Description
ED BROWN GOVERNMENT MAGAZINE SPECS
Ed Brown took their proven 7-round design and engineered this magazine specifically to reliably handle 8 rounds of .45 ACP. They didn't just compress a standard mag tube—the 848-BN uses a lengthened body with a reinforced base that wraps securely around the extra round while keeping the original ultra-reliable follower design intact. This matters because cramming 8 rounds into a standard-sized tube creates feeding inconsistencies that can plague other manufacturers' offerings.
THE FINISH AND BUILD QUALITY
The Black Nitride coating applies to both the tube and follower, providing a durable, low-glare finish that resists corrosion and wear. It stays dry too—the special surface treatment repels dirt and burnt powder so you're not battling friction when loading or inserting into your pistol. The steel follower and heavy-duty spring work together to feed consistently whether you're running ball ammo, hollow points, or semi-wadcutters. These are the same fundamentals Ed Brown has refined over decades of custom 1911 building.
VERSATILE BASE PAD SETUP
The integral removable base pad comes off easily for field stripping and cleaning. The magazine includes both a thick and thin base pad option, letting you configure it for your specific needs—flush fit for minimal profile, thin pad for concealed carry comfort, or thick pad if you're running a magwell or just want maximum purchase for fast reloads. You're getting multiple configurations without paying extra.
REAL-WORLD PERFORMANCE
This isn't theoretical magazine design. The 848-BN feeds reliably across different pistol platforms—Colts, Kimbers, Springfields, and RIAs all run these without issues. The round count witness holes let you see exactly how many rounds are loaded without opening the mag. That oversized, non-slip base pad gives you solid grip control during reloads regardless of conditions.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Ed Brown Products
- Manufacturer Part Number: 848-BN
- UPC: 800732848020
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Capacity: 8 rounds
- Material: Stainless steel
- Finish: Black Nitride
- Follower: Steel
- Spring: Heavy-duty steel
- Base Pad: Integral removable, thick and thin options included
- Magazine Length: 8.5 inches
- Compatibility: Full-size 1911 Government and Commander frames
- Witness Holes: Yes
- Made in: USA
What’s Included
- 1 Ed Brown 8-round .45 ACP magazine
- Thick base pad
- Thin base pad
- Base pad mounting screws
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this Ed Brown Government magazine fit my full-size 1911?
Yes, this 848-BN magazine is designed for full-size Government and Commander-frame 1911s in .45 ACP. It feeds reliably in Colt, Kimber, Springfield, Taurus, RIA, and other standard 1911 platforms. If you're unsure about compatibility with a specific pistol model, check with the firearm's manufacturer, but this magazine works across the vast majority of mil-spec and commercial 1911s.
What's the difference between designing a magazine as an 8-rounder versus modifying a 7-round mag?
A true 8-round design uses a lengthened tube to properly accommodate the extra round without compressing the spring excessively or forcing the follower into tight spaces. This Ed Brown mag does exactly that—the extended body and reinforced base pad keep feeding consistent. Many cheaper alternatives just cram 8 rounds into a standard-sized tube, which can lead to nose-diving, follower tilt, and feeding failures.
Can I use the base pad options interchangeably?
Yes. Both the thick and thin base pads mount the same way and come with the necessary screws. You can switch between them depending on your use case—leave it flush for concealed carry, use the thin pad for a low profile with basic protection, or add the thick pad for maximum grip depth when using magwells or for faster reloads. Everything you need is already included.
Does the Black Nitride finish wear off with regular use?
Black Nitride is a case hardening process that bonds to the steel itself, not a plating or coating that sits on top. It's specifically chosen for durability and corrosion resistance. The finish will show patina with heavy use, but the underlying protection remains intact. This is why Ed Brown chose it—it holds up to years of training and competition.






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