The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The 1911 platform is an icon, and reliable magazines are the heart of its operation. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin. It promised increased capacity and the renowned Mec-Gar quality for my beloved 1911 in the snappy .38 Super.
I’ve always struggled to find magazines that reliably feed the bottlenecked .38 Super cartridge in a 1911. Standard capacity magazines often leave me wanting a few more rounds. This Mec-Gar magazine seemed like the perfect solution, offering 9 rounds of .38 Super goodness in a durable, nickel-plated package.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-constructed. The nickel finish gleamed, hinting at corrosion resistance and smooth feeding. The build quality appeared excellent, with tight seams and a robust feel that inspired confidence.
I considered magazines from Wilson Combat and Tripp Research. Ultimately, I chose the Mec-Gar due to its reputation for OEM quality and attractive price point of $17.99. The price made it an easy decision to test Mec-Gar‘s offering.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The magazine looked the part, but the true test would be on the range. I was excited to see if it could live up to Mec-Gar‘s reputation for reliability and smooth feeding.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin at my local shooting range, running it through my Colt Government 1911. I used a variety of .38 Super ammunition, from light target loads to hotter self-defense rounds. The range offered a controlled environment to assess feeding, ejection, and overall reliability.
The magazine performed admirably in dry conditions. Loading was smooth, and the rounds seated properly. I experienced no failures to feed or eject in the first 50 rounds.
However, I did notice a slight hesitation during rapid firing. The slide seemed to lag just a hair on occasion, hinting at potential friction issues. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was something to monitor.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Mec-Gar magazine has proven mostly reliable. It holds up well under regular use. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it.
The nickel finish shows minimal signs of wear. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down keeps it in top condition. The magazine spring still feels strong, and the follower moves freely.
Compared to my older, standard-capacity magazines, the Mec-Gar offers a noticeable increase in capacity. The nine-round capacity is a definite improvement. However, the slight hesitation I initially observed during rapid fire persisted, especially with hotter loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin is designed for the classic 1911 Government model chambered in .38 Super. It boasts a 9-round capacity, providing a significant increase over standard 1911 magazines. The magazine body is constructed from high-quality steel, finished with a durable nickel plating for enhanced corrosion resistance and smoother feeding.
The magazine’s OEM origin suggests it’s built to the same exacting standards as magazines originally supplied with the firearm. This detail is important. The spring is made from high-quality spring steel, which is crucial for consistent feeding and long-term reliability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability and performance. A high-capacity magazine is only useful if it feeds reliably. Quality materials and construction are essential for withstanding the stresses of repeated use.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin performs its primary function of feeding ammunition reliably, but with a caveat. The nine-round capacity is a clear strength. However, the slight hesitation during rapid fire, especially with hotter loads, is a weakness.
The magazine meets my expectations for capacity and build quality. However, it falls slightly short in terms of consistent performance under all conditions. The smoothness of the nickel finish certainly aids in feeding. Still, it doesn’t completely eliminate the occasional hiccup.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is straightforward and functional, closely resembling standard 1911 magazines. The nickel plating gives it a sleek, professional look and adds a layer of protection against corrosion. The weight is comparable to other steel 1911 magazines.
There is no real learning curve. It’s simply insert, load, and shoot. The slightly extended capacity doesn’t noticeably impact handling or concealability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mec-Gar magazine appears to be quite durable. The steel construction and nickel finish suggest a long lifespan. Regular cleaning and lubrication will likely ensure years of reliable service.
Disassembly for cleaning is relatively simple, requiring no special tools. The durable construction and easy maintenance contribute to the overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 magazine pouches. The nickel finish can complement aftermarket grips and other accessories, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the firearm. Compatibility with aftermarket base pads could increase the capacity further. However, I have not tested this personally.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Nine rounds of .38 Super offer a significant advantage over standard capacity magazines.
- Durable Construction: The steel body and nickel finish promise long-lasting reliability.
- Smooth Feeding: The nickel plating aids in smooth and consistent feeding.
- OEM Quality: Built to the same exacting standards as factory magazines.
- Affordable Price: At $17.99, it represents an excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Hesitation During Rapid Fire: Slight lag with hotter loads needs improvement.
- Limited Customization: No included accessories or extensive customization options.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin?
The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin is perfect for 1911 enthusiasts seeking increased capacity and reliable performance at an affordable price. It is well-suited for range shooters, competitive shooters, and those who carry a 1911 for self-defense. Anyone looking to upgrade from standard capacity magazines will benefit.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who prioritize flawless rapid-fire performance above all else. Those who demand absolute perfection in all conditions might want to consider higher-end (and more expensive) options. A magazine with a proven track record of problem-free feeding under extreme duress may be more appropriate.
A must-have accessory is a good quality magazine pouch. A high-quality gun lubricant for occasional cleaning is also recommended.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin
The Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin offers a compelling value proposition. It delivers increased capacity, durable construction, and smooth feeding at an affordable price. The $17.99 price tag makes it easy to overlook the minor hesitation during rapid fire.
I would personally recommend this magazine to most 1911 owners looking to upgrade their capacity. The pros far outweigh the cons. The nickel finish is attractive, and the build quality is excellent.
Overall, the Mec-Gar magazine is a solid performer that enhances the capabilities of any .38 Super 1911. If you’re looking for more rounds and reliable performance without breaking the bank, give the Mec-Gar 1911 38 Super Colt 1911 Government 9rd Nickel Detachable – 38 Super Caliber, OEM Origin a try! You won’t be disappointed.