What Makes Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell Stand Out?
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell is designed to enhance reloading speed and efficiency for 2011 Gen 1 frames. Crafted by Taran Tactical Innovations, this one-piece magwell emphasizes a slim profile for comfortable concealed carry while retaining a functional funnel for rapid magazine changes. It stood out to me as a potential upgrade to my competition 2011, promising faster reloads without sacrificing concealability.
I was looking for a magwell that wouldn’t significantly increase the overall size of my pistol, making it difficult to carry concealed. Many magwells on the market are bulky and designed for open carry or competition only. The promise of an “ultra-slim” design immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell‘s clean design and solid feel. The CNC-machined 6061 t6 Aircraft Aluminum construction felt robust and well-made, with a smooth, flat black finish. Its single-piece construction and included main spring housing pin suggested easy installation, and the ergonomic relief cuts seemed thoughtful.
I considered the Stan Chen Customs Carry Magwell and the Ed Brown Maxi-Well, both reputable options. However, the Taran Tactical Innovations offering seemed to strike a better balance between size and functionality, appealing to my need for both speed and concealability. Ultimately, the reputation of Taran Tactical Innovations for high-quality firearm accessories pushed me towards this particular magwell.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was undeniably excellent, but I was eager to see how the “ultra-slim” profile would translate to real-world reloading performance. The balance between concealability and functionality would be the deciding factor.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. I focused on practicing rapid reloads, simulating scenarios I might encounter in a defensive situation. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the magwell’s performance without external distractions.
Even in dry conditions, the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell immediately improved my reloading speed. The widened funnel guided magazines smoothly into the magwell, even when my grip wasn’t perfectly aligned. I also tested the magwell with slightly damp hands to see how it affected performance.
It took only a few magazines to get used to the new feel and angle of the magwell. The ergonomic relief cuts provided a comfortable resting point for my support hand, and I found my reloads becoming noticeably faster and more consistent. There were no malfunctions or issues during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular range use, the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell continues to perform flawlessly. It has become an indispensable part of my 2011, improving my confidence in my ability to quickly reload under pressure. The anodized finish has proven remarkably durable.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after hundreds of reloads. The magwell still looks almost new. I’ve noticed only a few minor scratches around the funnel, which is to be expected with repeated magazine insertions.
Cleaning the magwell is simple: a quick wipe-down with a cloth and some gun oil keeps it in good condition. I occasionally remove the magwell to clean any debris that might accumulate beneath it. This is a straightforward process thanks to the one-piece design and the included main spring housing pin.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard 2011 frames, the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell offers a significant improvement in reload speed and consistency. It has exceeded my expectations, delivering on its promise of enhanced performance without compromising concealability. My reload times have consistently decreased by approximately 0.3-0.5 seconds, a noticeable difference in practical shooting scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Taran Tactical Innovations. They are known for quality and innovation in firearm accessories.
- Material: 6061 t6 Aircraft Aluminum. This provides a balance of lightweight strength and durability.
- Finish: Flat Black. The finish is durable and non-reflective, suitable for tactical applications.
- Gun Make: STI International. Designed specifically for STI International 2011 frames.
- Gun Model: STI International 2011. Ensures a precise and secure fit.
- Model Generation: 1. Specifically designed for Gen 1 frames.
- Weight: .74 ounces. Adds minimal weight to the pistol, preserving balance.
- Design: One-piece with push-pin design. Eliminates the risk of losing parts and simplifies installation.
These specifications are critical because they directly affect the magwell’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The aluminum construction ensures strength without adding unnecessary weight, while the black finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance. The precise fit for STI 2011 Gen 1 frames guarantees reliable performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell excels at its primary function: facilitating faster and more consistent reloads. The large funnel guides magazines smoothly into the pistol, reducing the likelihood of fumbled reloads under stress. The ergonomic relief cuts offer enhanced comfort and control during shooting and reloading.
The magwell’s strengths lie in its speed, reliability, and slim profile. It works perfectly for both competition and concealed carry, offering a noticeable improvement in reloading speed without adding excessive bulk. One area for potential improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texture on the funnel’s interior to further enhance magazine retention during high-speed reloads.
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell has not only met but exceeded my expectations. It offers a perfect blend of speed, functionality, and concealability, making it an invaluable upgrade for any 2011 owner. The ease of installation and the overall build quality further enhance its appeal.
Design & Ergonomics
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell features a streamlined design that blends seamlessly with the 2011 frame. The CNC-machined aluminum construction gives it a robust yet lightweight feel, and the flat black finish provides a professional appearance. The weight is negligible, and the overall feel is well-balanced.
The magwell is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills for installation. The ergonomic relief cuts are a welcome addition, providing a comfortable and secure grip during reloads. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 6061 t6 Aircraft Aluminum construction, the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion.
Maintaining the magwell is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a cloth and gun oil is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The one-piece design simplifies the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell comes with the necessary main spring housing pin for installation. While it doesn’t directly support other accessories, its design is compatible with most aftermarket basepad extensions for 2011 magazines. This ensures seamless integration with existing gear.
The magwell is compatible with a wide range of 2011 magazine basepads from manufacturers like Taran Tactical Innovations, MBX Extreme, and Dawson Precision. This allows for customization to suit individual preferences. It’s important to verify compatibility with specific basepads to ensure optimal magazine insertion and retention.
Pros and Cons of Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell
Pros
- Noticeably increases reloading speed and efficiency.
- Slim profile ideal for concealed carry.
- Durable 6061 t6 Aircraft Aluminum construction.
- Easy one-piece installation with included main spring housing pin.
- Enhanced ergonomics due to forward relief cuts.
Cons
- Specifically designed for STI 2011 Gen 1 frames may not fit other models.
- The price point is slightly higher than some competing magwells.
Who Should Buy Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell?
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who carries a 2011 pistol for self-defense. It provides a significant performance advantage without sacrificing concealability. Anyone looking to enhance their reloading speed and consistency with a 2011 pistol should consider this upgrade.
This product is not ideal for those who prioritize the lowest possible price over performance and quality. Those who do not own an STI 2011 Gen 1 frame should also skip this product. Consider a magwell designed for their specific pistol model.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality 2011 magazines with aftermarket basepad extensions. This will fully maximize the magwell’s potential for rapid reloads. Ensure that the basepads are compatible with the magwell.
Conclusion on Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell
The Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell is an exceptional upgrade for STI 2011 Gen 1 pistols, offering a noticeable improvement in reloading speed and consistency without compromising concealability. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is evident, and the one-piece design simplifies installation.
The price is justified by the performance gains and enhanced reliability it provides. This isn’t just another accessory; it’s an investment in enhanced performance.
I would highly recommend the Taran Tactical Innovations 2011 Ultra-Slim Carry Magwell to any 2011 owner looking to improve their reloading efficiency. Upgrade your 2011 today and experience the difference!