First Impressions of Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine promises to solve a common problem for 1911 owners: reliable feeding in a higher capacity magazine. I’ve been shooting 1911s for over a decade, and finding magazines that consistently perform can be a real challenge, especially when you deviate from the standard capacity.
I was looking for a 10-round 9mm 1911 magazine that wouldn’t compromise on reliability. Standard capacity magazines often worked well, but I wanted the extra capacity for range days and the peace of mind it provides. I’ve had mixed experiences with aftermarket 1911 magazines in the past, so my expectations were cautiously optimistic.
Upon unboxing, the Mec-Gar magazine feels solid and well-constructed. The heat-treated carbon steel tube gives it a robust feel, and the nickel finish is a nice touch, adding a bit of corrosion resistance and visual appeal. It feels noticeably heavier than some of my cheaper 1911 magazines, suggesting a higher quality build.
Compared to a couple of other extended 9mm 1911 magazines I’ve used, the Mec-Gar stood out for its seemingly superior construction. One was a no-name brand that felt flimsy, and another, while from a reputable manufacturer, had issues with the follower sticking. The Mec-Gar‘s reputation for reliability ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was positive, with a sense of cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces at the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine primarily at an outdoor shooting range. The weather conditions were typical for a late summer day: warm and slightly humid.
The magazine loaded easily and locked into my 1911 with a positive click. I ran several magazines through my pistol, focusing on different shooting drills and speeds. There were no failures to feed or any other malfunctions during the initial testing.
I noticed that the magazine inserted smoothly, but one of the online reviews had reported that the magazine inserted too far into the pistol on some 1911 models, causing the slide to lock up. I paid special attention, but the Mec-Gar magazine worked without issue in my full-sized 1911, a pleasant surprise after reading about potential compatibility issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mec-Gar magazine has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it without a single malfunction.
The nickel finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear. Cleaning is simple. I just wipe it down with a cloth and apply a light coat of oil.
Compared to my past experiences with aftermarket 1911 magazines, the Mec-Gar has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. It’s become my go-to magazine for range days and any situation where I want the added capacity.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for 1911 pistols chambered in 9mm. It holds 10 rounds, offering increased capacity over standard magazines.
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10 Rounds
- Material: Heat-treated carbon steel tube, steel follower, and higher tensile music wire spring.
- Finish: Nickel
- Compatibility: 1911 Platform
- Special Note: NOT COMPATIBLE WITH MAGAZINE GUIDES ON PISTOLS.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability, durability, and compatibility with your firearm. The heat-treated steel ensures the magazine can withstand repeated use, while the steel follower and music wire spring contribute to smooth and consistent feeding. The increased capacity gives you more rounds downrange before needing to reload.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It feeds ammunition smoothly and reliably, contributing to consistent and accurate shooting.
Its greatest strength is its reliability. I’ve experienced no failures to feed or other malfunctions, even during rapid-fire drills. One potential weakness is the compatibility issue reported by some users with pistols equipped with magazine guides.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-capacity 1911 magazine. The performance inspires confidence and makes it a valuable addition to my 1911 setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar magazine is designed with functionality and durability in mind. The heat-treated steel construction provides a solid feel, while the nickel finish enhances corrosion resistance.
The magazine locks into the pistol securely, and the slightly extended basepad provides a comfortable grip for easy insertion and removal. There is virtually no learning curve. It functions like any other 1911 magazine, just with increased capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine is built to last. The heat-treated carbon steel construction and nickel finish provide excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe it down after each range session and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the spring and follower. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its compatibility with standard 1911 magazine pouches makes it easy to integrate into your existing gear.
While not a customization option per se, replacing the magazine spring and follower after extended use can help maintain optimal performance. It is generally compatible with standard 1911 magazine pouches and speed loaders.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding: Consistently feeds rounds without malfunctions.
- Durable construction: Heat-treated steel and nickel finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Increased capacity: 10 rounds provide more firepower than standard magazines.
- Smooth insertion and removal: Easy to load and unload.
- Reputable manufacturer: Mec-Gar is known for producing high-quality magazines.
Cons
- Potential compatibility issues: Some users have reported issues with pistols equipped with magazine guides.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other aftermarket magazines.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine?
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine is perfect for 1911 owners who want increased capacity without sacrificing reliability. It’s ideal for competitive shooters, range enthusiasts, and anyone who carries a 1911 for self-defense.
Those with 1911s equipped with tight magazine guides should exercise caution and research compatibility before purchasing. Someone content with standard capacity magazines might not find the increased capacity worth the extra cost.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch to carry the Mec-Gar magazine comfortably and securely. No modifications are needed, but regular cleaning and maintenance are recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine
The Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine is a worthwhile investment for 1911 owners seeking increased capacity and unwavering reliability. Its durable construction, smooth feeding, and reputable Mec-Gar pedigree make it a top contender in the aftermarket magazine market.
The price is justified by the quality and performance. This magazine offers a tangible upgrade over cheaper alternatives.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Mec-Gar 1911 9mm 10 Rounds Pistol Magazine to any 1911 enthusiast looking to enhance their shooting experience. If you value reliability and increased capacity, this magazine is a must-have. Upgrade your 1911 today with the Mec-Gar and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!