The Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model Made a Bold First Impression
The 1911, a timeless design by John Browning, has seen countless iterations, but the heart of its reliability lies in its magazines. When I decided to upgrade the magazines for my trusty Springfield 1911, I knew I wanted something dependable, durable, and that wouldn’t protrude excessively. That’s when I landed on the Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model.
My decision stemmed from a frustrating range experience with some aftermarket magazines that consistently failed to feed. I needed magazines I could trust for both range training and home defense. Opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the heft and quality of the stainless steel. The low-profile butt plate was exactly what I was looking for, offering the increased capacity of 8 rounds without the ungainly extension found on some other magazines.
Compared to the factory Springfield magazines and some cheaper brands I’d previously tried, the Wilson Combat magazines felt significantly more robust. The stainless steel had a smooth, almost polished finish, a stark contrast to the rougher, parkerized finish on the originals. I chose the Wilson Combat magazine for its reputation for reliability and the sleek, low-profile design that promised improved concealability and reduced snagging. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, as premium magazines often come with a premium price tag, but I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Wilson Combat magazines was a revelation. I tested them at an outdoor range, running them through various drills involving rapid firing and magazine changes. The magazines performed flawlessly in sunny conditions, with temperatures around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Loading was smooth and effortless, and the magazines seated positively in my 1911 without requiring excessive force.
The magazines fed every round without a single hiccup, a welcome change from my previous experiences. I didn’t experience any failures to feed, double feeds, or any other malfunctions. The ease of use was immediately apparent; they simply worked as intended, requiring no adjustments or modifications.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Wilson Combat magazines continue to impress. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through each magazine, and they still function as reliably as the day I bought them. There are minimal signs of wear and tear; the stainless steel finish shows only minor scuffs from repeated insertion and removal. Cleaning is straightforward. I simply disassemble them, wipe down the components with a lightly oiled cloth, and reassemble.
Compared to my previous experiences with less expensive magazines that quickly developed feeding issues or cracked feed lips, the Wilson Combat magazines have proven to be a worthwhile investment. They have consistently outperformed my expectations, providing unwavering reliability in every shooting session.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP. The Wilson Combat magazine is specifically designed for the venerable .45 ACP cartridge, ensuring proper fit and feeding.
- Capacity: 8 Rounds. This provides a slight increase over the standard 7-round capacity while maintaining a manageable magazine length.
- Finish: Stainless Steel. The stainless steel construction offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability, crucial for reliable performance.
- Model: 1911. These magazines are designed to fit any standard 1911-pattern pistol, ensuring broad compatibility.
- Origin: OEM. This implies that these magazines are manufactured to Wilson Combat’s exacting standards, guaranteeing top-tier quality and performance.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the magazine’s reliability, longevity, and overall functionality within a 1911 platform. The choice of stainless steel ensures resistance to rust and wear, while the 8-round capacity offers a practical balance between increased firepower and comfortable carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model performs its job exceptionally well. Its reliability is its greatest strength; it feeds rounds consistently and smoothly, eliminating malfunctions that can plague other magazines. The low-profile butt plate aids in concealed carry by minimizing printing.
The only potential weakness is the price, as these magazines are more expensive than some alternatives. However, the increased reliability and durability justify the cost for serious shooters. It has far exceeded expectations. The smooth feeding and consistent performance have instilled confidence in my 1911’s reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat magazine boasts a robust design. The stainless steel construction provides a solid feel and instills confidence in its durability. The low-profile butt is a welcome addition, enhancing concealability without sacrificing capacity.
The magazine is user-friendly. Its smooth finish allows for easy insertion and removal. The slightly extended length of the 8-round magazine provides a secure grip during magazine changes.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Wilson Combat magazine suggests it will last for many years. The material resists corrosion, and the robust build quality prevents premature wear and tear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Disassembly is easy, allowing for thorough cleaning of all internal components. The durable spring should maintain its tension even after extensive use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model doesn’t come with any specific accessories in the box beyond the magazine itself. However, Wilson Combat offers a range of magazine pouches and loaders that are compatible with their magazines. The magazines are compatible with most standard 1911 magazine wells, allowing for some customization with aftermarket magwell extensions.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Feeds rounds consistently and smoothly, minimizing malfunctions.
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Resists corrosion and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Low-Profile Butt: Enhances concealability without sacrificing capacity.
- Smooth Feeding: Ensures smooth and effortless loading and cycling of rounds.
- OEM Quality: Manufactured to Wilson Combat’s exacting standards, guaranteeing top-tier quality.
Cons
- Higher Price: More expensive than some alternative magazines.
- Requires Occasional Cleaning: Like all magazines, needs periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model?
The Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model is perfect for 1911 owners who demand unwavering reliability and durability from their magazines. It is especially well-suited for concealed carriers who appreciate the low-profile butt, as well as competitive shooters and home defenders who need magazines they can trust their lives to.
Those on a very tight budget might find the price prohibitive, and those who only occasionally shoot their 1911 may not need the high level of performance these magazines offer. A magazine loader can be a helpful accessory, especially for those who spend a lot of time at the range.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model
The Wilson Combat 8 Round Stainless Magazine w/Low Profile Butt – 45 ACP Caliber, 8 Rounds, OEM Origin, 1911 Model is a premium magazine that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is well worth it for those who prioritize dependable performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any 1911 owner who demands the best from their equipment.
If you are serious about your 1911 and want magazines you can trust, look no further. Upgrade your 1911 with Wilson Combat magazines and experience the difference.