Let’s Dive into Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp promises to simplify the often tedious task of loading single-stack magazines. For years, I’ve wrestled with stubborn magazine springs, sore thumbs, and the occasional misfeed while manually loading rounds. This loader, manufactured by Butler Creek, aims to eliminate these issues with a single, fluid motion, making range days more enjoyable and efficient.
Loading single stack magazines, especially those .45 ACP variants with their powerful springs, has always been a bit of a chore for me, especially after an hour or two at the range. I needed a tool that could save my thumbs and streamline the process, without being caliber or magazine specific. The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp appeared to be a perfect fit.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the loader’s simple, yet robust design. It feels solid in hand, constructed from what appears to be a durable, impact-resistant polymer. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry in a range bag or even a pocket.
I’ve previously used similar loaders that were specific to 1911 magazines and a couple of “universal” pistol magazine loaders that were flimsy and broke after a couple of uses. The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp felt like a significant upgrade, promising both universality and durability, at a reasonable price point compared to speed loaders for double stack magazines. I chose this specific model because of Butler Creek‘s reputation and the loader’s claimed compatibility with a wide range of single-stack calibers.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this simple device truly live up to its claims of effortless single-stack magazine loading? Only time, and a whole lot of rounds downrange, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp to my local outdoor shooting range. I primarily tested it with my 1911 (.45 ACP) magazines and a few 9mm single-stack magazines from a classic pistol I own. The weather was dry, and the temperature was comfortable.
The loader was surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. It took only a couple of magazines to get the hang of the push-down, insert-round, release motion. It handled both the 9mm and .45 ACP magazines without any issues, despite their different sizes and spring tensions. The .45 ACP, which is notoriously difficult to load by hand, became significantly easier.
The only minor issue I encountered was with a particularly stiff new 9mm magazine. The initial push down required a bit more force than usual, but after the first few rounds, it loosened up and became easier to load. Overall, I was impressed with the loader’s performance and ease of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp continues to perform admirably. I have used it to load hundreds of rounds through various single-stack magazines. It still performs as expected.
So far, there are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The polymer construction seems to be holding up well. The loader still feels solid and functions flawlessly, which is something I could not say about universal magazine loaders I had used in the past.
Maintaining the loader is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue or dirt. It does not require any special cleaning solutions or tools. The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp has definitely outperformed my expectations compared to loading by hand.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp
Specifications
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is designed to work with a wide variety of single-stack magazines chambered in 9mm to .45 ACP. It utilizes a simple push-down-and-load mechanism to quickly and efficiently fill magazines. It is constructed from a durable, high-impact polymer for long-lasting use.
This tool’s ability to handle multiple calibers with the same loader is key. This eliminates the need for multiple loaders. The polymer construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use without cracking or breaking.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp excels at its primary function: loading single-stack magazines quickly and efficiently. It greatly reduces thumb fatigue and speeds up the reloading process. The loader is reliable and consistently feeds rounds into the magazine without jamming or misfeeding.
The loader’s biggest strength is its universality; the biggest weakness is that it only works with single stack magazines. It more than meets my expectations, significantly reducing the time and effort required to load magazines for range days.
Design & Ergonomics
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp features a simple and ergonomic design. The loader is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The push-down mechanism is smooth and requires minimal effort.
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is very user-friendly and requires virtually no learning curve. Anyone can pick it up and start using it effectively within minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is built to last. The high-impact polymer construction ensures that it can withstand regular use and the occasional drop without breaking. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth.
With proper care, this loader should last for many years. The loader does not have any complicated internal components, so repairs are not typically needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp does not come with any additional accessories. There are also no customization options available. However, its simplicity and universality make it compatible with a wide range of single-stack magazines.
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is designed to be a standalone tool, focusing on ease of use and broad compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp
Pros
- Universally compatible with 9mm to .45 ACP single-stack magazines.
- Significantly reduces thumb fatigue and speeds up the reloading process.
- Durable, high-impact polymer construction for long-lasting use.
- Simple and ergonomic design for easy use.
- Affordable price point compared to other magazine loaders.
Cons
- Only works with single-stack magazines; not compatible with double-stack magazines.
- May require slightly more force to load particularly stiff new magazines.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp?
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is perfect for anyone who frequently shoots single-stack pistols, especially those who experience thumb fatigue or have difficulty loading magazines by hand. It is also a great tool for shooting instructors or range officers who need to quickly load magazines for students or clients.
Those who primarily shoot double-stack pistols should skip this product. There are other magazine loaders specifically designed for double-stack magazines that would be a better fit. A must-have accessory would be a good range bag to keep this and other tools organized.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp
The Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is a simple, yet effective tool that makes loading single-stack magazines a breeze. Its universality, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s range bag. The product definitely delivers on its promises.
At a price of $46.69, the Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp is a worthwhile investment for anyone who values their time and comfort at the range. The ease and speed it provides, combined with its robust construction, justify the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Butler Creek Asap Magazine Loader Universal Single Stack Magazine 9MM – 45Acp to anyone who shoots single-stack pistols and is looking for a more efficient and enjoyable reloading experience. Ditch the sore thumbs and spend more time shooting!