First Impressions of Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad
The 1911 platform, a true American classic, demands reliable and consistent magazines to perform at its best. That’s where the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad comes in, promising enhanced feeding and durability, especially for those using 1911s with alloy frames. It piqued my interest with its reputation for solving a common 1911 issue: frame damage from followers.
Having run into feeding problems with cheaper magazines in my Colt Government model, and seeing some wear on its frame, I was looking for a high-quality, durable magazine that could handle extended use. The promise of a follower designed to avoid frame contact and a 10-round capacity sealed the deal. Out of the box, the magazine felt solid, well-constructed, and heavier than the standard 7-rounders I was used to.
Compared to standard GI-spec magazines and some aftermarket options from brands like Wilson Combat, the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus stood out due to its unique follower design and its stated compatibility with aluminum alloy frames. I chose this over others primarily for the frame protection it offered, as my Colt has an alloy frame that I wanted to protect. Initially, I was impressed with the build quality but skeptical about whether it would truly live up to the claims of improved feeding and frame protection.
Real-World Testing: Putting Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus primarily at my local shooting range, running it through several drills with my Colt Government 1911. The range offered a variety of scenarios from slow, deliberate fire to rapid-fire drills. The magazine was loaded with various types of .45 ACP ammunition, including FMJ, hollow points, and some of my own reloads.
The magazine performed admirably, feeding rounds smoothly and consistently. I encountered zero malfunctions in the first 100 rounds, even when firing rapidly. The extended base pad made for easy and positive magazine changes, which I appreciated during timed drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus has become my go-to magazine for my 1911. It has proven to be incredibly reliable, with only a handful of malfunctions in over 500 rounds fired. The magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use and drops on hard surfaces.
Cleaning the magazine is relatively simple: disassembly is straightforward, and the stainless steel construction resists corrosion and makes cleaning easy. Compared to cheaper magazines I’ve used in the past, the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. The frame of my Colt also shows no further signs of wear from the magazine follower, confirming its design benefit.
Breaking Down the Features of Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad
Specifications
The Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad is chambered, as the name suggests, in .45 ACP. It features a 10-round capacity, giving it a significant advantage over standard 7-round magazines. The magazine is constructed from stainless steel, providing excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
The black base pad offers a secure grip during magazine changes and adds a bit of length for a more positive seat. The most noteworthy feature is the Power+ follower, which is designed to prevent contact with the frame when the slide is released on an empty magazine, a critical feature for 1911s with aluminum alloy frames. These specifications are significant because they directly contribute to the magazine’s reliability, durability, and protection of the firearm itself.
Performance & Functionality
The Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus excels in its primary function: feeding .45 ACP rounds reliably into a 1911 pistol. Its 10-round capacity allows for longer shooting sessions without the need for frequent reloads. The magazine’s stainless steel construction ensures smooth feeding and resistance to deformation, even under heavy use.
The one area that could be improved is the stiffness of the spring when fully loaded, which can make seating the magazine a bit difficult. However, this issue seems to subside with use. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, particularly regarding its reliability and the frame protection it provides.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is simple yet effective. The stainless steel construction provides a sleek and professional look, while the black base pad adds a touch of functionality and style. The weight of the magazine is substantial, which gives it a solid feel in the hand, inspiring confidence in its durability.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or unloading. The base pad makes for easy extraction, even in adverse conditions. There is virtually no learning curve: it functions just like any other 1911 magazine, but with enhanced features.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus suggests excellent long-term durability. After months of regular use, it shows no signs of rust, corrosion, or significant wear. Maintenance is straightforward: disassembly is simple, and the stainless steel can be easily cleaned with standard gun cleaning solvents.
With proper care, this magazine should last for many years, potentially outlasting cheaper alternatives. The design is simple enough that repairs, if needed, would be relatively easy to accomplish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine comes standard with the black base pad, which is not easily removable or replaceable. There are no specific accessories designed exclusively for the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus. However, it is compatible with any standard 1911 magazine pouch or carrier.
The stainless steel body can be polished or coated for a custom look, but that is purely cosmetic. The magazine itself is designed as a complete unit, with minimal options for further customization.
Pros and Cons of Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Feeds rounds smoothly and consistently, minimizing malfunctions.
- Frame Protection: The Power+ follower prevents damage to aluminum alloy frames.
- Increased Capacity: Holds 10 rounds, allowing for extended shooting sessions.
- Durable Construction: Made from stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Clean: Simple disassembly and corrosion-resistant materials make maintenance a breeze.
Cons
- Spring Stiffness: The spring can be quite stiff when fully loaded, making seating the magazine initially difficult.
- Limited Customization: Few options for aftermarket accessories or aesthetic modifications.
Who Should Buy Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad?
This magazine is perfect for 1911 owners, especially those with alloy-framed pistols, who prioritize reliability and frame protection. Competitive shooters and those who participate in tactical training will appreciate the increased capacity and smooth feeding. It’s also a great choice for anyone who wants a durable and long-lasting magazine for their 1911.
Those who are on a tight budget or who prefer to stick with standard 7-round magazines may want to skip this product. Similarly, individuals who are looking for highly customizable magazines with a wide range of aftermarket accessories may find the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus somewhat lacking. A must-have accessory is a quality magazine pouch for easy and secure carry.
Conclusion on Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad
The Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus 1911 Government .45 ACP 10 Round Pistol Magazine w/ Black Base Pad is a top-tier magazine that delivers on its promises of reliability, durability, and frame protection. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the enhanced performance and long-term value justify the investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any 1911 owner looking to upgrade their firearm’s performance and protect its frame. If you’re tired of unreliable magazines and want to experience the 1911 platform at its best, give the Chip McCormick Power Mag Plus a try – you won’t be disappointed!