First Impressions of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad promises a simple yet effective upgrade to a common firearm. This base pad aims to enhance grip and improve magazine handling for Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 pistols. My initial interest stemmed from a desire for faster, more reliable magazine changes during competitive shooting, specifically IDPA events.
For years, I’ve relied on the standard M&P magazines, but found them occasionally difficult to seat positively under pressure. The promise of ergonomic finger grooves and a secure retention system immediately caught my attention. I was looking for something durable, functional, and easy to install – hopefully, the Warne base pad would deliver.
Upon receiving the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the aluminum. The Type II hard anodized finish looked clean and seemed resistant to scratches, a good sign for longevity. Compared to some polymer extensions I’ve seen, the Warne offering felt significantly more robust.
Several other magazine extensions are available on the market, but I chose the Warne for its reputation for quality and the specific design features. Options from Magpul are cheaper, but sometimes lack the positive grip enhancement I sought. Taran Tactical Innovations makes great products, but they come at a premium.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad appeared to be well-made and thoughtfully designed. I was eager to install it and see how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad was at my local shooting range during a weekly IDPA practice session. I installed the base pad on three magazines to get a good sample size. The conditions were typical for a summer evening – warm and humid.
Immediately, I appreciated the improved grip when drawing magazines from my belt. The ergonomic finger grooves provided a secure hold, even with sweaty hands. Magazine changes felt noticeably faster and more positive compared to the standard base plates.
The initial seating of the magazines into the magwell was smooth and consistent. I experienced no malfunctions related to the base pad during the first session, which included approximately 200 rounds fired. I was impressed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long shooting course, the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad has held up remarkably well. The hard anodized finish shows minimal wear, even after repeated contact with magazine pouches and concrete surfaces. Cleaning the base pad is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth.
The base pads remained securely attached to the magazines, thanks to the reliable Torx head screw and washer. I experienced no loosening or shifting during drills, a testament to the thoughtful design. Compared to some cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past, the Warne base pads offer a significant improvement in durability and reliability.
In my experience, the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad outperforms the factory magazine base plates significantly, particularly when speed and positive grip are critical. They are a worthwhile upgrade for any serious M&P shooter.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad
Specifications
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is machined from 6061-T6 Aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet durable construction. The Warne base pad features a Type II Hardcoat Anodized finish, providing excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
This product is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 and M&P 40 pistols. The base pad does not increase the magazine capacity, maintaining the factory standard. The included Torx head screw and washer are vital for secure retention, preventing the base pad from shifting or detaching during use. These specifications translate directly to enhanced durability, reliable performance, and improved handling.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad is to improve magazine handling and provide a more secure grip. The ergonomic finger grooves allow for faster and more positive magazine changes, especially under stress. The solid aluminum construction ensures that the base pad can withstand the rigors of regular use.
The base pad performs its job exceptionally well, enhancing grip and facilitating quicker magazine swaps. One potential area for improvement would be to offer versions that do increase magazine capacity, appealing to a wider audience. Overall, the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad features a simple yet effective design. The materials used (6061-T6 Aluminum) provide a good balance of weight and durability. The ergonomic finger grooves are well-positioned and comfortable to grip.
The build quality is excellent, with clean machining and a smooth finish. The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort for installation. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this product.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust aluminum construction and hard anodized finish suggest that the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad is built to last. Regular cleaning with a standard gun cleaning solvent is sufficient to maintain its condition. Due to its simple design and durable materials, this product should provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad itself does not come with any additional accessories beyond the Torx head screw and washer. It is compatible with standard M&P magazines and magazine pouches. While there are no specific customization options directly related to the base pad, users can combine it with other M&P accessories, such as aftermarket magwells, for enhanced performance.
Pros and Cons of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad
Pros
- Improved Grip: The ergonomic finger grooves provide a more secure and positive grip during magazine changes.
- Enhanced Speed: Facilitates faster and more reliable magazine swaps, especially under stress.
- Durable Construction: Machined from 6061-T6 Aluminum with a Type II Hardcoat Anodized finish for longevity.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process with included Torx head screw and washer.
- Secure Retention: The Torx screw ensures the base pad remains firmly attached to the magazine.
Cons
- Does not increase magazine capacity.
- Relatively higher price point compared to polymer alternatives.
Who Should Buy Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad?
This product is perfect for competitive shooters (IDPA, USPSA), law enforcement officers, and anyone who prioritizes faster and more reliable magazine changes. It’s an excellent upgrade for those seeking enhanced grip and durability for their M&P magazines. Those primarily concerned with cost savings may want to consider cheaper, polymer-based alternatives.
If you want increased magazine capacity, this is not the product for you. A must-have modification to complement this is a flared magwell for faster reloads.
Conclusion on Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Extended Magazine Base Pad is a well-designed and durable upgrade that enhances grip and facilitates faster magazine changes. While it doesn’t increase magazine capacity, the improved ergonomics and robust construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious M&P shooters. The price is justified given the quality of materials and the performance benefits.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking to improve their magazine handling with an M&P pistol. Upgrade your M&P today and experience the difference!