The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model Made a Bold First Impression
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is an aftermarket magazine designed for the classic 1911 pistol chambered in .45 ACP. With a 7-round capacity and a blued finish, it promises reliability and functionality at an affordable price point.
For years, I’ve relied on a mix of original Colt magazines and some higher-end aftermarket options for my 1911s. However, with the rising cost of range time and the increasing frequency of training sessions, I needed a more budget-friendly option to supplement my existing magazines without sacrificing reliability. I was specifically looking for a magazine that would reliably feed various types of ammunition, including hollow points, and consistently lock the slide back on empty.
The magazine arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it looked well-made for the price. The blued finish was even, and the magazine felt solid in my hand. The steel follower seemed robust, and the welded base plate appeared secure. Compared to some of the more expensive magazines I own from Wilson Combat and Chip McCormick, the MG MAG lacked some of the refined finishing touches. However, those magazines are significantly more expensive. I chose the MG MAG because of its promise of reliable performance at a fraction of the cost.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see how it would perform at the range, and whether it could live up to its promise. It seemed like a good value but the true test would be how it functioned.
Real-World Testing: Putting MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model to my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I brought along my Colt Government Model 1911 and a variety of .45 ACP ammunition, including FMJ, hollow points, and some lead semi-wadcutters.
The magazine loaded easily, and seated positively in my 1911. During the first few magazines, I experienced no feeding issues with the FMJ rounds. However, when I switched to hollow points, I experienced a few failures to feed. The rounds would occasionally hang up on the feed ramp. After about 50 rounds, the magazine seemed to break in. The hollow points started feeding more reliably, with only the occasional hiccup.
The ease of use was generally good. I did not have any problems loading the magazine. Ejecting the magazine was smooth. There were no burrs or sharp edges that could cause snagging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds through the MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model, it has become more reliable. The initial feeding issues with hollow points largely disappeared after the first 100 rounds. It is now a reliable training magazine.
The blued finish has held up reasonably well, with only minor signs of wear around the magazine well. I have noticed some slight denting on the follower. This is likely due to repeated use. The magazine is easy to clean and maintain. I simply disassemble it and wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth.
Compared to my Wilson Combat magazines, the MG MAG is not as smooth or refined. But given the significant price difference, the MG MAG has exceeded my expectations. It provides a reliable and affordable option for high-volume training. This magazine has proven it can take a beating.
Breaking Down the Features of MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is designed for the Colt Government Model 1911 and similar platforms chambered in .45 ACP. It features a 7-round capacity, adhering to the standard capacity for a 1911 magazine.
The magazine is constructed from heat-treated carbon steel for enhanced strength and durability. The welded base plate ensures a secure and reliable construction. It uses a steel follower and a high tensile music wire spring, designed to maintain consistent feeding pressure. The blued finish provides a basic level of corrosion resistance. The Manufacturer is Mec-Gar.
These specifications are important for several reasons. The heat-treated carbon steel ensures the magazine can withstand the stresses of repeated loading and firing. The steel follower and high tensile spring contribute to reliable feeding. This is crucial for consistent performance. The blued finish helps protect the magazine from rust and corrosion, extending its lifespan.
Performance & Functionality
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model performs its job adequately. After the initial break-in period, it feeds FMJ rounds reliably. It locks the slide back on empty consistently.
The primary weakness is the initial feeding issues with hollow points. However, this improved significantly with use. A strength is its value for the money. It provides a functional magazine at a budget-friendly price. Overall, it meets expectations for a training magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model features a standard 1911 magazine design. It’s constructed from carbon steel. It has a welded baseplate.
The magazine feels solid and well-built for its price point. There is no learning curve. It is easy to load and use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model should last for a reasonable amount of time. The heat-treated carbon steel construction provides decent durability.
The magazine is easy to disassemble, clean, and maintain. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available directly for the magazine itself.
It is compatible with any 1911 that accepts standard 7-round .45 ACP magazines. Owners can use aftermarket base pads or followers designed for 1911 magazines. These accessories might enhance the magazine’s performance or aesthetics.
Pros and Cons of MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- Affordable Price: Significantly cheaper than premium 1911 magazines, making it ideal for high-volume training.
- Reliable Feeding (After Break-In): Feeds FMJ ammunition reliably after a short break-in period.
- Solid Construction: Made from heat-treated carbon steel with a welded base plate for decent durability.
- Consistent Slide Lock: Consistently locks the slide back on empty.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple design makes it easy to disassemble, clean, and maintain.
Cons
- Initial Feeding Issues: Can experience feeding problems with hollow point ammunition initially.
- Basic Finish: The blued finish is functional, but not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as more expensive options.
Who Should Buy MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model?
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is perfect for 1911 owners who need affordable and reliable magazines for training. It is ideal for casual shooters and range enthusiasts.
Those who demand flawless performance with all types of ammunition right out of the box should skip this product. They may prefer to invest in higher-end magazines from brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick.
Must-have accessories include a magazine loader to ease the loading process. An aftermarket base pad can also improve grip during magazine changes.
Conclusion on MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model
The MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is a decent value for the money. It provides a functional and reliable magazine at an affordable price point.
The price of $14.49 is justified. It is far less than premium magazines.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for training. Buy one or two. Use them for range work. Save the expensive ones for carry.
If you need reliable magazines without breaking the bank, the MG MAG COLT GOV 45ACP 7RD BL – 45 ACP Caliber, 7 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, 1911 Model is a solid choice. You won’t be disappointed.