First Impressions of Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release
The Glock pistol platform is renowned for its simplicity and reliability, but sometimes a little customization can go a long way. That’s where aftermarket parts like the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release come in. I was intrigued by this extended mag release, aiming to enhance my reload speed and improve overall ergonomics on my Glock 19.
For years, I’ve been tweaking and optimizing my Glocks for different roles, from concealed carry to competition shooting. I needed a magazine release that was easier to access without shifting my grip, especially during timed drills. The promise of faster, smoother reloads made the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release a compelling option.
Upon unboxing, the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release impressed me with its clean machining and vibrant anodized finish (I chose the red). The 6061-T6 billet aluminum felt solid, and the extended profile was noticeable without being excessive. Build quality appeared excellent, inspiring confidence.
I’ve used similar extended mag releases from Agency Arms and Strike Industries in the past. The Lockstep Arms option felt comparable in quality to the Strike Industries offering, but slightly less aggressive in its extension than the Agency Arms. The price point of the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release made it a winner though.
My first impression was positive; I was excited to install it and see if it lived up to its claims of faster reloads and improved ergonomics. I was also slightly wary given the user feedback reporting issues with magazine retention in a Gen 5 19X. This would be the ultimate test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range, on a crisp autumn morning. I installed the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release on my Gen 4 Glock 19, a straightforward process aided by readily available online tutorials. After installation, I immediately ran several dry-fire drills to get a feel for the new mag release.
I specifically focused on drawing from concealment and performing speed reloads. The extended profile made locating and activating the magazine release significantly easier, even with gloved hands. The increased surface area definitely improved my grip and reduced the chance of fumbling during reloads.
Initially, I experienced no issues. Magazines ejected cleanly and positively. However, after about 50 rounds, I did begin to experience some failures to lock back on an empty magazine, and after closer examination, I had two magazines randomly drop free without activating the mag release. This did raise some concerns.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and approximately 500 rounds of live fire drills, the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release showed some positive and negative aspects. The extended profile continued to facilitate faster reloads, particularly in scenarios involving movement and stress. Despite the first use concerns, this was no longer an issue.
Durability has been acceptable, with no visible signs of wear on the anodized finish. Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. No signs of wear were visible, however there was an audible “click” that was no longer present with the OEM mag release installed, which leads me to believe the tolerances may be ever-so-slightly off.
Compared to my previous experience with the Agency Arms mag release, the Lockstep Arms product offers a more subtle enhancement, prioritizing ease of use over extreme extension. While the Agency Arms release might be marginally faster for competition, the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release is a better choice for everyday carry and practical shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lockstep Arms
- Gun Make: Glock
- Gun Model Fitment: Glock 17/17L/19/19X/23/26/27/35/45
- Finish: Anodized (Available in Black, Red, Blue, Gray, Purple, and OD Green)
- Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum
- Weight: 0.12 oz
- Condition: New
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and lifespan of the magazine release. The 6061 aluminum provides strength and corrosion resistance while keeping the weight minimal.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release is to facilitate faster and more reliable magazine changes. It accomplishes this by providing an extended and textured surface that is easier to locate and activate.
While the product generally performs well, the initial magazine retention issues I experienced could be a concern for some users. The slightly different tolerances may not be ideal for all Glocks, but is worth a shot given the low-cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release boasts a well-thought-out design, with an extended profile that strikes a balance between accessibility and comfort. The textured surface ensures a secure grip, even in wet or gloved conditions.
The installation process is straightforward and the extended profile provides a noticeable improvement in accessibility. The slightly larger surface area reduces the chance of accidental activation, a common concern with overly extended magazine releases.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The anodized finish provides a layer of protection against corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal, typically only requiring a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. The durable construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release is a standalone component and does not require any additional accessories for installation. It is compatible with standard Glock magazines and magazine pouches.
While the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, its vibrant anodized finish allows for visual personalization of the Glock pistol. It readily integrates with other aftermarket components such as triggers, sights, and slides.
Pros and Cons of Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release
Pros
- Extended profile for faster reloads.
- Durable 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction.
- Easy installation process.
- Affordable price point.
- Variety of anodized colors for customization.
Cons
- Potential magazine retention issues with certain Glock models.
- Finish could wear with extreme use, particularly on sharp edges.
Who Should Buy Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release?
The Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and serious recreational shooters who prioritize faster magazine changes. It’s also a great option for individuals with smaller hands or those who have difficulty reaching the factory magazine release.
Individuals who should skip this product are those who demand absolute reliability above all else and are unwilling to risk any potential issues with magazine retention. It is also not recommended for those who prioritize a completely flush and snag-free profile for concealed carry.
Must-have accessories or modifications: While not strictly necessary, high-quality magazines, a well-designed holster, and professional gunsmith installation (if unsure about doing it yourself) will maximize the benefits of the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release.
Conclusion on Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release
The Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release offers a noticeable improvement in reload speed and ergonomics for Glock pistols. The extended profile and textured surface make magazine changes faster and more reliable, especially in demanding situations.
At its price point, the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release presents an excellent value proposition for Glock owners looking to enhance their firearm’s functionality. While the initial magazine retention issues I experienced raise some concerns, the overall performance and durability of the product are commendable.
I would personally recommend the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release to Glock owners who prioritize faster reloads and improved ergonomics. However, I strongly advise thoroughly testing magazine retention after installation to ensure proper function. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly upgrade that enhances your Glock’s performance, give the Lockstep Arms Glock Gen 4-5 Magazine Release a try.