Let’s Talk About Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve always believed that even small upgrades can significantly impact a firearm’s performance. The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi promises faster, more consistent reloads, and that’s something any serious shooter can appreciate. It’s designed to fit Glock generations 3 models, specifically the 17, 22, 34, and 35, and made from aluminum with a sleek black finish.
I was looking to improve my reload times on my Gen 3 Glock 17 for both competition and self-defense scenarios. Fumbling during a reload is unacceptable in a firefight or can cost precious seconds in a match. A magwell seemed like the logical solution.
Upon receiving the Rival Arms magwell, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality. The aluminum felt solid, and the black finish was clean and even. It was lightweight, but didn’t feel cheap or flimsy. My first thought was, “This looks like it means business!”
I considered magwells from Magpul and Strike Industries, but I ultimately chose the Rival Arms for its reputation for precision and the clean, minimalist aesthetic. Some other brands can look bulky or overly aggressive. I wanted something functional and aesthetically pleasing.
My initial excitement was tempered slightly by the user feedback I read mentioning that it only ships with one magwell piece despite photos showing two. I was hoping this wasn’t the case, but I remained cautiously optimistic about the potential performance boost.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rival Arms magwell at my local outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol match. I put it through its paces under relatively ideal conditions. The weather was clear and sunny.
Right away, the difference in reload speed was noticeable. The wider opening guided the magazine smoothly into the well. I found myself reloading much more confidently. I was also able to maintain a solid grip and sight picture.
The only initial issue was a slight pinching feeling at the base of my grip when trying to get my support hand high on the gun. This was easily solved by adjusting my grip slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Rival Arms magwell during range sessions and dry-fire drills, I can confidently say it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the aluminum, despite numerous magazine insertions. The black finish still looks great.
Cleaning is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a cloth and some solvent is all that’s needed. Compared to my Glock without a magwell, reloading is significantly faster and more consistent with the Rival Arms product. It’s been a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi
Specifications
The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi is specifically designed for Glock Gen3 models 17, 22, 34, and 35. It is constructed from high-strength aluminum for durability and weight reduction. The finish is a black anodized coating for corrosion resistance. The magwell is a two-piece design for ease of installation. It is designed to improve reload speeds by providing a wider magazine well opening. The Country of Origin is the USA.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the magwell. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The black anodized finish protects it from the elements. The wider opening allows for faster, more consistent reloads. The fact that it’s made in the USA often speaks to quality control.
Performance & Functionality
The Rival Arms magwell dramatically improves reload speeds. The widened opening allows for faster, more positive magazine insertions. It reduces the chance of fumbling or missing the magwell entirely.
The only real weakness I’ve found is that aggressive stippling on some aftermarket frames might require minor fitting. The product meets and even exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved reload speeds and provides a sleek, functional upgrade to my Glock.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The aluminum feels solid and well-machined. The black finish is smooth and even. The magwell adds minimal weight to the pistol.
The design is user-friendly and requires no modification to the firearm itself, outside of removing the factory grip plug. There is no significant learning curve. Anyone familiar with Glocks can install it in minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the aluminum construction and anodized finish, this magwell should last a very long time. It’s resistant to corrosion and wear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a cloth and solvent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rival Arms RA70G101A comes with the magwell itself, a grip plug, and two installation screws. It is compatible with most aftermarket baseplates and magazine extensions designed for Glocks. Some users might opt for higher-capacity magazines to further enhance their reload capacity. The magwell will not, however, fit with backstraps that add to the frame of the Gen 3 Glock.
Pros and Cons of Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi
Pros
- Significantly improves reload speeds. The wider magwell opening guides magazines into place with ease, reducing fumbling.
- Durable aluminum construction. The robust build quality ensures the magwell can withstand regular use and abuse.
- Sleek, minimalist design. The black finish and clean lines add a touch of style to the pistol without being overly aggressive.
- Easy installation. No gunsmithing required. The magwell can be installed in minutes with basic tools.
- Enhanced grip. The magwell can provide a more secure and comfortable grip on the pistol.
Cons
- Only ships with one magwell piece. This contrasts the promotional photos.
- May require minor fitting. Aggressive stippling or aftermarket frames might need slight adjustments for a perfect fit.
Who Should Buy Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi?
The Rival Arms magwell is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who values faster, more consistent reloads. It’s also a great upgrade for those who simply want to improve the ergonomics and aesthetics of their Glock. Anyone looking for an edge in speed and accuracy will appreciate this product.
Those who prioritize a completely flush fit with their existing grip or have very aggressive aftermarket frame modifications might want to explore other options. Additionally, if you are seeking a magwell that comes as a true two-piece set as shown in some promotional images, this may not be the product for you.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality, reliable magazines. While the magwell improves reload speed, it’s only as good as the magazines being used.
Conclusion on Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi
The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi is a worthwhile upgrade for any Glock Gen 3 owner looking to improve their reload speed and handling. It delivers on its promise of faster, more consistent reloads. It offers a sleek and durable design.
At $79.99, the price is justified by the performance gains and build quality. It provides a significant advantage in practical shooting scenarios.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a simple yet effective upgrade for their Glock. Upgrade your reload times today!