First Impressions of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension promises increased capacity, enhanced ergonomics, and durable construction. As someone who’s always looking for ways to improve my M&P’s performance and handling, this extension immediately caught my eye, especially considering my past disappointments with other brands. It aims to solve the age-old problem of wanting more rounds without sacrificing concealability or reliable feeding.
My decision to try the Warne extension stemmed from a desire to increase my M&P’s round count for range training and home defense scenarios. I wanted something more robust than the polymer options I’d tried before, which often felt flimsy and prone to cracking after repeated use. The promise of machined aluminum and a secure Torx screw attachment was particularly appealing.
Unboxing the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension, I was immediately impressed with the solid feel and clean lines. The 6061 T6 aluminum felt substantial in hand, giving it a premium feel compared to the plastic extensions I’d previously used. The Type II Hardcoat Anodized finish looked durable and blended seamlessly with the factory magazine.
I’ve tried magazine extensions from Strike Industries and Magpul in the past. While those options were more affordable, they lacked the Warne’s robust metal construction and secure attachment method. The Warne extension felt like a more serious upgrade, promising greater longevity and reliability.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to see if the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension’s build quality translated into improved performance at the range. It felt like a substantial upgrade over my existing magazine setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension at my local outdoor shooting range, focusing on rapid-fire drills and reload exercises. The range offered a variety of shooting distances and target types, allowing me to assess the extension’s impact on handling and accuracy. Weather conditions were mild and dry, providing optimal testing conditions.
The extended magazine significantly improved my grip, particularly during rapid firing sequences, and the added weight at the bottom of the magazine well helped with faster reloads. I encountered no feeding issues or malfunctions during my initial testing, even when using a variety of ammunition types. The magazine locked into place securely every time.
The ergonomic shape and finger grooves made inserting and removing the magazine smoother than with the stock magazines. I did not need any time to get used to it, as the ergonomics matched my factory mags closely.
There were no immediate issues after the first range session, and the extension performed flawlessly. The only surprise was how much the added length improved my grip and overall control of the pistol.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. I’ve run hundreds of rounds through the modified magazines, experiencing no malfunctions or failures to feed. I’ve used it in several training classes, where it has performed very well in heat, rain, and dirt.
The anodized finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor signs of wear on the edges, which is to be expected. The extension remains securely attached to the magazine body, with no loosening of the Torx screw. The metal construction ensures no cracking like the polymer extensions.
Cleaning the Warne extension is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down with a cloth and solvent. I also disassemble the magazine periodically to clean the spring and follower.
Compared to my previous experiences with polymer extensions, the Warne extension is a clear winner in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance. It has instilled a greater level of confidence in my M&P’s magazine capacity.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension
Specifications
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension is machined from 6061-T6 Aluminum, ensuring strength and lightweight performance. It features a Type II Hardcoat Anodized finish for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. It is compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 9 and M&P 40 pistols.
The use of 6061-T6 aluminum provides a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to polymer alternatives. The Type II Hardcoat Anodizing increases the surface hardness, protecting against scratches and wear. Compatibility with both 9mm and .40 caliber M&P models makes it a versatile upgrade.
Performance & Functionality
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension significantly enhances the grip and handling of the M&P pistol, especially during rapid-fire sequences. It ensures reliable feeding and consistent magazine lockup. The added weight aids in faster reloads.
Its strengths lie in its durability, ease of installation, and enhanced ergonomics. The only potential weakness is that adding capacity slightly increases the overall length of the grip. It meets and exceeds expectations, especially for those who prioritize reliability and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with the machined aluminum providing a robust and premium feel. The weight is noticeable but not excessive, adding to the pistol’s stability. The ergonomic shape and finger grooves enhance comfort and grip.
The design is user-friendly, and installation is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes. There is no learning curve, as the extension integrates seamlessly with the factory magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension is built to last, with the aluminum construction and anodized finish providing excellent resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, it should withstand years of use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection. The Torx screw ensures secure attachment and easy disassembly for cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension does not require any additional accessories for basic function. However, users can customize it further by adding aftermarket base pads or magazine pouches designed for extended magazines.
The extension is compatible with most standard M&P magazine accessories, such as magazine loaders and cleaning tools. No other brands offer similar extensions in this aluminum quality.
Pros and Cons of Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension
Pros
- Enhances grip and handling.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Improves reload speed.
- Reliable feeding and magazine lockup.
Cons
- Adds slightly to the overall length of the grip.
- Higher price point compared to polymer extensions.
Who Should Buy Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension?
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension is perfect for competitive shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to improve the handling and capacity of their M&P pistol. It’s especially beneficial for those who prioritize durability and reliability over affordability.
Those who primarily use their M&P for concealed carry and are concerned about adding length to the grip may want to skip this product. Those who only need a slight capacity boost may prefer a flush-fitting extension.
A must-have modification would be a quality aftermarket magazine spring to ensure reliable feeding with the increased capacity. A matching magazine pouch designed for extended magazines is also recommended for practical shooting applications.
Conclusion on Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension
The Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the performance and handling of their M&P pistol. Its durable construction, reliable feeding, and ergonomic design make it a standout product in the market.
While the price may be higher than polymer alternatives, the added durability and performance justify the investment. It offers real value for the money, and I highly recommend it.
If you’re serious about improving your M&P’s magazine capacity and overall handling, the Warne Smith & Wesson M&P 9/40 Magazine Extension is a solid choice. Upgrade your M&P today and experience the difference!