I'm in the middle of an AR build (thanks to you guys) and a friend is offering to sell me a lightly used Beta drum, the 100rnd model for those unfamiliar.

Questions for those who've used them....how well do they take to being kept loaded for extended periods, any weakening of the springs?

Also, does the fully loaded weight detract from the gun's usefullness?

Also, does the fully loaded weight detract from the gun's usefullness?

Yes.

Beta Mags are fun for the giggle factor, and because they make Nancy Pelosi cry. Other than that, they are relatively pointless and not worth the weight. You are typically better off spending the money on 20 USGI mags instead of one Beta mag.

That being said, if it makes you giggle, go for it. They are a neat toy. Just not a useful tool.

Even the weight of 2 fully loaded 30 rounders makes a substantial difference in the way the rifle feels when you are trying to move it around quickly.

If you want to see how much, try taping 3 30's together and moving a bit. If it doesn't bother ya, then go for it, if it does, then skip it.

Personally, I'd skip it unless you were talking about using it with a FA setup. I've got 2 mags setup with a doubler that works pretty slick, and have considered a redimag deal that holds a spare mag on the side of the magwell, but haven't spent the money for it, the $25 doubler works just fine, especially since I got it free.:D

If you do get one, don't drop it loaded or you will have an expensive pile of broken plastic.

I have one and have only used it a couple of times. It was fun but....