Let’s Talk About Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine isn’t just another magazine extension; it’s a performance upgrade. Manufactured by Taran Tactical Innovations, this base pad promises to boost your magazine capacity while enhancing reload speed. Its simple, yet effective, design has caught the eye of many competitive shooters and tactical operators.
For years, I’ve been struggling with the standard capacity of my M&P magazines during local USPSA matches. Constantly reloading eats into valuable time, and I was looking for a reliable, easy-to-install solution to give me a competitive edge. I needed something that wouldn’t compromise the reliability of my S&W M&P9.
Upon unboxing the Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad, I was immediately impressed by the build quality. The CNC-machined billet aluminum felt solid and durable, and the hard anodized finish gave it a premium look. It’s noticeably heavier than the stock base pad, but in a way that inspires confidence.
I considered options from Magpul and Strike Industries, but ultimately chose the Taran Tactical Innovations base pad due to its proven track record in competition and the endorsement of shooting legends like Jerry Miculek and Julie Golob. Their testimonials spoke volumes about the product’s reliability and performance. My initial excitement was high; I couldn’t wait to get to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad was at my local shooting range during a practice session. I ran several drills, focusing on magazine changes and overall handling with the extended capacity. The weather was clear, and the range was relatively dry, providing ideal testing conditions.
The added weight of the base pad definitely helped the magazines drop free more consistently. It also eliminated a persistent issue I had with the standard magazines occasionally sticking during reloads. Installation was a breeze; the push-pin design lived up to its promise of easy attachment and detachment. I was impressed with the increased magazine capacity without any noticeable feeding issues during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a dusty outdoor range and during a rainy training session. There are only minor signs of wear on the anodized finish from repeated insertion and removal.
Cleaning the magazines with the base pads is straightforward, thanks to the easy disassembly. Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket base pads, the Taran Tactical Innovations model outperforms them in both durability and ease of use. The magazines continue to feed flawlessly, even after hundreds of rounds fired.
Breaking Down the Features of Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine
Specifications
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It increases magazine capacity by +4 rounds for 9mm and +2 rounds for .40 S&W. The base pad is CNC machined from billet aluminum and features a hard anodized finish for enhanced durability.
The product is designed to work with the stock magazine spring, eliminating the need for aftermarket springs. Its overall length adds approximately 1.5 inches to the front side and 1 inch to the back side of the magazine. The patented push-pin design allows for easy attachment and detachment without specialty tools. These specifications translate to increased capacity, enhanced reliability, and ease of maintenance, all crucial for competitive shooting and tactical applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad significantly enhances the performance of S&W M&P9/40 magazines. It reliably increases capacity while maintaining consistent feeding. The added weight aids in faster magazine drops, reducing reload times.
The strengths lie in its ease of use, increased capacity, and reliable magazine ejection. A minor weakness might be the added weight for those who prefer lighter setups. Overall, it exceeds expectations and provides a noticeable improvement in performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad is well-designed and ergonomic. The billet aluminum construction provides a solid feel and adds a touch of weight without being cumbersome. It is comfortable to handle and doesn’t interfere with the grip of the pistol.
The installation process is very user-friendly, and the push-pin design simplifies disassembly for cleaning. There is no learning curve; anyone can easily install and use the base pad.
Durability & Maintenance
The hard anodized aluminum construction ensures that the Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad is built to last. It shows minimal wear even after extensive use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
The base pad can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning if needed. Its robust design suggests it will withstand the rigors of competitive shooting and tactical applications for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad comes with a replacement spring. While no specific customization options are available directly from Taran Tactical Innovations, the base pad is compatible with standard S&W M&P9/40 magazines. It can be used with various magazine pouches and carriers designed for these magazines. This compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for existing M&P setups.
Pros and Cons of Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine
Pros
- Increased Magazine Capacity: Adds +4 rounds for 9mm and +2 rounds for .40 S&W.
- Improved Reload Speed: The added weight ensures faster and more consistent magazine drops.
- Easy Installation and Disassembly: The patented push-pin design simplifies maintenance.
- Durable Construction: CNC-machined from billet aluminum with a hard anodized finish.
- Enhanced Reliability: Maintains consistent feeding even with the increased capacity.
Cons
- Added Weight: May not be ideal for users prioritizing the lightest possible setup.
- Slight Length Increase: Extends the magazine length, potentially affecting concealed carry.
Who Should Buy Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine?
The Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters looking to gain an edge in USPSA or IDPA matches. It’s also a great choice for tactical users who need increased firepower and faster reloads. Law enforcement officers and security personnel can benefit from the added capacity in critical situations.
Those who prioritize minimal weight and maximum concealability might want to consider other options. This product might be overkill for casual range shooters who aren’t concerned about speed or capacity. A must-have modification would be a high-quality competition belt and magazine pouches to take full advantage of the faster reloads.
Conclusion on Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine
Overall, the Taran Tactical Innovations +2/4 Base Pad for S&W M&P9/40 Magazine is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to enhance the performance of their S&W M&P9/40. The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in magazine capacity, reload speed, and overall reliability. I personally recommend this product to anyone serious about competitive shooting or tactical applications.
This base pad delivers on its promises and provides a significant performance boost. Don’t wait – upgrade your magazines today and experience the difference!