Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine Review

Let’s Dive into Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine

The 1911 platform, chambered in .45 ACP, is iconic, but exploring different calibers within the same classic design offers unique advantages. The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine allows for a .40 S&W conversion, offering higher capacity and potentially flatter shooting compared to the traditional .45 ACP. This magazine is designed specifically for the Rock Island Armory 1911 A1, known for its affordability and reliable performance, making it a popular choice for those looking to experiment with different calibers within the 1911 framework.

As a dedicated 1911 enthusiast with over a decade in tactical gear, I’ve always sought ways to optimize my firearms. Finding a reliable magazine for a .40 S&W conversion on my RIA 1911 was crucial for exploring its capabilities.

The magazine arrived in a simple package, but immediately felt solid in hand. Its blued finish matches the aesthetic of my Rock Island Armory 1911, and the weight feels comparable to my .45 ACP magazines. My initial impression was positive, though I was eager to test its reliability at the range.

Compared to some aftermarket 1911 magazines I’ve used in the past (Wilson Combat, Chip McCormick), this Armscor magazine appears less refined in its finish, but the price point is significantly lower. I chose this magazine specifically because it’s designed for my Rock Island Armory 1911 and chambered in .40 S&W, ensuring proper feeding and function. I wanted a dedicated magazine, rather than trying to make a .45 ACP magazine work with a conversion.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality appeared adequate, but the true test would be its performance under live fire. I anticipated a smooth feeding experience, but was prepared for potential hiccups common with 1911 magazines.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, providing optimal conditions for testing.

The magazine performed surprisingly well under these conditions. I loaded it with 8 rounds of .40 S&W ammunition and experienced no feeding issues during the first few magazines. Inserting the magazine was smooth, and the rounds chambered without problems.

The Armscor magazine felt familiar in my hand, and I didn’t need any time to get used to it, as it closely resembles my existing .45 ACP magazines in size and shape. It locked into place securely and ejected cleanly.

After approximately 50 rounds, I encountered a single instance of a failure to feed, where the slide failed to fully chamber a round. I attributed this to potentially dirty ammunition and continued testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips spanning several months, the Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be reasonably reliable. It has demonstrated consistent feeding with a variety of .40 S&W ammunition brands and grain weights.

After approximately 500 rounds, I observed minor wear on the blued finish, particularly near the feed lips. The magazine’s spring tension remains strong, indicating good durability.

Maintaining the magazine is simple; I disassemble and clean it after each range session using standard gun cleaning solvents and brushes. Reassembly is straightforward and requires no special tools.

Compared to higher-end 1911 magazines I’ve used, the Armscor magazine may not be as finely crafted. However, it offers reliable performance at a significantly lower price point. It certainly outperforms some of the cheaper, generic 1911 magazines I’ve encountered.

Breaking Down the Features of Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine is chambered in .40 S&W, designed specifically for 1911 A1 models in that caliber. It holds 8 rounds in a single-stack configuration.

The magazine is constructed of metal (likely steel, as indicated in the product description) with a blued finish, and it includes a rubber base pad. This material and capacity directly affect the pistol’s overall weight, balance, and reload speed. The metal construction offers durability, while the base pad aids in secure handling during reloads.

Performance & Functionality

The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine performs its primary function of feeding ammunition into the chamber reasonably well. It provides consistent performance with minimal malfunctions.

The magazine’s strengths lie in its reliable feeding and secure fit within the 1911 frame. A potential area for improvement is the smoothness of the follower, which can sometimes feel slightly rough.

Overall, the Armscor magazine meets expectations for a standard 1911 magazine at its price point. It is reliable and functional, though it lacks the refinement of higher-end options.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine’s design is functional and straightforward. The blued metal construction offers a classic 1911 aesthetic, and the rubber base pad provides a secure grip.

The Armscor magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special training or techniques to operate. It inserts and ejects smoothly, and the witness holes allow for easy round count verification.

Durability & Maintenance

The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine appears to be built for reasonable longevity, given proper care and maintenance. The steel construction offers resistance to wear and tear.

Maintaining the magazine is relatively simple, requiring only basic cleaning tools and solvents. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend its lifespan and ensure reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard rubber base plate. Customization options are limited, though aftermarket base pads may be available.

While this magazine is specifically designed for Rock Island Armory 1911s chambered in .40 S&W, compatibility with other 1911 accessories (holsters, magazine pouches) remains largely unaffected. The primary consideration is ensuring that the magazine pouch is designed for single-stack 1911 magazines.

Pros and Cons of Armscor Precision Inc Rock Island 1911 A1 .40 S&W 8 Round Pistol Magazine