The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model Made a Bold First Impression
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model isn’t just another aftermarket magazine; it’s a testament to reliable performance at an accessible price point. Offered by Mec-Gar, a respected name in the firearms industry, this 8-round .45 ACP magazine boasts a blued carbon steel construction, a high-impact polymer floorplate, and a promise of smooth feeding.
As a seasoned shooter with over a decade of experience, I’ve grown weary of overpriced magazines that underdeliver. My primary motivation for seeking out the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 was to find a cost-effective solution for range training and drills without sacrificing reliability.
Upon receiving the Mec-Gar MGCG4508, I immediately noted the solid feel of the magazine. The blued finish looked clean and even, and the magazine had a reassuring weight to it.
Compared to premium options like Wilson Combat magazines, the Mec-Gar lacks the polished refinement and premium price tag. However, compared to some other budget mags I’ve encountered, the Mec-Gar felt noticeably sturdier and better constructed. I chose this particular magazine based on the numerous positive reviews citing its reliability and value.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked like a quality magazine, but the real test would be how it performed under fire.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for early spring: slightly damp with a light breeze.
The magazine loaded easily and seated firmly in both my Rock Island Armory 1911 and my Colt Government Model. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid reloads and malfunction clearances, and the Mec-Gar performed flawlessly through the first 100 rounds. No feeding issues, no failures to eject, and the slide locked back reliably after the last round.
There were no surprises, which in this case, was a good thing. The magazine functioned exactly as it should.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, using a variety of .45 ACP ammunition, including FMJ, JHP, and lead SWC.
The blued finish shows some minor wear around the edges, but there are no signs of rust or corrosion. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session keeps it in good working order. The removable buttplate and follower design make it easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning.
Compared to some of the older, surplus magazines I own, the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 offers significantly better reliability and smoother feeding. It has become one of my go-to magazines for range training.
Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP, the classic and potent cartridge for the 1911 platform. This magazine is specifically designed to reliably feed this round.
- Capacity: 8 Rounds, offering a balance between capacity and concealability for full-size 1911s.
- Finish: Blued Steel, providing a traditional look and a degree of corrosion resistance. The blued finish can wear over time with use, however.
- Model: 1911, designed to fit and function flawlessly in any 1911 pistol built to standard specifications.
- Origin: Aftermarket, meaning it’s produced by a company other than the original firearm manufacturer (in this case, Colt or other 1911 makers).
- Construction: Carbon Steel Tube with Heat Treated Housing, increasing durability and resistance to deformation under pressure.
- Floorplate: High-Impact Polymer Removable Buttplate, making cleaning and maintenance easier. The tapered design is intended to fit with magwells.
- Follower: Lubricated Nylon Polymer Follower with Metal Insert, providing smooth feeding and reliable slide lock activation.
- Spring: Higher Tensile Music Wire Spring with Drawn Phosphate Coating, ensuring consistent pressure and long-lasting performance.
These specifications combine to create a magazine that prioritizes reliability and durability at a reasonable price point. The materials chosen, such as the carbon steel and high-tensile spring, are indicative of a focus on longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 performs admirably. It feeds rounds smoothly and consistently. The reliability of this magazine is truly its strongest suit. I’ve experienced zero malfunctions directly attributable to the magazine itself.
The strengths are its reliability, ease of use, and affordability. The weakness is that the blued finish isn’t as durable as some more modern coatings.
It definitely meets my expectations for a range magazine. I wouldn’t hesitate to use it for competition or even self-defense in a pinch.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 has a solid, no-frills design. The carbon steel construction gives it a good weight, and it feels substantial in the hand. The build quality is impressive for a magazine in this price range.
It is very user-friendly. The removable floorplate makes cleaning easy, and the magazine is simple to load.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 should last for many years. The carbon steel construction is resistant to bending and deformation, and the high-tensile spring retains its tension well.
Maintenance is straightforward: disassemble, clean with a brush and solvent, lubricate lightly, and reassemble. The easy maintenance contributes significantly to the long-term value of this magazine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 does not come with any accessories. However, its standard 1911 magazine dimensions make it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as magazine pouches and loading tools.
It should be compatible with most 1911 magwells.
Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistently feeds rounds without malfunctions.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the performance.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to disassemble, clean, and lubricate.
- Compatible with Standard 1911s: Works flawlessly in a wide range of 1911 pistols.
Cons
- Blued Finish is Prone to Wear: The finish can show wear marks over time.
- Polymer Baseplate: While durable, some users prefer metal baseplates.
Who Should Buy Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model?
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 is perfect for: 1911 enthusiasts looking for reliable and affordable magazines for range training, target shooting, and general use. It’s also a great option for those who want to increase their magazine capacity without breaking the bank.
Those who prioritize aesthetics over function or require magazines for extreme-duty applications might want to consider higher-end options.
A magazine pouch is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
The Mec-Gar MGCG4508 1911 Magazine 8RD 45ACP Blued – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model delivers exceptional reliability and performance at an incredibly affordable price. It’s a no-nonsense magazine that simply works, and works well.
The price is absolutely justified. Given its performance and durability, it’s a steal.
I would absolutely recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable option for their 1911. If you’re tired of overpaying for magazines that don’t deliver, give the Mec-Gar MGCG4508 a try. You won’t be disappointed. Add a few to your cart today and spend more time shooting and less time worrying about malfunctions.
