Best 1911 15-Round Magazines: Our Top 9 Recommendations

The 1911 15-round magazine is a popular upgrade for owners of the iconic Smith & Wesson M1911 pistol. This magazine offers enhanced capacity while maintaining compatibility with the original magazine design. Our comparison evaluates the most reliable 15-round magazines available, discussing their construction, feed reliability, and compatibility with different M1911 models.

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Reviews

Shield Arms S15 G43x/48 Mag

This sleek 15-round magazine slips seamlessly into your Glock 43X or Glock 48, matching the OEM’s size while adding five extra shots. Built for durability with thicker steel and a tough black nitrocarburized finish, it’s designed to handle whatever you dish out at the range.

FN 20100348 9mm Luger Magazine

This high-capacity magazine brings together durable engineering and precise manufacturing for a reliable shooting partner. The 15-round capacity keeps you firing smoothly through drills or matches, while the sleek black finish keeps it looking sharp between uses. Whether you’re just getting started or have years of shooting experience, the FN magazine delivers the quality you expect from a trusted brand.

Chip McCormick 1911 38SUP Magazine

The Chip McCormick 1911 38Super magazine is built for reliability with its welded steel construction and unique all-steel follower that doubles as a spring for improved feed. It’s earned consistent praise from users who’ve tested thousands of rounds through their guns. The 10-round capacity fits standard 1911 frames with a low-profile base design that prevents magazine hangup.

The American Monthly Magazine: 1911

From its 1911 origins to its modern reproduction, this 376-page paperback captures a curious chapter in American publishing history. Published by Legare Street Press in 2021, it brings together nearly a century of content, proofread and relaunched with a reader-friendly design that preserves the original’s graphical elements. At just over 6 by 9 inches, the magazine fits comfortably in hand while its 246 pages offer a rich historical read.

Dart Zone Pro-Series 15-Round Standard-Length Dart Magazine 3-Pack

Looking for a reliable way to keep your foam darts handy? These 15-round magazines work with pretty much any standard dart blaster out there, from the Dart Zone Pro-Series to other compatible models. The gray plastic magazines click together in packs of three, making it easy to grab an extra pair when you’re in the middle of a game. While they might not match the customization options of some other brands, they’re built to last and come in at a great price point for both new players and casual gamers.

FN 510 10mm Handgun Magazine

FN America has established itself as a trusted name in firearms accessories through its commitment to quality craftsmanship. This magazine exemplifies that reputation with its robust construction and meticulous attention to detail. The durable design ensures dependable magazine function, while the slim, ergonomically friendly profile makes it a practical choice for both novice and experienced shooters.

Safariland Adjustable Magazine Pouch

The Safariland Adjustable Magazine Pouch keeps your extra magazine secure and accessible on your belt, working great with their ELS Kit or Competition Belt Combo. You can adjust the tension to make it just the right pull for grabbing the mag, and the closed front helps prevent accidents when you’re moving around. The built-up interior gives you a clear grip on the magazine when you need it.

1791 Snagmag 8R Magazine

This right-handed magazine carrier cleverly disguises as a pocket knife, combining discrete concealment with reliable magazine storage for 1911 and 8-round SIG P220 pistols. Made from tough, American-sourced steel and featuring a sleek black finish, the compact pouch mounts securely in your front left pocket without bulging. Users appreciate its lightweight construction and convenient access design, though some find it too bulky for typical pocket carry.

Benchmaster Single Stack 1911 Mag Rack

The Benchmaster Single Stack 1911 Mag Rack cleverly stores six 9mm magazines, whether loaded or empty, helping you stay organized and prevent misfires. At just 0.05 ounces, this lightweight rack mounts easily in any gun safe, keeping your ammunition secure and accessible. While one reviewer found the $30 price point excessive, many appreciate its simple, effective design that prevents mag tangle and keeps their gear sorted for quick draws.

Buyer’s Guide

The 1911 15-round magazine has established itself as a reliable choice for those needing to carry additional rounds while maintaining the classic 1911 design. This magazine’s capacity and compatibility make it a popular accessory for both concealed carry and competition shooting.

Capacity and Design Compatibility

The primary feature of the 15-round magazine is its capacity, which matches the original 1911 magazine while providing one extra round for backup. This design maintains the magazine’s traditional dimensions, ensuring compatibility with standard 1911 pistols and accessories. The magazine’s shape and measurements allow for smooth operation in the firearm, though users should verify compatibility with their specific pistol model.

Material Construction

Magazines for 1911 pistols come in various materials, with steel and polymer being the most common. Steel magazines offer durability and reliability through multiple cycles but can be heavier. Polymer magazines are lighter and more flexible, potentially reducing felt recoil, but may wear out faster with heavy use. High-quality magazines use durable polymer with reinforced construction to match the longevity of steel magazines.

Spring Strength and Cycles

The magazine’s spring strength directly impacts its reliability. A properly tensioned spring ensures consistent magazine operation and smooth magazine release. Springs that are too weak may lead to misfeeds, while overly strong springs can cause the magazine to click loudly or fail to load properly. Magazines with adjustable spring tension mechanisms allow users to fine-tune the spring’s strength based on their specific firearm and usage requirements.

Fit and Function

Proper fit between the magazine and pistol is crucial for reliable operation. Users should check the magazine’s alignment with the firearm’s slide and barrel to ensure consistent feeding. The magazine baseplate should sit flush with the pistol’s grip and align with the pistol’s grip safety. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, can help prevent malfunctions and ensure the magazine functions properly in all shooting positions.

FAQ

How much does a 1911 15-round magazine typically cost?

Prices vary based on brand, material quality, and seller location. Premium magazines with brass bushings and stainless steel construction usually range from $25 to $40. Bulk purchases or budget brands may cost as little as $15 per magazine, while specialty models with tactical features can exceed $60.

Shipping costs, additional accessories, and seller reputation should also factor into your total cost assessment.

What materials are commonly used in 1911 15-round magazines?

The primary materials are brass, aluminum, and stainless steel. Brass magazines are popular for their durability and ability to prevent feed failures, while aluminum provides lighter weight at a lower cost. Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance but at a higher price point.

Each material type has distinct advantages and trade-offs, so selection should align with your specific needs and preferences.

How long do 1911 magazines typically last with proper care?

With regular cleaning and maintenance, good-quality 1911 magazines can last 10-15 years or more, typically cycling through 10,000 to 20,000 rounds. Brand quality, storage conditions, and usage frequency significantly impact longevity.

Regular inspection for wear, corrosion, and proper spring tension is crucial for maintaining safe and reliable magazine performance.

What are the key differences between premium and budget 1911 magazines?

Premium magazines feature brass bushings, stainless steel construction, and precise manufacturing tolerances, while budget options may use cheaper materials and wider tolerances. Premium magazines generally feed more reliably and resist wear better over time.

Premium features include ergonomic serrations, corrosion resistance, and improved alignment, though they typically cost twice as much as basic models.

How do I tell if my 1911 magazine needs cleaning or replacement?

Signs include feeding failures, poor magazine catch engagement, or visible damage. If your magazine cycles fewer than 1,000 rounds before issues arise, consider replacement. Performance degrading over time usually necessitates cleaning every 1,000 rounds.

Clean magazines thoroughly with appropriate solvents and brushes, inspecting for debris, wear, or corrosion. Replace any magazine showing significant wear or damage.

Can I use any 1911 magazine in any 1911 pistol?

Not all magazines are 100% interchangeable. Glock magazine designs, for example, include feed lips that prevent other magazine types from seating properly. Ensure your magazine matches your pistol’s specific requirements.

The most common incompatibility issues involve slight differences in magazine catch shapes or follower designs. Always verify compatibility before purchase to avoid frustration and potential malfunctions.

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