Why Extend Your Glock 17 Magazine?
Increased Magazine Capacity
The Glock 17, in its standard configuration, offers a generous magazine capacity. However, there are several compelling reasons why shooters often choose to increase this capacity further.
Increased magazine capacity translates directly to more rounds available before needing to reload. In defensive scenarios, or even in competitive shooting, every round counts. Having more rounds at your immediate disposal can be the difference between success and failure, or between a podium finish and a missed opportunity.
Improved Grip and Handling
Beyond raw capacity, magazine extensions often improve the grip and handling of the Glock 17. The added length provides more surface area for your hand to grasp, particularly beneficial for shooters with larger hands. This enhanced grip can lead to faster reloads. The added length also helps with a more controlled draw and greater stability when firing rapidly. These improvements are crucial whether you’re a competitive shooter seeking a fraction-of-a-second advantage or a responsible gun owner prioritizing accurate shot placement.
Potential Drawbacks and Addressing Concerns
While the advantages are clear, it’s essential to acknowledge potential downsides of magazine extensions. The added length of a magazine can make the handgun slightly more cumbersome to carry, conceal, or maneuver in confined spaces.
Another potential concern is reliability. Adding rounds to a magazine, especially if the extension isn’t perfectly designed or installed, can potentially introduce feeding issues. This is particularly true if the spring isn’t strong enough to consistently feed all of the added rounds or if the follower isn’t functioning correctly.
Fortunately, these potential issues are often easily mitigated. Selecting high-quality magazine extensions from reputable manufacturers is crucial. Proper installation, which often involves following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, is also essential. Furthermore, breaking in the extended magazine, by loading and unloading it several times before serious use, can help ensure that the spring and follower function smoothly.
Essential Considerations Before You Purchase
Choosing the right Glock 17 magazine extension is not just about picking the one with the most rounds. Several factors play an important role in the overall performance and reliability of the extended magazine.
Capacity Increase: Understanding Your Needs
Magazine extensions come in a variety of capacities, typically adding a specific number of rounds. The available options will commonly range from adding just a couple of rounds, all the way up to a significant increase. The right choice will depend on your specific needs and intended use. A competitive shooter might prioritize the maximum capacity allowed by their competition’s rules, while a concealed carrier might prioritize a slightly smaller extension to minimize printing.
Material Quality and Construction: Built to Last
The materials used in the construction of the magazine extension play a vital role in its durability and overall performance. Common materials include aluminum and polymer. Aluminum extensions are renowned for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. They typically offer a robust construction and excellent resistance to impacts. High-quality polymer extensions also provide durability and the advantage of lighter weight and are less likely to mar the finish of the magazine. It’s critical to choose an extension made from high-quality materials capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
Reliability and Functionality: The Heart of Performance
The core of a reliable magazine extension is the spring and the follower. The spring must be strong enough to consistently push the rounds upwards, ensuring reliable feeding into the chamber. The follower must also be designed correctly to prevent jams and facilitate smooth feeding. Pay close attention to the spring material and the follower design when selecting an extension.
Installation Ease: How Simple is the Process?
The ease of installation varies depending on the specific extension design. Some are simple drop-in replacements, requiring no tools or modifications. Others might require specialized tools or a more involved process. Consider your own comfort level with gun maintenance and the tools you have available when choosing an extension.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics: Does it Fit Your Needs?
While functionality is paramount, aesthetics and ergonomics also play a role. The color and finish of the extension can affect the overall look of your Glock 17. The grip texture and design can impact how comfortable the magazine is to handle and how well it integrates with your existing grip.
Recommended Magazine Extensions for Your Glock 17
Here are some of the best Glock 17 mag extension options available. Each offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences:
Extension Option: The Magpul GL Enhanced Magazine Well +2 Extension
This extension, offered by a well-respected company in the firearms industry, provides a significant capacity boost with a well-designed and user-friendly experience. It’s a popular choice due to its reliability and simple installation. The Magpul extension adds two rounds to your Glock 17 magazine, offering a notable increase in capacity without drastically increasing overall length.
Its primary advantage is its reputation for reliability. Magpul products are known for their durability and consistent performance. The extension is typically very easy to install, often requiring no tools or only minimal disassembly. It also offers good value for its price.
The Magpul GL Extension is a solid choice for shooters looking for a reliable, straightforward, and easy-to-install way to increase the capacity of their Glock 17 magazines.
Extension Option: Taran Tactical Innovations (TTI) Extensions
Taran Tactical Innovations is a well-known name in the competitive shooting world, and their magazine extensions are a reflection of that reputation. The TTI extensions come in a variety of configurations, including +5, +6 and +8 round options, and offer substantial capacity increases.
TTI extensions are typically constructed from high-quality materials and offer excellent durability. They are also designed for fast and efficient reloads, a crucial factor in competitive shooting scenarios. The brand’s reputation for quality and performance makes these extensions a top choice for serious shooters.
The main downside to these high-end magazine extensions is their price. TTI products often command a premium, reflecting their advanced design and performance.
Extension Option: Strike Industries Magazine Extension
Strike Industries is another reputable manufacturer offering a range of Glock 17 magazine extensions. These extensions are frequently a popular option for those seeking a balance of value and performance. They often add a significant number of rounds to your magazine and feature a sleek and functional design.
The Strike Industries extensions are often praised for their ease of installation and their overall value. While the perceived reliability can be less than some of the higher end extensions, the product often exceeds customer expectations.
Installing Your Magazine Extension: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a Glock 17 magazine extension is generally a straightforward process, but attention to detail is crucial.
Begin by ensuring that your firearm is unloaded. Remove the magazine from your Glock 17.
Disassemble the magazine: You will need to remove the floorplate of the magazine and the spring and follower from the body. There are a variety of methods, so consult the manufacturer instructions of your magazine.
Install the extension baseplate onto the magazine body.
Reassemble the magazine, including the spring and follower. It is crucial that the spring is correctly oriented, and the follower is functioning as intended.
Once the magazine is reassembled, test the function of your magazine. If the magazine can be completely filled without issue, then the extension can be considered installed.
Essential Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper maintenance and troubleshooting will contribute to the longevity and reliability of your extended magazines.
Cleaning your extended magazines can be accomplished with the use of a brush and a lubricant.
Over time, springs can wear out. Replace the springs regularly, especially if you notice any feeding problems or a decrease in reliability.
Conclusion
Magazine extensions for the Glock 17 are a valuable upgrade. They provide a significant increase in capacity, enhance grip and handling, and provide a competitive edge in practical shooting scenarios. When choosing an extension, consider capacity, material quality, reliability, ease of installation, and your individual needs. With the information provided in this article, you’re well-equipped to select the best Glock 17 mag extension to elevate your handgun’s performance.
Remember to always familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding magazine capacity. Always handle firearms responsibly and practice safe gun handling techniques.
Sources and Resources
(Include a list of relevant websites, manufacturer websites, and review articles consulted.)
