Let Me Walk You Through the Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension
As someone who’s spent over a decade putting gear through its paces across a spectrum of demanding environments—from the dusty outdoors and cluttered workshops to sterile labs and rugged field sites—I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly works. My quest for enhanced firearm functionality recently led me to the Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension. The allure was simple: a minor increase in magazine capacity for my Glock 19, aiming to bridge the gap between standard capacity and the need for just a couple more rounds without resorting to a full-size magazine. This particular model from Herrington Arms promised a blend of material durability and subtle design enhancements.
The immediate catalyst for this purchase was a few too many range days where a single magazine change felt like it broke my flow, especially during drills that emphasized sustained engagement. While not a life-or-death scenario, efficiency at the range translates to better practice habits, and I was curious if this seemingly simple extension could offer a tangible benefit. The prospect of gaining an extra two rounds felt like a sweet spot—not so much as to become bulky or cumbersome, but enough to potentially reduce reloads in certain training exercises.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was one of solid construction. The Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension felt weighty, in a good way, suggesting robust materials. The anodized finish looked clean and precisely applied, hinting at careful manufacturing. I had briefly considered a few other polymer-based extensions or even some bulkier aluminum options, but the refined, low-profile aesthetic of this particular aluminum extension caught my eye. It gave me a quiet sense of satisfaction, a feeling that I’d found a component that might just be as functional as it is visually appealing.
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this magazine extension were at my local indoor range, a familiar environment where I could focus on the mechanics of the firearm without too many external distractions. I specifically fitted the extension to my Glock 19 magazines, ensuring they seated correctly and locked into the pistol with a firm click. The process of installing the extension itself was, frankly, a bit more challenging than I anticipated. It required a firm hand and precise alignment to get everything to lock together, which was a departure from some other extensions I’ve fitted in the past.
Despite the initial installation hurdle, once secured, the extension felt incredibly solid, with no discernible wobble or looseness. I ran through several full magazines, paying close attention to feeding and ejection. The added rounds were consistently presented, and the slide locked back on an empty magazine as expected. The extension’s low profile also meant it didn’t interfere with my grip on the pistol at all, which was a significant concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent range visits, along with some dry-fire practice sessions at home, the Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension has proven itself to be a reliable addition. I’ve subjected it to the usual dust and grime of the range environment, and there have been no functional issues; the aluminum construction seems to shrug off minor abrasions well. The tight fit that initially made installation tricky has translated into excellent long-term stability, with no signs of loosening or fatigue.
In terms of maintenance, it’s as simple as cleaning the rest of the magazine and pistol. I haven’t encountered any specific care requirements beyond standard upkeep. Compared to some polymer extensions I’ve used that could develop stress marks or loosen over time, this aluminum unit feels like it’s built to last. It holds its own against higher-end options, offering a premium feel without the exorbitant price tag of some competitor products.
Breaking Down the Features of Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension
Specifications
The Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension is precisely machined from 7075 Aluminum, a material renowned for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures the extension is both durable and remarkably lightweight, a crucial balance for firearm accessories. It’s designed to increase the magazine capacity by 2 rounds, making it compatible with 9mm Luger ammunition. The product is specified for Glock pistols, specifically the Glock 17, Glock 19, and Glock 26 models.
This robust aluminum construction means the extension is unlikely to crack or deform under stress, unlike some polymer alternatives that can degrade with impact or temperature fluctuations. The +2 round capacity offers a tangible benefit, providing those extra shots that can be valuable in training or defensive scenarios. Its compatibility with specific Glock models means a precise fit, avoiding the slop or instability that can plague ill-fitting accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this magazine extension is to reliably increase the round count, and it performs this task admirably. The Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension consistently feeds those additional rounds without any hiccup. My testing involved numerous reloads, both rapid and deliberate, and each time, the extra rounds were presented smoothly to the chamber.
The main strength here is its seamless integration into the existing magazine system. It functions as if it were an original part of the magazine, which speaks volumes about its design and manufacturing precision. A minor point for consideration, however, is its compatibility; it does not fit Magpul GL9 magazines, which is an important detail for those who prefer those aftermarket options.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this extension is a clear highlight. Machined from 7075 Aluminum and finished with a durable Cerakote or Black Anodized coating, it feels and looks premium. The finish is resistant to scratches and wear, maintaining its aesthetic appeal even after considerable use.
Ergonomically, the extension is almost a non-factor, which is precisely what you want. It doesn’t snag on clothing or gear, and its low profile ensures it doesn’t impede a proper grip on the firearm. The edges are smooth, and there are no sharp corners that could cause discomfort during handling or drawing.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from 7075 Aluminum, the durability of this magazine extension is expected to be very high. It’s designed to withstand impacts and the rigors of regular use without issue. I haven’t observed any signs of wear or stress fractures, even after dropping a loaded magazine (with the extension attached) onto a concrete floor during one of my range sessions.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a cloth and some standard firearm lubricant keeps it in pristine condition. The lifetime warranty offered by Herrington Arms is also a significant reassurance, suggesting the manufacturer stands behind the product’s longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension comes as a standalone component. It does not come with a magazine, which is important to note for potential buyers; you’ll need to have a compatible Glock magazine already on hand. The extension itself utilizes the OEM magazine spring, simplifying the installation process and ensuring compatibility with your pistol’s existing recoil system.
There are no other significant customization options beyond the available color finishes (FDE, OD Green, or Sniper Grey Cerakote and Black Anodized). However, its compatibility with a wide range of Glock magazines is its primary strength in this regard. It’s worth noting that it is not recommended for use with Gen 1-3 OEM Glock Mags if using a magwell, which is a specific limitation to be aware of for certain setups.
Pros and Cons of Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension
Pros
- Robust Construction: Made from durable 7075 Aluminum, offering excellent longevity and resistance to damage.
- Lightweight Design: Despite its strength, the aluminum construction keeps the added weight minimal, preserving the firearm’s balance.
- Enhanced Capacity: Provides a practical +2 round capacity, offering more shots without significantly increasing bulk.
- Precise Fit: Machined to tight tolerances for a secure and stable fit on compatible Glock magazines.
- Low Profile Aesthetics: The design is sleek and unobtrusive, complementing the firearm’s lines rather than detracting from them.
- Variety of Finishes: Available in FDE, OD Green, and Sniper Grey Cerakote or Black Anodized to match various Glock configurations.
- Lifetime Warranty: A testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability.
Cons
- Challenging Installation: The initial installation can be difficult and require significant force, potentially frustrating for some users.
- Limited Magazine Compatibility: Does not fit Magpul GL9 magazines, restricting its use with certain popular aftermarket magazines.
- Magwell Caution: Not recommended for use with Gen 1-3 OEM Glock Mags if a magwell is installed, requiring careful consideration for specific firearm setups.
Who Should Buy Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension?
This extension is an excellent choice for Glock owners, specifically those who use the Glock 19, Glock 17, or Glock 26, who are looking for a modest capacity increase without sacrificing concealability or adding significant bulk. It’s ideal for range shooters who want to reduce the frequency of magazine changes during practice drills, or for individuals who prefer the aesthetics and feel of metal upgrades over polymer. If you value robust construction and a premium finish on your firearm accessories, this aluminum extension is a strong contender.
However, individuals who prefer the ease of installing magazine extensions or primarily use Magpul GL9 magazines should look elsewhere. Those running Gen 1-3 Glocks with an installed magwell should also exercise caution and verify compatibility. For optimal use, ensure you have a compatible OEM Glock magazine and be prepared for a potentially tight installation.
Conclusion on Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension
The Herrington Arms Glock 19/26 2 Round Magazine Extension ultimately delivers on its promise of adding two reliable rounds to your Glock magazine with a premium feel. Its construction from 7075 Aluminum ensures both durability and a lightweight profile, while the available finishes offer a touch of personalization. While the installation process was more demanding than anticipated, the resulting secure and stable fit makes it a worthwhile endeavor for those seeking enhanced capacity without compromising their firearm’s ergonomics.
The value proposition here is strong; you receive a precisely machined, durable metal component with a lifetime warranty for a reasonable price, offering a noticeable improvement in magazine capacity for a variety of Glock models. I would certainly recommend this magazine extension to Glock owners who prioritize robust build quality, a refined aesthetic, and a practical increase in rounds, provided they are aware of and prepared for the somewhat involved installation and potential compatibility limitations with certain aftermarket magazines and magwell configurations.