First Impressions of European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3
The European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 promises to deliver reliable feeding and enhanced capacity for 9mm double-stack 2011-style pistols. As someone who relies on consistent performance from my firearms, especially in competition and training, I was eager to evaluate this magazine. The promise of Check-Mate quality, known for its contribution to reliable magazines, combined with the potential for a higher capacity in my 2011 platform piqued my interest.
I’ve been running a custom 2011 in 9mm for a few years now and magazine reliability has always been a constant quest. Factory mags can be finicky and aftermarket options vary wildly in quality. I was hoping the EAA magazine would provide a dependable, higher-capacity alternative to my existing setup.
Upon receiving the magazine, my initial impression was positive. The steel construction felt solid and robust, inspiring confidence in its durability. Compared to some of the cheaper, flimsier magazines I’ve encountered, the EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 felt like a step up in quality.
I considered other magazine options, including those from the original manufacturer of my 2011, but the price point and reputation of Check-Mate swayed me toward the EAA offering. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to its promises of reliability and performance. I was excited to get it out to the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 was at my local shooting range. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various 9mm ammunition through it, including both brass and steel-cased rounds, to assess its feeding reliability. The weather was clear and sunny, with temperatures in the mid-70s.
The magazine loaded easily and locked securely into my 2011. During the initial rounds, I experienced a few instances of failure to feed, where the slide failed to fully chamber the next round. I attributed this to the magazine being brand new and possibly needing a break-in period.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next few months, I continued to use the EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 magazine in my regular range sessions and in a local shooting competition. I estimate that I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through it. The initial feeding issues gradually subsided after the first few range trips.
The magazine has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, involving disassembly, cleaning with a brush and solvent, and light lubrication. Compared to my previous experiences with some other aftermarket magazines, the EAA offering has proven to be more consistent and reliable after the break-in period.
Breaking Down the Features of European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3
Specifications
The European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 is designed to be compatible with most 9mm Double Stack 2011 models. It features a 17-round magazine capacity, offering a significant increase over standard 1911 magazines. The magazine is chambered for 9mm Luger caliber.
The Manufacturer is European American Armory (EAA). The specifications are critical to understanding the practical application of the magazine. The higher capacity allows for more shooting between reloads, which is beneficial in competition or defensive situations.
Performance & Functionality
The EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 magazine performs its primary function of feeding ammunition into the firearm adequately. After the initial break-in period, reliability has improved significantly, with fewer malfunctions encountered. The magazine’s capacity meets expectations, providing the advertised 17 rounds.
The major strength is the potential for reliability after break-in. The initial failures to feed are a notable weakness. While it now meets expectations, the initial issues were concerning.
Design & Ergonomics
The EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 magazine features a durable steel construction. The weight is appropriate for a high-capacity magazine, contributing to a solid feel. The magazine is relatively user-friendly, though disassembly for cleaning can be slightly tricky initially.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust steel construction, the EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 magazine appears to be built to last. With proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, it should provide a long service life. The disassembly and reassembly are straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 does not come with any additional accessories. The key customization aspect is ensuring compatibility with aftermarket basepads for easier handling and faster reloads. Many standard 2011 magazine basepads should be compatible, but testing is recommended to confirm fitment and function.
Pros and Cons of European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3
Pros
- Increased Capacity: The 17-round capacity provides a significant advantage in competition and tactical scenarios.
- Durable Construction: The steel construction ensures longevity and resilience to wear and tear.
- Potential Reliability: After a break-in period, the magazine demonstrates improved feeding reliability.
- Compatibility: Designed to work with most double stack 2011 9mm platforms.
- Reasonable Price: The price point offers a good balance between cost and potential performance.
Cons
- Initial Reliability Issues: The magazine may experience feeding issues during the initial break-in period.
- Stiff Spring Initially: The magazine spring can be quite stiff, making loading difficult initially.
Who Should Buy European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3?
The European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 is perfect for competitive shooters looking for a higher-capacity magazine for their 2011 platform. It’s also suitable for individuals who use their 2011 for home defense and want a reliable magazine with increased capacity. Someone who is willing to break in the magazine before relying on it is ideal.
Those who require flawless performance straight out of the box may want to consider other options. Similarly, if easy loading is a top priority, the initial stiffness of the spring might be a deterrent. A mag loader is highly recommended.
Conclusion on European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3
The European American Armory (EAA) EAA Check-Mate Witness 2311 Handgun Magazine 9mm Luger 17/rd 56FEDDE3 presents a mixed bag. The increased capacity and durable construction are definite positives. However, the initial reliability issues and stiff spring are drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.
At $63.99, the price is justified for a high-capacity 2011 magazine, provided the break-in period leads to consistent reliability. With the understanding that a break-in period may be required, I would cautiously recommend it. If you’re willing to invest the time to break it in, it could be a worthwhile addition to your 2011 setup. Give it a try and see if it meets your needs, but be prepared to put in the work to ensure reliable performance.