Let’s Talk About TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 promises to boost your magazine capacity by five rounds, enhancing grip and magazine seating. As someone who’s spent over a decade fiddling with tactical gear and firearms, I’m always on the lookout for simple upgrades that can make a real difference. This little add-on claims to do just that for the popular Walther P22, so I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
My Walther P22, while a fun and reliable plinker, always felt a bit limited by its standard magazine capacity. I often found myself wishing for fewer reloads at the range. Several extended base pads were available, but the TANDEMKROSS reputation for quality and positive user feedback steered me towards their Wingman. Unboxing the TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad revealed a cleanly molded Zytel polymer piece.
The material felt robust, and the design seemed well-thought-out. Compared to other extended base pads I’ve seen—some looking cheap and flimsy—the TANDEMKROSS offering appeared to be a significant step up in quality. I was excited, though cautiously optimistic, about the potential improvements to my P22’s ergonomics and firepower.
Real-World Testing: Putting TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad at my local outdoor shooting range, a familiar setting for evaluating firearm upgrades. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for assessing the pad’s impact on handling and performance. Installation was straightforward, though the lack of detailed instructions meant relying on my experience and a quick online search. The most immediate difference was the improved grip.
The extended base pad provided a more substantial purchase, particularly beneficial for my larger hands. After installing the Wingman, the magazine seated positively with each reload, instilling a sense of confidence. One initial downside: as advertised, the last-round hold-open feature was disabled.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds cycled through the modified magazines, the TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent use and occasional rough handling. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any residue. Compared to my initial expectations, the TANDEMKROSS Wingman has significantly enhanced my P22 shooting experience.
The improved grip and increased capacity have noticeably improved my shooting pace and enjoyment. While the loss of the last-round hold-open is a trade-off, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience. This product has solidified its place as a permanent upgrade to my P22 magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22
Specifications
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 is designed specifically for the Walther P22 pistol. It increases magazine capacity by 5 rounds, offering a 50% increase over the standard magazine. The base pad is constructed from nearly indestructible Zytel polymer, ensuring durability and resistance to impact. It is available in black.
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman weighs very little, adding negligible weight to the magazine. These specifications matter because they directly translate to improved handling, increased firepower, and long-lasting reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 excels in enhancing both the magazine capacity and grip ergonomics of the Walther P22. Its primary strength lies in its ability to add five rounds to the magazine without compromising reliability. The improved grip makes handling the pistol more comfortable and secure, especially during rapid-fire scenarios. The most significant drawback is the removal of the last-round hold-open feature.
While this is a known trade-off, some users may find it inconvenient. Overall, the TANDEMKROSS Wingman largely meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a noticeable upgrade in performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad features a simple yet effective design. The Zytel polymer construction is both lightweight and robust, contributing to the pad’s overall durability. The extended base provides a comfortable and secure grip, particularly for shooters with larger hands. There is virtually no learning curve; installation is straightforward and intuitive.
The added length to the magazine also assists in seating the magazine firmly, further enhancing usability. The design is well-executed, seamlessly integrating with the aesthetics of the Walther P22.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from Zytel polymer, the TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 is designed to withstand considerable wear and tear. The material is resistant to impacts, scratches, and common solvents, ensuring a long service life. Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the base pad clean and functioning optimally.
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman is built to last, providing a durable and reliable upgrade for the Walther P22.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 does not require additional accessories for basic functionality. The product is designed to be a standalone upgrade. While there are no specific customization options directly related to the base pad itself, it seamlessly integrates with other popular Walther P22 accessories, such as aftermarket grips and sights. The TANDEMKROSS website offers a range of other P22 upgrades, including triggers and compensators, which can be used in conjunction with the Wingman to further enhance the pistol’s performance.
Pros and Cons of TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22
Pros
- Increases magazine capacity by 5 rounds.
- Enhances grip and handling, especially for larger hands.
- Improves magazine seating for reliable feeding.
- Durable Zytel polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install with minimal effort.
Cons
- Disables the last-round hold-open feature.
- Lack of detailed installation instructions included in the packaging.
Who Should Buy TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22?
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 is perfect for casual plinkers, target shooters, and anyone seeking to enhance their Walther P22’s capacity and handling. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with larger hands who find the standard magazine grip inadequate. Anyone wanting to reduce reloading frequency during range sessions would also find this upgrade valuable.
Those who heavily rely on the last-round hold-open feature should skip this product. Individuals prioritizing strict adherence to factory configurations may also find this upgrade unnecessary. No must-have accessories are required, but a magazine loader can further enhance the loading experience.
Conclusion on TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22
The TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad, Walther P22 is a worthwhile upgrade for Walther P22 owners seeking increased capacity and improved ergonomics. While the loss of the last-round hold-open is a trade-off, the benefits of enhanced grip and increased firepower generally outweigh this drawback. At $24.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction and the noticeable improvement in shooting experience.
I would personally recommend the TANDEMKROSS Wingman to anyone looking to maximize their Walther P22’s potential. If you are looking for an easy and effective way to enhance your P22, give the TANDEMKROSS Wingman Extended Magazine Base Pad a try.