First Impressions of Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension promises to enhance the capacity and ergonomics of your Glock pistol. For years, I’ve relied on my Glock 17 and 22 for both personal defense and competitive shooting, often wishing for a little extra grip and round count without sacrificing concealability completely. This extension, crafted by Shield Arms, aims to bridge that gap, offering a blend of increased capacity and enhanced handling, and it comes in an eye-catching red finish.
I was constantly seeking ways to improve my grip on my Glock 17 and reduce reload times during drills. Factory magazines are reliable but sometimes lacking in the ergonomic department, especially during prolonged use. After hearing positive feedback from fellow competitive shooters about Shield Arms products and their reputation for quality, I decided to give this magazine extension a try.
The extension arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impressions were positive, noting the clean lines and the vibrant red anodized finish on the 6061 aluminum. Compared to other polymer extensions I’ve used, this one felt noticeably more robust and high-quality. I also considered extensions from Magpul and Pearce Grips. However, the Shield Arms model offered the promise of increased capacity and a more substantial grip enhancement, making it the most appealing option.
My first thought was, “This could be exactly what I need to get a better grip.” I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension at my local shooting range during a practical pistol match. The weather was clear and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes using the included hardware and tools.
The immediate improvement was noticeable; the extended grip provided a more secure and comfortable hold, particularly during rapid firing drills. I did experience a few initial failures to feed with the 9mm extension during the first magazine. However, after thoroughly cleaning and lubricating the magazine spring and extension, the issue seemed to resolve itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and dry-fire practice, the Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension has proven to be a reliable addition to my Glock. The aluminum construction has held up well, showing only minimal signs of wear. Regular cleaning involves disassembling the magazine and wiping down the extension and spring.
Compared to previous extensions I’ve used, the Shield Arms model offers a significant improvement in both grip and capacity. While polymer extensions often feel flimsy and prone to cracking, the Shield Arms aluminum construction exudes quality and durability. It surpasses my expectations, providing a more confident and comfortable shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension
Specifications
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension is designed to increase the capacity of your Glock pistol. It adds 5 rounds for 9mm Luger Glocks and 4 rounds for .40S&W Glocks.
Crafted from durable 6061 aluminum, it boasts a vibrant red finish. The extension is specifically designed for full-size Glock models. These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the usability, capacity, and longevity of your magazine.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension is to increase magazine capacity and improve grip. The increased capacity provides a significant advantage in competitive shooting or defensive situations. The enhanced grip improves handling and control, resulting in faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
The strength of this extension lies in its improved grip and increased capacity. The weakness is its initial break-in period, where some users might experience feeding issues before the spring settles. Overall, it meets my expectations and enhances the functionality of my Glock.
Design & Ergonomics
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension is constructed from 6061 aluminum. This provides a robust and durable feel in hand. The red anodized finish not only looks good but also adds a layer of corrosion resistance.
The design is user-friendly, with a seamless fit and finish that blends well with the Glock’s original aesthetics. There’s a slight learning curve regarding the disassembly and reassembly for cleaning. However, it’s relatively straightforward after a few attempts.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061 aluminum construction ensures that the Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris, and occasional lubrication of the magazine spring. Disassembly is simple, allowing for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension comes with the necessary hardware for installation. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with standard Glock magazines means it works with various base plates and followers.
Users can also pair it with aftermarket magazine wells to further enhance reload speeds. The red finish is a bold statement and can be matched with other red accents on the firearm for a personalized look.
Pros and Cons of Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Adds 5 rounds for 9mm and 4 rounds for .40S&W, providing a significant advantage.
- Enhanced Grip: Provides a more secure and comfortable hold, improving handling and control.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061 aluminum for long-lasting reliability.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process with included hardware.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The red anodized finish adds a touch of style to your Glock.
Cons
- Potential Feeding Issues: Some users might experience initial feeding issues during the break-in period.
- Added Length: Increases the overall length of the magazine, potentially affecting concealment for some users.
Who Should Buy Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension?
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension is perfect for competitive shooters looking to gain an edge in magazine capacity and reload speed. It is also ideal for concealed carriers who desire a better grip and increased round count without drastically increasing the size of their firearm. Those seeking a more robust and durable alternative to polymer extensions would also find this extension beneficial.
This product may not be ideal for individuals prioritizing maximum concealability or those highly sensitive to potential feeding issues during the break-in period. Those who prefer polymer extensions for weight considerations might also want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine well to further enhance reload speeds. It is also wise to invest in a magazine disassembly tool to aid in cleaning and maintenance.
Conclusion on Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension
The Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension offers a compelling blend of increased capacity, enhanced grip, and durable construction. While some users might experience initial feeding issues, the overall performance and functionality of this extension make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $45.99 is justified by the quality of materials and the tangible improvements it offers in terms of grip and capacity. The value proposition is strong, especially for competitive shooters and those seeking a more secure and comfortable grip on their Glock.
I would personally recommend the Shield Arms Full Size Glock 9mm Luger 5 Rounds, 40S&W 4-Rounds Pistol Magazine Extension to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their Glock pistol. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference firsthand!