First Impressions of Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad
The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad doesn’t promise to increase your magazine capacity, but what it does offer is enhanced magazine handling and improved durability, a crucial aspect that often gets overlooked. As someone who’s spent years teaching firearm safety and tactical drills, I’ve seen countless magazine base plates fail at the most inopportune times. The promise of a rugged, CNC-machined aluminum base pad from Warne immediately piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve faced the issue of slick polymer base plates on my Glock magazines, especially during training exercises in less-than-ideal weather. The Warne base pad seemed like a solution to enhance grip and provide a more positive magazine insertion. My go-to magazines felt flimsy, and I wanted something that could withstand the rigors of regular use at the range and in practical scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust feel of the aluminum construction and the clean machining. It felt like a substantial upgrade compared to the factory polymer base plates. The Type II hardcoat anodized finish also hinted at a product built to withstand abuse.
I considered other base pads, some promising added capacity, but the Warne stood out due to its focus on durability and enhanced grip without altering the magazine capacity. I also appreciated Warne’s reputation for precision and quality. While other options might have offered a slight capacity increase, I prioritized reliability and a secure grip over a few extra rounds.
My initial impression was positive and optimistic. The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad appeared to be a well-crafted, functional upgrade. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad primarily at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran several drills that involved rapid magazine changes and tactical reloads. The weather conditions were varied, from dry and sunny to damp and overcast.
The most immediate improvement was the enhanced grip during magazine changes. The ergonomic knurling made it easier to grab and seat the magazine, even with sweaty hands. There were no failures to feed or seating issues during my initial testing session.
However, I did notice the base pad felt slightly thicker than the stock base plate. It didn’t cause any issues with magazine well fit, but it was noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite regular use and occasional drops on concrete surfaces, there are no signs of significant wear or damage. The hardcoat anodized finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches.
Cleaning is also straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The magazine disassembly process for cleaning is unchanged from the factory setup.
Compared to my previous experiences with stock polymer base plates, the Warne base pad is a clear upgrade. It inspires confidence in its ability to withstand abuse. It definitely outperforms the standard Glock base plates in terms of durability and grip.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad
Specifications
- The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad is CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. This material ensures high strength and corrosion resistance without adding significant weight.
- It features a Type II hardcoat anodized finish. This finish provides excellent abrasion resistance and further protects the aluminum from the elements.
- This base pad is designed for Glock 17 and Glock 22 magazines chambered in 9mm. It maintains the original 0-round capacity while enhancing the magazine’s functionality.
- The product is compatible with .355 caliber ammunition. The base pad is specifically designed to work with Glock 17 and 22 magazines and the ammunition they are designed to hold.
- The base pad comes with a Torx head screw and washer for secure retention. These components ensure the base pad remains firmly attached to the magazine body.
The aluminum construction and anodized finish contribute significantly to the overall durability and longevity of the magazine. The Torx screw and washer ensure secure attachment and prevent the base pad from loosening during use.
Performance & Functionality
The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad excels in improving magazine handling and durability. The knurled surface provides a secure grip for efficient magazine changes.
Its primary strength is the added robustness and confident grip it provides during reloads, especially in adverse conditions. However, some users might prefer a base pad that adds magazine capacity.
It meets and exceeds expectations in terms of durability and grip. However, it does not alter the magazine capacity, which may be a downside for some users.
Design & Ergonomics
The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad boasts a well-thought-out design. The CNC-machined aluminum construction is lightweight and feels solid in hand.
It is generally user-friendly. However, the slightly increased thickness compared to the stock base plate may take some getting used to.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust aluminum construction and hardcoat anodized finish suggest that this base pad will last for years. It is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and adverse conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad comes with a Torx screw and washer for secure attachment. There are no specific customization options for this particular product beyond selecting different colors if available.
It is generally compatible with most Glock 17 and 22 magazine pouches and carriers. Users can pair it with other aftermarket magazine accessories to enhance overall performance.
Pros and Cons of Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The ergonomic knurling provides a secure grip, facilitating faster and more reliable magazine changes.
- Increased Durability: CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type II hardcoat anodized finish, it is built to withstand significant abuse.
- Secure Retention: The included Torx head screw and washer ensure the base pad remains firmly attached to the magazine.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process.
- Improved Handling: Adds a positive feel to magazine changes, especially in stressful situations.
Cons
- Slightly Increased Thickness:* The base pad is slightly thicker than the stock base plate, which may take some getting used to.
- No Capacity Increase:* It does not increase the magazine capacity, which may be a drawback for some users.
Who Should Buy Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad?
The Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who relies on their Glock for personal defense. It is especially beneficial for those who train frequently and demand enhanced magazine handling and durability.
Those who are looking for a base pad that increases magazine capacity should skip this product. Additionally, individuals who prioritize a flush fit over enhanced grip might find the slightly increased thickness undesirable.
A must-have modification to compliment the Warne base pad would be a quality aftermarket magazine well to further enhance reload speed.
Conclusion on Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad
In summary, the Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad is a well-engineered and durable upgrade for Glock magazines. While it doesn’t increase magazine capacity, it significantly improves magazine handling and offers superior durability compared to stock polymer base plates.
At $31.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. The added confidence in magazine reliability and handling makes it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.
I would personally recommend the Warne Glock 17/22 9mm 0-Round Extended Magazine Base Pad to anyone looking to enhance the durability and handling of their Glock magazines. Upgrade your Glock magazines today for a more reliable and confident shooting experience!