First Thoughts on the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
The 1911 platform is iconic, and its reliable .45 ACP magazines are critical to its performance. The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model promises to provide increased capacity in a durable stainless steel package. As an experienced firearms enthusiast, I’m eager to evaluate whether this aftermarket magazine lives up to the Kimber name and the demanding standards of the 1911 platform.
I’ve always believed in having enough magazines for any firearm. My search for higher capacity magazines for my 1911 led me to the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND. The promise of increased capacity and stainless steel construction piqued my interest.
My initial impression was positive. The magazine felt solid and well-constructed, promising durability. Compared to other aftermarket magazines, the KIMBER MAGAZINE immediately stood out with its clean stainless steel finish and reassuring weight.
While I have magazines from Wilson Combat and Chip McCormick, the Kimber offering was more readily available and at a slightly lower price point. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would deliver on its promises. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, eager to test its performance at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at my local outdoor range. I ran the KIMBER MAGAZINE through my full-size 1911, loading it with various types of .45 ACP ammunition. It included FMJ, hollow points, and some older rounds I had lying around.
The magazine performed reasonably well in dry conditions. I experienced only one failure to feed within the first 50 rounds. Ease of use was straightforward; the magazine loaded easily, and the rounds seated properly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use and approximately 500 rounds fired, the magazine’s performance has been mixed. While it has improved, occasional failures to feed still occur. I have found that using higher-quality ammunition, specifically newer rounds, significantly reduces these malfunctions.
Durability seems good so far, with no visible signs of wear or damage to the stainless steel body. Cleaning and maintenance are easy, requiring only occasional wiping and light lubrication. Compared to my older 8-round magazines, the KIMBER MAGAZINE offers increased capacity, but it sacrifices some of the reliability I’ve come to expect from the 1911 platform. I am cautiously optimistic about its long-term reliability after a thorough break-in period.
Breaking Down the Features of KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND is designed for full-size 1911 pistols chambered in .45 ACP. It boasts a 10-round capacity, providing extra rounds over the standard 7 or 8-round magazines. The body is constructed from stainless steel, offering corrosion resistance and durability.
It is an aftermarket product, meaning it’s not manufactured directly by Colt or another major 1911 manufacturer, but rather by a third party. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to rust and wear, vital for maintaining reliable performance over time. The increased 10-round capacity is a significant advantage for range use or competition, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
Performance & Functionality
The KIMBER MAGAZINE increases firepower, but its performance isn’t flawless. While it generally feeds rounds smoothly, occasional failures to feed occur, especially with older or lower-quality ammunition. Its strength lies in its increased capacity, making it suitable for range practice and scenarios where more rounds are beneficial.
Its weaknesses lie in its occasional reliability issues. I’d recommend it primarily for range use where a malfunction is less critical. It largely meets expectations for an aftermarket magazine, providing additional capacity but with a slightly reduced degree of reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s stainless steel construction gives it a robust feel. The weight feels good in hand. The design is simple and functional, closely resembling the standard 1911 magazine profile.
It is user-friendly, with a smooth finish and clearly marked round indicators. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel body promises excellent longevity. I anticipate it will last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in good working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It’s a self-contained unit designed to function with any standard, full-size 1911 pistol.
While there aren’t direct customization options for the magazine itself, it can be paired with various 1911 accessories. Those accessories include custom grips and holsters designed for 1911 pistols with extended magazines.
Pros and Cons of KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Offers 10 rounds, compared to standard 7 or 8-round magazines, for extended shooting sessions.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Provides resistance to corrosion and wear, ensuring a longer lifespan.
- Easy to Load: The design allows for smooth and effortless loading of rounds.
- Relatively Affordable: Priced competitively compared to other high-capacity 1911 magazines.
- Enhanced Range Time: Reduces the need for frequent reloads, increasing shooting enjoyment.
Cons
- Occasional Reliability Issues: Can experience failures to feed, especially with older or lower-quality ammunition.
- Aftermarket Origin: May not meet the exacting standards of factory-made magazines, requiring a break-in period.
Who Should Buy KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model?
The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND is perfect for range shooters and recreational plinkers. These users value the added capacity for longer, uninterrupted shooting sessions. It would also benefit those involved in certain shooting sports, where higher capacity magazines are allowed.
This magazine is not ideal for individuals who rely on their 1911 for self-defense or duty carry. The occasional reliability issues make it unsuitable for situations where flawless performance is essential.
For optimal performance, consider pairing it with high-quality .45 ACP ammunition. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are also recommended.
Conclusion on KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 10 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 10/RND offers a tempting increase in capacity for the classic 1911. Its stainless steel construction adds to its appeal, promising long-term durability.
At $34.49, the price is reasonable, especially considering the increased capacity. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for occasional feeding issues, which might require using higher quality ammunition or performing a break-in period.
I would cautiously recommend the KIMBER MAGAZINE for range use. If you are looking for a reliable duty or defense magazine, stick with the proven factory options. If the added rounds and stainless steel build appeal to you, give it a try. Just be sure to put it through its paces at the range before depending on it.