The Mossberg Plinkster 702 is a popular .22 LR pistol known for its affordability and reliability. A crucial component of any firearm's performance is its magazine, and understanding the nuances of the Mossberg 702's magazine is key to maximizing your shooting experience. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about Mossberg Plinkster 702 magazines, covering capacity, compatibility, potential issues, and where to find replacements.
Mossberg 702 Magazine Capacity: How Many Rounds Can You Carry?
The standard Mossberg Plinkster 702 magazine holds 10 rounds. This capacity is perfectly adequate for plinking, target practice, and informal shooting. However, some shooters might find themselves wanting more rounds for extended sessions. While aftermarket high-capacity magazines are less common for this pistol compared to some others, understanding the standard capacity is crucial for planning your shooting sessions and managing your ammunition effectively.
Mossberg 702 Magazine Compatibility: Stick to the OEM?
While aftermarket options exist, sticking with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) magazines is generally recommended. OEM magazines are specifically designed and tested to work flawlessly with the Mossberg Plinkster 702, ensuring reliable feeding and ejection. Using non-OEM magazines can potentially lead to malfunctions, jams, or even damage to the firearm. While some third-party options may claim compatibility, the risk of problems often outweighs the potential benefits.
Troubleshooting Common Mossberg 702 Magazine Issues
Even with OEM magazines, you might encounter occasional issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Feeding Problems:
- Dirty Magazine: Regular cleaning of the magazine is essential. Accumulated dirt, debris, or lubricant buildup can hinder proper feeding. Use a soft brush and a solvent designed for firearms cleaning.
- Bent Feed Lips: Inspect the feed lips carefully. Bent or damaged feed lips are a common cause of feeding issues. If bent, carefully straighten them (if possible) or replace the magazine.
- Weak Magazine Spring: A weakened magazine spring can fail to push the rounds up reliably. Replacing the magazine spring (if possible) or the entire magazine is the solution.
Ejection Problems:
- Obstructions: Check for any debris or obstructions within the magazine well or the magazine itself.
- Faulty Magazine: If you've ruled out other causes, the magazine itself may be faulty and require replacement.
Finding Replacement Mossberg Plinkster 702 Magazines
Replacing a lost or damaged magazine is straightforward. You can typically find OEM magazines at reputable sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers specializing in firearms accessories. Always ensure you're purchasing from a trusted source to avoid counterfeit or substandard products. When searching online, using keywords like "Mossberg 702 magazine," "Mossberg 702 Plinkster magazine," or "OEM Mossberg 702 magazine" will yield the best results.
Conclusion: Maintaining Your Mossberg 702 Magazine
Proper care and maintenance of your Mossberg Plinkster 702 magazine are vital for reliable shooting performance. Regular cleaning, careful inspection, and the use of OEM magazines will maximize the lifespan of your magazine and ensure many years of enjoyable shooting. Remember to always prioritize safety when handling firearms and their components. This detailed guide should equip you with the knowledge to keep your Mossberg Plinkster 702 magazine in top condition.