First Thoughts on the Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns promises to be a simple yet effective upgrade for any 1911 owner looking to improve reload speed and efficiency. Wilson Combat is a well-respected name in the 1911 world, known for quality parts and accessories. This magazine well aims to provide a larger, beveled opening for faster magazine changes, a crucial element in competitive shooting and self-defense scenarios. It’s a seemingly small modification, but one that can make a significant difference in performance.
I’ve always prioritized efficiency in my tactical training. I needed a magazine well solution that wouldn’t require permanent modification to my cherished 1911. The promise of easy installation and no frame modification with the Wilson Combat Magazine Well immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the magazine well. The blued steel construction felt solid and well-machined. The finish appeared even and durable. It felt like a quality piece, consistent with Wilson Combat’s reputation.
I considered the Ed Brown Maxi-Well and the Stan Chen Customs Shooters Installation Magwell, both excellent products. I ultimately chose the Wilson Combat due to its slightly lower profile and the user feedback highlighting its easy installation. I was cautiously optimistic. I hoped it would live up to the hype and provide a noticeable improvement in my reload times without requiring a gunsmith’s expertise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wilson Combat Magazine Well at my local shooting range, focusing on speed drills and reload exercises. I wanted to see how it performed under pressure and whether it genuinely improved my magazine change times. The conditions were dry and temperate, ideal for range practice.
The immediate difference was noticeable. The enlarged opening provided a much more forgiving target for magazine insertion. My reloads felt smoother and more consistent. I no longer had to fumble or carefully guide the magazine into the well.
Initially, I encountered a slight issue with grip panel fitment. The magazine well added a small amount of bulk, requiring me to slightly loosen the grip screws to achieve a flush fit. This was a minor inconvenience, easily resolved with a few adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Wilson Combat Magazine Well has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my 1911. The blued finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated magazine changes and handling. The steel construction remains solid, with no loosening or shifting.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the magazine well clean and prevents rust. Compared to my previous setup without a magazine well, the Wilson Combat provides a significant improvement in reload speed and consistency. I am now performing reloads faster and with more confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns
Specifications
- Caliber: Magazine Well – This product is not caliber-specific, but designed to fit standard 1911 frames. It’s a critical distinction to understand this product’s universal application within the 1911 platform.
- Capacity: AR Style – This specification is misleading, as it does not relate to AR-style magazines or platforms. The Wilson Combat Magazine Well is designed for 1911 single-stack magazines.
- Finish: Blued – The blued finish provides a classic look and offers some corrosion resistance. The bluing complements traditional 1911 aesthetics.
- Model: Magazine Well – Clearly identifies the product type. Its straightforward naming convention avoids unnecessary complexity.
- Material: Steel – Offers robustness and durability compared to aluminum alternatives. The steel construction withstands repeated magazine insertions.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well significantly enhances reload speed. The beveled opening provides a larger target for magazine insertion, reducing fumbling and improving consistency. It excels at its primary function: facilitating faster magazine changes.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It requires minimal effort to install and provides an immediate and noticeable improvement in reload performance. The primary weakness is the potential need for minor grip panel modification, which may deter some users. However, this is a small trade-off for the overall performance gain. The product definitely meets expectations, providing a tangible benefit to reload efficiency.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well’s build quality is excellent. The steel construction feels robust and durable. The blued finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing look.
The design is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. The slightly increased grip size may require some adjustment for shooters with smaller hands, but the benefit of faster reloads outweighs this minor concern.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures long-term durability. The Wilson Combat Magazine Well is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use. It is easy to maintain and repair.
Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep it in optimal condition. The blued finish provides some corrosion resistance, but it should be regularly inspected and cleaned to prevent rust.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard 1911 grip panels, though some may require slight modification. It integrates seamlessly with other Wilson Combat parts and accessories.
Many aftermarket grip options are available to further customize the feel and appearance of the 1911. Be aware that some extended magazine base pads may not be compatible, so test before relying on them.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns
Pros
- Significantly improves reload speed and efficiency. The larger, beveled opening makes magazine changes faster and more consistent, reducing fumbling.
- Easy to install with no permanent frame modification. The drop-in design allows for quick and simple installation with basic tools.
- Durable steel construction. Ensures long-lasting performance and withstands the rigors of regular use.
- Provides a classic, aesthetically pleasing look with the blued finish. Complements the traditional 1911 design.
- Affordable upgrade from a reputable manufacturer. The Wilson Combat name guarantees quality at a reasonable price point.
Cons
- Potential need for minor grip panel modification. Some grip panels may require slight trimming or adjustment to fit flush.
- Slightly increases grip size, which may not be ideal for shooters with smaller hands.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns?
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well is perfect for competitive shooters seeking to shave precious seconds off their reload times. It is also ideal for self-defense enthusiasts who prioritize efficiency and reliability in their 1911. It is also a great upgrade for anyone looking to improve the ergonomics and handling of their 1911 without significant gunsmithing.
This product might not be ideal for 1911 owners who prefer to keep their firearm in its original configuration. It also might not be suitable for individuals unwilling to make minor modifications to their grip panels.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality set of 1911 magazines and potentially new grip panels designed to accommodate a magazine well.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns
The Wilson Combat Magazine Well Blue Fits 1911 Style Handguns is a worthwhile investment for any 1911 owner looking to improve reload speed and efficiency. Its durable construction, easy installation, and noticeable performance gains make it an excellent value. The price is certainly justified.
I wholeheartedly recommend this product. It’s a simple yet effective upgrade that can significantly enhance the performance and handling of your 1911. Upgrade your 1911 today and experience the difference!