Let’s Dive into Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine
The Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine is a critical component for any 1911 owner, and as an experienced shooter, I understand the importance of reliable magazines. This particular magazine, manufactured by Auto Ordnance, is designed to work seamlessly with their 1911 pistols. Its 7-round capacity is standard for the classic 1911 design, and the blued stainless steel construction promises durability and corrosion resistance.
My foray into the world of 1911 ownership started with a need for a reliable sidearm, and the Auto Ordnance 1911 was it. One recurring issue, however, was sourcing affordable, reliable magazines that wouldn’t break the bank. Cheap aftermarket magazines often lead to feeding issues, and my goal was to find magazines that matched the performance of the original Auto Ordnance mags without the premium price tag.
Upon unboxing the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and the deep blued finish. The stainless steel construction gives it a reassuring weight, and the removable floor plate is a practical feature for cleaning and maintenance. It felt significantly more robust than some of the cheaper, generic 1911 magazines I’d used in the past.
Compared to brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick, which are known for their premium 1911 magazines, the Auto Ordnance magazine is significantly more budget-friendly. While those high-end magazines offer enhanced features and arguably superior performance, the Auto Ordnance magazine provides a balance of reliability and affordability that makes it attractive for range use and as a backup option. Ultimately, I chose this magazine because it promised to be a reliable, cost-effective solution for my Auto Ordnance 1911.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt the part, but the real test would be how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine was at my local outdoor shooting range. I loaded it with 230-grain FMJ rounds and ran it through several drills, focusing on speed reloads and malfunction clearing. The weather was sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The magazine performed admirably, feeding rounds smoothly and locking back the slide reliably after the last round. I experienced no failures to feed or eject during the first 50 rounds, which was a promising start. The magazine seated firmly and ejected cleanly when released, indicating good tolerances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a dusty range environment and during a light rain shower. The blued stainless steel finish has held up well, with no signs of rust or significant wear.
Cleaning the magazine is straightforward thanks to the removable floor plate. I typically disassemble and clean it after each range session to ensure optimal performance. Compared to some of the older, surplus magazines I own, the Auto Ordnance magazine is significantly easier to maintain. It has consistently outperformed those older magazines in terms of reliability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine features several key specifications. It is chambered in .45 ACP, the classic caliber for the 1911 platform. Its magazine capacity is 7 rounds, adhering to the standard capacity of a single-stack 1911 magazine.
- Manufacturer: Auto Ordnance
- Gun Model: 1911
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Magazine Capacity: 7 Round
- Color: Blued
- Fabric/Material: Stainless Steel
The use of stainless steel ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, crucial for reliable performance in various environments. The blued finish provides an additional layer of protection and gives the magazine a classic, understated appearance. The 7-round capacity strikes a balance between firepower and the slim profile characteristic of the 1911 pistol.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any magazine is to reliably feed ammunition into the firearm, and the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine performs this task consistently. The magazine spring provides sufficient tension to push rounds smoothly into the chamber, preventing malfunctions. The magazine locks the slide back after the last round is fired, a critical feature for quick reloads.
While the magazine performs its core function well, it’s not without its limitations. The 7-round capacity, while traditional, may be seen as a disadvantage by some users who prefer higher-capacity magazines. There’s no getting around that it meets my expectations for a standard capacity 1911 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine features a straightforward, functional design. Its stainless steel construction gives it a solid feel in the hand. The removable floor plate allows for easy disassembly and cleaning.
The magazine is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to operate or maintain. Its slim profile makes it easy to carry in a magazine pouch or on a belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine suggests a long lifespan. I’ve observed no signs of significant wear or corrosion after several months of use. Regular cleaning and lubrication will further extend its longevity.
Disassembly for cleaning is simple and requires no specialized tools. The magazine can be easily disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled in a matter of minutes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any accessories. However, its standard 1911 magazine dimensions mean it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket magazine pouches and carriers. The removable floor plate can be replaced with aftermarket versions for different aesthetic or functional purposes.
Pros and Cons of Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding and slide lock.
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- Easy to disassemble and clean.
- Affordable price point.
- Compatible with standard 1911 magazine pouches.
Cons
- Limited to 7-round capacity.
- Blued finish may show wear over time.
Who Should Buy Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for 1911 owners looking for a reliable and affordable spare magazine. It’s well-suited for range use, competition, and as a backup option for concealed carry. It offers a good balance of quality and value.
Those seeking higher capacity magazines or enhanced features like anti-tilt followers might want to consider premium alternatives. Those who prioritize aesthetics over function might also find the blued finish less appealing than more modern coatings.
A must-have accessory for this magazine is a quality magazine pouch or carrier for convenient and secure storage.
Conclusion on Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine
The Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine is a solid, reliable magazine that offers excellent value for the money. Its stainless steel construction, reliable feeding, and easy maintenance make it a worthwhile addition to any 1911 owner’s collection. The price is definitely justified, especially considering the reliability and durability.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable 1911 magazine. If you’re in the market for a reliable magazine that won’t break the bank, the Auto Ordnance 1911 .45 ACP 7 Round Pistol Magazine is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!