Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine Review

First Impressions of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The 1911 platform is iconic, and reliable magazines are paramount for its smooth operation. The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine promises to deliver that reliability with an increased capacity, a tempting proposition for any 1911 owner. Known for their commitment to quality, Wilson Combat enters the arena of high-capacity 1911 magazines, aiming to provide a product that meets their rigorous standards.

For years, I have relied on standard capacity 1911 magazines, but recent range sessions highlighted a need for fewer reloads during drills. This led me to explore the world of 10-round 1911 magazines, a market where reliability can be hit or miss. The Wilson Combat name carries significant weight, and I hoped this magazine would live up to the hype.

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine arrived in standard packaging. Initial inspection revealed a robust stainless steel body, which immediately inspired confidence, although the user feedback regarding the baseplate did raise a slight concern. I’ve used Mec-Gar and Chip McCormick magazines in the past, and the Wilson Combat magazine felt comparable in terms of construction, possibly even a bit sturdier.

I chose the Wilson Combat magazine over others because of Wilson Combat’s reputation for producing high-quality 1911 parts. Other brands might offer similar capacity, but I trusted Wilson Combat’s engineering and commitment to reliability. I was excited to test the magazine’s performance and see if it lived up to the Wilson Combat name, but the baseplate comment lingered in my mind.

Check Best Price HERE

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 range, running drills with my custom 1911. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for evaluating magazine performance. I ran approximately 200 rounds through the magazine, mixing FMJ and JHP ammunition.

The magazine seated positively, and the rounds fed smoothly without any noticeable issues during the initial range session. The increased capacity allowed for extended strings of fire, reducing the need for frequent reloads. However, I paid close attention to the baseplate mentioned in the user feedback, and while it didn’t fail, it did feel less substantial than the rest of the magazine.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be generally reliable. I’ve put close to 1000 rounds through it, and it continues to function without major issues. I noticed a slight amount of wear on the finish, particularly around the feed lips, but it is purely cosmetic.

Cleaning the magazine is straightforward. Disassembly is simple, allowing for thorough cleaning and inspection. Compared to some of the cheaper 1911 magazines I’ve used in the past, the Wilson Combat magazine definitely outperforms them in terms of overall reliability and build quality. However, I still feel like the baseplate could benefit from some reinforcement.

Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

• The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine is chambered in .45 ACP, making it compatible with any standard 1911 pistol in that caliber. This is a crucial aspect for any 1911 magazine, ensuring proper fit and function.
• The magazine holds 10 rounds, offering increased capacity compared to traditional 7 or 8-round 1911 magazines. This extended capacity is a significant advantage for competition shooters or anyone wanting fewer reloads.
• It is designed for the 1911 platform. This ensures correct fit and reliable feeding in any mil-spec 1911.
• The magazine is made by Wilson Combat. A company renowned for high quality and reliable 1911 parts.
• The magazine comes as a single unit (Quantity: 1). While some might prefer buying magazines in bulk, this allows you to test a single unit before committing to a larger purchase.
• The magazine is sold in New condition. This means you are guaranteed a pristine, fully functional magazine right out of the package.

Performance & Functionality

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine generally performs its job admirably, providing reliable feeding and consistent operation. Accuracy isn’t directly affected by the magazine, but the increased capacity allows for longer strings of fire, which can be beneficial in training scenarios. The primary strength of this magazine is its reliability, although, as mentioned earlier, the baseplate design could be improved.

The magazine meets expectations overall, especially considering Wilson Combat’s reputation. A minor improvement to the baseplate would push it into “exceeds expectations” territory.

Design & Ergonomics

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine features a stainless steel body. This is chosen for durability and resistance to corrosion. The magazine feels substantial in hand.

The design is generally user-friendly, but the increased length compared to standard magazines might require some adjustment for users accustomed to shorter magazines. There is no significant learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine appears to be built to last, with the stainless steel construction offering excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Disassembly is straightforward, making cleaning and maintenance simple.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any included accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 magazine pouches. Aftermarket basepads are available, and this may be something to consider to replace the existing baseplate.

Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine?

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters, range enthusiasts, and anyone who wants increased capacity and fewer reloads. It is also well-suited for those who trust the Wilson Combat brand and are willing to pay a premium for quality.

This product might not be ideal for those on a tight budget or those who prioritize a flush-fitting magazine over increased capacity. Also, if baseplate robustness is a primary concern, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

Must-have accessories would include a high-quality magazine pouch and possibly an aftermarket basepad, depending on individual preferences.

Conclusion on Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine offers a compelling combination of increased capacity and reliable feeding, a testament to Wilson Combat’s engineering. While the baseplate design could be improved, the overall quality and performance justify the price. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their 1911’s magazine capacity without sacrificing reliability.

If you are looking for a magazine that offers a tangible performance upgrade and reduces the need for frequent reloads, the Wilson Combat 1911 Elite Tactical 10-Round Pistol Magazine is a solid choice. Invest in your shooting experience and upgrade your 1911 with confidence.