First Impressions of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22, or EMP as it’s commonly known, promises a simple yet effective upgrade: increased magazine capacity with enhanced ergonomics. Designed for Glock 17 (9mm) and Glock 22 (.40 cal) magazines, this accessory aims to provide smoother reloads and a more aggressive look. The claim of adding 5 rounds to 9mm magazines and 4 rounds to .40 cal magazines, coupled with a durable aluminum build, immediately piqued my interest.
My need stemmed from a desire for increased capacity in my competition Glock 17 without sacrificing reliability. I was looking for a solution that wouldn’t just add rounds, but would also improve my grip during reloads and withstand the rigors of regular training and matches. The sleek design and aluminum construction suggested a premium feel that I hoped would translate into improved performance.
Upon unboxing, the Strike Industries EMP felt solid and well-machined. The anodized finish (I opted for the SI BLACKLINE) looked clean and durable, fitting seamlessly with the Glock’s aesthetic. The weight felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the edges were smooth, suggesting a “no snag” design.
Compared to the Magpul GL9 PMAG 17 GLOCK and Taran Tactical Innovations base pads, the Strike Industries EMP stood out with its aluminum construction versus polymer. While Magpul is known for reliable polymer magazines and Taran Tactical for high-performance enhancements, I chose the Strike Industries EMP for what seemed to be a balance of durability, capacity, and affordability. I wanted something rugged enough to handle frequent use and the occasional drop, but that wouldn’t break the bank.
Initially, I was excited by the potential for increased capacity and improved handling. However, I remained cautiously optimistic, knowing that real-world performance is what truly matters. I was ready to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 at my local shooting range during a practice session for an upcoming USPSA match. The conditions were typical for a summer afternoon: sunny, with temperatures in the mid-80s and moderate humidity. I ran several drills focusing on speed reloads and target acquisition, using both my Glock 17 and a friend’s Glock 22 to evaluate the EMP’s performance with both 9mm and .40 cal magazines.
The initial installation was straightforward, but loading the magazines to full capacity revealed a slight issue with the 9mm mags. The last round required significant force to seat, and I noticed that the magazine didn’t always lock back on empty. The .40 cal magazines, however, performed flawlessly. The added grip surface during reloads was definitely an improvement, making magazine changes noticeably faster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Strike Industries EMP has held up reasonably well, although not without some minor concerns. The anodized finish has proven durable, showing only minimal signs of wear despite frequent handling and magazine changes. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient.
However, the reliability issues I experienced during the first use persisted with the 9mm magazines. After about 500 rounds, the issue of the last round being difficult to load and the slide failing to lock back remained inconsistent. The .40 cal magazines continued to function without any problems. While the added capacity and enhanced grip are beneficial, the 9mm magazine issues are a notable drawback. Compared to my standard Glock magazines, the reliability is slightly less consistent, though the enhanced reload speed is a definite plus.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22
Specifications
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 is designed to increase the capacity of factory Glock magazines. It adds +5 rounds to 9mm Glock 17 magazines and +4 rounds to .40 S&W Glock 22 magazines. Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, the EMP is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
The plate comes with an included aluminum locking plate for added security. The design is intended to provide a “low drag / no snag” profile for smoother magazine changes. It’s compatible with USPSA 140mm race division limits.
Performance & Functionality
When it comes to performance, the Strike Industries EMP provides a noticeable improvement in reload speed due to the extended grip surface. The enhanced grip allows for a more secure and faster magazine change, especially under stress. However, the inconsistent performance with 9mm magazines is a significant drawback.
The EMP meets the expectation of increasing capacity, but the reliability issues prevent it from exceeding expectations, particularly for 9mm users. The .40 cal versions worked flawlessly for me.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 has a sleek, aggressive design that complements the Glock’s aesthetics. The aluminum build gives it a solid feel, and the enhanced grip surface is well-contoured. The smooth edges prevent snagging on gear or clothing.
Installation is straightforward, requiring no specialized tools. While the design is user-friendly overall, the issues with 9mm magazines detract from the user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061-T6 aluminum construction provides excellent durability. After several weeks of use, the EMP shows minimal signs of wear. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
The robust build quality suggests that the EMP will last for a long time under normal use conditions. Should any issues arise, the simple design makes it easy to inspect and troubleshoot.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 comes with an aluminum locking plate to ensure secure attachment to the magazine. While it doesn’t directly support other accessories like optics or grips, its compatibility with standard Glock magazines means it works seamlessly with existing Glock accessories.
The EMP is available in various anodized colors, including SI BLACKLINE, REDLINE, and FDELINE, allowing for some aesthetic customization. It’s also compatible with most aftermarket magazine wells designed for Glocks.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The extended surface provides a more secure grip during magazine changes, leading to faster reloads.
- Increased Capacity: Adds +5 rounds to 9mm magazines and +4 rounds to .40 cal magazines, providing a significant advantage in competitive shooting or tactical situations.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061-T6 aluminum, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The sleek design complements the Glock’s appearance, giving it a more aggressive and custom look.
- Easy Installation: Simple installation process with no specialized tools required.
Cons
- 9mm Reliability Issues: Inconsistent performance with 9mm magazines, including difficulty loading the last round and failure to lock back on empty.
- Price: At $38.99, it’s more expensive than some polymer alternatives, which might deter budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22?
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 is perfect for competitive shooters seeking increased capacity and faster reloads, particularly if they primarily use .40 cal Glocks. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a durable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade to their Glock magazines.
However, if you primarily use 9mm Glocks and prioritize absolute reliability above all else, you might want to skip this product or thoroughly test it before relying on it in critical situations. Those on a tight budget might also find cheaper polymer alternatives more appealing. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality magazine loader to assist with loading the extended capacity magazines, especially the 9mm versions.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 offers a compelling combination of increased capacity, enhanced ergonomics, and durable construction. The added grip surface and increased round count provide a noticeable advantage in competitive shooting and tactical scenarios. The aluminum build ensures long-lasting performance and adds a touch of style to your Glock.
However, the inconsistent reliability with 9mm magazines is a significant drawback that potential buyers should be aware of. If you primarily shoot .40 cal Glocks, this is a solid upgrade. But for 9mm users, it may require some tweaking or simply acceptance of occasional malfunctions.
Despite the 9mm issues, the value proposition is still reasonable, especially for .40 cal users. The price is justified by the enhanced durability, improved ergonomics, and increased capacity. I would cautiously recommend it, especially for .40 cal Glock owners. 9mm Glock owners should test it extensively before relying on it. Consider the Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock 17/ Glock 22 if you’re looking to boost your magazine capacity and reload speed, but be prepared for potential reliability issues with 9mm magazines.