Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate Review

Taking the Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate for a Spin

As a long-time enthusiast and professional who’s spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits across diverse environments – from the unpredictable outdoors and the meticulously controlled lab to the rugged workshop and demanding field applications – I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. My SIG Sauer P320, a reliable companion for various training and personal defense scenarios, always felt like it could offer a little more. Specifically, I found myself wishing for that extra capacity in my 17-round magazines without resorting to bulkier, less streamlined solutions. It was this desire for enhanced capacity that led me to the Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate. The immediate impression upon unboxing was positive; the machined aluminum felt robust and the anodized finish was consistent. I had considered a few other brands, but Strike Industries’ reputation for innovation and their specific focus on P320 accessories made this a standout choice. My initial reaction was one of satisfied curiosity, eager to see if this simple addition could live up to its promise.

Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began at my local indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for initial evaluation. I fitted the Strike Industries magazine plates to several of my P320 magazines, including OEM 17-rounders and a couple of Magpul 17-round magazines, as suggested by some early user feedback. Installation was remarkably straightforward, requiring only a few minutes per magazine and no specialized tools, which was a welcome change from some other aftermarket extensions I’ve encountered. The plates securely locked into place, and the magazines seated firmly in the firearm without any wobble or looseness. During my initial shooting session, I experienced no feeding issues or malfunctions, and the added rounds made for longer training strings before needing to reload.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following weeks, these extended magazine plates became a regular fixture on my P320 magazines. I utilized them extensively during competitive shooting practice, where rapid reloads are critical, and also during extended range days and personal defense drills. The aluminum construction, despite its light weight, has held up exceptionally well. I’ve experienced no cracks, significant scuffs, or any performance degradation, even after dropping a loaded magazine on a concrete floor during a particularly dynamic drill – the plate absorbed the impact with only a minor cosmetic scratch. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth is usually sufficient, and they haven’t shown any signs of corrosion or material fatigue, even when exposed to light humidity during an outdoor range session. Compared to other magazine extensions I’ve used in the past, some of which were bulky polymer constructs that snagged easily, this Strike Industries offering has proven to be far more durable and functional.

Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate

Specifications

The Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate is specifically engineered to enhance the capacity of SIG Sauer P320 9mm magazines. It is designed to fit standard 15, 17, and 21-round P320 magazines, providing an additional plus 5 round capacity for 9mm cartridges. The core material is 6061-T6 aluminum, a strong yet lightweight alloy known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This robust construction contributes to its durability and resilience against impacts and wear.

The unit weighs in at a mere 1.97oz, which is remarkably light considering its metal construction and the added capacity it provides. This low weight is a significant advantage, as it minimizes any added bulk or imbalance to the firearm. Its slim, low drag, no snag design is a crucial functional aspect, preventing interference during draws from holsters or while navigating tight spaces. Furthermore, the dimensions of this extended magazine plate comply with USPSA rules, making it a suitable choice for competitive shooters participating in divisions like Carry Optics, Limited, and Open. The plate is available in anodized finishes, specifically the SI BLACKLINE or FDELINE colors, offering a personalized aesthetic touch. The installation process is described as simple and intuitive, facilitated by an adaptable secure design fitment.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role – increasing magazine capacity – this SIG P320 extended magazine plate performs exceptionally well. It reliably adds five rounds to my 17-round magazines, transforming them into 22-round units, which significantly extends my shooting time on the range and my readiness in defensive scenarios. The plus 5 round capacity is a tangible benefit that directly translates to fewer reloads. I did note, as some user feedback suggests, that getting that fifth extra round into the magazine can be quite difficult initially, especially with OEM springs in a 17-round magazine. It took a considerable amount of force and sometimes felt like I was pushing the limits of the spring. However, after some break-in period of loading and unloading, it became slightly easier, though still requiring firm pressure. This means that while advertised as a 5-round extension, achieving a full 22+1 configuration might require a well-broken-in magazine or potentially an aftermarket spring for optimal ease of loading.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate is a clear standout. Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, it offers a premium feel and a solid construction that instills confidence. The finish is smooth and consistent, with sharp, clean lines that contribute to its modern, almost futuristic aesthetic. Its slim, low drag, no snag design is not just marketing hype; the beveled edges and overall streamlined profile mean it doesn’t catch on clothing, holsters, or gear during movement. This is a critical consideration for anyone using their P320 for concealed carry or tactical applications. The intuitive installation is also a testament to good ergonomic design; it simply slots onto the base of the magazine and secures with the magazine’s internal lock, requiring no permanent modification to the magazine body.

Durability & Maintenance

The 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures excellent durability. After extensive use, including being dropped on hard surfaces, the plates show minimal signs of wear. They have not cracked, bent, or lost their shape, which is a testament to the material’s strength. Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond occasional cleaning of the magazine body itself. The anodized finish has proven resistant to scratches and fading, even with frequent handling. There are no complex mechanisms or small parts that could easily fail or require replacement, which further adds to its robust nature. The only potential point of concern, as mentioned, is the initial difficulty in seating the fifth extra round, which is more of a capacity challenge than a durability issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate comes as a standalone component, designed to enhance existing SIG Sauer P320 9mm magazines. No additional accessories are included, nor are they necessary for its function. The primary customization option lies in the choice of anodized SI BLACKLINE or FDELINE colors. This allows users to match the plate’s appearance to their firearm’s aesthetic or personal preference. Its compatibility with standard SIG Sauer P320 9mm magazines, including those from Magpul, is a significant advantage, as it integrates seamlessly into existing setups without requiring proprietary magazines.

Pros and Cons of Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate

Who Should Buy Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate?

This extended magazine plate is ideal for P320 owners who prioritize increased capacity without compromising the firearm’s handling characteristics. Competitive shooters in USPSA divisions where magazine capacity is a factor will find this plate particularly beneficial due to its compliance and minimal snag profile. It’s also a great option for individuals looking to enhance their P320 for self-defense or home protection, as the added rounds offer a greater margin of safety. Those who value quality construction, durability, and a sleek aesthetic will appreciate the premium aluminum build and attractive finishes.

However, individuals who are extremely sensitive to slight increases in magazine insertion difficulty or who primarily use their magazines for very low-round-count applications might find the initial loading resistance a minor annoyance. Furthermore, if the absolute lowest cost is the primary driver, less refined polymer options might be available, though they often lack the durability and refined design of this Strike Industries product. For optimal performance, especially regarding seating that fifth round, considering a stronger aftermarket magazine spring in conjunction with this plate could be a worthwhile enhancement for those who frequently carry or shoot extensively.

Conclusion on Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate

The Strike Industries SIG Sauer P320, 9mm, 5-Round Extended Magazine Plate is a well-executed accessory that largely delivers on its promises. It successfully increases the capacity of my SIG P320 9mm magazines, transforming them into more capable units for training and defense, all while maintaining a low-profile, snag-free design that is crucial for practical use. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction provides a reassuring sense of durability, and the installation is genuinely user-friendly. While the initial challenge of seating that fifth extra round is a notable point, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall value, especially considering the product’s performance and the potential for it to ease with use or a spring upgrade. For its price of $41.99, the value proposition is strong, offering a substantial upgrade in capacity and usability for a respectable investment. I would absolutely recommend this extended magazine plate to P320 owners seeking a reliable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing way to boost their firearm’s firepower. It’s a smart addition for competitive shooters, those focused on self-defense, or anyone who simply wants more rounds at the ready.