First Impressions of Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock
The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock promises to be a drop-in replacement, upgrading the crucial extraction component of Glock pistols while adding a loaded chamber indicator (LCI). It’s made by Centennial Defense Systems, a company aiming for improved fit and function through quality stainless steel and heat treatment. Is this a worthy upgrade or just another piece of aftermarket fluff?
I’ve been experiencing occasional failures to extract with my aging Gen 3 Glock 19, even after replacing the recoil spring. I was specifically looking for a solution that also offered the added safety of a visual loaded chamber indicator, as the tactile check can sometimes be unreliable under stress.
The part arrived quickly, but immediately upon opening the package, I was met with a wave of disappointment. The finish looked rough, almost like it had been coated with a cheap spray paint. This contrasts sharply with the expectation of a precision-machined stainless steel component. I chose this particular extractor because of the promise of high-quality materials and a superior finish. Compared to the OEM Glock extractor, the Centennial Defense Systems part felt almost like a knock-off. My initial reaction was definitely one of concern.
Real-World Testing: Putting Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock to the Test
First Use Experience
Despite my initial reservations, I decided to install the Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock in my Gen 3 Glock 19 for a test run at my local outdoor range. I ran approximately 200 rounds of various 9mm ammunition, including some cheap steel-cased rounds and my usual brass cased FMJs. Functionality was key here.
Initially, the extractor seemed to function without issue, reliably extracting spent casings. However, after about 100 rounds, I began to experience intermittent failures to extract, mirroring the very problem I was trying to solve. The LCI also seemed a bit stiff, not providing a confident visual indication of a loaded chamber.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial range trip, I detail stripped the slide of my Glock 19 and thoroughly cleaned the Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock. I re-installed it, hoping the initial issues were just due to manufacturing residue. I went back to the range several times over the next few weeks, putting another 500 rounds through my Glock.
Unfortunately, the failures to extract persisted, occurring more frequently as the round count increased. The extractor began showing signs of wear on the claw, and the finish continued to look cheap and easily marred. Maintenance was no different than cleaning the OEM extractor. The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock significantly underperformed compared to the reliability I’ve experienced with Glock OEM extractors.
Breaking Down the Features of Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock
Specifications
The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock is designed as a drop-in replacement extractor for Gen 1-4 9mm Glocks. It’s supposedly constructed from stainless steel and heat-treated for enhanced durability. The product is also advertised as fitting Glock models 48, 43X, 43, and 42.
The intended function is to reliably extract spent casings after firing and provide a visual indication of a loaded chamber. While the stainless steel construction should offer increased corrosion resistance and longevity, the actual execution seems to fall short. The compatibility with various Glock models adds to its versatility, if it performs as expected.
Performance & Functionality
The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock ultimately failed to deliver on its core promise of reliable extraction. The intermittent failures experienced during testing are unacceptable in a critical firearm component. The loaded chamber indicator was also less than stellar, requiring more force to visually verify the chamber status than I would prefer.
The product’s performance was a significant disappointment, falling far short of my expectations for an aftermarket upgrade. Reliability is paramount when it comes to firearms parts, and this extractor simply did not provide it.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock mirrors the OEM extractor, with the addition of a visual indicator. The overall build quality, however, is questionable. The materials used felt less refined than the OEM Glock extractor, and the finish was decidedly cheap-looking.
Installation was indeed simple, fitting into my Glock 19 slide without any required modifications. Despite this, the overall impression was that the part felt flimsy and poorly made.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, I don’t have high expectations for the long-term durability of the Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock. The wear observed on the extractor claw after only a few hundred rounds suggests that it will not hold up well under heavy use. Maintenance is straightforward, but the cheap finish makes it prone to scratches and blemishes during cleaning.
The rapid wear observed during testing raises serious concerns about the longevity of this product. This is especially concerning given the critical role that the extractor plays in the firearm’s reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock is a standalone component and doesn’t directly interface with any accessories. There are no included accessories. It is designed to function with standard Glock parts.
Since it replaces a standard Glock extractor, it should not affect compatibility with other aftermarket Glock accessories such as guide rods or recoil springs. However, the poor performance of the extractor itself makes any potential accessory compatibility irrelevant.
Pros and Cons of Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock
Pros
- Drop-in replacement: Easy to install without any modifications.
- Loaded Chamber Indicator: Provides a visual confirmation of a loaded chamber.
- Compatible with Gen 1-4 9mm Glocks: Broad compatibility.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Theoretically offers good corrosion resistance.
Cons
- Unreliable Extraction: Frequent failures to extract spent casings during testing.
- Poor Finish: Cheap-looking finish that easily mars and scratches.
- Questionable Durability: Signs of wear after only a few hundred rounds.
Who Should Buy Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock?
This product is NOT recommended for anyone who relies on their firearm for self-defense, competition, or duty use. The unreliability experienced during testing makes it unsuitable for any serious application.
Anyone looking for a reliable and durable extractor for their Glock should skip this product. A must-have modification would be to replace this extractor with an OEM Glock extractor or a high-quality aftermarket extractor from a reputable manufacturer.
Conclusion on Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock
The Centennial Defense Systems Extractor w/LCI for Gen 1-4 9mm Glock is a disappointing product that fails to deliver on its promises. The unreliable extraction and poor build quality make it a liability rather than an upgrade.
The low price of $26.49 is not justified given the poor performance and questionable durability. I would not personally recommend this product to anyone. Save your money and invest in a quality extractor from a reputable manufacturer. Return this part as soon as possible and buy a quality replacement extractor.