Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh Review

Going All In on the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment – from the sterile calm of a laboratory bench to the unforgiving dust of a field operation, and the precise demands of a workshop – I’ve developed a certain instinct for what works and what doesn’t. My search for a reliable magazine solution for my Glock 17 and 22 pistols, specifically catering to a left-handed shooter, led me to the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh. The standard magazines, while functional, often felt like a compromise when shooting from my dominant side, necessitating a more awkward or less efficient grip transition. This led me to seek out an option that would streamline the process, offering a more intuitive and accessible magazine release. My initial impression upon unboxing this Safariland offering was one of solid construction; it felt robust and well-engineered, a promising start compared to some flimsier alternatives I’d encountered from lesser-known brands. While I briefly considered a standard capacity magazine with an aftermarket extension, the dedicated left-handed design of this Safariland model presented a more elegant solution to my specific needs, bringing a sense of anticipation for improved performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this magazine were primarily the local indoor shooting range and dedicated practice sessions in my home workshop, simulating magazine changes under controlled stress. I focused on rapid reloads, practicing both deliberate and under-pressure scenarios to gauge its responsiveness. The design of the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh proved immediately accessible for a left-handed shooter. It allowed for a more natural thumb or index finger manipulation of the magazine release without the contortions sometimes required with standard right-handed configurations. There were no immediate issues or surprising quirks; the fit was snug, and the insertion and release felt crisp and predictable from the outset.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, cycling through hundreds of rounds during range days and dry-fire drills, this magazine has proven its mettle. It has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of structural fatigue, stiffness in the follower, or any degradation in its ability to retain rounds securely. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick clean with a basic gun cleaning kit, focusing on the follower and feed lips, has kept it functioning flawlessly. Compared to some budget magazines I’ve used in the past that developed feeding issues or cracked feed lips after extensive use, this Safariland model feels like a significant upgrade in terms of long-term reliability and durability. It certainly punches above its weight class when compared to generic aftermarket options.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh

Specifications

This magazine is specifically designed to fit Glock 17 and Glock 22 pistols, a crucial detail for compatibility. It is engineered for a left-hand shooter, which is its primary distinguishing feature, ensuring easier access to the magazine release. The construction materials appear to be high-strength polymer, typical for modern firearm magazines, offering a balance of durability and weight reduction. While the product description doesn’t explicitly state the capacity, these models are generally standard capacity for the respective Glock firearms, meaning it should hold the factory-specified number of rounds. The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh also integrates with Safariland’s ELS (External Locking System), though this specific magazine unit does not contain the actual ELS locking mechanism itself; rather, it’s designed to be compatible with holsters that utilize this system. This specification highlights its potential for competitive shooting or duty applications where secure retention is paramount.

Performance & Functionality

In its core function, the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh performs exceptionally well. The magazine feeds ammunition reliably into the Glock 17 and 22 platforms, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted flow of rounds during firing. The left-handed orientation of the release mechanism is its standout functional advantage, allowing for quicker and more instinctive reloads for left-handed shooters. Its main job is to hold and deliver ammunition reliably, and it does this without faltering.

One of its significant strengths is this dedicated left-handed design, which directly addresses a niche but important need for left-handed firearm users. There aren’t many weaknesses to point out in terms of its primary function. If there’s any perceived area for improvement, it might be the capacity if one were comparing it to extended magazines, but for its intended purpose as a standard-capacity, left-handed option, it meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine prioritizes functionality for its intended user. The use of a robust polymer contributes to a sturdy feel, and the texture on the baseplate likely aids in a secure grip during magazine changes. The ergonomic advantage is directly tied to its left-hand shooter orientation, making the magazine release more accessible. This is a practical design choice that significantly enhances the user experience for left-handed individuals, reducing fumbling or awkward hand movements. The overall feel is one of solid, dependable construction, a hallmark of the Safariland brand.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its polymer construction and the reputation of Safariland for producing durable gear, this magazine is expected to last a considerable time under normal use. The materials suggest resistance to impacts and environmental wear. Maintenance is quite simple, mainly involving keeping the interior clean of debris that could impede the follower’s movement. I have found that occasional light lubrication of the follower spring and a wipe-down of the exterior is sufficient. There are no obvious points of failure in its design, though like all polymer magazines, excessive force or prolonged exposure to harsh UV light could theoretically degrade the material over many years, but this is a speculative concern under typical conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh is primarily a standalone product, meaning it doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. However, its integration with Safariland’s ELS Locking System is a significant “accessory” feature, even if the ELS components are sold separately. This allows the magazine, when paired with an ELS-compatible holster, to be secured in a way that prevents accidental dislodging, which is invaluable for competitive shooters or law enforcement personnel. Beyond this system, the magazine itself is not typically customized, as its design is specific to its function and compatibility with Glock firearms.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh

Who Should Buy Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh?

This magazine is an excellent choice for left-handed shooters who own or regularly use Glock 17 or Glock 22 pistols. It is particularly suited for competitive shooters who prioritize fast and efficient magazine changes, as well as those who value the added security offered by Safariland’s ELS system compatibility. For left-handed law enforcement officers or anyone who requires a reliable, purpose-built magazine for their Glock, this model is a strong contender.

Anyone who is right-handed would not benefit from the primary feature of this magazine and should look at standard configurations. Those who need high-capacity magazines for extended range sessions or specific tactical applications might find this standard-capacity option limiting. A must-have accessory for those leaning into the ELS system would be a compatible Safariland holster, which would allow the user to take full advantage of the secure retention features this magazine facilitates.

Conclusion on Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh

The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh is a thoughtfully designed piece of equipment that successfully addresses a specific need for left-handed firearm users. Its reliable performance, durable construction, and especially its ergonomic advantage for lefties make it a worthwhile investment. The integration with the Safariland ELS system adds a layer of security that can be critical in dynamic shooting scenarios. While its price may reflect its specialized nature, for the left-handed shooter seeking optimized reload times and a more natural feel, the value proposition is clear. I would absolutely recommend this magazine to left-handed Glock owners looking to enhance their shooting experience, especially those involved in competitive disciplines or seeking professional-grade gear.