Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension Review

My Real Take on the Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension

The Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension promises to significantly boost the ammunition capacity of your Glock pistol, offering a seemingly simple solution to a common need. Crafted from aircraft-grade CNC aluminum, this accessory aims to be both lightweight and robust. The core appeal lies in its ability to add an extra five rounds, meaning fewer reloads during critical moments.

My journey to this particular mag extension began during a particularly lengthy range session where I found myself constantly reaching for spare magazines, breaking the flow of practice. While I considered other brands known for their bulkier, polymer-based extensions, the sleek design and claimed minimal weight of the Cross Armory offering caught my eye. It seemed like a more refined, less obtrusive option.

Upon initial inspection, the craftsmanship is immediately apparent. The machined aluminum feels solid and well-finished, with clean edges and precise mounting slots. It feels substantially more premium than many of the plastic alternatives I’ve handled. My first impression was one of quiet optimism; it looked like a component designed for serious use.

The Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension is designed to fit Glock generations 1 through 5, specifically for the 17, 22, and 31 models. This versatility is a definite plus for a wide range of Glock owners.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing occurred at my local indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for assessing basic function and fit. I attached the extension to a standard Glock 17 magazine, ensuring it was seated correctly before loading it. The process was straightforward, requiring minimal effort.

During the first few magazine dumps, the primary concern was reliability. I wanted to see if the added rounds and the extension itself would impede feeding. I ran through approximately 50 rounds with the modified magazine, experiencing no feeding issues whatsoever. The rounds consistently presented to the chamber without a hitch.

The ease of use was a pleasant surprise. There was no discernible difference in handling the pistol with the extended magazine compared to a standard one, beyond the slight increase in weight at the base. The added rounds were immediately accessible without feeling cumbersome.

However, a quirk emerged with the advertised capacity. While advertised as “+5”, my Glock 17 magazine, when fitted with this extension, only comfortably held an additional three rounds beyond its standard capacity. This was a significant discrepancy from the product’s core promise.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several subsequent range trips and some dry-fire practice sessions, the Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension continued to function reliably in terms of feeding. The secure grip it offers on the magazine base was evident, making reloads feel more positive. Dropping the magazine onto the concrete floor of the range after an exercise, the aluminum extension showed only minor cosmetic scuffs, which was a testament to its build.

The durability of the aluminum construction is certainly a strong point. It feels much more resistant to impact than plastic alternatives. I’ve experienced no signs of cracking or structural compromise, even with frequent magazine changes and drops.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean, and there are no intricate parts to worry about. It doesn’t require any special care beyond what you’d give your firearm. Compared to some budget extensions I’ve used in the past, which sometimes become loose or develop sharp edges, this Cross Armory unit feels like a step up in terms of longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension

Specifications

The Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension is constructed from Aircraft Grade CNC Aluminum, contributing to its advertised 1.35 ounce weight. This makes it remarkably light for a metal magazine extension. It’s designed to add a 5 Round capacity, fitting Glock firearms across Generations 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, specifically for the 17, 22, and 31 model calibers.

The lightest weight and slimmest profile are key specifications that differentiate this product. The aircraft grade aluminum ensures toughness without adding significant bulk, a crucial factor for concealed carry or competition where every ounce and millimeter counts. The stated capacity of +5 is the primary functional specification, directly impacting the user’s ability to engage targets without immediate reloads.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the primary function of increasing ammunition capacity is where the Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension presents a significant caveat. While it does extend the magazine’s base, my testing consistently showed it only adding +2 rounds to a standard Glock 17 magazine, not the advertised +5. This fell short of expectations for its core purpose.

The feeding performance, however, was excellent. The rounds reliably presented themselves, and I experienced no malfunctions related to the extension itself. The spring and follower interaction, despite the added length, seemed well-engineered for consistent feeding. Its strongest point is the reliable cycling of rounds it facilitates, even if the capacity increase is less than advertised.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension is undeniably sleek and premium. The machined aluminum provides a robust feel, and the True Grip texturing offers a secure purchase on the magazine base, even with sweaty or gloved hands. It blends seamlessly with the lower portion of the Glock magazine.

Ergonomically, it’s a comfortable addition. The slim profile means it doesn’t snag on holsters or clothing as much as wider, bulkier extensions might. The compact shape is a definite advantage, ensuring it remains compatible with a wide range of Glock magwells and holsters. There was no significant learning curve; it’s a simple, intuitive addition.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from Aircraft Grade CNC Aluminum, the durability of this magazine extension is one of its standout features. It feels exceptionally sturdy and resistant to the impacts and stresses of regular use. I’ve subjected it to accidental drops, and it has held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic wear.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A simple wipe-down is sufficient to keep it clean, and there are no moving parts to lubricate or adjust. The secure mounting means it’s unlikely to loosen over time, minimizing potential failure points. Its design is inherently low-maintenance, which is a significant plus for any gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension is a self-contained unit and doesn’t come with additional accessories. It’s designed to be a direct replacement for the floor plate on compatible Glock magazines. There are no specific customization options beyond its intended fitment.

However, its compact shape ensures it fits within most standard Glock magwells and does not interfere with existing firearm accessories like extended magazine releases. This lack of need for extra accessories or complex customization simplifies its integration into a shooter’s setup.

Pros and Cons of Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension

Who Should Buy Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension?

This magazine extension is best suited for Glock owners who prioritize premium build quality, lightweight design, and a slim profile above maximum capacity increase. If you’re a shooter who occasionally needs a couple of extra rounds and values the aesthetics and feel of finely machined aluminum, this could be an appealing option. It’s a good choice for those who might find bulkier polymer extensions cumbersome or unsightly.

However, if your primary goal is to maximize your magazine’s ammunition count by a full five rounds, you should look elsewhere. Those seeking a true +5 capacity increase should consider alternative brands that demonstrably deliver on that promise, even if they sacrifice some weight or slimness. For users who demand absolute accuracy in stated specifications, the Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension might lead to disappointment.

Conclusion on Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension

The Cross Armory +5 Magazine Extension is a product of impressive craftsmanship. Its Aircraft Grade CNC Aluminum construction, lightest weight, and slimmest profile are undeniable strengths, offering a premium feel and practical advantages in terms of handling and holster compatibility. The reliability of feeding rounds is also a significant positive.

However, the core promise of a +5 round increase falls notably short, with my testing consistently showing only a +2 round gain. While the build quality is excellent, the discrepancy between the advertised capacity and the actual performance makes it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend for users prioritizing capacity. The price point also feels somewhat steep given this limitation.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a beautifully made, lightweight, and reliable magazine base extension that offers a modest capacity bump and a superior feel, this Cross Armory unit might be worth considering. But if you absolutely need that full five extra rounds, you may need to explore other options on the market.