First Thoughts on the Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
The 1911 platform is an icon, and its enduring appeal comes from a legacy of reliability and performance. But like any firearm, the magazine is the heart of the operation. So, when I heard about the Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model, promising enhanced capacity and Mec-Gar’s reputation for quality, I knew I had to check it out.
My aging 1911 magazines were starting to show their wear, causing occasional feeding issues at the range. I needed a reliable replacement that offered more capacity without sacrificing the 1911’s inherent reliability. The Mec-Gar magazine seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-constructed. The blued finish was even and consistent, and the steel tube felt robust. It certainly inspired more confidence than some of the cheaper, no-name magazines I’ve encountered.
Compared to my old 7-round factory magazines and an 8-round aftermarket magazine, the Mec-Gar offered a significant increase in capacity. I was torn between this one and a competitor’s 10-round model, but Mec-Gar’s reputation and the promise of reliable feeding swayed me. My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism – could this magazine truly deliver on its promises?
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local outdoor shooting range on a crisp fall morning. The air was cool and dry, ideal conditions for testing. I loaded the Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model with 11 rounds of standard 230-grain FMJ ammunition and inserted it into my 1911.
From the first shot, the magazine performed flawlessly. Each round fed smoothly and reliably, with no hiccups or malfunctions. The extended capacity was a definite advantage, allowing me to focus on my shooting without constantly reloading.
There were no initial issues and I was surprised at how smoothly the magazine seated, even when fully loaded. The extra length of the magazine did extend from the frame a bit, but not uncomfortably so.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, I’m pleased to report that the Mec-Gar magazine has held up exceptionally well. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it, and it continues to function flawlessly. There have been no feeding issues, no failures to extract, and no signs of degradation.
The blued finish shows some minor wear around the edges, but the magazine tube remains in excellent condition. The spring tension feels as strong as it did on day one, and the follower continues to glide smoothly. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked rag is all it takes to keep it running smoothly.
Compared to some of the cheaper magazines I’ve used in the past, the Mec-Gar is a clear winner. It consistently outperforms them in terms of reliability and durability, making it well worth the investment. The extra capacity and reliable feeding have greatly improved my shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP. This is the standard caliber for 1911 pistols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of ammunition.
- Capacity: 11 rounds. This offers a significant upgrade over the standard 7 or 8 round capacity, providing more firepower without sacrificing reliability.
- Finish: Black (Blued Steel). The blued finish provides corrosion resistance and a classic look.
- Model: 1911 Government. This magazine is designed for full-size 1911 pistols, ensuring a proper fit.
- Origin: Aftermarket. Mec-Gar is a well-respected aftermarket manufacturer known for its high-quality magazines.
- Tube Material: Heat-treated carbon steel. The heat-treated carbon steel tube is incredibly durable and provides resistance to deformation under pressure.
- Follower Material: Steel. The steel follower ensures smooth and reliable feeding of rounds.
- Spring Material: High tensile music wire. The high-tensile music wire spring maintains consistent pressure, preventing malfunctions and ensuring reliable feeding.
- Butt Plate: Welded steel. The welded steel butt plate adds to the overall durability of the magazine and protects it from damage.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It feeds rounds smoothly and reliably, even with +P ammunition. It greatly enhances the usability of my 1911, allowing for longer shooting sessions with fewer reloads.
The magazine’s strengths lie in its reliable feeding and increased capacity. The only minor drawback is the slight extension from the frame, which might affect concealment for some users. Overall, it exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable improvement over standard capacity magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is simple and functional, with a focus on reliability. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise manufacturing. The magazine body is robust, and the follower glides smoothly within the tube. The extended length doesn’t detract from the feel.
The Mec-Gar magazine is exceptionally user-friendly. It loads easily, inserts smoothly into the magazine well, and drops free reliably. There is no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used and the overall construction, I expect the Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain its performance. Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar magazine doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it’s a self-contained unit. However, aftermarket base pads can be added for improved grip and faster reloads. It is compatible with any 1911 that accepts standard government-size magazines. The aftermarket is full of options to tailor your 1911 magazines, and this Mec-Gar is a solid base to start from.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- Increased Capacity: The 11-round capacity provides a significant advantage over standard 7 or 8 round magazines, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
- Reliable Feeding: Mec-Gar magazines are known for their reliability, and this one is no exception. It consistently feeds rounds smoothly and without malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: The heat-treated carbon steel tube and high-tensile music wire spring ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Maintain: The magazine is simple to disassemble, clean, and lubricate.
- Affordable Price: At $20.99, this magazine offers excellent value for its performance and features.
Cons
- Slight Extension: The extended length of the magazine might affect concealment for some users.
- Blued Finish Wear: The blued finish may show some wear over time, especially with frequent use.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model?
The Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is perfect for:
- Competitive shooters looking for an edge in capacity and reliability.
- Individuals seeking increased firepower for self-defense purposes.
- Anyone who wants to upgrade their aging 1911 magazines with a high-quality, affordable option.
Who should skip this product? Those primarily concerned with concealed carry and requiring maximum discretion might find the extended magazine less desirable.
A must-have modification (optional) would be an aftermarket base pad for improved grip during reloads.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
In summary, the Mec-Gar 1911 Government 11rd 45 ACP Magazine – 45 ACP Caliber, 11 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is an excellent upgrade for any 1911 owner seeking increased capacity and reliable performance. At $20.99, the price is more than justified, given the quality and features offered.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone looking to improve their 1911’s performance. Don’t settle for unreliable or low-capacity magazines – invest in a Mec-Gar and experience the difference. Upgrade your 1911 today with the Mec-Gar 11-round magazine – you won’t regret it!