Full Disclosure: The TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension
When the Glock G43 was released, many shooters with average to larger hands found themselves with a grip that felt a bit too short, leading to a less-than-ideal finger placement for control. This, coupled with the modest 6+1 round capacity, left a void for those seeking a more secure hold and increased ammunition. The TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension emerged as a direct answer to this common critique. It’s a simple, yet remarkably effective, modification designed to enhance both the ergonomics and ammunition capacity of the popular single-stack 9mm Glock.
My own experience with the G43 echoed this sentiment. While the pistol’s concealability was excellent, my pinky finger often found itself precariously perched, impacting my ability to maintain a firm, consistent grip, especially during rapid fire. I considered some of the pricier, more elaborate magazine inserts that promised a full grip, but the idea of adding significant bulk or a complex installation deterred me. When I stumbled upon this straightforward extension, a sense of immediate practicality and value struck me; it promised a straightforward fix for a noticeable issue. Unboxing it, the initial impression was one of robust, no-nonsense utility, a hallmark I’ve come to associate with well-executed firearm accessories. It felt solid and precisely manufactured, instilling confidence before even attempting installation.
Real-World Testing: Putting the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension took place primarily at the local indoor range. This environment provided consistent conditions for evaluating its impact on grip and reliability. I wanted to see how it performed under the stress of repeated magazine changes and sustained firing.
The extension snapped into place with a reassuring click, transforming the feel of the G43’s grip immediately. The added length provided just enough real estate for my pinky finger to find a secure perch, offering a significantly more comfortable and controllable shooting experience. There was no discernible learning curve; it felt like a natural extension of the original magazine baseplate. One minor quirk I noticed during the first few reloads was the slight increased effort required to seat the magazine firmly, a common characteristic with extended baseplates that disappears with a bit of practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including practice sessions at the range and carrying the G43 as a concealed firearm, this magazine extension has proven to be remarkably durable. It has survived multiple drops onto hard surfaces during hurried reloads without any signs of cracking or performance degradation. The integrated design means there are no separate pieces to lose, and the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension has remained steadfast.
Cleaning and maintenance are as simple as cleaning the original Glock magazine. I periodically wipe down the extension and the magazine body, ensuring no debris impedes function. Compared to some other magazine extenders I’ve encountered over the years, which often felt flimsy or prone to cracking, this unit stands out for its robust construction. It consistently delivers on its promise of adding capacity and improving grip without introducing reliability issues.
Breaking Down the Features of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension
Specifications
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension is constructed from a durable, injection-molded polymer, matching the material of the Glock magazine body itself. This ensures excellent compatibility and resilience. It is designed to increase the magazine capacity by 2 rounds, bringing the total capacity of a standard G43 magazine to 8 rounds. The overall length of the modified magazine becomes approximately 5.75 inches, and its weight is a mere .04 oz. This compact design adds minimal bulk and weight, crucial for concealed carry.
Included in the kit is the extended floorplate, a floorplate retainer, and a specially designed, longer, heat-treated stainless steel spring. This spring is engineered to guarantee 100% last-round slide lock backs, a critical feature for defensive firearm functionality. The materials and design prioritize durability and reliable feeding.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this extension is to enhance grip and increase magazine capacity, and it excels at both. The extended shape comfortably accommodates a full firing grip, allowing all fingers to engage the pistol’s handle. This improved grip directly translates to better recoil management and more accurate shooting, especially for those with larger hands who found the factory grip too short.
The 2-round increase in capacity is a significant advantage for a subcompact pistol, offering that extra buffer of ammunition without substantially compromising concealability. Crucially, the stainless steel spring and redesigned follower system ensure that the slide locks back reliably on an empty magazine, a testament to TangoDown’s attention to detail. This functionality is paramount for a defensive firearm, and this extension meets that expectation flawlessly.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design perspective, the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension is understated yet highly effective. Its contouring is subtle, designed to fill the gap left by the factory floorplate and provide a natural extension for the pinky finger. The texture of the polymer blends seamlessly with the Glock magazine, maintaining a consistent aesthetic and tactile feel.
The ergonomics are where this product truly shines. It doesn’t just add capacity; it fundamentally improves the shooting experience by enabling a proper, three-finger grip. This is achieved without creating sharp edges or uncomfortable pressure points, even during extended shooting sessions. The smooth, rounded profile prevents snagging on clothing, which is vital for concealed carry applications.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from a durable, impact-resistant polymer and the use of a robust stainless steel spring, the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension is built to last. I’ve personally subjected it to numerous drops, and it has emerged unscathed, demonstrating its resilience. For routine maintenance, it requires no more than a quick wipe-down with a cloth, mirroring the care needed for the standard Glock magazine.
There are no obvious points of failure in its design. The way it integrates with the magazine body, utilizing the factory retaining mechanism, ensures a secure fit that doesn’t loosen over time. Its straightforward construction means there’s little to go wrong, making it a reliable addition for everyday carry or range use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension comes as a complete kit, including the extended floorplate, the retainer, and the essential stainless steel spring. This integrated approach means no additional accessories are strictly necessary for its function. The product is designed to convert one standard Glock magazine and is available only in Black.
While there are no further customization options for the extension itself, its compatibility with existing Glock magazines means users can outfit multiple magazines for a consistent feel and increased capacity across their ammunition supply. This attention to detail in providing a complete, ready-to-install kit simplifies the upgrade process considerably.
Pros and Cons of the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension
Pros
- Improved Grip: Effectively provides a full three-finger grip for shooters with medium to large hands on the Glock G43.
- Increased Capacity: Adds 2 rounds, boosting magazine capacity to 8 rounds for enhanced preparedness.
- Reliable Last-Round Lockback: Features a long, smooth-feeding stainless steel spring that guarantees 100% last-round slide lock backs.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust, injection-molded polymer that matches the Glock magazine body material.
- Simple Installation: Installs easily onto existing Glock G43 magazines with no permanent modification required.
- Exceptional Value: Offered at a very accessible $13.49 price point, providing significant functional improvement for minimal cost.
Cons
- Slight Magazine Seating Effort: May require a bit more deliberate force to seat fully compared to a factory baseplate, a minor adjustment for most users.
- Not Compatible with G43X/G48 Magazines: Specifically designed for the G43; not interchangeable with other Glock single-stack models without potential modification or fit issues.
- Limited Color Options: Currently only available in Black, which may not appeal to users seeking aesthetic customization.
Who Should Buy the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension?
This extension is an absolute must-have for any Glock G43 owner who finds the factory grip a bit too short, impacting their ability to get a full, secure hold on the firearm. If you have medium to large hands, struggle to keep your pinky finger on the grip, or simply desire a more confident shooting platform, this product is for you. It’s also ideal for those who want to increase their G43’s ammunition capacity from 6+1 to 8+1 rounds without adding significant bulk, making it excellent for concealed carry.
Individuals who should consider alternatives are those who already have an ideal grip with the factory magazine and do not need the extra capacity. Also, users of the Glock G43X or G48 should look for extensions designed specifically for those models, as this one is tailored for the G43. For optimal performance, ensure you have a spare Glock G43 magazine to convert, as the extension kit converts one magazine at a time.
Conclusion on the TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension
The TangoDown Vickers Tactical 2-Round Glock Magazine Extension is a prime example of how a small, thoughtfully designed accessory can dramatically improve a firearm’s usability and effectiveness. For its modest price of $13.49, it delivers a substantial upgrade in both grip ergonomics and ammunition capacity for the Glock G43. The robust construction, reliable performance with last-round lockback, and straightforward installation make it an outstanding value.
It’s a product that clearly addresses a specific need within the G43 platform, and it does so with remarkable success. I wholeheartedly recommend this extension to any Glock G43 owner looking to enhance their shooting experience and confidence. It’s one of those rare upgrades that feels less like an addition and more like a correction to an oversight, transforming a good pistol into a truly great one for many users.