Let’s Talk About Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine
The 1911 platform is iconic, but its reliability can sometimes be magazine-dependent. The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine aims to solve that problem with a robust, duty-ready design co-developed with firearms expert Larry Vickers. This magazine boasts a solid tube construction, redesigned basepad, and a focus on preventing feed failures, making it a compelling choice for serious 1911 users.
I’ve always been a believer in investing in quality magazines for my firearms. Having experienced magazine-related failures in training scenarios, I sought a magazine that offered superior reliability, especially for my 1911.
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty magazine came in a simple, no-frills package. Picking it up, the immediate impression was one of solid construction and reassuring weight. The steel felt substantial, and the basepad offered a confident grip.
Compared to standard Wilson Combat 47D magazines and some older Chip McCormick Power Mags, the ETM-V appeared more rugged and intentionally overbuilt for harsh conditions. I chose the ETM-V for its reputation for enhanced reliability and the Vickers name attached to it. My initial excitement was high, hoping this magazine would provide the reliability I needed in my 1911.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine was at an outdoor shooting range. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid reloads and malfunction clearing. The magazine seated positively every time.
The ETM-V performed flawlessly in dry and slightly dusty conditions, feeding rounds smoothly without any hiccups. Its ease of use was apparent immediately, fitting into my 1911 with a satisfying click. There were no initial surprises, just reliable performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of use, including several range trips and a practical shooting competition, the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated use and dropping it on hard surfaces during drills.
The magazine is surprisingly easy to clean, with the removable basepad allowing for thorough cleaning of the interior. Compared to some other magazines I’ve used, the ETM-V has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. It has proven to be a worthwhile investment, instilling confidence in the reliability of my 1911.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine is a premium magazine designed for enhanced reliability in 1911 pistols. It is chambered in .45 ACP and holds 8 rounds.
- The magazine body is constructed from aircraft-grade certified stainless steel, providing exceptional corrosion resistance.
- Its solid tube construction greatly minimizes feed lip cracking and tube spread.
- A redesigned basepad ensures a secure grip and easy extraction during reloads.
- The magazine features a high-quality steel construction for long-lasting durability.
- The MAX flatwire spring is heat-treated and designed to withstand high round counts without losing its tension.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability, durability, and overall performance in demanding conditions. A robust steel construction and high-quality spring ensure consistent feeding and resistance to damage, while the enhanced basepad provides a secure grip during reloads.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine excels in performance and functionality. It consistently feeds rounds smoothly and reliably, minimizing the risk of malfunctions.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction and innovative design, which effectively eliminates common 1911 magazine issues. One area for potential improvement could be the price point, which is higher than some competitors. However, the performance justifies the cost. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade 1911 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine boasts a well-thought-out design with excellent ergonomics. The magazine is made from high-quality steel and feels solid and substantial in hand.
The redesigned basepad offers a comfortable and secure grip, aiding in quick and efficient reloads. There is virtually no learning curve. The magazine is designed to be user-friendly and reliable right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine is built for long-lasting durability. The steel construction and heat-treated spring ensure it can withstand the rigors of frequent use and demanding conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the removable basepad, allowing easy access for cleaning and inspection. With proper care, this magazine should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. The most notable feature is the removable basepad.
While not specifically designed for extensive customization, the magazine is compatible with most standard 1911 magazine pouches. Given its focus on reliability, extensive customization is not a primary concern.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional reliability in all conditions, significantly reducing the risk of malfunctions.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, even with frequent use.
- Enhanced basepad provides a secure grip during reloads, improving efficiency.
- Easy to maintain, with a removable basepad for thorough cleaning.
- MAX flatwire spring is designed to withstand high round counts without losing tension.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other 1911 magazines.
- Limited customization options beyond the removable basepad.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious competitive shooters who rely on their 1911 in demanding situations. It is also ideal for anyone who values reliability and durability in their 1911 magazines.
If you’re a casual shooter who only occasionally uses your 1911, the higher price point may not be justified. Those on a tight budget may find other, more affordable options suitable for range use. A must-have accessory is a quality magazine pouch for secure carry and quick access.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine
The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine is a premium magazine that delivers exceptional reliability and durability. While the price is higher than some competitors, the performance justifies the cost for serious 1911 users.
I would highly recommend this magazine to anyone who needs a dependable and long-lasting magazine for their 1911. If you are looking for a magazine that you can truly depend on, invest in the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 8 Round Pistol Magazine. You won’t regret it.
