Colt 1903 Magazines--any good aftermarket?

[The_Antibubba]

A sweet little 1903 is my newest find, and finding mags for a century-old pistol isn't easy (who'd a guessed?). I've seen some unkind references to aftermarket magazines, but I'd like to know if there are any you'd recommend. And if you know a good source for them, and factory originals too.

 

[Old Fuff]

Good magazines are one reason the Colt 1903/08's are not carried more. There are original magazines out there, but they are usually very expensive.

Aftermarket magazines - especially those made by Triple-K do not have a good reputation, and I don't know of anyone else making them. Also you should know that .32 (1903) amd .380 (1908) magazines are not exctly the same, so know what you are getting. The best I can suggest is that you try a Triple-K if you can't find an affordable Colt one, and tinker with the lips and follower in an effort to get it to work.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

You're kind of stuck ...

I wouldn't say they're good magazines, but Triple K is one of the few makers of mags for antique, obsolete or obscure pistols, period. (Not to denigrate the classic old Colt, but let's be honest.) Possibly, if you get enough, you might find one that works. Check the vendor's return policy.

Sidebar: I got two 10-round Triple Ks for a Ruger Mini-14 once. (I was in California then. ) Neither would function; they would not fit in the well properly and the rear of the magazine hung down, allowing the rifle's bolt to override the top of the cartridge and actually bend it in half. But Brownells promptly gave me credit.

 

[Mortech]

Actually a couple of places carry originals in the $30 price range try :
http://www.gun-parts.com/index.html <-- Best so far , tend to always have mags on hand
http://www.gunpartscorp.com/ <- Has mags once in a while

 

[Rodgerp]

I ordered one from e-gunparts a few months ago. It was not marked with a manufacturer. It functions perfectly though.


Rodger