Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine Review

First Impressions of Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine

The 1911 platform is legendary, revered for its reliability and stopping power, but its Achilles’ heel has often been magazine capacity and consistent feeding, especially with higher round counts. Enter the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine, a magazine designed to address those very issues, promising enhanced reliability and increased capacity for the venerable 1911. This isn’t just another magazine; it’s a collaboration between Wilson Combat, a name synonymous with 1911 excellence, and firearms expert Larry Vickers, suggesting a product built on experience and a commitment to quality.

My own journey to finding this magazine stemmed from persistent feeding issues I was experiencing with my otherwise dependable custom 1911 during force-on-force training. I needed a magazine that could withstand the rigors of tactical drills, offer a higher capacity than standard 7 or 8-round magazines, and most importantly, feed reliably under stress. The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine seemed to offer the perfect solution on paper.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the magazine. The stainless-steel construction exuded quality, and the redesigned basepad felt robust and provided a secure grip. Compared to the Mec-Gar and Chip McCormick magazines I’d been using, the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine felt noticeably more substantial and purposeful. I chose this magazine over others promising similar capacity increases because of the Wilson Combat reputation, the Vickers endorsement, and the specific design features aimed at enhancing reliability, something my previous magazines lacked.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of a 10-round 1911 magazine that actually worked, but wary given my past experiences with unreliable aftermarket magazines. Only real-world testing would reveal if this magazine could live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training session simulating building entries and room clearing scenarios. The conditions were typical for late summer: hot, humid, and dusty. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various 9mm ammunition through the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine, including FMJ, hollow points, and frangible rounds.

Right from the start, the magazine fed flawlessly. It locked into my 1911 securely, and rounds stripped smoothly from the magazine into the chamber. The ease of loading the magazine was also noteworthy, as the strong spring tension didn’t become overly burdensome even when loading the last few rounds. I experienced zero failures to feed, extract, or eject during that initial session.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following months, I continued to use the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine extensively in various training scenarios and range sessions, logging over 1000 rounds. The magazine continued to perform reliably, even after being dropped in the dirt, subjected to simulated rain, and generally treated with the kind of abuse expected in a tactical environment. There were no signs of significant wear and tear. The stainless-steel tube remained free of corrosion, and the basepad stayed securely attached.

Cleaning and maintenance were straightforward. The removable basepad allowed for easy access to the internal components, and a quick wipe-down with a brush and solvent kept the magazine functioning smoothly. Compared to my previous magazines, which often required detailed disassembly and meticulous cleaning to maintain reliability, the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine proved to be significantly easier to care for. It exceeded my expectations by maintaining flawless performance under demanding conditions, something my previous magazines consistently failed to do.

Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Wilson Combat.
• Gun Model: 1911.
• Caliber: 9mm Luger.
• Magazine Capacity: 10 Round.
• Color: Black.
• Included Accessories: 9mm, FS (Full Size).
• Condition: New.

These specifications translate into a magazine designed for reliable feeding and increased capacity in full-size 1911 pistols chambered in 9mm. The Wilson Combat name and the 10-round capacity are key selling points for those seeking enhanced performance and tactical advantage. The black finish offers a low-profile aesthetic, and the “FS” designation confirms compatibility with full-size 1911 frames.

Performance & Functionality

The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine excels in delivering consistent and reliable feeding. The solid tube construction minimizes lip spreading and prevents debris from entering the magazine, while the redesigned follower with sand cuts ensures smooth operation even in dirty conditions. The molded-in last round follower detent virtually eliminates last round feed failures, a common issue with many 1911 magazines.

Its strengths lie in its enhanced reliability, increased capacity, and robust construction. The only potential weakness is the price point, which is higher than many standard 1911 magazines. It significantly exceeds expectations by resolving the feeding issues I experienced with other magazines, providing a noticeable improvement in overall pistol performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine’s build quality is exceptional. The aircraft-grade certified stainless-steel tube is incredibly strong, resisting corrosion and deformation. The weight is substantial but not excessive, contributing to a solid feel in the hand and positive lock-up in the pistol.

The magazine is user-friendly. Loading is relatively easy, and the redesigned basepad provides a secure grip for quick magazine changes. There is virtually no learning curve; it functions just like any other 1911 magazine, but with improved performance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine is built to last. The heat-treated MAX flatwire construction ensures the spring will not weaken or break, even after extensive use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Repair is unlikely to be necessary given the robust construction and high-quality materials. The magazine is designed for a long service life, making it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.

Accessories and Customization Options

The magazine itself doesn’t require any additional accessories, as it’s designed to be a complete and self-contained unit. However, users can opt for different basepads if desired, allowing for further customization. It’s compatible with any standard 1911 magazine pouch designed for full-size magazines.

Wilson Combat also offers various other 1911 accessories, such as grips and small parts, that can further enhance the overall shooting experience. The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing 1911 platforms and accessories.

Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine

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Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine?

The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for:

• Tactical Shooters: Those who demand absolute reliability in high-stress situations.
• Competitive Shooters: Who need increased capacity for faster stage times.
• Law Enforcement and Military Personnel: Who rely on their 1911 as a primary or secondary weapon.
• Concealed Carry Holders: Who want increased capacity without significantly increasing the size of their firearm.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Budget-conscious shooters: Who are unwilling to invest in a premium magazine.
• Those with 1911s that are not designed to accept extended magazines.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• Quality magazine pouch: For secure and convenient carry.
• High-quality ammunition: To ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Conclusion on Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine

The Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine is a game-changer for the 1911 platform. It addresses the common issues of magazine capacity and feeding reliability, providing a significant upgrade for serious shooters. The price is justified by the enhanced performance, durable construction, and peace of mind it offers.

I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone who relies on their 1911 for self-defense, competition, or tactical applications. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance the performance and reliability of your firearm. If you’re tired of dealing with unreliable magazines and want to unlock the full potential of your 1911, look no further than the Wilson Combat Vickers Duty 1911 ETM-V Full-Size 10 Round Pistol Magazine. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference!