What Makes Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round Stand Out?
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round isn’t just another magazine extension; it’s a meticulously engineered component designed for the competitive shooter and serious enthusiast. Taran Tactical Innovations (TTI) has carved out a reputation for performance-enhancing accessories, and this base pad is a testament to their commitment. It promises to increase magazine capacity while maintaining critical USPSA gauge compliance, making it a game-changer for those pushing the limits in practical shooting sports.
I was looking for a reliable way to increase my magazine capacity without sacrificing reliability or violating competition rules. Many extensions add rounds but compromise feeding or create compatibility issues. The TTI base pad presented a potential solution for increasing capacity and maintaining magazine reliability.
The initial impression was positive. The TTI base pad felt solid and well-machined. The fit and finish were excellent, suggesting a high level of quality control.
Compared to other magazine extensions I’ve used, like those from generic manufacturers, the Taran Tactical Innovations product immediately stood out in terms of construction and design. I chose this over others because of TTI‘s reputation for reliability and performance within the competitive shooting community. I had heard great things from other shooters at my club and was eager to see what the hype was all about.
Initially, I was excited. The potential to add two rounds to my magazines while staying within the 140mm gauge was a huge draw. My expectations were high, but I was also cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it lived up to the claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad at my local outdoor shooting range during a USPSA practice session. The weather was typical for a summer afternoon – hot and humid. I ran several drills, focusing on magazine changes and reload speeds, paying close attention to how the magazines with the new base pads performed.
The base pads performed flawlessly. Magazine changes were smooth and consistent. There were no feeding issues or failures to lock back on empty.
The TTI base pads were very easy to install. They slid onto the magazines with minimal effort and locked securely into place. I experienced no unexpected issues during my first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pads have proven to be remarkably durable. There are minor signs of wear on the edges, but nothing that affects their functionality. They’ve been subjected to numerous magazine changes, drops, and general handling without any issues.
The base pads have held up exceptionally well to regular wear and tear. The anodized finish has resisted scratching and fading. The pads remain securely attached to the magazines even after repeated use.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a cloth is usually all that’s needed.
Compared to some other magazine extensions I’ve used in the past, which often become loose or develop feeding problems over time, the TTI base pads have significantly outperformed my expectations. They’ve proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Taran Tactical Innovations. This is a well-known brand in the competitive shooting world, known for high-quality, performance-enhancing products.
- Magazine Capacity: 2 Round. This is a crucial specification.
- The 4mm extension is designed to add two rounds to the magazine capacity of STI/SV magazines.
- The 4mm size is ideal for maintaining USPSA 140mm gauge compliance.
These specifications directly translate to real-world benefits. The added capacity gives a competitive edge, and gauge compliance prevents disqualification in USPSA events. Knowing this extension comes from Taran Tactical Innovations, a brand trusted by professionals, gives me confidence in its design and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad excels at its primary job: increasing magazine capacity while maintaining reliable feeding. Magazines with the TTI base pads have cycled flawlessly, even during rapid-fire drills. They consistently lock the slide back on empty when used with a standard spring and follower, however, the product description does mention that with their competition follower it might not lock the slide to the rear on the last round fired.
The primary strength lies in its ability to balance increased capacity with unwavering reliability. A minor area for potential improvement might be in offering more color options to match different firearm finishes. Overall, the product vastly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The TTI base pad is constructed from high-quality aluminum with a durable anodized finish. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the magazine. The edges are rounded for comfortable handling and easy insertion into the magazine well.
The design is user-friendly with no sharp edges and an easy to grip texture. The pad is simple to install and remove.
Durability & Maintenance
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. Minimal maintenance is required.
Regular cleaning is all that is necessary to keep the base pad in optimal condition. Its robust construction suggests a long service life, even under demanding conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a fairly straightforward product. However, TTI offers a range of springs and followers that can be paired with the base pad to further optimize magazine capacity and feeding performance.
The base pad is compatible with most standard STI/SV magazine tubes. It also integrates seamlessly with other Taran Tactical Innovations accessories, such as their competition followers and springs, for enhanced performance.
Pros and Cons of Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round
Pros
- Increases magazine capacity by 2 rounds, providing a competitive advantage.
- Maintains USPSA 140mm gauge compliance, ensuring legality in competition.
- Durable aluminum construction with an anodized finish, offering long-lasting reliability.
- Easy to install and maintain, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.
- Enhances magazine handling and reload speed, improving overall shooting performance.
Cons
- Relatively higher price compared to generic base pads, representing a premium investment.
- Limited color options may not appeal to users seeking specific aesthetic customization.
Who Should Buy Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round?
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad is perfect for competitive shooters participating in USPSA or IPSC matches, who need every advantage they can get. It is also great for serious recreational shooters and those who own Staccato/Infinity/Springfield Prodigy/Atlas/Infinity 9/38 2011 style magazines. The reliability and added capacity make it a valuable upgrade for anyone seeking to maximize their performance.
This product might not be necessary for casual shooters who prioritize affordability over incremental performance gains. Those who don’t use STI/SV magazines should skip this product, as well. A must-have modification is pairing it with TTI‘s competition follower and spring for even greater capacity, while understanding the potential for slide lock issues.
Conclusion on Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round
The Taran Tactical Innovations 4mm Base Pad for STI/SV Magazines, 2 Round is a well-engineered and highly effective upgrade for serious shooters. It delivers on its promise of increased capacity, reliable feeding, and durable construction. While it carries a premium price tag, the performance benefits justify the investment for those seeking a competitive edge.
The price is justified by the quality, performance, and reputation of Taran Tactical Innovations. I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone serious about competitive shooting or seeking to improve the performance of their STI/SV magazines. Upgrade your magazines today and experience the Taran Tactical Innovations difference.