UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 Review

Full Disclosure: UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34

My quest for improved magazine capacity on my Glock platform led me to the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34. As someone who values efficiency and seeks to maximize the utility of my equipment, an extra five rounds per magazine represents a tangible upgrade for range sessions and competition. This particular model caught my eye due to its stated compatibility with popular Glock models and the manufacturer’s reputation for producing accessible accessories.

The genesis of this purchase stemmed from a recent competitive shooting event where I found myself just shy of making a crucial stage without a reload, a common pain point for many shooters. While not a life-or-death scenario, the desire for increased rounds-on-target efficiency is a constant in many shooting disciplines. I had been using factory magazines and had noticed minor issues with rough reloads on other aftermarket extensions, making the search for a reliable, well-machined option paramount.

Initial impressions of this base pad were positive. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction felt robust, and the Matte Black Anodize Finish lent a professional, durable appearance that seemed well-suited to the rigors of repeated use. The machining appeared precise, without any rough edges or obvious imperfections that might indicate a rushed manufacturing process.

I had briefly considered other brands, some significantly more expensive, but the UTG Pro offering presented a compelling balance of price and advertised quality. The prospect of a more affordable yet potentially effective solution was appealing. My immediate feeling upon holding the base pad was one of cautious optimism; it looked and felt like a solid piece of hardware.

Real-World Testing: Putting UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local indoor and outdoor shooting ranges, specifically focusing on drills that involved rapid reloads and sustained firing to stress the magazine feed system. I installed the base pads on factory Glock 17 magazines, ensuring a secure fit before loading them. The conditions ranged from dry indoor air to humid outdoor environments, with temperatures varying between 50°F and 85°F, all common scenarios for range use.

The installation itself was straightforward, though I did encounter one specific point of friction during initial use. The user feedback mentioned a need for minor modification, which I found to be accurate. The internal lip of the extension, while seemingly minor, initially caused the magazine spring to snag slightly during the critical phase of seating a fully loaded magazine.

To rectify this, I employed a small radius file to gently chamfer the inside edge of the magazine mouth where the extension attaches. This subtle modification took less than five minutes per magazine but was crucial for ensuring smooth operation. After this minor adjustment, the magazines seated and released flawlessly, and the spring fed rounds without any hesitation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After approximately 500 rounds spread across several range sessions and a local competition, the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 has proven to be remarkably reliable. The aluminum construction shows no signs of cracking or deformation, even after a couple of accidental drops onto concrete from waist height during hurried magazine changes. The matte finish has held up well, showing only minor scuffs that are typical of range equipment and do not affect function.

Cleaning and maintenance have been refreshingly simple. The aluminum base pad is easily wiped down, and the occasional light application of a lubricant along the magazine body and follower ensures consistent feeding. There are no complex mechanisms or small parts that are prone to failure or difficult to access.

Compared to other aftermarket extensions I’ve used in the past, these from UTG Pro stand out for their durability and consistent performance after the initial minor fitting. While some budget options might offer similar capacity at a lower price, their longevity and reliability have often been questionable. Conversely, some premium options are exceptionally well-machined out of the box but come with a significantly higher cost.

Breaking Down the Features of UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34

Specifications

The UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 is constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, a popular choice for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. This robust material forms the foundation of the extension, promising durability under demanding use. The extension features a Matte Black Anodize Finish, which not only provides a non-reflective surface but also adds a layer of protection against wear and minor abrasions.

This particular model offers a 5 Round capacity increase, bringing the total capacity for a standard Glock 17 magazine to approximately 22 rounds. The extension adds 0.347″ to the overall height of the magazine, a measured increase that contributes to capacity without making the grip excessively bulky. Weighing in at approximately 1 oz, the added weight is minimal and does not noticeably unbalance the firearm. Crucially, these base pads are designed to be IDPA & USPSA Legal, meaning they meet the size and capacity restrictions for competition in these popular shooting sports.

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the end-user. The aluminum construction ensures the pad can withstand impacts and the stress of repeated magazine insertions and removals. The matte finish is practical for tactical and competitive environments where glare is undesirable. The 5-round capacity boost is significant enough to reduce the number of reloads needed in many scenarios, while remaining within competitive regulations. Its lightweight nature means the firearm’s balance is not negatively impacted.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of this base pad is to securely attach to a Glock magazine and reliably increase its ammunition capacity. Once the minor internal chamfering was performed, the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 excelled in this regard. Magazines loaded with up to 22 rounds seated firmly and ejected cleanly every time.

The primary strength of this unit lies in its reliable feeding after modification. The extension’s internal geometry, once slightly smoothed, perfectly guides the follower and spring, preventing any stoppages. Its performance is directly on par with factory magazines in terms of reliability and feed speed.

However, the one weakness, as noted, is the slight interference with the magazine spring on stock factory magazines. This requires a user to perform a small amount of customization to achieve optimal performance. Without this minor adjustment, the user experience can be frustrating, potentially leading to feeding failures.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 is functional and straightforward. The 6061-T6 Aluminum gives it a solid, premium feel, suggesting it’s built for durability rather than being a flimsy add-on. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and practical, resisting fingerprints and glare.

Ergonomically, the added length is noticeable but not detrimental. It provides a slightly larger surface area for gripping the magazine during reloads, which can be beneficial, especially under stress. The edges of the base pad are smoothly finished, ensuring they don’t snag on pouches or the shooter’s hands.

A key design element is its integration with factory Glock magazines. It’s designed to use the existing magazine spring and follower, minimizing the need for additional components. The 0.347″ extended height strikes a good balance, offering the capacity boost without making the magazine unwieldy for concealment or standard holsters.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 appears to be built for the long haul. The aluminum construction is inherently resistant to cracking and deformation, and the anodized finish further enhances its robustness. After hundreds of rounds and a few accidental drops, the base pads remain structurally sound and functionally intact.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving wiping down the pad and ensuring the magazine follower and spring move freely. The lack of complex moving parts means there are very few points of potential failure. Cleaning is as simple as detaching the pad and wiping it down, then reassembling.

A potential point of concern, though not a failure I’ve experienced, could be related to how the base pad interfaces with the plastic magazine body. Over extended periods of extreme stress or repeated forceful impacts, there might be a theoretical risk of the plastic magazine itself cracking at the point of attachment, but this is speculative and unlikely with normal use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 is primarily an accessory itself, designed to augment existing Glock magazines. It does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary customization is the ability to add 5 rounds of capacity, transforming standard magazines into higher-capacity units.

The design leverages the existing Glock magazine spring and follower. This integration is a significant advantage, as it means no proprietary parts are needed for operation. It is compatible with factory Glock 17 and 34 magazines, and many users report successful integration with other aftermarket magazines that share similar internal dimensions.

While not an accessory in itself, the fact that these base pads are IDPA & USPSA Legal is a crucial feature. This allows shooters to adhere to competition rules while gaining a practical advantage in terms of ammunition count.

Pros and Cons of UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34

Who Should Buy UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34?

This base pad is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, particularly those participating in USPSA and IDPA events, who want to maximize their magazine capacity within legal limits. It’s also a great option for range enthusiasts who simply want more rounds on target for practice or recreational shooting. Anyone looking to enhance their Glock 17 or 34 without breaking the bank will find this a compelling upgrade.

However, individuals who are unwilling or unable to perform minor firearm modifications should reconsider. If you need a product that is guaranteed to work flawlessly out of the box with zero fitting on any magazine type, this might not be the ideal choice. Shooters who prioritize ultra-lightweight components for specific niche applications (like minimalist competition rigs where every gram counts) might also look elsewhere, though the 1 oz weight is generally negligible.

For optimal use, consider investing in a small radius file or a dremel tool with a grinding bit if you don’t already own one. This simple tool will ensure your base pads function flawlessly. Additionally, ensuring you have high-quality magazine springs and followers can further enhance reliability.

Conclusion on UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34

The UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 represents a solid value proposition for Glock owners seeking to increase magazine capacity. Its robust 6061-T6 Aluminum construction and durable Matte Black Anodize Finish promise longevity, while the 5-round increase in capacity offers tangible benefits for competition and range use. The IDPA & USPSA legal status further solidifies its appeal for competitive shooters.

While the need for a minor internal modification to ensure smooth operation with factory springs is a notable consideration, this is a small hurdle for the significant advantages gained. Once this minimal fitting is done, the base pads perform admirably, offering reliable feeding and seating. For its price point, the UTG Pro +5 Base Pad, Glock 17/34 delivers a high level of functionality and durability that is hard to beat. I would certainly recommend it to anyone willing to perform the quick fitment, providing a cost-effective way to enhance their Glock magazine’s utility.