT-MAG not the OEM mag manufacturer?

http://gregcotellc.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=126&products_id=1588

I'm not sure who makes the OEM's for Beretta, but PVD isn't phosphate.

[LockedBreech]

I own two of the 18-round Mec-Gars and two of the 17-round 92A1 mags. I run the 17-round 92A1 mags in my 92FS for home defense. I use the Mec-Gars frequently for range work but I prefer the factory Beretta mags for defense. I also own 5 of the 15-round standard mags.

Never a problem with any of them. There are a lot of great mag options available for the 92-series.

[Hot Sauce]

Is the following Fred's link?

Also, Sportsmans Depot has 18rd Mec-Gars for $14.99 (link was provided by someone in another thread here on PF):

http://www.sportsmans-depot.com/products/MECGAR-MAG-BER-92-ANTI-FRICTION-BLUE-18RD-OEM-MAG9218.html

Damn it! PFers must have jumped on them quick, because they are all out of stock. Anyone else got a link for such a sweet low price?

[Hot Sauce]

I see that they are the same SKU, Tom. But this one is labeled as Beretta (original equipment) manufactured rather than Mec Gar. What gives? Is it because Mec Gar makes the factory magazines for Beretta?

[Hot Sauce]

Ah, I glossed over that part. Thanks for the clarification!

[JSGlock34]

New factory 18 round Beretta magazines? These look very much like the 18 round Mec-Gars to me (which is a good thing). Wonder when these will appear stateside...some cool stuff appearing on the Beretta-Italy site lately.

Beretta 92 Series Magazine 18 Rounds 9mm # C8F672 (http://estore.beretta.com/en-eu/beretta-92-series-magazine-18-rounds-9mm/)

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[LangdonTactical]

At a recent match a partially spent 18 round McGar Beretta mag went inoperable after a drop, with a follower and remaining rounds stuck solidly mid - tube. Had to take it apart. First and only occurrence, just an FYI.

Almost any high capacity magazine will do this if dropped in a partially loaded. It is common and not really an indicatory of reliability of the mag or the gun.

[LangdonTactical]

New factory 18 round Beretta magazines? These look very much like the 18 round Mec-Gars to me (which is a good thing). Wonder when these will appear stateside...some cool stuff appearing on the Beretta-Italy site lately.

Beretta 92 Series Magazine 18 Rounds 9mm # C8F672 (http://estore.beretta.com/en-eu/beretta-92-series-magazine-18-rounds-9mm/)

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Those are MecGar magazines. You will see them coming in guns from the factory shortly. Also, the 15 round MecGar 92 Compact mags have a base plate made by Beretta owned MDC in Italy. They are finally working together to give us what we want. ;-)

[JSGlock34]

Those are MecGar magazines. You will see them coming in guns from the factory shortly. Also, the 15 round MecGar 92 Compact mags have a base plate made by Beretta owned MDC in Italy. They are finally working together to give us what we want. ;-)

That's outstanding. My experiences with the 17 round magazines were not positive - the 18 round Mec-Gars have been superior in every way. Glad they're listening!

[JAH 3rd]

I just stick with the original 15 round mags for my M9. I know there are Beretta mags with an increased capacity. To get more rounds in a mag there are 3 things that have to be modified: 1) Magazine spring, 2) Magazine follower, and finally, 3) Magazine body. I have no problem in a magazine designed for 17 rounds from the git go. If they work, great. And it seems like they do work. Just color me content with the 15s. And I like 7 round 1911 mags, although I do shoot some 8 rounders with no problem.

[LangdonTactical]

That's outstanding. My experiences with the 17 round magazines were not positive - the 18 round Mec-Gars have been superior in every way. Glad they're listening!

I believe that specific magazine is going to be for the 92X Performance (https://www.brownells.com/firearms/handguns/semi-auto/92x-performance-9mm-prod127919.aspx?avs%7cMake_3=Beretta).

[JSGlock34]

I’ll just note that in my experience the 18 round Mec-Gar is an all-around better magazine. I haven’t found the OEM 15 round magazines to be any more reliable or to demonstrate longer spring life. The Mec-Gars tend to be cheaper than OEM, easier to reload due to the taper, have a nicer finish, and higher capacity. There seems to be no drawback to the 18 rounders (except perhaps the difficulty ordering replacement components).

[pastaslinger]

Do people trust the mecgar 20 round mags (18 +2)?

[RAM Engineer]

Do people trust the mecgar 20 round mags (18 +2)?

I do.

[Jeep]

It might be just me, but while I've never had a reliability problem with the 20 rounders, I'm not too fond of them because of what they seem to do with the overall balance of the pistol. In addition, I've found the MecGar 18 rounders to be a bit resistant to that 18th round.

[Colt191145lover]

It might be just me, but while I've never had a reliability problem with the 20 rounders, I'm not too fond of them because of what they seem to do with the overall balance of the pistol. In addition, I've found the MecGar 18 rounders to be a bit resistant to that 18th round.

Not going to lie, I just use them as 17 rounders. Easier to load and seat them when the slide is shut that way .

[revchuck38]

<thread drift>

Not going to lie, I just use them as 17 rounders. Easier to load and seat them when the slide is shut that way .

FWIW, I do this with my double-stack reload mags, regardless of make, for the same reason.
</thread drift>

[JSGlock34]

I believe that specific magazine is going to be for the 92X Performance (https://www.brownells.com/firearms/handguns/semi-auto/92x-performance-9mm-prod127919.aspx?avs%7cMake_3=Beretta).

Looks like they have a new 15 round magazine with an oversized bumper pad for the 92X Performance coming...new DLC finish?

Beretta 92X Performance Magazine 15 Rounds 9mm #C8F511 (http://estore.beretta.com/en-eu/beretta-92x-performance-magazine-15-rounds-9mm/)

9mm 15 rounds capacity magazine with rubber pad for Beretta 92X Performance, cal 9mm. Features black DLC finish.

http://estore.beretta.com/assets/0/15/DimLarge/C8F511.jpg

[Medusa]

I have two 18 rd mec gars that I want to replace springs on (and eventually they will all need replacing, and I’ve quite a few of these). What do you who’ve replaced yours use ? Can Wolff springs for beretta 15 rd mags work, or do they need a specific alternate ? Thank you.

[Sal Picante]

I have two 18 rd mec gars that I want to replace springs on (and eventually they will all need replacing, and I’ve quite a few of these). What do you who’ve replaced yours use ? Can Wolff springs for beretta 15 rd mags work, or do they need a specific alternate ? Thank you.

https://czcustom.com/spring-mag-mecgar-follower.html

Just chuck the follower. You're welcome.

[Medusa]

https://czcustom.com/spring-mag-mecgar-follower.html

Just chuck the follower. You're welcome.

Many thanks.

[SD]

Beretta web sight has $5.00 off sand resistant magazines + free shipping over $75.00 order.

[LockedBreech]

Beretta web sight has $5.00 off sand resistant magazines + free shipping over $75.00 order.

Heck yeah

[CWM11B]

Email blast today, 25% off all mags at Beretta using code MAGS25 at checkout. Three days only

[SD]

Well ain't that a kick in nut-sack, I had been following Beretta's online store waiting too see a sale from the MSRP price on the sand resistance magazines and ordered three of them yesterday with the 13% off sale. Today that same $99.00 would of bought me 4 magazines. Wonder what the old Chinese proverb for this situation is?

[Sal Picante]

Wonder what the old Chinese proverb for this situation is?

"It's all in the reflexes..."?

[Medusa]

Is there a way to get the weighted inert mags by themselves? If they fit in a standard weapon that’d be handy. I didn’t see them as separately available on the busa site. I may simply have not looked hard enough.

I guess maybe I could take a beat up old mag or three and find a way to get wheel weights or similar to stay put inside and simulate the proper weight. Or, some other method to the same end.

[Sal Picante]

Is there a way to get the weighted inert mags by themselves? If they fit in a standard weapon that’d be handy. I didn’t see them as separately available on the busa site. I may simply have not looked hard enough.

I guess maybe I could take a beat up old mag or three and find a way to get wheel weights or similar to stay put inside and simulate the proper weight. Or, some other method to the same end.

You're welcome. Again. :o

https://www.amazon.com/ACK-LLC-Training-Weighted-Magazine/dp/B007RJSIYW

[Medusa]

You're welcome. Again. :o

https://www.amazon.com/ACK-LLC-Training-Weighted-Magazine/dp/B007RJSIYW

You are awesome. Thank you.

[willie]

Rapid, I'll happily send you enough lead bullets to weight your mags.

[Medusa]

Rapid, I'll happily send you enough lead bullets to weight your mags.

I’ll message you - thank you

[Sal Picante]

Rapid, I'll happily send you enough lead bullets to weight your mags.

Honestly, that's another approach: Just get an old, worn out tube, make some dummy rounds (no primer, no powder) and practice away.

Some of the downsides are:
1.) Lead bullets get beat up after a lot of practice. Def. use jacketed bullets as they fare better, but even they start to get crushed after a while.
2.) It is a real mag, with real looking bullets... Got to make sure of dry fire. (That's one thing I really do like about an inert trainer/NLT Glock, etc.)
3.) Did I say they were real looking bullets? Make sure they don't get mixed up with actual ammunition... (Ask me how I know...)

[Medusa]

With you on all points.


Honestly, that's another approach: Just get an old, worn out tube, make some dummy rounds (no primer, no powder) and practice away.

Some of the downsides are:
1.) Lead bullets get beat up after a lot of practice. Def. use jacketed bullets as they fare better, but even they start to get crushed after a while.
2.) It is a real mag, with real looking bullets... Got to make sure of dry fire. (That's one thing I really do like about an inert trainer/NLT Glock, etc.)
3.) Did I say they were real looking bullets? Make sure they don't get mixed up with actual ammunition... (Ask me how I know...)

[NuJudge]

I have had the Met-Gar magazine springs get tired, and suddenly the slide does not stay back on an empty magazine. My cure at that point with a Beretta magazine is to install a new magazine spring. I am not aware of a source for springs for the Met-Gar 18.

I like the Mec-Gar, until it quits.

[Medusa]

I have had the Met-Gar magazine springs get tired, and suddenly the slide does not stay back on an empty magazine. My cure at that point with a Beretta magazine is to install a new magazine spring. I am not aware of a source for springs for the Met-Gar 18.

I like the Mec-Gar, until it quits.

Scroll up, Mr. Pepperoni (boy does that sound like a porn movie) answered my question on that point. Apparently the mec gar cz springs he linked will work. I haven’t ordered any yet but will do pretty soon.

[Sensei]

I just got 2 Mec-Gar 18 rounders and put 50 rounds of Federal 124 grain AE through each without issue. I’ll put some 147 grain HST through them before declaring them good to go.

[sparkyfender]

Great!

I logged on to ask this very question, good deal, learned what I needed to know.

I have purchased from Greg Cote before, good seller.

[Medusa]

You're welcome. Again. :o

https://www.amazon.com/ACK-LLC-Training-Weighted-Magazine/dp/B007RJSIYW

As a follow up, I ordered these on 10/2 using that link and the seller never communicated or did anything so I canceled it as of today. In any event I saw today in the 1911 thread where someone said their blue mags got chewed and left plastic debris inside the weapon, to its detriment. I guess I will go with dummy rounds in old magazines.

[GyroF-16]

As a follow up, I ordered these on 10/2 using that link and the seller never communicated or did anything so I canceled it as of today. In any event I saw today in the 1911 thread where someone said their blue mags got chewed and left plastic debris inside the weapon, to its detriment. I guess I will go with dummy rounds in old magazines.

Thanks for the update and info.

I was eying these for training, but will remove them from my wish list.

[Hambo]

I just got 2 Mec-Gar 18 rounders and put 50 rounds of Federal 124 grain AE through each without issue. I’ll put some 147 grain HST through them before declaring them good to go.

They work just fine with 147gr HST, both regular and +P.

[JSGlock34]

https://czcustom.com/spring-mag-mecgar-follower.html

Just chuck the follower. You're welcome.

Are the springs themselves actually identical, or not exact but close enough to be functional?

[Sal Picante]

Are the springs themselves actually identical, or not exact but close enough to be functional?

I don't have a way to check the spring constants/rates/etc... That said, it drove me nuts to order aftermarket springs, which wouldn't fit the MecGar floor plate, required clipping, didn't hold 18 rds in the 18 rd tube (because they compress into themselves, unlike the wolf units).

These have worked for me in the 18rd and 22 (18 rd +4 extension) magazines I've had.

[JSGlock34]

Thanks, I'll order some.

On the subject of magazine springs, what's the preferred option for OEM 15 round magazines? Beretta springs or the Wolff +10%?

[spence]

Thanks, I'll order some.

On the subject of magazine springs, what's the preferred option for OEM 15 round magazines? Beretta springs or the Wolff +10%?

I'm no pro, but for whatever it's worth I've got a bunch of USGI type mags that are loaded with the Wolf 10% extra power springs. If I was replacing springs in factory mags, I'd use the same springs, too.

[Hambo]

I've been using Wolff +10's for years.

[Sal Picante]

Thanks, I'll order some.

On the subject of magazine springs, what's the preferred option for OEM 15 round magazines? Beretta springs or the Wolff +10%?

The Wolff +10's are great there...

[JSGlock34]

p/B5EaOGNA-Pt

[Stony Lane]

MecGar sent me this information on the 18-round Beretta 92 magazine parts:

Please call the number below to place an order.

PRICES:

Springs:

Single: $6.95

Three Pack: $16.95

Ten Pack: $45.95


Locking Plates: $4.95

Floorplates: $ 6.95

Followers: $4.95

Shipping: Flat $3.95


Mec-Gar USA, Inc.
905 Middle Street
Middletown, CT 06457

Tel: 860-635-1525

Fax: 860-635-1712
Web: www.mec-gar.com

[JSGlock34]

I've read reports that the new 92X Performance is coming with the new Beretta branded Mec-Gar AFC magazines (that's good!)...but the magazines appear dimpled to only accept 15 rounds (that's bad)...anyone have an idea why?

I hope to pick up some of the 18 rounders...