First Impressions of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm promises increased capacity and enhanced aesthetics for a popular pistol platform. With over a decade spent tinkering with and relying on tactical gear, I’ve learned to be cautiously optimistic about aftermarket modifications. This plate, crafted by Strike Industries, aims to add five rounds to your G19 magazine while improving reload speed and overall appearance. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
I was initially drawn to this product as I wanted to increase my G19’s capacity without switching to larger, less concealable magazines. I needed something that balanced added firepower with minimal impact on my everyday carry setup.
Upon unboxing, the aluminum construction felt solid and well-machined. The anodized finish looked clean, and the overall design seemed aggressive yet functional. Compared to the Magpul GL9 PMAG 15 GLOCK 19 9mm Black magazine, the Strike Industries plate offered a more streamlined, less bulky approach to extended capacity, seemingly without sacrificing ergonomics. Initial excitement was tempered by past experiences with Strike Industries‘ polymer offerings, which had mixed results.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm at my local shooting range. The range offered a controlled environment to assess its performance. I ran several drills, focusing on magazine changes and overall handling.
The magazine loaded smoothly, and the added weight felt surprisingly balanced. However, I immediately noticed some feeding issues: the slide failed to lock back on empty several times. The issue became more pronounced as the magazine was used repeatedly, indicating a potential follower problem.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use, the feeding issues persisted. The plate itself showed no significant wear and tear, and the anodized finish held up well to daily carry. Cleaning the magazine was straightforward, though reassembly sometimes required extra care to ensure the locking plate was correctly aligned.
Compared to my experience with Glock factory magazines, the Strike Industries plate proved less reliable. Glock magazines are known for their dependability, and this aftermarket addition fell short in matching that performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm
Specifications
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm is constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, offering a lightweight yet durable design. It adds five rounds to your standard Glock 19 9mm magazine. The plate features an anodized finish for corrosion resistance and includes an aluminum locking plate for enhanced security.
These specifications are important because they influence the magazine’s weight, durability, and reliability. The aluminum construction ensures longevity while the added capacity offers a tactical advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The main function of the Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm is to increase magazine capacity while maintaining reliability. Unfortunately, my testing revealed consistent feeding issues, particularly failure to lock back on empty. While the added rounds are a benefit, the reliability concerns outweigh this advantage.
The magazine performed adequately when rounds were chambered, but the persistent feeding problems made it less than ideal for serious use. Ultimately, the plate didn’t meet my expectations due to these shortcomings.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm features an aggressive, geometric design that complements the Glock 19’s aesthetics. The build quality feels solid, and the aluminum construction adds a touch of premium feel. The added length of the magazine is ergonomically sound, providing a more secure grip.
However, the increased length may impact concealment for some users, especially with tighter-fitting clothing. Despite the aesthetic appeal, the ergonomic benefits are overshadowed by the performance issues.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and anodized finish contribute to the Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm‘s durability. After several weeks of use, there were no signs of cracking, bending, or significant wear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent.
Disassembly for cleaning can be slightly tricky due to the small locking plate. Overall, the durability of the plate is a strong point, but this is negated by the feeding issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm doesn’t offer many customization options beyond its color finish. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Glock 19 magazines. While it’s compatible with most Glock 19 magazine pouches, the added length should be considered for concealed carry setups.
Compatibility with various base pads or other aftermarket accessories is limited due to its unique locking mechanism. The lack of extensive customization options isn’t necessarily a drawback, but it’s worth noting for users seeking a highly personalized setup.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm
Pros
- Adds five rounds of capacity to Glock 19 magazines. This is a significant benefit for those wanting extra firepower.
- Durable aluminum construction with anodized finish. The plate feels solid and resists wear and tear.
- Aggressive, aesthetically pleasing design. It enhances the look of the Glock 19.
- Easy to install and maintain. Cleaning and assembly are straightforward.
- Provides a more secure grip due to the added length. The extended length offers better purchase.
Cons
- Consistent feeding issues and failure to lock back on empty. This is the most significant drawback.
- May affect concealment due to increased magazine length. The added length could be a problem for concealed carry.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm?
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm might appeal to range shooters and competitive shooters seeking increased capacity. It might also suit those prioritizing aesthetics and grip enhancement over absolute reliability.
However, this is not a reliable choice for concealed carry or duty use due to its feeding issues. Anyone relying on their Glock 19 for self-defense should stick with factory magazines or other proven aftermarket options. A must-have modification might involve replacing the factory spring with a higher power spring to assist with cycling, but this is an added cost and possible issue to solve.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm
The Strike Industries Aluminum Extended Magazine Plate for Glock G19 9mm offers an appealing blend of aesthetics and increased capacity, but falls short in delivering reliable performance. The feeding issues I encountered significantly undermine its value proposition.
At $39.99, the price is not justified given the reliability concerns. A Glock factory magazine, though lower in capacity, provides vastly superior dependability. I would not recommend this product, and I suggest exploring alternative options for extending Glock 19 magazine capacity. Buyer beware – sometimes, the tried-and-true factory options are best.