Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi Review

Grit & Gear: Testing the Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi

As someone who’s spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits across a spectrum of demanding environments, from dusty workshops to rugged outdoor excursions, I approach new equipment with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen eye for practical application. The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi landed on my bench during a period where I was refining a Glock 17 Gen3 build for enhanced performance during dynamic shooting drills. The stock magazine well, while functional, often felt like a point of friction during rapid reloads, especially under pressure. I was specifically looking for a solution that would funnel magazines more reliably and felt robust enough to withstand consistent, hard use without adding excessive bulk or weight. My initial search led me to several options, including polymer inserts and more integrated designs, but the two-piece aluminum construction of this Rival Arms magwell caught my attention for its potential blend of durability and ease of installation. My first impression upon unboxing was positive; the aluminum felt solid, and the anodized black finish was uniform and appealing. It certainly looked like a step up from standard equipment, offering a promise of improved handling without compromising the core functionality of the pistol.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this magwell took place on the range during several intensive training sessions. I specifically focused on scenarios that would stress rapid magazine changes, including timed drills and shooting from various positions. The conditions were typical for an outdoor range: warm temperatures, some dust kicked up by ejected casings, and the usual rigors of repeated recoil. The aluminum construction felt immediately more substantial than factory plastic, offering a reassuring rigidity. Installation was straightforward, aligning with the promise of “no gunsmith required.”

The most noticeable difference from the outset was the significantly widened opening of the magazine well. This made guiding magazines home during high-stress reloads considerably easier, even with my dominant hand already occupied controlling the pistol. However, I did encounter a minor surprise: the user feedback indicated that the product description might be misleading regarding its components. While the photos often show two pieces, my package contained one main magwell piece and a separate grip plug, along with the necessary installation screws. This clarification is crucial for anyone considering this purchase.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use across multiple range days and practice sessions, the Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi has proven its mettle. It has held up admirably to hundreds of magazine changes, both deliberate and rushed. The anodized black finish has shown minimal wear, even from the repeated insertion and removal of metal and polymer magazines.

There are no visible cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. Cleaning is as simple as wiping down the pistol; the aluminum is non-porous and doesn’t retain debris easily. Compared to the stock Glock magwell, this aftermarket component offers a distinct advantage in funneling magazines. It’s a solid performer, holding its own against other enhanced magwells I’ve tested, though some premium, fully integrated units might offer an even wider funnel at a higher price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi

Specifications

The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi is engineered from aircraft-grade aluminum, a material choice that immediately signals durability and a premium feel over standard polymer. Its design is a two-piece system, comprising the main magwell funnel and a complementary grip plug, intended for specific Glock generations. This model is compatible with the Glock 17, Glock 22, Glock 34, and Glock 35 models, specifically those in Generation 3. The black finish is a durable anodization that helps resist scratches and corrosion, common concerns with metal accessories.

The primary benefit of these specifications lies in the enhanced magazine funnel. The widened opening created by the aluminum construction significantly eases reloads, reducing the chances of fumbled insertions, particularly under pressure. The grip plug, while a secondary feature, serves to keep debris out of the magazine well when it’s not in use, contributing to overall firearm cleanliness and reliability. This combination offers a practical upgrade that directly impacts the speed and efficiency of firearm operation.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the magwell excels at facilitating faster and more consistent magazine insertions. The bevelled entry guides magazines with remarkable ease, even when precise alignment is challenging. This is crucial for anyone prioritizing speed in reloads, whether for competitive shooting, tactical drills, or simply improving personal defense readiness.

Its strengths lie in its robust build and the tangible improvement in reload speed. The aluminum construction feels very solid and integrated. However, a slight weakness, as noted earlier, is the potential for confusion regarding the inclusion of the grip plug; the primary product description on some retail sites could be clearer. Compared to standard Glock magwells, this Rival Arms unit noticeably increases the ease of a critical firearm manipulation. It reliably meets, and in terms of reload speed, arguably exceeds expectations for an aftermarket enhancement.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magwell is functional and robust, prioritizing the functional aspect of magazine insertion. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction gives it a substantial feel, lending an air of quality and durability that polymer alternatives often lack. The anodized black finish provides a non-reflective surface that blends well with most Glock finishes.

Ergonomically, the magwell significantly alters the grip profile of the pistol. The widened base offers a more substantial purchase point, which some users may find beneficial for stabilizing the firearm during firing. The edges are generally smooth, though one might notice a slight sharpness if actively gripping the base of the magwell itself. The grip plug integrates seamlessly, providing a flush finish that doesn’t snag or impede handling.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, this magwell is built to last. The solid aluminum construction is inherently resistant to the common stresses of firearm use. I haven’t encountered any signs of cracking, bending, or undue wear, even after being subjected to repeated impacts and constant magazine changes.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust or residue. Unlike some textured polymer surfaces that can trap dirt, the smooth anodized aluminum is easy to keep clean. There are no specific maintenance tips required beyond standard firearm care, making it a hassle-free addition to any Glock. Potential failure points would likely involve extreme impact damage, which is rare in typical use cases.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi comes with the essential components for installation: the main magwell funnel, a grip plug, and the necessary installation screws. These items are crucial for proper fitment and function.

While the magwell itself isn’t directly customizable in terms of color or texture beyond the provided finish, its design is intended to be compatible with standard Glock magazines. It doesn’t interfere with the function of common aftermarket magazines, ensuring broad usability. The inclusion of the grip plug is a useful addition, preventing unintentional debris entry into the magazine well.

Pros and Cons of Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi

Who Should Buy Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi?

This magwell is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and any firearm enthusiast who prioritizes speed and reliability during magazine changes. It’s ideal for anyone running a Glock 17, 22, 34, or 35 (Gen3) and frequently practices dynamic shooting or engages in scenarios where quick reloads are critical. It’s also a solid upgrade for individuals who find the standard Glock magazine well somewhat restrictive.

Those who prefer an ultra-compact, minimalist setup or are concerned about adding any extra width to their handgun might want to reconsider. This magwell is designed for performance enhancement, not extreme concealment. A high-quality holster designed to accommodate extended magazine wells might be a necessary accessory for carry applications.

Conclusion on Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi

The Rival Arms RA70G101A Two Piece Magwell Glock 17/22/34/35 Gen3 Aluminum Black Fi stands as a testament to thoughtful aftermarket design, effectively addressing a common point of friction in a highly popular firearm platform. Its solid aluminum construction provides a noticeable increase in durability and a premium feel, while the widened magazine well delivers tangible improvements in reload speed and confidence. For its price point, the value is certainly present, offering enhanced functionality that punches above its weight class.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this magwell to any Gen3 Glock shooter looking to optimize their reloading performance. It’s a straightforward, effective upgrade that directly translates to improved efficiency on the range. If you’re someone who values speed, reliability, and robust construction, this Rival Arms component is a worthwhile investment that will likely serve you well for years to come.