Let’s Talk About TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch
The Glock 43, a slim and concealable 9mm, has carved out a significant space in the concealed carry market. However, one persistent complaint echoes among many users: its diminutive magazine release. The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch promises to rectify this, offering an enhanced and more accessible solution for magazine changes. I was intrigued and hopeful that this seemingly small upgrade would drastically improve my handling of this EDC firearm.
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand how seemingly minor modifications can significantly impact a weapon’s performance and user experience. I gravitated towards the TangoDown offering due to the company’s reputation for producing high-quality, no-nonsense upgrades for Glock platforms. My primary goal was to improve the speed and efficiency of magazine changes without compromising the pistol’s concealability or reliability.
Upon unboxing, the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch appeared to be a well-made, injection-molded polymer component. The textured surface and slightly extended profile were immediately noticeable. It felt more robust than the factory magazine catch, promising improved ergonomics and tactile feedback.
I considered alternatives like the Glock OEM extended magazine release and offerings from other aftermarket manufacturers. Ultimately, I chose the TangoDown because of its balanced approach to extension – not too long to snag, yet noticeably improved over the factory part. The Vickers Tactical name also carries a lot of weight in the firearms community, signifying a focus on practical, real-world functionality.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for faster reloads but wary of any potential for accidental magazine releases, which could be detrimental in a defensive situation. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran several drills focusing on speed reloads and manipulated the magazine release under various conditions, including with gloves and with simulated stress. The difference in feel was immediate and substantial, the extended catch providing a more positive and easily accessible contact point.
The extended and contoured design made it significantly easier to actuate the magazine release without shifting my grip. Even with thick tactical gloves, I could reliably drop the magazine with minimal effort. The textured surface also provided a secure purchase, even when my hands were sweaty from the summer heat.
I was initially concerned about accidental magazine releases, but the unique shape of the TangoDown design seemed to mitigate this. While the catch is extended, it doesn’t protrude excessively, preventing inadvertent activation when holstering or handling the pistol. There were no immediate issues noticed after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. The polymer construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or deformation despite repeated magazine changes and daily carry. I was expecting some wear where the magazine engages, but it has held up perfectly.
Maintaining the magazine catch is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functioning smoothly. The polymer material resists corrosion and doesn’t require any special treatment. It’s a set-and-forget upgrade that simply works.
Compared to the stock Glock 43 magazine release, the TangoDown version is a clear winner in terms of ergonomics and ease of use. It has significantly improved my reload speed and confidence in handling the pistol, particularly in stressful situations. It far outperforms the factory part in terms of ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch
Specifications
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch is specifically designed for the Glock 43 pistol. It is injection molded from a high-strength polymer, similar to the material used in the OEM Glock parts, ensuring durability and compatibility. TangoDown claims the catch weighs a mere 0.1 oz and has an overall length of 0.950 inches.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the magazine catch’s functionality, durability, and overall user experience. The polymer construction ensures it won’t corrode or damage the pistol’s frame, while the extended length provides a more accessible surface for magazine release. Its lightweight build means it won’t add unnecessary bulk to the already compact Glock 43.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch is to facilitate faster and more reliable magazine changes. It achieves this through its extended and contoured design, which allows for easier access to the release button without requiring the shooter to significantly shift their grip. I found its primary purpose to be fulfilled.
The catch excels in this role, providing a noticeable improvement in reload speed and ease of manipulation, even under stress. Its strengths lie in its ergonomic design and positive tactile feedback. The only potential weakness is that, while designed to prevent accidental releases, users should still be mindful of their gear and holster setup to avoid any unintended magazine drops.
The product has far exceeded my expectations. I anticipated a marginal improvement, but the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch has made a tangible difference in my ability to quickly and confidently reload my Glock 43. It has improved my confidence with the firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch features a thoughtfully designed profile that balances accessibility with snag resistance. The polymer material is both durable and comfortable to the touch. The texturing on the extended portion provides a secure grip, even with gloved hands or in wet conditions.
The magazine catch is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. The drop-in design means that anyone familiar with basic Glock disassembly can easily install it in minutes. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-strength polymer construction of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch ensures it will withstand the rigors of daily carry and frequent use. The material is resistant to wear, corrosion, and impact, ensuring a long service life. It is a high-quality polymer that feels great to use.
Maintaining the magazine catch is incredibly simple. A regular cleaning with a solvent is enough to keep it free from dirt and debris. There are no small parts or intricate mechanisms that require specialized maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch is a standalone upgrade that does not require any additional accessories or modifications. While it is compatible with all standard Glock 43 magazines, some users may choose to pair it with extended magazine baseplates for increased capacity and an even more positive grip. The aftermarket support is extensive.
TangoDown also offers a range of other Glock upgrades, such as slide stops and grip enhancements, which can be used in conjunction with the magazine catch to further enhance the pistol’s performance and ergonomics. However, the magazine catch functions perfectly well on its own without needing other add-ons. Be sure to check out their other products!
Pros and Cons of TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch
Pros
- Significantly improved magazine release ergonomics and accessibility.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long service life.
- Easy drop-in installation requires no specialized tools.
- Textured surface provides positive grip, even with gloves.
- Helps to reduce reload times.
Cons
- Could potentially cause magazines to not seat correctly when installed incorrectly.
- Polymer construction may not appeal to users who prefer metal parts (although the polymer is extremely durable).
Who Should Buy TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch?
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch is perfect for concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement officers, and shooting enthusiasts who want to improve the ergonomics and reload speed of their Glock 43 pistols. It’s a must-have for anyone who finds the stock magazine release too small or difficult to manipulate. This magazine catch is a great upgrade.
Those who are completely satisfied with the factory Glock 43 magazine release or who prioritize absolute snag-free operation above all else may want to skip this product. It is designed to make magazine release easier but may introduce negligibly more risk of accidental activation for those who prioritize extreme low profile.
A high-quality holster designed specifically for the Glock 43 is a must-have accessory to ensure secure and comfortable carry. Extended magazine baseplates can also be a worthwhile addition for those seeking increased magazine capacity and enhanced grip.
Conclusion on TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch is a well-designed and highly effective upgrade that significantly improves the ergonomics and functionality of the Glock 43 pistol. The benefits outweigh the minor drawbacks by a significant margin.
At $27.99, the price is justified for the tangible improvement in reload speed and ease of use that this magazine catch provides. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can make a real difference in your ability to handle the Glock 43 confidently and effectively.
I would absolutely recommend the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Glock 43 Extended Magazine Catch to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 43’s performance. If you value ease of use, improved reload times, and reliability, then this is the upgrade for you. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!