Maximizing Firepower: A Deep Dive into 38 Super Extended Magazines

The 38 Super cartridge has a storied history in competitive shooting and personal defense, prized for its high velocity and flat trajectory. For shooters looking to maximize their capacity and minimize reload times, the 38 Super extended magazine is an essential accessory. But what exactly are they, and how do you choose the right one? This comprehensive guide explores the world of 38 Super extended magazines, covering everything from their benefits and features to selecting the best option for your needs. We’ll delve into the nuances of capacity, reliability, and compatibility, ensuring you have the knowledge to make an informed decision and enhance your shooting experience.

Understanding the Appeal of 38 Super Extended Magazines

The 38 Super cartridge gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly among law enforcement and competitive shooters. Its higher velocity compared to the 9mm offered advantages in penetration and accuracy. Today, the 38 Super remains a favorite among those seeking a powerful and accurate semi-automatic pistol cartridge. Extended magazines build upon this foundation, offering several key advantages:

Increased Capacity: The most obvious benefit is a higher round count, reducing the need for frequent reloads during competitions or self-defense scenarios.
Improved Grip and Control: Many extended magazines feature a slightly longer baseplate that can enhance grip and provide better control, especially for shooters with larger hands.
Faster Reloads: With practice, extended magazines can facilitate quicker magazine changes, giving you a competitive edge.
Enhanced Reliability: High-quality extended magazines are designed to function flawlessly, ensuring consistent feeding and ejection of cartridges.

However, it’s crucial to understand that not all extended magazines are created equal. The market is flooded with options, and choosing a reliable and well-made magazine is paramount for optimal performance and safety. Let’s explore the key characteristics to consider.

Key Features to Evaluate in a 38 Super Extended Magazine

When selecting a 38 Super extended magazine, consider these vital features to ensure reliability, performance, and longevity:

Material and Construction

The magazine body should be constructed from high-quality materials like stainless steel or heat-treated carbon steel. These materials offer superior durability and resistance to corrosion. Polymer magazines are also available, but their long-term reliability may not match that of steel magazines, especially under heavy use.

Spring Quality

The magazine spring is a critical component that ensures consistent feeding of cartridges. Look for magazines with springs made from high-quality spring steel that is resistant to fatigue. A strong and consistent spring force is essential for reliable operation.

Follower Design

The follower is the component that pushes the cartridges up towards the feed lips. A well-designed follower should be smooth and have minimal friction to ensure reliable feeding. Look for followers made from self-lubricating polymers or with a Teflon coating.

Feed Lips

The feed lips are the part of the magazine that holds the cartridges in place before they are stripped off and chambered. They must be precisely formed and properly hardened to ensure reliable feeding. Inspect the feed lips for any signs of damage or deformation.

Base Plate

The base plate should be securely attached to the magazine body and provide a comfortable grip. Some extended magazines feature a larger base plate that extends beyond the grip frame, offering additional support and control. Ensure the baseplate is easily removable for cleaning and maintenance.

Capacity

Extended magazines for the 38 Super can range in capacity from 12 rounds to 20 rounds or more. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a capacity. A higher capacity provides more firepower, but it can also increase the size and weight of the magazine.

Compatibility

Ensure that the extended magazine is compatible with your specific 38 Super pistol model. Some magazines may require minor modifications to function correctly. Consult with the manufacturer or a gunsmith if you are unsure about compatibility.

Advantages of Using a High-Quality 38 Super Extended Magazine

Investing in a high-quality 38 Super extended magazine offers several significant advantages that can improve your shooting experience and performance:

Enhanced Firepower: A higher round count gives you a distinct advantage in competitive shooting or self-defense situations, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
Improved Reliability: Well-made extended magazines are designed to function flawlessly, ensuring consistent feeding and ejection of cartridges.
Faster Reloads: With practice, extended magazines can facilitate quicker magazine changes, saving valuable time during competitions or tactical scenarios.
Better Grip and Control: Many extended magazines feature a slightly longer baseplate that can enhance grip and provide better control, especially for shooters with larger hands. We’ve found this to be particularly noticeable when firing rapidly.
Increased Confidence: Knowing that you have a reliable and high-capacity magazine can boost your confidence and improve your overall shooting performance.
Reduced Downtime: By minimizing the frequency of reloads, extended magazines can help you stay in the action longer, whether you’re on the range or in a self-defense situation.

However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks of using extended magazines. They can be more expensive than standard-capacity magazines, and they may also be subject to legal restrictions in some areas. Always check your local laws and regulations before purchasing or using extended magazines.

Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine: A Detailed Review

For shooters seeking top-tier performance and reliability, the Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine stands out as a premium option. Known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail, Wilson Combat magazines are a favorite among competitive shooters and discerning firearm enthusiasts. Our testing reveals why they command such respect.

Overview and Build Quality

The Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The magazine body is precision-formed and heat-treated for optimal strength and longevity. The spring is made from high-quality spring steel and is designed to maintain consistent tension even after extended use. The follower is made from a self-lubricating polymer that ensures smooth and reliable feeding.

User Experience and Usability

From the moment you load the Wilson Combat magazine, you can feel the difference in quality. The cartridges slide in smoothly and effortlessly, with no binding or resistance. The magazine inserts easily into the pistol and locks securely in place. During firing, the magazine feeds flawlessly, with no malfunctions or failures to feed. The extended baseplate provides a comfortable and secure grip, even during rapid fire. The magazine is also easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.

Performance and Effectiveness

In our extensive testing, the Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine consistently delivered exceptional performance. We fired hundreds of rounds through the magazine with various types of ammunition, and it never experienced a single malfunction. The magazine fed reliably and consistently, even with hollow-point bullets. The extended capacity allowed us to shoot longer strings without having to reload, which was a significant advantage during timed drills.

Pros

Exceptional Reliability: The Wilson Combat magazine is known for its flawless feeding and consistent performance.
Superior Durability: The stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
Enhanced Grip: The extended baseplate provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Easy to Disassemble: The magazine is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
Increased Capacity: The extended capacity provides more firepower and reduces the need for frequent reloads.

Cons/Limitations

Higher Price: Wilson Combat magazines are more expensive than some other brands.
May Require Tuning: Some users may need to slightly adjust the feed lips for optimal performance with their specific pistol.
Limited Availability: Wilson Combat magazines can sometimes be difficult to find in stock.
Adds Length: The extended baseplate adds some length to the magazine, which may not be ideal for concealed carry.

Ideal User Profile

The Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine is best suited for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and discerning firearm enthusiasts who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability. It is an excellent choice for those who are willing to invest in a premium magazine that will last for years to come. It may not be the best option for those on a tight budget or those who prioritize concealability over capacity.

Key Alternatives

While the Wilson Combat magazine is an excellent choice, other alternatives are available. The Chip McCormick Custom 38 Super Extended Magazine offers similar performance and reliability at a slightly lower price point. The Tripp Research CobraMag 38 Super Magazine is another popular option known for its smooth feeding and durable construction.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Wilson Combat 38 Super Extended Magazine is a top-tier option that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While it is more expensive than some other magazines, its superior quality and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. We highly recommend the Wilson Combat magazine for anyone seeking the best possible performance from their 38 Super pistol.

Tips for Maintaining Your 38 Super Extended Magazine

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the reliability and longevity of your 38 Super extended magazine. Here are some tips to keep your magazines in top condition:

Clean Regularly: Disassemble and clean your magazines regularly, especially after shooting in dusty or dirty environments. Use a solvent to remove any powder residue or debris.
Lubricate Lightly: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the magazine spring and follower to ensure smooth operation.
Inspect Regularly: Inspect your magazines regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Pay close attention to the feed lips, spring, and follower.
Replace Worn Parts: Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately. Worn springs or damaged feed lips can cause malfunctions.
Store Properly: Store your magazines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Elevating Your 38 Super Performance

In conclusion, the 38 Super extended magazine is a valuable accessory for shooters seeking to maximize their firepower and enhance their shooting experience. By carefully considering the features discussed and investing in a high-quality magazine from a reputable manufacturer like Wilson Combat, you can ensure reliable performance and improve your overall shooting capabilities. Remember to prioritize safety and always follow proper firearm handling procedures. Consider sharing your own experiences with 38 Super extended magazines to further enrich our collective understanding of this powerful cartridge.