First Impressions of The Gun Company Magazine Extension
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension promises to enhance the grip and capacity of the Glock 43, a popular concealed carry pistol. As someone who appreciates the compact size of the G43 but often feels limited by its standard six-round magazine, I was eager to see if this extension could strike the right balance between concealability and increased firepower. The Gun Company claims their extension offers a superior look, feel, and an ergonomic grip, all while maintaining reliable magazine retention.
For years, I’ve carried a G43, appreciating its slim profile for comfortable all-day carry. However, I’ve often wished for just a couple more rounds without significantly increasing the grip length.
Upon unboxing, the The Gun Company Magazine Extension feels solid and well-made. The anodized matte finish gives it a premium look, and the aluminum construction suggests durability. The extension seamlessly blends with the Glock 43’s frame.
I considered alternatives like the Strike Industries magazine plate and the Pearce Grip extension. I ultimately chose The Gun Company Magazine Extension due to its advertised ergonomic wrap-around groove and the promise of easy installation. The others felt too bulky.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The quality seems good, and the design appears well-thought-out. If it delivers on its promises of improved grip and easy installation, it could be a worthwhile upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting The Gun Company Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the The Gun Company Magazine Extension primarily at my local indoor shooting range. The range provides a controlled environment to assess the extension’s impact on handling and reliability. I ran several drills focusing on drawing from concealment and rapid target acquisition.
The weather was irrelevant indoors, but the air was somewhat dusty, mimicking real-world conditions where the pistol might be exposed to debris. Right away, the The Gun Company Magazine Extension enhanced my grip on the otherwise small G43 frame. Installation was quick and simple, and I immediately felt the positive impact on my ability to control the pistol during rapid fire.
The only initial issue was that one of my magazines seemed to seat a little stiffly after installing the extension. After a few magazine changes, however, it smoothed out, and the issue disappeared. I was surprised at how much more comfortable the G43 felt with the extension.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the The Gun Company Magazine Extension, it has proven to be a reliable addition to my Glock 43. I’ve carried it daily in various conditions, from everyday carry to weekend hikes. It still looks and feels great.
I’ve noticed only minor wear marks on the anodized finish, primarily around the edges. Maintenance involves simply wiping it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session, which is quick and easy. I’ve never had to completely disassemble or heavily clean it.
Compared to my previous experience with flush-fitting magazines, the extension provides a much more secure and confident grip. It has outperformed my expectations in terms of both comfort and reliability. The added length doesn’t hinder concealment.
Breaking Down the Features of The Gun Company Magazine Extension
Specifications
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension is constructed from 6061 Aluminum, providing a lightweight yet durable platform. It is finished with an Anodized Matte coating, enhancing its resistance to wear and corrosion. Specifically designed for the Glock 43, it integrates seamlessly with the pistol’s frame.
The specifications matter because they directly impact the feel and performance of the extension. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the anodized finish ensures longevity and a professional appearance. Its exclusive fit to the G43 guarantees proper function.
Performance & Functionality
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension significantly improves the grip and handling of the Glock 43. The added length provides more surface area for the hand, leading to enhanced control during recoil and faster follow-up shots. It flawlessly integrates with the existing magazine, causing no feeding issues.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. A minor drawback might be the increased overall length, slightly impacting concealment for some users. It meets expectations for improved handling and capacity without sacrificing reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension boasts a well-thought-out design, seamlessly blending with the Glock 43’s aesthetics. Its Bead Blast Matte Finish provides a superior look and feel, while the ergonomic wrap-around groove enhances grip comfort. The weight is negligible, maintaining the pistol’s balanced feel.
It is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install. There’s no learning curve, and it instantly improves the shooting experience. The feel in hand is remarkably natural.
Durability & Maintenance
Made from 6061 Aluminum, the The Gun Company Magazine Extension is built to last. The Anodized Per Mil-A-8625, Type 2, Class 2 finish provides excellent resistance to scratches, wear, and corrosion. Routine cleaning with a mild solvent and a soft cloth is all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
It’s a simple design, so there are few components to fail. The robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily carry and regular use. It is a product built for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension doesn’t come with additional accessories, as it’s designed to integrate directly with the existing Glock 43 magazine. It’s compatible with most aftermarket baseplates and magazine followers designed for the G43. The Thread Locking Helicoil Insert and Modified 4-40 Set Screw ensures secure magazine retention.
The extension’s compatibility with aftermarket parts allows users to further customize their Glock 43 to their preferences. It is an open platform for individual needs.
Pros and Cons of The Gun Company Magazine Extension
Pros
- Significantly improved grip and handling for the Glock 43.
- Increased magazine capacity without excessive bulk.
- Durable 6061 Aluminum construction with a wear-resistant Anodized Matte Finish.
- Easy and fast installation with secure magazine retention.
- Ergonomic Wrap Around Groove for enhanced comfort and control.
Cons
- Slightly increases the overall length of the pistol, which may impact concealment for some users.
- May require a brief break-in period for magazines to seat smoothly.
Who Should Buy The Gun Company Magazine Extension?
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension is perfect for concealed carry permit holders who want to improve the grip and capacity of their Glock 43 without significantly increasing its size. It is also suited for recreational shooters looking for enhanced comfort and control at the range. Tactical shooters that need just a few more rounds without adding bulk will appreciate it too.
Individuals prioritizing maximum concealment and those who prefer the completely flush feel of the stock magazine might want to skip this product. Those with very large hands might find even this extension insufficient.
Must-have accessories would include high-quality magazines and a holster designed to accommodate the slightly longer grip. A fiber optic front sight will also help with fast target acquisition.
Conclusion on The Gun Company Magazine Extension
The The Gun Company Magazine Extension is a well-designed and effective upgrade for the Glock 43. It provides a noticeable improvement in grip and handling. The slightly increased capacity is a welcome bonus.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, the enhanced functionality, and the increased comfort it offers. It’s a worthwhile investment for any Glock 43 owner looking to improve their shooting experience.
I would definitely recommend the The Gun Company Magazine Extension to anyone seeking a practical and reliable upgrade for their Glock 43. Add it to your cart and experience the difference for yourself!