Let’s Talk About Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish
The Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish promises to enhance reload speeds and improve the overall handling of your Glock 19 Gen 4. As someone who’s spent over a decade tweaking and optimizing tactical gear, I’m always eager to test aftermarket parts that claim to improve performance.
I’ve been chasing faster, more consistent reloads on my Glock 19 Gen 4 for years. This magwell seemed like a simple, affordable solution to potentially shave off valuable fractions of a second during competitions and training.
My first impression upon unboxing was that the Rival Arms magwell looked well-machined and the aluminum finish was clean. However, the two-piece design seemed a bit unconventional compared to the one-piece magwells I’ve used in the past.
I initially considered the Agency Arms magwell, known for its robust construction and wider opening, but the Rival Arms offering was significantly cheaper, piquing my curiosity. I was hopeful the lower price didn’t translate to lower quality.
To be honest, I was cautiously optimistic. The sleek design and promise of faster reloads excited me, but the negative user feedback regarding fitment lingered in the back of my mind. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another piece of kit collecting dust in my gear bin?
Real-World Testing: Putting Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local shooting range, where I dedicated an entire afternoon to running drills with the Rival Arms magwell installed on my Glock 19 Gen 4. I ran through various reload exercises, from simple speed reloads to more complex tactical reloads from awkward positions.
Unfortunately, even at a controlled range environment the fit issues that other users reported were immediately apparent. The magwell sat too low and didn’t smoothly guide magazines into the well.
It was frustrating to experience that, despite Rival Arms’ reputation, the user feedback was correct. It felt like I was fighting the magwell more than it was helping me during reloads.
Extended Use & Reliability
I gave the Rival Arms magwell a few more range sessions, hoping to find some hidden value or adapt my technique to make it work. Ultimately, my experience echoed the initial negative feedback.
Even after several weeks of use, the fitment issue persisted. There were no signs of wear and tear on the aluminum itself, however, the magwell simply didn’t function as intended.
Compared to other magwells I’ve used, like those from Agency Arms and Zev Technologies, the Rival Arms offering was significantly inferior in terms of both fit and functionality. It didn’t outperform; it actively hindered my reload speed.
Breaking Down the Features of Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish
Specifications
The Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell is designed specifically for the Glock 19 Gen 4. It’s intended to provide a wider opening for faster magazine changes.
It’s constructed from aluminum with a black finish, adding minimal weight to the pistol. This is a generally desirable trait in aftermarket parts.
The magwell features a two-piece design, differing from many one-piece options. The two-piece design may contribute to fitment issues.
Made in the USA, the Rival Arms magwell promises quality construction and materials. However, the final result doesn’t reflect these promises.
The finish is black to match most Glock frames, providing a seamless aesthetic. The aesthetics are pleasing, but the functionality is lacking.
Performance & Functionality
The Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell fails to deliver on its primary function: improving reload speed. The ill-fitting design creates more problems than it solves.
The main weakness lies in its incorrect dimensions; it sits too low on the grip, preventing smooth magazine insertion. This significantly hinders performance and creates a frustrating user experience.
It certainly does not meet expectations. Instead of enhancing reload speed, it actively makes it more difficult.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality appears decent at first glance, with the aluminum feeling sturdy. However, the poor fit negates any positive aspects of the material choice.
The two-piece design feels unnecessarily complex and may contribute to the fitment problems. The learning curve is minimal, but the poor fit makes any attempts at mastering it pointless.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction suggests it could be durable. However, given its poor performance, its longevity is irrelevant.
The magwell should be easy to clean and maintain thanks to its simple design. But, since I wouldn’t recommend using it, maintenance is hardly a concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell does not require any additional accessories for installation. It’s a standalone part designed to be easily installed on a Glock 19 Gen 4.
Given its fitment issues, I wouldn’t recommend pairing it with any other aftermarket accessories. It’s not compatible with extended base plates due to its low profile.
Pros and Cons of Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish
Pros
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other magwells.
- Visually appealing black finish that matches most Glock frames.
- Aluminum construction could be durable.
Cons
- Poor fitment; sits too low on the grip.
- Does not improve reload speed; actively hinders it.
- Two-piece design seems unnecessarily complex and contributes to fitment issues.
Who Should Buy Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish?
This product is not perfect for anyone seeking to improve their reload speed or the ergonomics of their Glock 19 Gen 4. It is unfortunately best to avoid this item.
Anyone looking for a reliable and functional magwell should skip this product. The fitment issues make it unsuitable for serious use.
I would not recommend any must-have accessories for this product. Investing in a better-designed magwell from a more reputable brand is a better use of your money.
Conclusion on Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish
Overall, the Rival Arms RA70G211A Two Piece Magwell Glock 19 Gen4 Aluminum Black Finish is a disappointing product that fails to deliver on its promises. The poor fitment issues overshadow any potential benefits.
The price may be appealing, but the lack of functionality makes it a poor value proposition. I would argue that you are better off saving for a more reliable magwell.
I would not personally recommend this product. There are far better alternatives available on the market that will actually improve your Glock 19’s performance.
Skip this one and invest in a quality magwell from a reputable manufacturer.