Let’s Talk About TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2
The TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 offers a simple yet effective upgrade for anyone running the Glock 42. Designed by TangoDown in collaboration with Larry Vickers, these base pads promise improved grip and easier magazine handling.
I picked these up because I was finding my Glock 42 magazines a little slick, especially during reloads in less-than-ideal conditions. The factory magazine base pads felt small and didn’t offer much purchase.
Upon opening the package, the base pads felt solid and well-made. The textured surface was immediately noticeable, and the weight felt appropriate for the task. They seemed like a worthwhile upgrade over the standard polymer base pads. Comparing these to some generic aftermarket base pads I’ve seen, the TangoDown offering seems much more robust, with a cleaner finish and more aggressive texturing. My initial excitement stemmed from the reputation of both TangoDown and Larry Vickers for producing quality, no-nonsense gear.
- ## Real-World Testing: Putting TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested these base pads at an outdoor range on a slightly damp day. Conditions were overcast and my hands were a little cold. The difference was immediate; gripping the magazine for insertion felt much more secure and confident. No fumbling, even with slightly wet hands.
Even with gloves on, the enhanced grip was beneficial. I was able to manipulate the magazines with greater ease and reload more quickly than with the factory base plates. There were no issues with installation or fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and multiple range trips, the TangoDown base pads have held up admirably. There are no signs of cracking or deformation. The texturing is still aggressive, providing a consistent grip.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. These have significantly outperformed my expectations, offering both improved grip and enhanced durability compared to the stock base pads.
- ## Breaking Down the Features of TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2
Specifications
The TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 is specifically designed for Glock 42 .380ACP magazines. These base pads are black and sold in a pack of two. The material is a high-quality polymer known for its impact resistance and durability. They provide an enhanced grip surface and facilitate easier magazine extraction.
These specifications directly contribute to the usability and reliability of the Glock 42. The enhanced grip surface allows for faster and more secure reloads, especially in stressful situations. The durable polymer construction ensures the base pads can withstand repeated use and potential impacts.
Performance & Functionality
The TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a significant improvement in grip and magazine handling compared to the factory base pads. The enlarged and textured surface is easy to grasp, even with gloves on.
The main strength is the improved grip and easier magazine extraction. A minor weakness might be that they add slightly to the overall length of the magazine, but this is negligible. It exceeds my expectations by offering a simple, affordable, and highly effective upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, utilizing a rugged polymer that feels both durable and lightweight. The base pads fit seamlessly onto the Glock 42 magazines. Their ergonomic design is a noticeable improvement over the slick, factory base pads.
There’s virtually no learning curve; installation is simple and the improved grip is immediately intuitive. They are thoughtfully designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Durability & Maintenance
These base pads are built to last. The high-quality polymer is resistant to cracking, deformation, and wear. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean.
Given the rugged construction and simple design, they should provide years of reliable service. The investment in quality materials ensures long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the two base pads themselves. While they don’t offer explicit customization options like color choices, they are compatible with most aftermarket magazine pouches designed for the Glock 42. You could potentially use grip tape for further customization of the texture, but I haven’t found that necessary. The improved grip is already a substantial upgrade.
- ## Pros and Cons of TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2
Pros
- Significantly improved grip on magazines, facilitating faster and more reliable reloads.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple and easy installation.
- Designed by TangoDown in collaboration with Larry Vickers, guaranteeing quality and reliability.
- Affordable upgrade for enhancing the functionality of Glock 42 magazines.
Cons
- Adds a very slight amount to the overall length of the magazine (negligible for most users).
- Only available in black (may not appeal to users seeking other color options).
- ## Who Should Buy TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2?
Perfect for: Owners of the Glock 42 who want to improve their grip on magazines and enhance reload speed. Ideal for concealed carry holders, range shooters, and anyone who relies on their Glock 42 for self-defense.
Who should skip this product? Anyone who is completely satisfied with the grip and handling of their factory Glock 42 magazines. Also, if you have specific dimensional restrictions for your magazine pouches, the slight increase in length might be a concern, but this is rare.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Not really. These base pads are a standalone upgrade that immediately improves magazine handling.
- ## Conclusion on TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2
The TangoDown 42 Magazines Caliber .380ACP Vickers Base Pad, Pack of 2 is an excellent and worthwhile upgrade for any Glock 42 owner. The improvement in grip and magazine handling is immediately noticeable and provides a significant advantage in terms of speed and reliability.
At $21.99 for a pack of two, the price is more than justified. This is a small investment that yields a substantial return in terms of performance and confidence.
I would absolutely recommend these base pads to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 42. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade that makes a real difference. If you own a Glock 42, do yourself a favor and pick up a set of these TangoDown base pads. You won’t be disappointed!