The 1911 Double Stack Magazine – An Evolution in Capacity

The iconic 1911, beloved by generations of shooters and gun enthusiasts, has long been associated with its single-stack magazine, capable of holding a limited number of rounds. However, the desire for increased firepower led to the development of a revolutionary design: the double-stack magazine.

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Today, the double-stack magazine is standard in many modern 1911s, offering a significant increase in capacity without compromising the pistol’s classic aesthetics or reliability. This article delves into the history, design, and impact of double-stack magazines on the world of 1911s, exploring their advantages, disadvantages, and the various options available to gun owners.

A History of Innovation: From Single-Stack to Double-Stack

The original 1911 was designed with a single-stack magazine, holding only seven rounds of .45 ACP. This design was deemed sufficient at the time, but as combat tactics and firearm technology evolved, the need for greater firepower became apparent.

Early attempts to increase magazine capacity focused on modifying the single-stack magazine, extending its length to accommodate more rounds. However, this resulted in a bulky and unwieldy pistol, diminishing its handling and concealability. The concept of a double-stack magazine, placing rounds side-by-side, was still in its infancy, with various iterations appearing throughout the 20th century.

The Dawn of the Double-Stack: Springfield Armory’s Model 1911A1

In the 1950s, Springfield Armory, the original manufacturer of the 1911, ventured into the realm of double-stack magazines with their Model 1911A1. This updated version featured a slightly modified frame and a double-stack magazine with a 10-round capacity. This innovation proved highly successful, offering a significant increase in firepower while maintaining the 1911’s signature handling characteristics.

The Rise of the Double-Stack: Expanding Capacity and Popularity

As the demand for higher capacity 1911s grew, other manufacturers followed Springfield Armory’s lead. Companies like Colt, Kimber, and Sig Sauer released their own versions of double-stack 1911s, each with unique features and designs aimed at catering to diverse needs and preferences.

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The Design and Mechanics of Double-Stack Magazines

Double-stack magazines, as their name suggests, feature two columns of cartridges stacked side-by-side, increasing the overall capacity compared to their single-stack counterparts. This is achieved by widening the magazine body slightly and using a modified follower that guides the cartridges during feeding.

Advantages of Double-Stack Magazines:

Double-stack magazines offer several advantages over their single-stack counterparts:

• Increased Capacity: Double-stack magazines typically double the capacity of their single-stack counterparts, significantly increasing firepower without compromising the pistol’s overall size.
• Improved Reliability: The wider magazine body and improved follower design contribute to greater reliability by preventing cartridges from jamming during feeding.
• Enhanced Ergonomics: The slightly wider grip offered by double-stack magazines can enhance the pistol’s ergonomics and improve control during firing.

Disadvantages of Double-Stack Magazines:

While offering numerous benefits, double-stack magazines also come with some drawbacks:

• Reduced Concealability: The wider magazine body can be slightly more difficult to conceal under clothing, especially for smaller-framed individuals.
• Increased Weight: Due to the larger number of rounds, double-stack magazines tend to be slightly heavier than their single-stack counterparts, increasing the overall weight of the pistol.
• Higher Cost: Double-stack magazines are generally more expensive to manufacture than single-stack magazines, resulting in a higher price tag for consumers.

Double-Stack Magazines: A Comprehensive Guide

The world of double-stack 1911 magazines is incredibly diverse, with various manufacturers offering a wide range of models with varying features and capacities. Here’s a comprehensive overview of some popular options available on the market:

1. Wilson Combat:

Wilson Combat, renowned for its high-quality 1911 components, offers a variety of double-stack magazines known for their reliability and durability. Their magazines are precision-engineered for flawless performance and are available in both standard and extended lengths to accommodate different needs.

2. Chip McCormick:

Chip McCormick, another well-respected name in the 1911 community, produces a wide range of magazines catering to various needs and preferences. Their offerings include standard and extended capacity magazines, as well as magazines designed for specific 1911 models and calibers.

3. Mec-Gar:

Mec-Gar, a leading manufacturer of firearms magazines, offers high-quality double-stack magazines for 1911s known for their exceptional reliability and long lifespan. They are available in both standard and extended lengths, with options to fit various calibers and models.

4. Magpul:

Magpul, renowned for their innovative polymer magazines, also produces a range of double-stack magazines for 1911s. Their magazines are known for their lightweight and durable construction, often incorporating design elements for increased ease of use and reliability.

The Future of Double-Stack Magazines: Innovation and Evolution

The popularity of double-stack magazines continues to grow, prompting manufacturers to invest in further innovation and development. Trends in the industry include:

• Improved Materials: Manufacturers are constantly seeking new and advanced materials to enhance the durability, longevity, and performance of their magazines. This includes using high-performance polymers and advanced metals to resist wear and tear.
• Enhanced Design Features: Designers are constantly exploring new ways to improve the functionality and user experience of double-stack magazines. This involves introducing features like ergonomic grips, improved feed lips, and better follower designs.
• Customization and Versatility: The demand for customizable and versatile magazines is on the rise. Manufacturers are producing magazines that can be easily modified and adapted to specific needs and preferences, including options for extended capacity, different calibers, and specialized load types.

1911 Double Stack Magazine

Conclusion: The Double-Stack Magazine – An Essential Evolution

The introduction of the double-stack magazine represented a significant advancement in the evolution of the 1911. By offering increased capacity without sacrificing the pistol’s classic handling and reliability, double-stack magazines have become an essential component for many modern 1911s.

Whether you are a seasoned shooter or just starting your journey with 1911s, understanding the advantages, disadvantages, and options available in double-stack magazines is crucial for making an informed decision. Explore the various manufacturers and models to find the perfect fit for your needs and experience the increased firepower and versatility that double-stack magazines offer.