Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact Review

What You Didn’t Know About the Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact

For any 1911 owner, particularly those with compact models, the reliability of their magazines is paramount. The Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact arrived on my bench during a period where I was experiencing some frustrating feeding issues with a less-than-stellar aftermarket magazine. This was impacting my training consistency, and I needed a dependable solution for my Colt 1911 Compact. I’d heard the name Chip McCormick whispered among enthusiasts for their reputation in magazine manufacturing, so this seemed like a logical next step.

From the moment I unboxed this unit, I could feel a difference. The weight, the feel of the stainless steel, and the apparent precision of the construction immediately suggested a product built with a higher standard. It felt solid, substantial, and thoughtfully engineered. I briefly considered a few other well-known 1911 magazine brands, but ultimately, the Chip McCormick reputation and the specific features of this compact model sealed the deal. There was an immediate sense of relief, a feeling that I might have finally found a true workhorse magazine.

Real-World Testing: Putting Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment that closely mimics the workshop conditions I often find myself in. I loaded up the Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact with standard .45 ACP ball ammunition, aiming for consistent feeding drills. The magazine slid into my Colt 1911 Compact with a satisfying, smooth purchase; there was no need for excessive force or wiggling, which was a welcome change.

During extended range sessions, including rapid-fire sequences, this compact magazine performed admirably. It held its own even when subjected to dust and the occasional minor jostle. The initial learning curve was virtually non-existent; it functioned intuitively from the very first round. The only minor surprise was how much cleaner the feeding process felt compared to my previous experiences, a testament to its design.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, accompanying me on numerous range days and during dry-fire practice at home, the Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact has proven its mettle. I’ve subjected it to countless loading and unloading cycles, and it shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel body remains robust, with no cracks or significant scuffs from accidental drops on the concrete floor of my workshop.

Maintenance has been a breeze. The removable base pad allows for easy disassembly, enabling thorough cleaning of the follower and the interior of the magazine body. Compared to some of the budget magazines I’ve used in the past, which would develop feed issues or become stiff over time, this unit continues to perform with remarkable consistency. Its reliability in less-than-ideal conditions, like a light dusting at an outdoor range, has been particularly impressive.

Breaking Down the Features of Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact

Specifications

The Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact is designed specifically for the Colt 1911 Compact platform and is chambered in .45 ACP. It boasts a 7-round capacity, which is a substantial increase for a compact firearm without significantly altering its overall footprint. The magazine body is constructed from heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, promising a long service life.

This model features laser-welded tubes for enhanced durability and integrity, ensuring the body remains solid even under stress. The feed rails are designed for the smoothest feeding surface, a critical aspect for reliable cycling of rounds. It also includes numbered witness holes for quick and visual round counting, a practical detail for shooters. The patented RPM follower is alloy frame safe, which is a crucial consideration for those with non-steel 1911 frames. A 18-coil high tensile rocket wire spring provides consistent feeding pressure.

Performance & Functionality

This compact magazine excels at its primary job: reliably feeding rounds into the chamber. The smoothest feeding surface provided by its expertly crafted feed rails is immediately noticeable. I experienced zero failures to feed during my extensive testing period, which is a significant endorsement for any magazine, especially a compact variant.

Its main strength lies in its unyielding reliability. Even when pushed to its limits with rapid fire and multiple reloads, it consistently delivers. A slight weakness, if one can even call it that, is that the 7-round capacity might still be limiting for some shooters who prefer higher capacity in a pistol, though for a compact 1911, it’s a very respectable number. It certainly met and exceeded my expectations for dependable performance, especially given the price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact is exceptional. The heavy-duty corrosion resistant stainless steel body feels robust and well-finished, with a smooth exterior that aids in insertion and removal from the magazine well. The overall feel in hand is one of quality and precision.

Ergonomically, it’s a straightforward component; there’s little to adjust or maneuver. The removable base pad is a smart design choice, facilitating easier cleaning and maintenance. The smooth finish contributes to effortless seating and unseating. The numbered witness holes are strategically placed and easy to read, adding a practical touch to its functional design.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction and laser-welded tube, this magazine is built for longevity. Under normal use for its category, it should easily last for many thousands of rounds. It’s designed for long-lasting function in dirty environments, which is a significant advantage for any firearm accessory.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the removable base pad. Disassembly for cleaning is quick and simple, allowing access to all internal components. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but it’s always wise to inspect the follower for any debris that might impede its movement. Potential concerns are minimal; it’s a highly durable piece of equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact comes as a standalone unit, designed to function perfectly out of the box. There are no specific included accessories, but its design is focused on integration. The removable base pad itself could be considered a customizable element for those who might prefer different materials or colors if they were offered, but the primary function is ease of maintenance.

This magazine is built to the established standards of 1911 accessories, meaning it should integrate seamlessly with most compatible firearms. While there aren’t electronic accessories to consider, the quality of the included components like the RPM follower and the 18-coil high tensile rocket wire spring speak to Chip McCormick‘s attention to detail.

Pros and Cons of Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact

Who Should Buy Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact?

This magazine is an ideal choice for owners of Colt 1911 Compact pistols (and other compatible compact 1911s) who prioritize reliability and durability above all else. It’s perfect for those who use their firearm for training, competition, or personal defense, where a single magazine failure can be critical. If you’ve experienced feeding issues with other magazines or simply want the confidence of a top-tier product, this is for you.

Those who need a higher ammunition capacity in a compact pistol might consider an extended magazine or a different firearm platform entirely. For optimal use, ensure your 1911 is compatible with compact magazines; no specific accessories are strictly necessary, as its design is focused on standalone performance.

Conclusion on Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact

The Chip McCormick Railed Power Mag Compact is a standout product that delivers on its promises of superior reliability and durability. Its robust stainless steel construction, thoughtful design features like the RPM follower and numbered witness holes, and flawless feeding performance make it a worthwhile investment. At $41.99, it represents a significant value proposition for anyone seeking to upgrade their compact 1911’s magazine performance.

I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any discerning 1911 Compact owner. It offers peace of mind and consistent performance, especially crucial in a self-defense or training context. If you’re looking for a magazine that you can depend on, this Chip McCormick unit is an excellent choice that will serve you well.