Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine Review

Testing the Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine: What You Need to Know

For those who own and cherish the compact Colt Mustang .380 ACP, ensuring reliable ammunition flow is paramount. My search for a dependable replacement or backup magazine led me to the Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine. This particular unit boasts a welded base and a flat steel follower, aiming for enhanced feeding precision. My previous experiences with factory magazines have been satisfactory, but the allure of potentially improved reliability and a robust build prompted this investigation. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense construction; it felt dense and well-finished, a stark contrast to some of the lighter, less substantial aftermarket options I’ve encountered. I briefly considered a generic brand, but concerns about fit and function steered me back toward a manufacturer specializing in firearm magazines. This Metalform offering provided a immediate sense of competence.

Real-World Testing: Putting Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested this magazine primarily at my local indoor shooting range, integrating it into standard practice sessions with my Colt Mustang. The initial loading process was straightforward; rounds fed smoothly into the magazine body, and the last round seated with a familiar click.

During live fire, the magazine performed admirably, with no feeding issues or malfunctions across multiple magazines worth of ammunition. I intentionally subjected it to a bit of dust and bench grime to simulate less-than-ideal conditions, and it continued to feed rounds without a hiccup.

The insertion and ejection from the firearm were crisp and positive, much like a factory magazine. There was no perceptible stiffness or sticking, and it felt right at home in the magazine well. My first few range trips were free of any surprises, which is exactly what you want from a critical firearm component.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use – typically two range sessions a week, with between 50 and 100 rounds each time – this magazine has become a trusted go-to. It’s seen constant loading and unloading, and the internal spring still feels robust and consistent.

Durability has been excellent; the stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after being accidentally left in a slightly humid range bag overnight once. There are no cracks, deformities, or significant scuffs, just the usual minor cosmetic marks that come from being inserted and removed from a firearm.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functional. Disassembly for a deeper clean is straightforward, involving a small retaining pin at the base, and reassembly is just as simple.

Compared to some budget magazines I’ve used in the past, which often develop feeding issues or weakened springs after only a few hundred rounds, this Metalform unit feels like it’s built to last. It consistently outperforms those lesser options in terms of reliability and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine

Specifications

The Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine is specifically designed for the Colt Pocketlite .380 ACP pistol. It’s constructed from durable stainless steel, offering a natural silver finish that resists corrosion. This model is available in 6 or 7 rounds capacity, providing a useful increase over some smaller magazines.

A key internal component is the flat steel follower, which is engineered for consistent and reliable feeding of .380 ACP ammunition. The magazine features a welded base or an X-Grip adapter, both designed to ensure a secure fit and enhance grip when extended. The height is listed at 1.25 inches, a minor detail but indicative of its compact design.

These specifications translate directly into user benefit. The stainless steel ensures longevity and resistance to the elements, crucial for a piece of equipment that might be carried daily. The flat steel follower is a well-regarded design for its tendency to prevent feeding jams, a common failure point in other magazine designs. The capacity options offer a tangible increase in available rounds without significantly altering the firearm’s profile.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – feeding ammunition reliably – the Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine excels. During my testing, it consistently delivered rounds to the chamber without any failures to feed, stovepipes, or other common malfunctions. The interaction between the follower, spring, and the magazine lips is clearly well-tuned for the Mustang platform.

Its biggest strength is this unwavering reliability; in a firearm often used for personal defense, this consistency is not just a feature, but a necessity. The X-Grip adapter, in particular, makes full use of the magazine’s capacity, offering a bit more purchase than flush-fit options without being overly cumbersome.

A potential weakness, though minor, is that the welded base construction, while strong, means it’s not designed for easy aftermarket base pad replacement. However, given the typical use case for a Mustang, extensive magazine modifications are less common. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations for a dedicated magazine for this firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine is purposeful and robust. The stainless steel construction gives it a satisfying heft, conveying quality and durability. The finish is uniform and smooth, with no sharp edges or rough spots that could interfere with handling or seating.

Ergonomically, the standard 6-round version fits flush or near-flush, maintaining the Mustang’s concealability. The 7-round variant with the X-Grip adapter provides a slightly extended grip, which can aid in faster reloads by offering more surface area for your fingers. This added grip is subtle but noticeable, especially under pressure.

The internal design, particularly the flat steel follower, contributes to its functional ergonomics by ensuring smooth feeding. The spring tension feels appropriate – strong enough to reliably push rounds up, but not so stiff as to make loading exceptionally difficult.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my usage and the materials employed, this Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine appears to be built for significant longevity. The stainless steel body is inherently resistant to wear and corrosion, and the welded base adds structural integrity. I haven’t observed any signs of premature wear on the follower or spring, even after hundreds of cycles.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Regular cleaning involves wiping it down to remove debris and oils, and occasional disassembly allows for a more thorough clean of the follower and spring. No specialized tools are needed beyond a basic punch or similar item to depress the retainer pin.

A potential concern for some might be the welded base, which limits the ability to swap in aftermarket magazine extensions or sleeves if desired. However, for its intended purpose, this feature contributes to its robust construction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine comes as a standalone item, typically without additional accessories. However, the product description does mention the option of a welded base or X-Grip adapter. The X-Grip adapter, in particular, serves as a functional enhancement, providing a more secure grip on the extended magazine base.

While not designed for extensive customization like some higher-capacity magazines, its compatibility with the Colt Mustang .380 ACP is its primary advantage. The focus is on reliability and function within the intended platform, rather than modularity. The X-Grip adapter is the most significant feature that adds to its user-friendliness, offering a practical ergonomic upgrade for those choosing the higher-capacity models.

Pros and Cons of Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine

Who Should Buy Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine?

This magazine is an excellent choice for owners of the Colt Mustang .380 ACP who prioritize reliable performance and durability. If you use your Mustang for concealed carry, home defense, or simply enjoy regular range practice, this magazine will serve you exceptionally well. It’s ideal for those seeking a dependable replacement for a worn-out factory magazine or wanting to increase their ammunition capacity with a trusted brand.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for a universal magazine that fits multiple firearm models, as it is specifically designed for the Mustang. Additionally, if you are someone who frequently swaps out various aftermarket base plates for aesthetic or functional reasons, the welded base might be a limiting factor. For optimal use, I’d recommend pairing this magazine with a quality firearm cleaning kit to ensure it remains in top condition for years to come.

Conclusion on Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine

The Metalform Colt Mustang 380 Magazine stands out as a highly dependable and robust accessory for the Colt Mustang .380 ACP. Its stainless steel construction and flat steel follower ensure a level of reliability that is critical for any firearm magazine, especially those intended for self-defense. The availability of 7-round capacity, enhanced by the practical X-Grip adapter, offers a valuable increase in ammunition without compromising the firearm’s compact nature.

Considering its performance, durability, and the peace of mind it offers, the price of $39.78 is absolutely justified. It represents excellent value for money, providing a significant upgrade or essential replacement for Mustang owners. I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any Colt Mustang .380 ACP owner seeking a trustworthy and long-lasting ammunition solution. It’s a piece of equipment that simply works, allowing you to focus on your shooting with confidence.