Let’s Talk About TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch promises faster magazine changes and improved ergonomics for Glock pistols. It’s a small, seemingly simple upgrade designed to make a significant difference in reload speed and overall handling, especially for those with smaller hands. Is it a game-changer or just another aftermarket trinket?
As someone who’s spent countless hours on the range and in tactical training scenarios, I’m always looking for ways to optimize my gear for performance and efficiency. I have medium sized hands, and have always found the factory Glock mag release to be functional, but not ideal. After seeing the TangoDown name associated with improvements for the Glock platform, and realizing that they were offering an extended release, I knew it was time to give this a shot.
My first impression upon unboxing was that it was a subtly improved version of the Glock part. The polymer seemed identical, and the extension was minimal, suggesting an improvement in the action rather than a total re-design. Compared to some truly extended magazine releases on the market, this one seemed very refined.
I had previously used a different aftermarket extended magazine release on my Gen3 G19, and it was overly aggressive – snagging on gear and causing accidental magazine drops. This experience heavily influenced my decision to try the TangoDown version, hoping for a more balanced approach. My initial thought was, “This looks promising; a refined improvement, not a drastic change.”
Real-World Testing: Putting TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch was at my local outdoor range, during a practical shooting session. I focused on performing multiple magazine changes under time pressure. The weather was mildly humid, and my hands were slightly sweaty, replicating real-world stress conditions.
The immediate benefit was the ease of reaching the magazine release without significantly shifting my grip. Even with sweaty hands, the slightly extended and radiused design made positive contact much easier. I noticed a definite improvement in my reload times.
I didn’t experience any initial issues, but was hyper-aware of the negative reviews some users had experienced with fully loaded mags not dropping free. I did not experience this at first, but noticed some slight friction as my shooting session went on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, I can report that the TangoDown magazine catch has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the polymer feels just as robust as the factory part. I cleaned the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch after each range session with a simple brush and solvent, and have seen no discoloration or polymer degradation.
I have noticed, however, that after extended use in dusty conditions, fully loaded magazines sometimes require an extra nudge to eject cleanly. It appears some friction occurs between the magazine and the magazine well, exacerbated by the new catch design. The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch outperforms the factory release in terms of accessibility and speed, but requires more attention to cleaning and lubrication to maintain consistent magazine ejection.
My previous experience with the overly aggressive extended release was a constant battle against accidental mag drops. The TangoDown catch strikes a much better balance, offering improved accessibility without sacrificing security.
Breaking Down the Features of TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch
Specifications
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is designed for Gen4 and Gen5 Glock pistols chambered in 9mm and .40 caliber. It is injection-molded from a durable polymer similar to the factory magazine catch, ensuring resistance to wear and tear. It is compatible with a wide range of Glock models, including the G17, G19, G19X, G22, G23, G26, G27, G31, G32, G34, G35, and G45.
The slightly extended design facilitates easier magazine release without requiring a significant shift in the shooter’s grip. Its black color seamlessly integrates with the Glock’s aesthetics. These specifications directly impact the overall user experience by improving reload speed and ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch excels at making magazine changes faster and more intuitive. Its slightly extended and radiused design allows for easier access, particularly for shooters with smaller hands or those wearing gloves. The improved ergonomics translate to quicker reloads, which can be crucial in competitive shooting or tactical situations.
The main strength is its balance: enhanced accessibility without being overly extended and prone to accidental activation. One potential weakness is that, as some users have noted, it may not dramatically improve reload speed for everyone, particularly those with larger hands who can already easily reach the factory magazine release. It may also require more frequent cleaning and lubrication to ensure reliable magazine ejection, especially in dusty environments. Overall, the product meets expectations, offering a tangible, but not revolutionary, improvement in magazine release ergonomics and speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is excellent, using a polymer material that feels robust and durable. Its weight is negligible, adding virtually no extra bulk to the pistol. The ergonomics are thoughtfully designed, with a slightly extended and radiused surface that provides a comfortable and positive contact point for the thumb.
The installation is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills. There’s a slight learning curve in developing the muscle memory for the new magazine release position, but it is quickly overcome with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the experiences of other users, the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is likely to last for many years with proper care. The polymer material is resistant to wear and tear, and the design is relatively simple, minimizing potential points of failure. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only occasional brushing and lubrication.
Replacement is simple, and can be done in seconds with common tools. It appears the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is likely to provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is a standalone product and does not require any additional accessories. It seamlessly integrates with existing Glock components and accessories, such as holsters and magazine pouches. There are no specific customization options for the magazine catch itself, but it is compatible with a wide range of Glock accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch
Pros
- Improved ergonomics and accessibility for faster magazine changes.
- Durable polymer construction for long-lasting reliability.
- Easy installation with no specialized tools required.
- Subtle, refined design that doesn’t snag on gear or cause accidental mag drops.
- Compatible with a wide range of Gen4 and Gen5 Glock models.
Cons
- May require more frequent cleaning and lubrication for optimal performance, particularly in dusty environments.
- May not dramatically improve reload speed for shooters with larger hands.
Who Should Buy TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch?
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who prioritizes fast and efficient magazine changes. It is also ideal for individuals with smaller hands who find the factory Glock magazine release difficult to reach. Anyone who wants to improve the action of their mag release and speed up reloads, this is for you.
Those with larger hands who can already easily manipulate the factory magazine release may not see a significant benefit from this product. Also, if you are someone who neglects to maintain their firearm, I would consider if this is the right upgrade for you. A must-have accessory for this product is a high-quality gun lubricant.
Conclusion on TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch is a worthwhile upgrade for Glock owners seeking improved ergonomics and faster magazine changes. Its durable construction, easy installation, and refined design make it a solid investment. At $27.99, the price is justified for the potential performance gains.
I would personally recommend the TangoDown Vickers Tactical Gen4, Gen5 9mm/.40 Glock Extended Magazine Catch to anyone looking to optimize their Glock for speed and efficiency. It’s a subtle yet effective modification that can make a noticeable difference in real-world shooting scenarios. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!