Let’s Dive into Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super
The Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super is a 10-round, stainless steel magazine designed for 1911 pistols chambered in .38 Super. Chip McCormick Custom has a reputation for producing high-quality 1911 magazines, and this Power Mag aims to deliver reliable feeding and consistent performance. It’s built for shooters who demand the best from their magazines, providing increased capacity without sacrificing dependability.
My journey to this magazine began with a frustrating experience at a recent IPSC match. My older, less reliable .38 Super magazines were causing frequent failures to feed, costing me valuable time and points. I needed a magazine that could keep up with the demands of competitive shooting.
Upon receiving the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The stainless steel body felt solid and well-made, a stark contrast to the flimsy feel of some cheaper alternatives. The smooth finish and precise welds suggested a high level of attention to detail.
Compared to my Wilson Combat 47D magazines (for .45 ACP), which are known for their reliability, the Chip McCormick offering felt equally well-built. However, my old no-name .38 Super magazines paled in comparison, feeling almost disposable next to the Power Mag. Ultimately, I chose this magazine because of Chip McCormick’s reputation and the promise of enhanced reliability in the .38 Super platform.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The magazine looked great, but the real test would be how it performed under pressure. I was eager to put it through its paces at the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offered a variety of scenarios, from static target shooting to more dynamic drills that required rapid reloading and magazine changes. The weather was clear and sunny, but a slight breeze was present.
The magazine performed flawlessly right out of the box. I ran several drills that involved quick draws and rapid-fire strings, and the Power Mag fed every round without hesitation. The smooth release and easy insertion made magazine changes seamless and efficient.
I did not encounter any issues during the first range session. The magazine locked into place securely, and the rounds fed consistently and smoothly. It was a promising start, and I was eager to see how it held up over extended use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used it in multiple range sessions and even carried it as a backup magazine during a recent hog hunt. It has consistently performed without any failures or malfunctions.
The magazine shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel body is resistant to scratches and corrosion. Cleaning is also straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth is usually all it takes to keep it in good working order.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket 1911 magazines, the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super is in a different class. It outperforms my old magazines in every aspect, providing superior reliability, durability, and ease of use. It’s a significant upgrade that has boosted my confidence in my .38 Super 1911.
Breaking Down the Features of Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super
Specifications
- The Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super is designed for the Colt 1911 platform. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of 1911 pistols chambered in .38 Super.
- It is chambered in .38 Super with a 10-round magazine capacity. The increased capacity offers more rounds compared to traditional 7 or 8-round 1911 magazines.
- The magazine body is constructed from stainless steel. This provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion.
- Chip McCormick magazine features a stainless steel follower. It ensures smooth and reliable feeding of ammunition.
- It’s priced at $43.95. This places it in the mid-range for 1911 magazines.
These specifications are crucial for a reliable magazine. Stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and a smooth follower guarantees proper feeding. The 10-round capacity offers a tactical advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super excels in its primary function: reliably feeding rounds into a 1911 pistol. It does this with consistent performance and minimal malfunctions.
The magazine’s strength lies in its reliable feeding and robust construction. A potential weakness could be its slightly higher price compared to some budget options. Overall, it significantly exceeds expectations based on its performance and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine boasts a sleek, functional design with a stainless steel finish. The build quality is excellent, with precise welds and a smooth, consistent finish.
The magazine’s weight is typical for a stainless steel 1911 magazine. Insertion and removal are smooth and effortless.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
With proper care, the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super should last for many years. The robust design minimizes the risk of damage or malfunction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, it’s compatible with standard 1911 magazine pouches and accessories.
Users can customize their 1911 pistol itself to enhance magazine performance, such as tuning the ejector or extractor. Aftermarket base pads can be added for easier gripping and removal.
Pros and Cons of Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Feeds rounds consistently without malfunctions.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel body withstands heavy use and resists corrosion.
- Increased Capacity: Holds 10 rounds, providing a tactical advantage.
- Smooth Feeding: Stainless steel follower ensures smooth and consistent ammo delivery.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than budget magazine options.
- Fit (Potential): Some users may need to slightly adjust for optimal fit in their 1911.
Who Should Buy Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super?
Perfect for: Competitive shooters, 1911 enthusiasts who demand reliability, and individuals looking for a high-capacity .38 Super magazine. Shooters who value performance and durability over cost savings will find this magazine an excellent investment.
Who should skip this product? Individuals on a very tight budget might consider cheaper alternatives, although the long-term reliability of those options may be questionable. Those who only casually plink and aren’t concerned with optimal performance might not need this level of quality.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality magazine pouch is essential for carrying spare magazines. Consider adding an aftermarket base pad for easier gripping and removal.
Conclusion on Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super
The Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super is a top-tier 1911 magazine that delivers exceptional reliability and durability. Its 10-round capacity and smooth feeding make it a valuable asset for competitive shooters and anyone who relies on their .38 Super 1911 for self-defense.
The price is justified by the magazine’s superior performance and long-lasting construction. While cheaper options exist, they often compromise on quality and reliability.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Chip McCormick Power Mag .38 Super to anyone seeking a high-performance magazine for their .38 Super 1911. Upgrade your firepower and experience the difference a quality magazine can make! Don’t settle for less, invest in reliability and performance today.