First Impressions of Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate
The Glock 43 is a popular choice for concealed carry, lauded for its slim profile and reliability. However, its compact size can sometimes lead to a less-than-ideal grip, especially for those with larger hands. The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate promises to alleviate this issue, improving magazine handling and overall ergonomics. This aftermarket part piqued my interest, given Tyrant CNC’s reputation for quality and innovative designs.
For years, I’ve struggled with achieving a consistent grip on my Glock 43, especially during rapid reloads in training scenarios. The factory magazine base plate just didn’t offer enough purchase, leading to fumbled reloads and wasted time. This is why I was drawn to the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate.
Upon unboxing, the Tyrant CNC base plate impressed me immediately. The CNC-machined aluminum felt solid and well-made, with a clean, anodized finish. The added weight was noticeable but not excessive, and the textured surface felt grippy and secure.
I considered alternatives like the Strike Industries Enhanced Magazine Plate and the Taran Tactical Innovations +0 Base Pad. Ultimately, I chose the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate due to its minimalist design, purported ease of installation, and promise of improved magazine ejection. I was looking for enhanced grip and smoother reloads without significantly altering the Glock 43’s compact profile.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate looked the part, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world testing. I was both excited about the potential for improved handling and slightly apprehensive about whether it would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate at my local shooting range, focusing on drills that emphasized rapid reloads and magazine manipulation. The weather was pleasant, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze. This offered ideal conditions for evaluating the base plate’s impact on handling and performance.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The added weight and textured surface of the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate provided a more positive grip during magazine changes. Ejected magazines cleared the magazine well with more authority, reducing the chance of partial ejections. It made a noticeable improvement in how quickly I could perform mag changes.
Installation was straightforward, taking less than 10 seconds per magazine, as advertised. However, I did notice that the base plate added a slight amount of length to the magazine, which might affect concealment for some users. My grip was much more consistent with the enhanced pinky support, however.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated magazine changes during training sessions and everyday carry. The anodized finish remains intact, and the base plate continues to function flawlessly.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any dirt or debris. I’ve also found that the base plate is resistant to solvents and oils, further simplifying maintenance. The robustness of the finish really stood out to me.
Compared to my previous experiences with the stock Glock 43 base plate, the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is a significant improvement. It provides a more secure grip, enhances magazine ejection, and has proven to be durable and reliable over time. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate
Specifications
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is CNC machined from aluminum, ensuring precision and durability. Its dimensions are slightly larger than the stock base plate, providing a more substantial gripping surface. The base plate adds a small amount of weight, enhancing magazine ejection.
The base plate is anodized in various colors, allowing for customization. It is specifically designed for the Glock 43 and Glock 43X magazines. The added weight of the aluminum provides a ballast, ensuring quicker and more reliable magazine ejections.
These specifications translate into a tangible improvement in handling and performance. The enhanced grip facilitates faster and more consistent reloads, while the added weight ensures reliable magazine ejections. The aluminum construction guarantees durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Performance & Functionality
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate excels at its primary function: improving magazine handling and ergonomics. Magazine changes are noticeably faster and more consistent, thanks to the enhanced grip and added weight. The rear slit adds an additional extraction point, but I have never needed to use it.
The base plate’s strengths lie in its simple yet effective design, durable construction, and ease of installation. The only potential weakness is the slight increase in overall magazine length, which may affect concealment for some users. Overall, it met my expectations by improving reload speeds and improving grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate features a clean and minimalist design that complements the Glock 43’s aesthetics. The CNC-machined aluminum feels solid and well-made, with smooth chamfered edges that enhance comfort. The added weight is noticeable but not excessive, and the textured surface provides a secure grip.
The base plate is user-friendly and requires no specialized tools for installation. The only learning curve involves getting used to the slightly increased magazine length. This added surface area improves the overall ergonimics of the small Glock 43 frame.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. Even after months of consistent use, the base plate shows no signs of damage or degradation.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The base plate is also resistant to solvents and oils, further simplifying maintenance. This ease of maintenance makes it a hassle-free addition to my Glock 43.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is primarily a standalone accessory. However, it is designed to be compatible with the Tyrant CNC Glock Magwell, further enhancing magazine handling. The various color options allow for some degree of customization, allowing users to match the base plate to their Glock 43’s frame or slide.
The base plate is also compatible with most aftermarket magazine extensions designed for the Glock 43, providing even more options for customization. It is not specifically compatible with accessories from other brands, but its standard dimensions ensure compatibility with most aftermarket magazine pouches and carriers.
Pros and Cons of Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate
Pros
- Improved Grip: The textured surface and slightly larger dimensions provide a more secure and comfortable grip during magazine changes.
- Enhanced Magazine Ejection: The added weight ensures that ejected magazines clear the magazine well with more authority.
- Durable Construction: The CNC-machined aluminum and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: The base plate can be installed in seconds without any specialized tools.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The clean and minimalist design complements the Glock 43’s aesthetics.
Cons
- Increased Length: The base plate adds a slight amount of length to the magazine, which may affect concealment for some users.
- Price: It is more expensive than some other aftermarket base plates.
Who Should Buy Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate?
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is perfect for Glock 43 and Glock 43X owners who are looking to improve magazine handling and ergonomics. It is particularly well-suited for concealed carry users who need a more secure grip and faster reloads. Competitive shooters and those who frequently train with their Glock 43 will also benefit from the enhanced performance.
Those who prioritize maximum concealment and are highly sensitive to any increase in overall magazine length might want to skip this product. Shooters who are on a tight budget may find the price to be prohibitive. There are other, more budget friendly options on the market.
A must-have accessory to pair with the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is the Tyrant CNC Glock Magwell, which further enhances magazine handling. A high-quality magazine pouch or carrier is also essential for those who carry their Glock 43 concealed.
Conclusion on Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate
The Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate is a well-designed and highly effective aftermarket accessory that significantly improves magazine handling and ergonomics on the Glock 43 and Glock 43X. Its durable construction, ease of installation, and enhanced grip make it a worthwhile investment for any serious Glock 43 owner. The base plate adds significant functionality.
At $22.46, the price is justified by the tangible improvement in performance and the long-term durability of the product. It is a relatively small investment that yields a significant return in terms of handling and reliability. This is especially true if you factor in the time saved from faster reloads.
I would personally recommend the Tyrant CNC Glock 43 Base Plate to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 43’s performance. It is a simple yet effective upgrade that will improve your shooting experience and increase your confidence in your firearm. Level up your reload game!