Backup Tactical 5 Magazine Extension for Glock 17/22 Pistols Review
As a Glock 17 and 22 enthusiast, I’m excited to share my experience with the Tactical 5 Magazine Extension. This innovative product aims to increase the standard capacity of your Glock while providing a generous amount of firepower for competitive shooters and self-defense. Let’s dive into my hands-on review to see if it lives up to the hype.
First Impressions and Design
Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the Tactical 5’s sleek and rigid design. The anodized aluminum construction gives it a high-quality feel, and the matte black finish helps it blend seamlessly with my Glock’s aesthetic. The extension’s body is sturdy and durable, ensuring a secure fit on my pistol. The extended lever is proportionate to the main body, providing a comfortable grip and easy manipulation.
Installation and Performance
The installation process is straightforward and requires no tactical expertise. Simply disassemble your Glock, slide the extension onto the magazine, and reassemble. The Tactical 5 integrates seamlessly, with no noticeable decrease in magazine smoothness or reliability. In my tests, the extension has functioned flawlessly, feeding rounds consistently and dropping rounds quickly and efficiently.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Tactical 5:
Pros:
• Increased Capacity: The most obvious advantage is the increased magazine capacity, which jumps from 15 rounds to 20 rounds for Glock 17/22 owners. This is a significant boost for competitive shooters, self-defense practitioners, and those seeking more ammunition for extended shooting sessions.
• Durable Design: The anodized aluminum construction and rigid body ensure that the Tactical 5 can withstand heavy use and harsh environments.
• Smooth Operation: The extension integrates well with the standard magazine, providing reliable feeding and drop-free performance.
• Easy Installation: The installation process is simple, and the extension comes with clear instructions for ease of use.
Cons:
• Weight Increase: With the added weight of the extension, my Glock 17 feels slightly heavier, especially when fully loaded. This might be a concern for some users, particularly during extended shooting sessions or for those who prefer a lighter pistol.
• Aesthetics: Some users might find that the extension’s design disrupts the Glock’s sleek lines, affecting the overall appearance. While this isn’t a significant issue for me, I acknowledge that personal preference comes into play.
• Potential Interference with Magazines: I experienced occasional issues with the extension interfering with some magazine brands, resulting in jamming or misfeeds. However, this was not a consistent issue with all magazines and only occurred with certain brands.
• Price: As with any high-quality accessory, the Tactical 5 carries a premium price tag. Some users might find it justifies the cost, while others might prefer more affordable alternatives.
Conclusion
The Tactical 5 Magazine Extension is a well-designed and effective accessory for Glock 17 and 22 owners seeking increased firepower. While it’s not perfect, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for many users. If you value the added capacity,.duration, and smooth operation, the Tactical 5 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prioritize a lightweight experience, you might want to consider alternative options.
Final Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation:
I would recommend the Tactical 5 to:
- Competitive shooters seeking an edge in capacity and reliability
- Self-defense practitioners who want to increase their ability to engage multiple targets
- Glock 17/22 owners who desire a more substantial magazine capacity without sacrificing performance
However, I would not recommend the Tactical 5 to:
- Those prioritizing a super-lightweight pistol
- Budget-conscious shooters who prefer more affordable options
- Gun enthusiasts who value a particularly sleek or minimalist design
Ultimately, the Tactical 5 excels in its primary function and provides a solid upgrade for Glock 17 and 22 owners. If you’re in the market for a reliable and effective magazine extension, this product is worth considering.