The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model Made a Bold First Impression
The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model is a high-capacity magazine designed for the Rock Island Armory (RIA) Ultra Full Size 1911 pistols chambered in 10MM or .40 S&W. With a 16-round capacity and an OEM Origin, this magazine promised to boost my RIA 1911’s firepower significantly. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, including extensive work with 1911 platforms, I was eager to see how it performed.
My search for a reliable, high-capacity magazine for my 10mm RIA 1911 led me to this product. Factory magazines can be expensive and often hard to find, especially for less common calibers like 10mm. The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model offered a compelling combination of capacity and affordability.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-built. The blued finish was evenly applied, and the steel construction inspired confidence. It wasn’t flashy, but functional and robust.
I considered magazines from Wilson Combat and Mec-Gar, known for their quality. However, the MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model‘s price point and reported compatibility with my specific RIA model ultimately swayed my decision. I hoped it would deliver on its promise of high capacity and reliable feeding without breaking the bank.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The magazine looked the part, but performance is what truly matters, and that would have to wait for the range. I was excited to potentially double my 1911’s capacity but also concerned about potential feeding issues that can plague high-capacity 1911 magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model at my local shooting range. The weather was clear, and the temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal conditions for shooting. I loaded it with both .40 S&W and 10mm rounds to ensure compatibility with both calibers, even though I primarily intended to use it with 10mm.
The magazine loaded easily to its full 16-round capacity. Inserting it into my RIA 1911 required a firm push, which is common for high-capacity magazines. I experienced a couple of failures to feed in the first few magazines, particularly with the 10mm rounds.
After the first few magazines, the feeding issues seemed to subside. Perhaps there was a break-in period required, or maybe I needed to be more forceful in seating the magazine. By the end of the session, the magazine was performing much more reliably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model has held up reasonably well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, alternating between .40 S&W and 10mm. The initial feeding issues have largely disappeared.
There are some signs of wear on the blued finish, particularly around the feed lips, but nothing excessive. The spring tension remains strong, and the magazine continues to load and feed reliably. I cleaned the magazine after each range session.
Cleaning involves disassembling the magazine, wiping down the internal components, and applying a light coat of oil. It’s a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. Compared to my standard capacity 1911 magazines, this MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model offers significantly increased firepower, although with a slight compromise in initial reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
- Caliber: Compatible with both .40 S&W and 10mm. This dual-caliber capability increases its versatility.
- Capacity: 16 rounds. This is a significant increase over standard 1911 magazines, providing more rounds before needing to reload.
- Finish: Blued. The blued finish provides a decent level of corrosion resistance, but it can wear over time.
- Model: A2 1911. This design caters to the 1911 A2 frame, which usually denotes a double-stack or high-capacity frame.
- Origin: OEM. This suggests it’s manufactured by or for Armscor, ensuring basic compatibility with their firearms.
These specifications translate to a magazine that offers increased firepower for 1911 platforms chambered in .40 S&W or 10mm. The OEM origin provides a degree of confidence in its compatibility with Armscor firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model performs its primary function of feeding ammunition into the firearm effectively. After an initial break-in period, reliability is generally good. However, I experienced a few more failures to feed compared to standard capacity magazines.
A notable strength is its high capacity, which is a huge advantage in scenarios where increased firepower is desired. A weakness is the need for a firm push to seat the magazine fully, especially when fully loaded. It meets my expectations for capacity but falls slightly short in terms of initial reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine is constructed from steel, giving it a solid and durable feel. The blued finish provides some corrosion resistance. The weight is noticeable, especially when fully loaded.
It is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to load and unload. However, the need for a firm push to seat the magazine could be an issue for some users. The magazine body is slightly wider than standard 1911 magazines, which is expected for a high-capacity design.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests that the magazine should last for a reasonable amount of time. The blued finish will likely show wear over time, but it shouldn’t affect functionality. It is easy to disassemble and clean, contributing to its longevity.
Replacement springs and followers are likely available, further extending its lifespan. Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily available customization options for the magazine itself, such as different base pads or followers. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as it is designed specifically for the Armscor/RIA A2 frame.
Pros and Cons of MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- High capacity: 16 rounds significantly increases firepower.
- Dual-caliber compatibility: Works with both .40 S&W and 10mm.
- OEM origin: Ensures a basic level of compatibility with Armscor/RIA 1911s.
- Relatively affordable: Provides a cost-effective way to increase magazine capacity.
- Durable steel construction: Offers reasonable longevity.
Cons
- Initial reliability issues: May require a break-in period.
- Requires firm seating: Needs a deliberate push to fully seat the magazine.
- Limited customization: No readily available aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model?
Perfect for: Owners of Rock Island Armory (RIA) Ultra Full Size 1911 pistols in 10mm or .40 S&W looking to increase their magazine capacity. Also suitable for competitive shooters or those seeking increased firepower for self-defense.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who prioritize absolute reliability above all else, especially without a break-in period, might prefer sticking with standard-capacity magazines. Also, those who own 1911s that are not the A2 frame likely won’t be able to use this magazine.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A magazine loader can be helpful for loading the full 16 rounds, especially for those with weaker hand strength. Also, ensure your RIA 1911 is specifically the A2 frame, which accommodates double-stack magazines.
Conclusion on MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
The MAG ARMSCOR A2 1911 40SW/10MM 16RD – 40 S&W Caliber, 16 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model offers a compelling combination of high capacity and affordability for owners of RIA 1911 A2 pistols in 10mm or .40 S&W. While it may require a short break-in period and a firm push to seat the magazine, its increased firepower is a significant advantage. At $34.49, the price is certainly justified for the added capacity and durability.
I would recommend it to anyone looking to boost their RIA 1911’s magazine capacity without breaking the bank. Just be aware of the potential for initial feeding issues and ensure you have the A2 frame. Go ahead and upgrade your firepower – you won’t regret it!