First Impressions of Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine is a direct descendant of the magazine designed for John Browning’s iconic pistol. It’s a single-stack magazine designed to feed the potent .38 Super cartridge into the classic 1911 platform. This particular magazine boasts a 9-round capacity and a durable stainless steel construction, promising enhanced reliability and longevity.
My foray into the world of .38 Super 1911s stemmed from a desire for a classic pistol with a bit more punch than the .45 ACP, while still retaining the inherent accuracy and shootability of the 1911 design. I wanted a magazine that could reliably feed the .38 Super cartridge, which can sometimes be finicky due to its semi-rimmed design. Aftermarket magazines often fall short.
Upon receiving the Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine, my initial impression was positive. The stainless steel finish was clean and even, and the magazine felt solid in hand, with no obvious manufacturing defects. It was heavier than some of my other 1911 magazines, lending confidence in its durability.
Compared to generic aftermarket .38 Super magazines I’ve tested (brands I won’t name here!), the Colt magazine felt noticeably more robust. Compared to a Wilson Combat .38 Super magazine, the Colt magazine felt similar in build quality, though with one less round capacity. Ultimately, I chose the Colt magazine for its perceived reliability stemming from being a factory-produced magazine.
Overall, my first impression was one of cautious optimism. Factory magazines often hold an edge in reliability. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Colt name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine was at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility that offers a variety of shooting distances and environments. I ran the magazine through my Colt Government Model .38 Super. I tested a variety of ammunition, including factory new rounds and my own handloads.
The magazine performed flawlessly, feeding every round smoothly and consistently. There were no failures to feed, no double feeds, and no issues with the slide locking back after the last round. I was surprised and pleased that it worked so well right out of the packaging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine has continued to perform admirably. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days at the range to slightly damp conditions during an outdoor training course. It has consistently functioned without issue.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel finish has proven to be resistant to scratches and corrosion, and the magazine body remains straight and undamaged. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a simple wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session.
Compared to some of the cheaper aftermarket magazines I’ve used in the past, the Colt magazine is significantly more reliable and durable. It inspires confidence, knowing that it will function when needed. This outperforms many magazines I’ve used over the years.
Breaking Down the Features of Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine is specifically designed for Colt 1911 Government models chambered in .38 Super. It features a 9-round capacity, providing an extra round compared to some older 8-round designs. The magazine body is constructed from durable stainless steel, offering resistance to corrosion and wear.
The Colt magazine uses a high-quality follower and spring, contributing to its reliable feeding. It is designed to meet Colt’s exacting standards for fit and function. These specifications are critical for reliable operation, particularly with the semi-rimmed .38 Super cartridge, which can be prone to feeding issues in poorly designed magazines.
Performance & Functionality
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently feeds rounds without any issues, ensuring reliable cycling of the firearm. It also ensures the slide locks back reliably after the last round is fired.
Its strength lies in its consistent and reliable feeding. A potential area for improvement might be offering the same magazine with a slightly higher capacity, although this could compromise reliability. Overall, this meets all performance expectations, and then some.
Design & Ergonomics
The Colt magazine features a simple, functional design. The stainless steel construction provides durability and a clean aesthetic. The weight feels substantial.
There is no learning curve. It loads easily and inserts smoothly into the magazine well of my 1911.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. Periodic cleaning and inspection are recommended to ensure optimal performance. Due to the simple design, maintenance and repair are easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine itself doesn’t offer much in the way of accessories or customization. Aftermarket base pads may be available to increase grip area or provide a more secure hold during magazine changes. The magazine is compatible with any standard 1911 magazine pouch designed for single-stack magazines.
Pros and Cons of Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional reliability: Feeds rounds consistently and flawlessly, even with various .38 Super ammunition types.
- Durable construction: Stainless steel body and high-quality components ensure a long service life.
- Enhanced capacity: 9-round capacity provides an extra round compared to older 8-round magazines.
- Easy to maintain: Simple design makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
- Factory-produced quality: Manufactured to Colt’s high standards, ensuring proper fit and function in Colt 1911s.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than some aftermarket alternatives.
- Capacity: While 9 rounds is good, some may desire a higher capacity option, though this might compromise reliability.
Who Should Buy Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for 1911 enthusiasts who own a Colt Government Model chambered in .38 Super and demand the highest levels of reliability. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who need consistent feeding during matches. Anyone prioritizing reliability and durability over price will appreciate this magazine.
Those who should skip this product are individuals on a very tight budget or those who only occasionally shoot their .38 Super 1911. Cheaper aftermarket magazines may suffice for infrequent use. A must-have accessory is a quality 1911 magazine pouch for easy and secure carry during training or competition.
Conclusion on Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine
The Colt 1911 GOV .38 Super 9 Round Pistol Magazine is a top-tier magazine that delivers exceptional reliability and durability. While it may be more expensive than some alternatives, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your magazine will function flawlessly is well worth the investment. The price is justified based on the consistent performance and build quality.
I would absolutely recommend this magazine to any Colt .38 Super 1911 owner who demands the best. If you value reliability and longevity, this magazine is a must-have for your 1911. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!