First Impressions of Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock promises to enhance the ergonomics and performance of your favorite Glock pistol. Manufactured by Rival Arms, this magwell aims to improve reload speeds and reduce felt recoil, all while adding a touch of custom styling. I was intrigued by the two-piece design and the potential for improved handling, especially since I run Glocks in several different competitive shooting disciplines. Is this an essential upgrade, or just another piece of bling? Let’s find out.
My search for a good magwell stemmed from a desire for faster, more consistent reloads during competitions. I’ve struggled with fumbled mag changes under pressure, costing valuable seconds. The Rival Arms magwell seemed like a potential solution, offering a wider opening and a more secure grip.
Upon unboxing the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock, I immediately noticed the quality of the machining. The aluminum construction felt solid and the anodized finish looked clean. It felt surprisingly lightweight, which is a plus. My initial impression was positive, though I was slightly concerned about the fitment issues some users had reported online. I had been considering a Strike Industries magwell or the Magpul GL Enhanced magwell, but ultimately chose the Rival Arms due to its two-piece design and promise of a more secure fit.
At first glance, I was cautiously optimistic. The potential benefits seemed promising, but I needed to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. The aesthetics are definitely there; now it’s time to see if the functionality lives up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock was at my local outdoor range, under sunny and dry conditions. I installed it on my Glock 19 Gen 5, my primary competition pistol. I focused on drills involving rapid magazine changes and shooting on the move.
The most noticeable difference was the ease of magazine insertion. The widened opening significantly reduced fumbling, even during high-stress drills. Follow-up shots did feel slightly more manageable, perhaps due to the added weight at the bottom of the grip. Initially, the set screw for the grip plug felt a little loose, and I had to readjust it once during the session, but that was the only issue I encountered.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock has proven to be a worthwhile addition to my Glock 19. The anodized finish has held up well, with only minor signs of wear around the edges. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a cloth and some CLP.
Compared to my previous experience with a basic, one-piece magwell, the Rival Arms design feels significantly more secure and offers better recoil management. I have experienced no additional issues. The added weight is noticeable.
Breaking Down the Features of Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock
Specifications
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is constructed from CNC-machined aluminum. It features a hard black anodized finish for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. It is specifically designed for Glock Gen 5 models, excluding the Glock 36, 42, and 43.
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is only available in black. These specifications matter because they directly influence the magwell’s strength, weight, and overall longevity. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use, while the anodized finish provides protection against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is to facilitate faster and more reliable magazine changes. It accomplishes this by providing a larger opening for magazine insertion, reducing the chances of missed or fumbled reloads. The added weight at the bottom of the grip also contributes to improved recoil management, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The main strength of the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is its ability to dramatically improve reload speed. The only potential weakness is compatibility; it is only designed for specific Glock models. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock features a sleek, low-profile design that seamlessly integrates with the Glock frame. The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made. Its weight is balanced, offering a comfortable and secure grip.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, requiring only a few minutes. A basic understanding of Glock disassembly is recommended. The two-piece design ensures a secure fit without interfering with the firearm’s operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The CNC-machined aluminum construction and hard black anodized finish contribute to the overall durability of the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock. With proper care, it should last for years of regular use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring the magwell maintains its appearance over time. It’s built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary screws and a grip plug set screw for installation. However, it is compatible with most standard Glock magazines and baseplates. There are no built in customization options.
Users can further customize their Glock with aftermarket grips and other accessories to complement the magwell. The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock offers a foundation for enhanced performance and personalization.
Pros and Cons of Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock
Pros
- Significantly improves reload speed and consistency.
- Adds weight to the lower frame, reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip.
- CNC-machined aluminum construction provides excellent durability.
- Hard anodized finish resists scratches and corrosion.
- Two-piece design ensures a secure and seamless fit.
Cons
- Compatibility is limited to specific Glock Gen 5 models (excluding 36, 42, and 43).
- May not be compatible with all aftermarket baseplates without modification.
Who Should Buy Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock?
The Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone looking to improve the performance and handling of their Glock pistol. If fast, consistent reloads are a priority, this magwell is a must-have.
This product might not be suitable for those who prioritize ultra-lightweight setups or those who own Glock models outside of the specified Gen 5 range. It is also not suitable for those who need to use a backstrap on their gen 5 Glock.
A high-quality set of extended magazine baseplates would be a beneficial addition to maximize the benefits of the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock.
Conclusion on Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock
Overall, the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock is a well-designed and effective upgrade that delivers on its promises. The improvement in reload speed and recoil management is noticeable, and the durable construction ensures it will withstand the rigors of regular use. Given the performance boost and the quality of materials, the price of $79.99 is justified.
I would definitely recommend the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock to anyone serious about improving their Glock’s performance. If you’re looking to enhance your reload speed and overall shooting experience, give the Rival Arms Two Piece Magwell for Glock a try.