Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine Review

First Impressions of Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine

The Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine promises enhanced capacity and reliability for owners of Para Ordnance P18 or compatible firearms. Mec-Gar is a well-respected name in the magazine industry, known for supplying magazines to numerous firearm manufacturers worldwide, so my initial expectation was high for this particular product. Could this magazine solve the reliability issues I’ve faced with aftermarket magazines in my customized Rock Island Armory 1911 chambered in .38 Super?

I was seeking a reliable, high-capacity magazine for my Rock Island Armory 1911 in .38 Super, which is built on the Para Ordnance P18 frame. Factory magazines for these double-stack 1911s can be difficult to find and often command a premium price; I was hoping the Mec-Gar offering would provide a cost-effective and dependable alternative. I’ve tried a couple of other generic aftermarket magazines in the past, experiencing frequent failures to feed and issues with the slide locking back after the last round.

Upon unboxing, the Mec-Gar magazine had a reassuring heft and a clean, nickel finish. The build quality appeared solid, with smoothly welded seams and a robust polymer baseplate. Compared to the blued finish of my pistol, the nickel finish offered a noticeable aesthetic difference, suggesting better corrosion resistance.

I considered magazines from brands like Wilson Combat and Tripp Research, but they didn’t specifically cater to the Para Ordnance P18 platform in .38 Super. The Mec-Gar was purpose-built for this application, making it a more appealing choice. My first impression was positive; the magazine exuded quality and felt like a step up from the generic options I’d previously experimented with.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine to my local outdoor shooting range for its initial trial. The weather was clear and dry, providing ideal testing conditions. Loading the magazine was straightforward, although the final few rounds required a bit more effort, typical of high-capacity magazines.

In the first few magazines, I experienced one failure to feed. After the initial hiccup, the magazine performed flawlessly for the next 150 rounds. The slide consistently locked back after the last round, a welcome improvement over my previous experiences.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Mec-Gar magazine continues to function reliably. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it with only that single initial failure to feed. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, and the nickel finish has held up well against scratches and corrosion.

Cleaning the magazine is relatively simple, requiring only disassembly and a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth. Compared to my past experiences with unreliable aftermarket magazines, the Mec-Gar has been a game-changer, providing consistent performance and boosting my confidence in my .38 Super 1911. It noticeably outperforms the no-name magazines I previously relied on.

Breaking Down the Features of Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine

Specifications

The Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine is specifically designed for Para Ordnance P18 and compatible double-stack 1911 frames chambered in .38 Super. It boasts a 17-round capacity, significantly increasing the firepower compared to standard single-stack 1911 magazines. The magazine body is constructed from high-quality steel with a durable nickel finish for enhanced corrosion resistance.

The baseplate is made of polymer and is designed for easy grip and removal. The follower is also made of polymer, contributing to smooth feeding and reliable slide lock. These specifications translate to a magazine that is robust, resistant to the elements, and capable of delivering consistent performance under various conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine excels in its primary function: reliably feeding .38 Super ammunition into compatible firearms. Its performance is characterized by smooth feeding, positive slide lock, and consistent round presentation. The magazine’s design ensures that rounds are properly aligned for optimal chambering.

While I experienced one initial failure to feed, it has otherwise proven highly reliable. The magazine exceeds my expectations for aftermarket options, offering a level of dependability comparable to factory magazines. A potential improvement could be a slightly stiffer spring for even more reliable feeding with a wider range of ammunition.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and user comfort. The nickel finish not only enhances durability but also provides a smooth surface for easy insertion and removal. The polymer baseplate is contoured for a secure grip, even with gloved hands.

The magazine is generally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or disassembly. The only slight learning curve involves mastering the technique for loading the last few rounds, which can be a bit stiff. Overall, the design is practical and optimized for ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mec-Gar magazine is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The nickel-plated steel construction offers excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. With proper care and maintenance, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, involving periodic disassembly, cleaning, and lubrication. The magazine’s simple design allows for easy access to all internal components. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine is primarily a standalone product and does not come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be compatible with any firearm that accepts Para Ordnance P18-style magazines chambered in .38 Super. Aftermarket basepads might exist, but the product description specifically states, “Not Compatible With Para Pro Custom P18.9 Pistol Or Aftermarket Polymer Basepads“.

While the magazine itself does not offer extensive customization options, its reliability and performance can significantly enhance the overall shooting experience with compatible firearms. Given that it is “Not Compatible With Funneled Magazine Guides,” users should be aware of these limitations when considering aftermarket parts.

Pros and Cons of Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine

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Who Should Buy Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine?

The Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine is perfect for owners of Para Ordnance P18 or compatible firearms chambered in .38 Super who are seeking a reliable, high-capacity magazine. This is especially true for those who use their firearms for competitive shooting, self-defense, or recreational range use. Those who require a magazine that can withstand demanding conditions and provide consistent performance would benefit greatly.

This product is not ideal for those who own Para Pro Custom P18.9 pistols or those who prefer to use aftermarket polymer basepads or funneled magazine guides. If compatibility with these accessories is a priority, alternative magazine options should be explored. A must-have is a good magazine loader, especially if you are planning extended range time.

Conclusion on Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine

In summary, the Mec-Gar Para Ordnance P18 Nickel .38 Super 17-Round Magazine offers a compelling combination of reliability, capacity, and durability for owners of compatible firearms. The price of $34.99 is justified by the magazine’s performance and construction, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to enhance their shooting experience. The Mec-Gar magazine has become an integral part of my .38 Super 1911 setup, significantly improving its reliability and usability.

I would confidently recommend this magazine to anyone seeking a dependable, high-capacity option for their Para Ordnance P18 or compatible firearm. Upgrade your magazine game today and experience the difference a quality magazine can make!