Let’s Dive into Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release is designed for the 1911 platform, a pistol steeped in history and favored by many for its classic design and reliable performance. Wilson Combat, a name synonymous with quality and precision in the firearms world, offers this extended magazine release as an upgrade to enhance reload speed and efficiency. It boasts a wide, checkered button for improved grip and faster magazine changes, specifically aimed at competitive shooters.
Having spent years participating in various shooting sports and working with tactical gear, I’ve often encountered situations where a standard magazine release can be difficult to manipulate quickly, especially under stress. This led me to seek an extended release that offers a more positive and reliable activation. The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release seemed like a promising solution to improve my reload times without sacrificing reliability.
My first impression upon unboxing was that the part was more substantial than I had envisioned. The machining was clean, and the checkering on the button was aggressive enough to provide a solid grip. The blued finish matched well with my 1911’s existing components.
I considered other extended magazine releases from brands like Ed Brown and Nighthawk Custom. I ultimately chose the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release because of Wilson Combat’s reputation for quality and the easily removable button feature for carry purposes. I hoped it would provide a competition edge, while still allowing me to adapt my firearm for everyday carry.
Initially, I was excited about the potential speed increase, yet apprehensive about the possibility of accidental magazine drops. The easily removable button feature, however, eased my concern.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release at my local shooting range during a practical pistol practice session. The range provided a variety of scenarios, including timed drills and movement exercises, perfect for evaluating the release’s performance. I subjected my 1911 to a battery of tests.
The weather was dry and sunny, but the range’s dusty environment challenged the magazine release to perform reliably. The extended button made magazine changes noticeably faster.
The extended button did require a slight adjustment to my grip and technique. After a few practice runs, it became more natural.
The release functioned flawlessly during the first range session. No accidental magazine drops, and positive engagement with each magazine insertion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release has proven to be a durable and reliable upgrade. I have used the pistol regularly.
The blued finish shows some minor wear around the edges from holster use and repeated magazine changes. Overall, its wear is minimal.
Cleaning the magazine release is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session keeps it functioning smoothly.
Compared to the factory magazine release, the Wilson Combat part offers a significantly improved experience in terms of speed and ease of use. The factory part required more deliberate effort to activate.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Wilson Combat. This company is known for high-quality 1911 parts and accessories.
- Gun Model: 1911. Specifically designed as a drop-in replacement for most 1911 platforms.
- Condition: New. The product arrives in pristine condition, ready for installation.
- Note: Catch lock & spring sold separately. Be aware that these components are not included, requiring a separate purchase.
- The most important aspect is that the product features a removable extended button. The user can switch it to the standard magazine release size.
These specifications indicate that the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release is a purpose-built upgrade for 1911 owners seeking improved reload speeds, offering both competition-focused functionality and the option for a more discreet profile when needed. The fact that the catch lock and spring are sold separately is important to note, as it affects the overall cost and installation process.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release excels in its primary function: facilitating faster and more reliable magazine changes. The extended button provides a larger, more accessible surface for the thumb, making it easier to drop the magazine quickly.
Its strengths lie in its enhanced ergonomics and positive engagement, while the potential for accidental activation, although minimized by the button’s shape and positioning, is a minor consideration. The release meets my expectations for a competition-oriented upgrade, offering a tangible improvement in reload speed and efficiency.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release features a well-thought-out design, constructed from quality materials for a solid feel in the hand. The aggressively checkered button provides excellent tactile feedback, ensuring a secure grip even with gloves or in wet conditions.
Installation is relatively simple, and the learning curve is minimal, making it a user-friendly upgrade for both experienced and novice 1911 users. The design prioritizes functionality and ease of use, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release is built to withstand the rigors of regular use, constructed from high-quality steel for long-lasting durability. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
The release requires minimal maintenance; a quick cleaning and lubrication after each shooting session is sufficient to keep it functioning smoothly. Its robust construction and simple design contribute to its overall longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the included Allen wrench for button removal. It’s designed as a standalone upgrade to the existing magazine release system.
While not directly customizable in terms of adding components, the removable extended button provides a form of user-adjustable functionality, allowing shooters to switch between a competition-focused configuration and a more carry-friendly setup. The release is compatible with most standard 1911 magazines and magazine wells.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release
Pros
- Significantly faster and more reliable magazine changes due to the extended button.
- Aggressive checkering provides a secure grip, even in adverse conditions.
- Removable extended button allows for easy transition between competition and carry configurations.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install with minimal gunsmithing required for most 1911s.
Cons
- Catch lock & spring sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Potential for accidental magazine release, although minimized by design, is still a factor to consider.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release?
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release is perfect for competitive shooters looking to shave valuable seconds off their reload times. It also benefits tactical shooters seeking a more positive and reliable magazine release in high-stress situations.
Those who prioritize concealed carry and are concerned about accidental magazine releases might want to skip this product, or at least use it with the standard-sized button installed. A quality set of 1911 magazines and a magazine well can further enhance the benefits of the extended release.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release
The Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release is a worthwhile upgrade for 1911 owners seeking enhanced reload speed and reliability. Its durable construction, aggressive checkering, and easily removable button make it a versatile addition to any 1911.
At a price of $42.89, the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release offers a good value proposition, especially considering the tangible performance benefits it provides. While the separate purchase of the catch lock and spring adds to the overall cost, the improved reload speed and enhanced ergonomics make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.
I would definitely recommend the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release to anyone looking to improve their 1911’s magazine change performance. If you’re looking to enhance your 1911’s performance and gain a competitive edge, give the Wilson Combat Extended Magazine Release a try – you won’t be disappointed.