Springfield XD 9mm Magazine X-Tension Sleeve Review
As an avid shooter and firearms enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out numerous magazine modifications to enhance the performance of my 9mm Springfield XD. Among the many options available, I decided to take a closer look at the X-Tension Sleeve designed specifically for my XD 9mm pistol. In this review, I’ll share my experiences, both positive and negative, with this particular product.
Design and Construction
Upon receiving the product, I was impressed with the attention to detail and quality of the X-Tension Sleeve. The supplied screws and Allen wrench for installation were sturdy, and the sleeve itself felt robust and well-made. The sleeve’s overall design allowed for a snug fit on my XD 9mm’s existing magazine, which was a vital aspect for me, as I didn’t want any potential malfuntions or shift in the magazine’s detection during shooting.
Installation
Installation was relatively straightforward, with the included Allen wrench making it easy to remove and replace the original magazine baseplate. However, I did experience a slight issue with the initial fit, as the sleeve required some gentle persuasion with a screwdriver to align properly. But once it was in place, it stayed put, and the fit was secure.
Functionality
Following the installation of the X-Tension Sleeve, I put it through a thorough examination, testing its functionality and performance. Here are my key observations:
- Tactile Feedback: The new sleeve improved the overall shooting experience, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback for the trigger finger as I approached the magazine’s capacity limit. This subtle enhancement made a significant difference in my shooting performance.
- Reliability: During extensive testing, I experienced no malfunctions or failures to feed, which was a major plus. The X-Tension Sleeve’s extra tension helped to secure the cartridges, ensuring dependable performance even under adverse conditions.
- Handling and ergonomics: The sleeve’s design appeared to enhance the magazine’s ergonomics, making it slightly more comfortable to handle and allowing for a smoother draw and reloader performance.
- Magazine Capacity: I noticed no reduction in magazine capacity, as advertised, which was a crucial factor for me, given the demands of extended shooting sessions.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Springfield XD 9mm X-Tension Sleeve:
Pros:
• Improved tactile feedback during shooting
• Enhanced magazine reliability
• Slight ergonomic improvements
• No reduction in magazine capacity
• Attractive design and quality construction
• Easy to install
Cons:
• Somewhat finicky initial installation
• May require some gentle persuasion to align properly
• May not be suitable for extremely tight or modified magazines
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Springfield XD 9mm X-Tension Sleeve has proven to be a reliable and effective upgrade for my 9mm XD pistol. While it may come with some minor drawbacks, such as the initial installation issue, the end result is a more enjoyable shooting experience with improved performance and reliability. As an added bonus, the sleeve’s quality design and construction ensure a sturdy and long-lasting product.
If you’re an XD 9mm user looking to take your shooting experience to the next level, I would strongly recommend considering the X-Tension Sleeve. With its impressive features and performance, it’s an excellent addition to any shooter’s arsenal.
Rating: 4.5/5 (due to the minor installation issues, despite its overall positive impact on shooting performance)
