12/2 MC Cable with Ground 25FT 12AWG Metal Clad Cable - Durable

In this review the 12/2 MC Cable with Ground 25FT is evaluated for contractors and DIY electricians who need a robust, code-compliant power run. The reviewer found the cable best for installations where physical protection and reliable conductivity matter most: the metal clad armor and UL-listed THHN/THWN conductors give confidence for branch circuits, HVAC feeds, and commercial lighting. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of heavy-duty interlocked aluminum armor and 99.99% oxygen-free copper conductors that provide durable protection and stable electrical performance in demanding environments.

Key Features

• Type THHN/THWN conductors: Provides dual-rated insulation suitable for dry and wet locations, making the cable versatile for many installation types.
• Industrial metal armor: Steel interlocked aluminum armor shields the inner conductors from physical damage, corrosion, and moisture for longer service life.
• 99.99% oxygen-free copper: High-purity copper conductors improve conductivity and reduce oxidation risk for reliable power delivery.
• High temperature rating: Insulation rated to 90C dry and 75C wet supports higher thermal loads in commercial and industrial circuits.
• NEC Article 330 compliance: Multiple layers of protection meet requirements for exposed and concealed use, simplifying code compliance on many jobs.
• UL listed components: Tested to UL 83, UL 1569, and UL 2556 standards for safety and performance expectations in electrical installations.

Who It's For

The cable is ideal for electricians, contractors, and facility maintenance teams who run branch circuits in commercial buildings, light industrial settings, or finished basements where a protected conductor is needed. Installers who value NEC compliance, a 600V rating, and a cable that tolerates higher temperatures will find this cable practical for lighting circuits, HVAC equipment, and power runs inside conduit-free spaces.

It is less suited for very tight spaces where a smaller flex conduit is required, or for low-voltage signal runs where a different conductor type is expected. Homeowners with simple short runs that will be hidden entirely in-wall might prefer standard NM cable for economy rather than metal clad.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable interlocked metal armor offers real protection against impact and abrasion on jobsites.
• High-purity copper conductors deliver reliable conductivity and reduced corrosion risk over time.
• Dual-rated THHN/THWN insulation and 600V rating make the cable versatile for many environments.
• UL listings and NEC compliance simplify specification on commercial projects.

Cons

• Armor and thicker construction make the cable less flexible and slightly harder to fish than non-armored alternatives.
• For purely in-wall residential jobs that require concealment and lower cost, this heavy-duty MC cable may be overkill.

Specifications

Conductor type	Type THHN/THWN
Conductor size	12AWG (black & white) with 12AWG ground
Cable length	25FT
Voltage rating	600V
Temperature rating	90C dry / 75C wet
Armor	Interlocked metal clad aluminum/steel armor
Certifications	UL listed (UL 83, UL 1569, UL 2556); RoHS

Our Verdict

The 12/2 MC Cable with Ground 25FT is a solid choice for professionals and serious DIYers who need a protected, code-ready conductor for commercial and demanding residential installs. Its metal clad armor, high-purity copper conductors, and UL listings mean you pay for durability and compliance, which represents good value when protection and long-term reliability matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be used in wet locations?
Yes; the THHN/THWN conductors are rated for wet locations at 75C and the overall design meets NEC requirements for exposed and concealed wet or dry locations.

Is the ground conductor included and what size is it?
Yes; the cable includes a 12AWG ground conductor matched to the 12AWG conductors for proper grounding.

What environments is the armor suited for?
The interlocked metal armor protects against physical damage, moisture, and corrosion, making it suitable for commercial, light industrial, and high-traffic installations.