KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds Review

First Thoughts on the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds

The 1911 is a classic, and a reliable magazine is absolutely critical for its proper function. After all, what good is a beautifully crafted firearm if it can’t feed rounds consistently? This review dives deep into the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, evaluating its performance, durability, and overall value.

My need for this magazine arose after acquiring a used 1911 with only one aging, questionable magazine. I wanted to ensure consistent feeding and reliable performance at the range. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the sleek, stainless steel finish and the reassuring weight of quality construction.

Compared to some aftermarket 1911 magazines I’ve handled, the Kimber magazine felt sturdier and better finished than cheaper, blued-steel options. I picked this over some of the no-name magazines on the market because of Kimber’s reputation for quality and the positive reviews regarding reliability. My initial excitement stemmed from hoping that this would solve my reliability concerns with my 1911.

Real-World Testing: Putting KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds at my local indoor shooting range. The range provides a controlled environment to assess the magazine’s feeding and ejection performance with different types of .45 ACP ammunition. The magazine performed flawlessly right out of the box, feeding rounds smoothly and consistently.

There were no malfunctions experienced with various types of .45 ACP ammo, including FMJ and hollow points. I found the magazine easy to load by hand, and it seated securely into the magazine well of my 1911. The only minor observation was that the stainless finish showed some slight smudging from handling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds fired, the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it in various range sessions and even during a basic pistol training course. The magazine still maintains its excellent feeding and ejection performance.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear; the stainless steel finish shows some minor scuffs, but nothing that affects functionality. Cleaning the magazine is straightforward. Disassembling the magazine for cleaning is easy using a simple punch or tool to depress the baseplate retention pin. The stainless steel construction is resistant to corrosion.

Breaking Down the Features of KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds

Specifications

  • The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds is chambered in .45 ACP Caliber. This is the classic caliber for the 1911 platform.
  • It has a capacity of 7 Rounds. This is the standard capacity for a full-size 1911 magazine.
  • The magazine is constructed from stainless steel. This material offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
  • It is designed for full-size 1911 pistols. It will not fit compact or officer-sized 1911 frames.
  • The magazine is pre-drilled for base pad installation. This allows for easy customization and enhanced grip during magazine changes.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the magazine. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and the 7-round capacity is standard for a reason – it offers a good balance between capacity and manageability. The fact that it’s specifically designed for a full-size 1911 ensures proper fit and function.

Performance & Functionality

The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds performs its job exceptionally well. It feeds ammunition reliably, ejects cleanly, and consistently locks the slide back on an empty magazine. This reliability is crucial in any defensive or competitive shooting scenario.

The primary strength lies in its consistent feeding and ejection performance, ensuring smooth operation of the 1911. One minor area for improvement would be a slightly more aggressive texture on the magazine body for enhanced grip during wet conditions. Overall, it exceeds expectations and provides confidence in its functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine features a stainless steel construction with a simple, functional design. The weight is substantial enough to feel sturdy without being overly heavy. The magazine body is smooth and streamlined, fitting comfortably in the hand during loading and magazine changes.

The design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or disassembly. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with 1911 magazines will find this one easy to use. The magazine seats positively and ejects cleanly when the magazine release is pressed.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction suggests a long lifespan, especially with proper maintenance. After months of use, there are no signs of significant wear or deformation. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance.

Disassembling the magazine for cleaning is easy using a simple punch or tool to depress the baseplate retention pin. The stainless steel components are resistant to corrosion, making maintenance straightforward. With reasonable care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds is pre-drilled for base pad installation. This is a significant advantage for users who prefer enhanced grip and faster magazine changes. Base pads are readily available from various aftermarket manufacturers.

It is compatible with most standard 1911 magazine pouches and carriers. Aftermarket followers and springs can also be installed if desired, though the factory components are generally reliable. The magazine’s design is compatible with a wide range of accessories designed for 1911 magazines.

Pros and Cons of KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds

Pros

  • Reliable feeding and ejection.
  • Durable stainless steel construction.
  • Pre-drilled for base pad installation, allowing customization.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.
  • Compatible with standard 1911 magazine pouches.

Cons

  • 7-round capacity might be limiting for some users who prefer higher capacity magazines.
  • The stainless steel finish can show smudges.


Who Should Buy KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds?

The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds is perfect for 1911 owners seeking a reliable and durable magazine for range practice, competition, or self-defense. It is an excellent choice for anyone who values consistent performance and the peace of mind that comes with using a high-quality magazine. It is also ideal for those looking to replace worn or unreliable magazines.

Those who prefer higher-capacity magazines should skip this product. If you need more than 7 rounds, consider magazines with extended capacities, although those can sometimes compromise reliability. A must-have accessory would be a magazine loader tool, especially for extended range sessions.

Conclusion on KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds

The KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds is a solid investment for any 1911 owner seeking a reliable and durable magazine. Its consistent feeding, robust construction, and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s kit. The price of $17.99 is justified given the magazine’s performance and longevity.

I would personally recommend this magazine without hesitation. It offers excellent value for the money and provides confidence in the reliable operation of your 1911. Upgrade your 1911 with the KIMBER MAGAZINE 1911 .45 ACP FULL SIZE STS 7/RND – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds and experience the difference a quality magazine can make.


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