First Impressions of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine
The 1911 pistol is a timeless classic, and its reliability is paramount to its enduring appeal. Magazines are the lifelines of any semi-automatic firearm, so investing in quality is crucial, especially for a platform like the 1911 where magazine compatibility can be finicky. That’s why I decided to try the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine.
I’ve experienced magazine-related malfunctions in the past, and the frustration of a failure to feed or eject during a critical moment is something I wanted to avoid. The promise of increased reliability, coupled with Wilson Combat’s reputation for quality, led me to purchase this magazine. My initial hope was to find a magazine that would feed consistently and reliably, even under stress, and to improve the overall performance of my 1911.
Upon unboxing the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and heft. The stainless steel felt substantial, and the finish was smooth and clean. Compared to some of the cheaper, mil-spec magazines I’ve used, this one felt like a premium product, worth the investment.
While other 10-round 1911 magazines exist, like those from Chip McCormick or Mec-Gar, I chose Wilson Combat for their reputation and specific design features, particularly the self-lubricating follower. I hoped this would be the difference-maker in achieving flawless feeding. I was excited to see if it would live up to its promise of enhanced reliability and smooth operation, and I was hopeful that it would solve the feeding issues I’d experienced with other magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range under relatively favorable conditions: sunny with a slight breeze. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various ammunition types, including FMJ, hollow points, and some +P loads, through the magazine. The magazine performed flawlessly with all ammunition types.
The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine was easy to load, and the rounds seated securely. Even in a somewhat rushed situation, the magazine inserted smoothly into the magwell and locked firmly into place. I experienced zero failures to feed or eject during the entire session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. It has been subjected to hundreds of rounds in various conditions, from hot and dusty days at the range to cooler, damp conditions during training exercises. There is no evidence of significant wear and tear.
The stainless steel construction has held up well, with no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a bore brush and some CLP keeps the magazine in top condition. Compared to some other magazines I’ve used, the Wilson Combat has consistently outperformed them in terms of reliability and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Wilson Combat
- Gun Make: 1911 Platform
- Gun Model: 1911
- Magazine Capacity: 10 Round
- Condition: New
- Material: Aircraft-grade certified stainless steel for corrosion resistance and durability. This ensures long-term reliability even in harsh environments.
- .025in Tube Walls: Thickest in the industry for exceptional strength and resistance to deformation. This is a significant upgrade over standard magazines, providing enhanced durability.
- Follower: Fiber-fill nylon self-lubricating follower for smooth and consistent feeding. The self-lubricating properties minimize friction and ensure reliable round presentation.
- Spring: Space-Age stainless steel spring wire for extended spring life and consistent pressure. This translates to consistent feeding and reliable slide lock even after extended use.
- Base Pad: Removable base pad for easy maintenance and compatibility with various base pad options. This allows for customization and easier cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent and reliable feeding in my 1911. The magazine’s robust construction and high-quality components contribute to its reliability. The magazine has eliminated the feeding issues I experienced with other magazines.
The magazine’s ability to consistently feed various types of ammunition without any malfunctions is a major strength. There is no need for any improvement, it works great right out of the box. It has met and exceeded my expectations for a high-quality 1911 magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine is well-designed and thoughtfully constructed. The aircraft-grade certified stainless steel and thick tube walls provide a feeling of substantiality and durability. The magazine’s weight is well-balanced.
The magazine is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The smooth follower and robust spring make loading and unloading effortless. The observation slots located on the rear of the tube are well-placed for structural integrity.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine appears to be built to last. The quality materials and construction suggest that it will withstand years of use and abuse. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to ensure its longevity.
The removable base pad makes maintenance simple, allowing for easy access to the magazine’s internals. This makes it easy to keep the magazine clean and free of debris, which is essential for reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine comes with a removable base pad. It is compatible with various aftermarket base pads, allowing users to customize the magazine to their specific preferences.
Other accessories, such as magazine pouches and loading tools, can be used with the magazine. It is compatible with most 1911 accessories on the market.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Eliminates feeding issues and ensures consistent performance.
- High-Quality Construction: Aircraft-grade stainless steel and thick tube walls for enhanced durability.
- Smooth Feeding: Self-lubricating follower ensures smooth and consistent round presentation.
- Extended Spring Life: Space-Age stainless steel spring wire for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Maintenance: Removable base pad allows for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Cons
- The price point of $44.95 might be considered high compared to cheaper, mil-spec magazines.
- 10 round capacity may not be legal in all jurisdictions.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for 1911 owners who prioritize reliability and performance. It is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who relies on their 1911 for personal defense. It’s also well suited for recreational shooters who want to avoid magazine-related malfunctions and ensure a smooth shooting experience.
Anyone on a tight budget or only uses their 1911 for occasional target shooting may find the higher price point unnecessary. This product may also be a pass for those who do not need a 10 round capacity magazine.
Must-have accessories for the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine include a quality magazine pouch for easy access and a magazine loading tool to facilitate loading.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine
In summary, the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine is an outstanding product that delivers on its promise of enhanced reliability and performance. It is well-built, thoughtfully designed, and consistently performs without any malfunctions. The stainless steel construction and self-lubricating follower make it a worthwhile investment for any serious 1911 owner.
While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the improved reliability and durability justify the cost. For those who depend on their 1911, the peace of mind that comes with knowing their magazine will perform flawlessly is invaluable.
I would highly recommend the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10 Round Pistol Magazine to anyone looking to upgrade their 1911 and ensure reliable feeding. Invest in quality, and experience the difference a premium magazine can make!
