Top 8 1911 9mm Magazines: Quick Reloads for Competitive Shooting

The iconic 1911 pistol has stood the test of time, and its magazine system is no exception. This roundup examines the most reliable, accurate, and durable 1911 magazines available today, helping you choose the right capacity and construction for your firearms needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

State Normal Magazine, Jan. 1911

Legare Street Press brought this 1911 work back to life with a fresh new binding that pairs elegant simplicity with practical functionality. The 48-page magazine, featuring the original graphics and content, is a must-have for anyone with an interest in vintage publications from that era.

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.

Mag FN 509 9mm Gun Magazine

Crafted to FN’s exacting standards, this 9mm magazine delivers flawless reliability with its precision engineering and premium materials. The ten-round capacity keeps you well-supplied, while the durable gray finish keeps things looking sharp. Whether you’re shooting drills or competition, you can count on it to perform flawlessly every time.

Springfield Armory XD-S XDS50071 Extended Magazine

This 45 ACP magazine gives your Springfield XD-S pistol a much-needed capacity boost, with its reliable X-Tension design fitting both 3.3” and 4.0” models. While some users report minor fiddling to get the last round in, once installed, it extends your magazine’s reach for a more secure grip without affecting concealment. The extra two rounds come in handy for those long-range engagements or extended practice sessions.

C&G Holsters Single Stack Magazine Holder

The C&G holster blends solid construction with versatile carry options, featuring an ambidextrous design and adjustable retention that keeps your mag secure while allowing for quick draws. Made from Salt bath Nitried hardware that resists rust and corrosion, it’s built to last through heavy use. Whether you’re carrying on your hip or appendix style, this holster hits the mark with its reliable performance and American-made quality.

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 9mm magazine is a critical component of any. 45 ACP pistol converted to 9mm, offering a balance of capacity and reliability. Understanding the key aspects of these magazines will help you select the right one for your firearm.

Capacity

Standard 1911 9mm magazines hold 7-10 rounds, matching the traditional 1911 magazine capacity. Higher-capacity magazines exceeding 10 rounds may be available but require careful selection to ensure proper function in your specific firearm.

Construction

Magazines come in steel, polymer, or hybrid materials. Steel magazines offer the highest capacity and durability but are heavier. Polymer magazines are lighter and more affordable, while hybrid designs combine the best attributes of both materials.

Compatibility

Magazine compatibility depends on your firearm’s model and production era. Ensure your selection matches your pistol’s magazine well length and follower type. Some pistols may require specific magazine models with modified springs for reliable operation.

Durability and Maintenance

Look for magazines with precision-machined parts and smooth surfaces to prevent jamming. Magnesium phosphate (MagPhosp) treatment provides excellent corrosion resistance, while proper maintenance including regular cleaning and lubrication extends magazine life.

FAQ

What is the capacity of a standard 1911 9mm magazine?

Standard 1911 9mm magazines hold 8 rounds of ammunition. This capacity allows for quick reloads while maintaining a manageable size for concealed carry or practical concealment.

While some manufacturers offer 10-round capacity magazines, these are considered extended magazines and may not be compatible with all 1911 pistols due to increased height and potential magazine follower clearance issues.

What materials are 1911 9mm magazines typically made from?

The most common materials for 1911 9mm magazines are steel (both stamped and machined) and aluminum. Steel magazines provide the most reliable feed and durability but are heavier. Aluminum magazines are lighter and corrosion-resistant, making them popular for target shooting and competition use.

Some manufacturers also offer polymer magazines, which combine the light weight of aluminum with better resistance to wear and tear, though they may not be suitable for harsh environmental conditions or high-volume use.

How can I tell if a 1911 9mm magazine is original equipment or aftermarket?

Original equipment magazines often have a distinctive feel and smoother action. They typically feature precise tolerances and consistent feed reliability. Aftermarket magazines may feel slightly different and may have proprietary designs for enhanced reliability or capacity.

Check for consistent branding quality, proper fit in the pistol frame, and smooth magazine catch operation. Aftermarket magazines may have newer, improved features like increased spring retention or enhanced follower design.

What maintenance is required for 1911 9mm magazines?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the magazine’s feed lips and baseplate with a cleaning brush after every use. Proper lubrication of the spring and follower can improve reliability and extend magazine life, but excessive lubrication can attract dirt and affect feed.

Inspect magazines for wear, particularly at the feed lips and baseplate edges. Replace any magazines showing significant wear or feeding issues to maintain optimal performance and safety standards.

How do I prevent misfeeds and feed stoppages with 1911 9mm magazines?

Ensure all magazines are seated correctly in the pistol frame and that the baseplate is properly aligned with the magazine well. Misfeeds often occur when magazines are not fully seated or when the feed lips are worn down, preventing proper ammunition engagement.

Use proper loading techniques to avoid over-torquing the magazine or applying excessive pressure. Practice correct pistol handling and trigger manipulation to prevent unexpected contact between the magazine and grip safety during firing.

Are there specific considerations for carrying 1911 9mm magazines in concealed carry situations?

When carrying spare 9mm magazines, consider the overall weight and profile of your concealed carry rig. Full-size magazines can add noticeable bulk, while extended capacity magazines may protrude beyond pocket edges, increasing exposure risk.

Invest in quality holstering solutions that secure magazines firmly in place to prevent accidental discharge. Some carriers opt for magazine carriers that conceal the magazines under clothing rather than carrying them loose in pockets.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.