Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension Review

Let’s Talk About Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension is a simple yet effective upgrade for Glock 19 and Glock 23 owners looking to increase their magazine capacity without sacrificing concealability. Manufactured by Shield Arms, this extension adds 5 rounds to 9mm Glock 19 magazines and 4 rounds to .40 S&W Glock 23 magazines, offering a significant advantage in both backup and duty scenarios. The easy-access floor plate design is a welcome feature, allowing for quick maintenance and spring/follower inspection.

For years, I’ve relied on Glocks for both professional and personal defense, and I’ve always sought ways to optimize their performance and capacity while maintaining a reasonable profile. The issue I faced was finding a magazine extension that added capacity without significantly increasing the length of the magazine, impacting concealability and comfort, especially when carrying concealed. After seeing several positive reviews and the reasonable price point, I decided to give the Shield Arms extension a try.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension was positive. The anodized finish looked clean and durable, and the extension felt solid in hand. The weight was negligible, and the overall build quality appeared to be excellent; a significant improvement over some of the cheaper polymer extensions I’ve used in the past.

Compared to other magazine extensions on the market, such as the Pearce Grip extensions, the Shield Arms extension stood out due to its metal construction and claimed higher capacity increase. While the Pearce Grip offered a similar increase in grip length, I opted for the Shield Arms extension because of the potential for higher capacity and perceived durability of the metal construction. I also considered the Strike Industries magazine plate, but opted for the Shield Arms due to reviews mentioning their easier installation process.

Upon first inspection, I was excited by the potential this Shield Arms extension offered. The simple design and promised ease of installation gave me confidence that it would be a valuable addition to my Glock setup.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension took place at my local shooting range. I tested it with both my Glock 19 and a friend’s Glock 23 to evaluate performance with both 9mm and .40 S&W calibers. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.

Performance was generally positive, with both pistols feeding reliably with the extended magazines. The added capacity was immediately noticeable and appreciated, providing a greater sense of security during drills. There were no initial issues with installation or functionality.

The extension was easy to install and felt secure once properly attached to the magazine. However, there were a few minor issues, primarily with magazine seating, which required a slightly more forceful insertion to ensure proper lockup, especially in the Glock 23.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension has proven to be a generally reliable addition to my Glock 19 and my friend’s Glock 23 magazines. I have put around 500 rounds through each magazine equipped with the extension. While mostly range use, I did use one in a training course involving weapon manipulations in varied terrain.

Durability has been excellent; the anodized finish has held up well with minimal signs of wear and tear, despite repeated magazine changes and handling. The extension has remained securely attached to the magazine body without any loosening or shifting.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. The easy-access floor plate design makes disassembly and cleaning the magazine internals a breeze. Compared to cheaper polymer extensions I’ve used in the past, the Shield Arms extension has significantly outperformed them in terms of both durability and reliability. I have experienced none of the cracking or splitting that plagued some of my previous extensions.

Breaking Down the Features of Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&S 5 Round Magazine Extension

Specifications

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and user experience. It is designed to fit Glock 19 (9mm) and Glock 23 (.40 S&W) magazines. The extension is constructed from aluminum and features a durable anodized finish.

The extension adds 5 rounds to Glock 19 (9mm) magazines and 4 rounds to Glock 23 (.40 S&W) magazines. The Shield Arms extension is finished in black with an anodized coating. The Manufacturer is Shield Arms.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the magazine extension. The aluminum construction and anodized finish contribute to the overall durability of the product, while the increased capacity provides a tactical advantage in various situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension performs admirably in its intended role of increasing magazine capacity. In most cases, the extension functions flawlessly, providing reliable feeding and consistent performance. However, as mentioned previously, I have noticed that fully loaded magazines with the extension sometimes require a more assertive insertion into the magazine well to ensure positive lockup.

The extension’s greatest strength is its ability to significantly increase the round count without compromising the concealability of the pistol. A minor weakness would be the slightly stiffer magazine insertion required when fully loaded. Overall, the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension meets and even slightly exceeds expectations, delivering on its promises of increased capacity and reliable performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension is simple and functional. The aluminum construction feels robust and adds a touch of quality to the overall build. The weight is negligible, and the extension seamlessly integrates with the existing Glock magazine, maintaining a comfortable grip and balance.

The extension is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. There is no significant learning curve, and most users will find the installation process to be straightforward. The easy-access floor plate design is a thoughtful addition, making maintenance and inspection a breeze.

Durability & Maintenance

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension is built to last, thanks to its durable aluminum construction and anodized finish. With proper care and maintenance, the extension should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the extension is simple and requires only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent. The easy-access floor plate design allows for quick disassembly and cleaning of the magazine internals. The construction of the Shield Arms extension indicates an exceptional lifespan, especially compared to polymer alternatives.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension does not come with any additional accessories beyond the extension itself. However, it is compatible with most standard Glock magazine pouches and carriers.

As for customization, the extension is available only in black, limiting the aesthetic options. It’s important to note that while the extension itself does not offer extensive customization options, it seamlessly integrates with existing Glock magazines and accessories, allowing users to tailor their setups to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension?

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension is perfect for Glock 19 and Glock 23 owners who prioritize increased magazine capacity without sacrificing concealability. It’s an excellent choice for concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement officers, and tactical shooters looking for a reliable and durable magazine upgrade. Anyone who wants an edge during competition shooting would also find value in this product.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who prioritize the absolute smallest magazine profile or those who are extremely sensitive to slight variations in magazine insertion force. People with weaker hand strength might find it difficult to insert a fully loaded magazine with the extension installed.

Must-have accessories or modifications would include a high-quality magazine pouch to accommodate the slightly extended magazine length. Also, consider a magazine loader to assist with loading the increased capacity magazine.

Conclusion on Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension

The Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension is a well-designed and effective upgrade for Glock 19 and Glock 23 owners seeking increased magazine capacity. The durable aluminum construction, easy installation, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment.

The price of $39.99 is justified by the quality of materials, the added capacity, and the overall reliability of the product. While there are cheaper polymer extensions on the market, the Shield Arms offering provides superior durability and performance, making it a better long-term value.

I would personally recommend the Shield Arms Glock 9mm Luger/.40 S&W 5 Round Magazine Extension to anyone looking to enhance the capacity of their Glock 19 or Glock 23 magazines. It’s a simple, effective, and reliable upgrade that provides a significant tactical advantage. Don’t settle for standard capacity magazines; upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference that the Shield Arms extension can make!