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I’ll have to admit the novelty aspect of this power bank is what caught my attention. But the more I thought about it, the less that was the draw. Think about all the tech we now run on our kit or even when we travel. They were trying to run cameras and multiple comms platforms back when I was active on our tactical team and the biggest failure was the battery life or simply the size of the proprietary battery and where to attach it to our kit. I’m not saying I would carry this over a magazine where the mission required more ammo, but think of all the different pouches we already have to carry this on our kit. Say in a low profile operation or overwatch or all those tactical pants with the built in magazine shaped pockets? I have backpacks and sling bags with magazine shaped pockets and wire routing from the velcro panels that this will work in to. Now couple that with all the tech: ATAK, monitors, cameras, cellphones, iPads, smart watches, radios, jammers, batteries for flashlights, GPS, LED lights, Airpods, speakers, bug repellent, pocket warmers and anything else you use while away from your car our home.
The EDC MAG AR is shaped just like a M3 Pmag with the power indicator located in the round indicating window. I grabbed a tan one so I could clearly distinguish it from my real Pmags, but there is also a panel for engraving or to attach (a supplied) velcro patch for individualizing and identification. The exterior is made of their own blend of DuPont Zytel, creating Mil-Spec grade exterior including resistance to flame and electronic interference (static discharge). The certified 1P64 water and dust resistance is upgraded with their included silicone cover for the ports and allows use of individual ports and checking the status or powering up while in place.The port covers have plugs that protect them when not in use and are separate to allow individual use. The power indicator has 10 LED lights giving power levels in 10% increments from “Fully Loaded” to “Reload”. Because of its shape it can be stored in any mag pouch, to include velcro pouches for inside packs from Vertx and 5.11 or your cargo or rear pants pockets. The block weighs in at 500g or 1.1lbs.
Internal components are just as technical. This is a 20,000 mAh/76W Li-Polymer battery with a max output of 22.5W. It has dua USB-A ports one 12W and one 22.5W with a USB-C input/output port for both charging and recharging. It allows for simultaneous charging on all three ports with fast charge on both the USAB-A and USB-C 22.5W ports. Technology provides protection from overvoltage, overcharge, over-discharge, over current, high temperature and short circuit. Approximate charging time is 5 hours. It has held a charge without any loss for over two weeks in my bag. I was able to charge a JBL Flip speaker, 2 Iphone 13 pros and a Samsung S20 on one charge. That’s enough for a couple days on the road away from wall or car chargers, even longer off the grid listening to music and using GPS/mapping software. Or more than a day running operational tech. It has been in my daily carry pack while working down in south Texas for the last couple weeks without any loss of charge.
This power bank is lighter than my similar sized blocks and more durable making it the better choice when traveling. Not sure I would gamble on taking it commercially overseas or to sensitive locations due to how realistic it looks but anywhere that it would be common to see magazines or not draw attention would be on my list. This will fit in with my normal equipment on or off the clock currently. The owners of the company have traveled with it as carry-on and have not had any troubles with TSA. Of note, it will look like a charging block in the x-ray machine. They are talking about coming out with a smaller, pistol magazine (guessing Glock) sized power bank for belt of pocket use. It will be a little more convenient for daily use and will obviously be able to be carried in any pistol magazine size pouch. These guys made a high quality, durable power bank for hard use.
Final Thoughts: This power bank was built to be used in harsh conditions and take a beating. The convenience that it fits in any AR magazine pouch is a plus. Might have limitations depending on the settings and if a magazine will stand out or draw attention. Unless that is what you are looking for.
By the numbers:
Comfort – 4/5 I gave it a 4 because it will fit in your AR magazine pouches no problem but may not be socially acceptable everywhere. And it is a larger size power bank.
Durability – 5/5 This thing was built to be durable and lives up to the intent. Dupont Zytel exterior and IPX4 dust and water resistance make it a go anywhere power source.
Functionality – 5/5 With 3 charging ports, 2 at higher rates and rapid charge capability using USB-C make this a competitive 20,000mAH power bank.
Weight – 4/5 Weighing in at just over a pound keeps it right around the top end of weight for this size power bank but not with this kind of durability.
Value – 4.5/5 There are cheaper power banks out there, but not as durable or water resistant.
Overall rating – 4.5/5 This is a durable power bank with a fast charge and recharge capability that is water and dust resistant for every day use.
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product.
*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.