Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring Review

The Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring Review You’ve Been Looking For

As someone who’s spent over a decade putting gear through its paces across everything from muddy fields and bustling workshops to sterile labs and demanding field environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for what works. The Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring kit came onto my radar when I was looking to optimize my competition Glock setup. Specifically, I was experiencing a slight hesitation during reloads with my Glock 34, a frustrating hiccup that can cost precious seconds in a timed stage. While my factory magazines performed adequately for general use, the need for faster, more reliable magazine drops was paramount for my competitive goals.

First impressions of the TTI kit were strong. The one-piece design immediately appealed to me, as I despise small parts that are prone to getting lost. The billet aluminum construction felt robust, and the hard anodized finish exuded a level of quality that suggests it can withstand the inevitable knocks and scrapes of regular use. I briefly considered other aftermarket base pads, but the integrated spring design and the reputation of Taran Tactical Innovations for producing high-performance competition gear steered me towards this specific kit. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; this felt like a precision-engineered solution to a practical problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on the range, specifically during practice sessions focused on competitive shooting drills. I fitted the TTI base pad and spring to my Glock 34 magazines, ensuring they slid on smoothly and the pin locked securely. The immediate difference was noticeable; when I deliberately released a fully loaded magazine, it dropped free with a satisfying, crisp detachment, noticeably quicker than before.

During repeated drills, including rapid reloads from various positions, the TTI kit performed admirably. I didn’t encounter any issues with feeding or magazine seating, even when quickly slamming a fresh magazine into place. The added weight at the base of the magazine, while subtle, seemed to contribute to a more positive drop-free characteristic, especially under rapid recoil.

One minor surprise was how intuitive the tool-less installation and removal process was. I had expected a slight learning curve, but the patented push-pin design worked flawlessly from the first attempt. No special tools or arcane knowledge were required, which is always a welcome bonus in my line of work and hobby.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, participating in multiple competition matches and countless hours of dry-fire and live-fire practice, the Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring kit has proven its mettle. The aluminum base pads show only minor cosmetic scuffs from occasional magazine pouch contact, but functionally, they remain as robust as day one.

The integrated spring has maintained its tension and reliability, consistently pushing rounds up with sufficient force. I’ve experienced no feeding malfunctions that could be attributed to the spring’s performance, even with fully loaded magazines. The added weight at the base continues to aid in clean magazine drops, a critical factor for maintaining competitive speed.

Cleaning and maintenance are remarkably straightforward. A quick wipe-down of the base pad with a cloth is usually sufficient, and the one-piece design means there are no small crevices to trap debris. Compared to some other extended base pads that have required periodic tightening of set screws or had separate spring components that could wear out, this TTI kit feels exceptionally durable and low-maintenance. It has certainly outperformed some budget alternatives I’ve tried in the past, which often had issues with polymer cracking or springs losing tension prematurely.

Breaking Down the Features of **Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring**

Specifications

The Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring kit is a testament to thoughtful engineering, designed for enhanced firearm performance. It features a one-piece design constructed from CNC machined billet aluminum, ensuring durability and a premium feel. The hard anodized finish provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion, crucial for components subjected to frequent handling and potential impacts.

This kit is engineered to be USPSA 140mm gauge compliant, making it a legal and competitive choice for many shooting sports. It significantly increases magazine capacity; for example, it can hold 20+1 rounds of .40 S&W or 23+1 rounds of 9mm for Glock Gen 3, 4, and 5 magazines. The base pad also adds a tactical weight to the magazine, promoting a more reliable and faster “drop-free” ejection during reloads. The included heavy-duty Glock spring is specifically designed to reliably feed the increased round count and withstand the stresses of repeated magazine drops.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this kit is to enhance reload speed and magazine capacity, and it excels in both regards. The added weight at the base of the magazine is not merely for show; it genuinely aids in magazine drop-free performance. This is a crucial element for competitive shooters where every tenth of a second counts.

The increased capacity is a significant advantage, allowing for fewer reloads during extended shooting sessions or competitions. The heavy-duty spring ensures that feeding remains reliable even with the higher ammunition count. It has performed flawlessly in my testing, reliably chambering rounds without any stuttering or jams.

While the kit is designed to improve performance, its effectiveness is largely dependent on the firearm and user. For its intended purpose, which is primarily competition or duty use where faster reloads are a priority, it performs exceptionally well. The only potential drawback, if one can call it that, is that it does add length and weight to the magazine, which might be a consideration for concealment purposes for some users.

Design & Ergonomics

The one-piece design of the TTI base pad is a major ergonomic win. It eliminates the worry of losing small pins or springs during disassembly and reassembly, which is a common frustration with some other magazine extension kits. Installation is remarkably simple, requiring no special tools, and removal is just as straightforward thanks to the patented push-pin mechanism.

The billet aluminum construction provides a solid, confidence-inspiring feel. It’s significantly more robust than plastic alternatives, offering better durability and impact resistance. The hard anodized finish not only looks professional but also provides a good grip surface, preventing the magazine from slipping unnecessarily in hand during a reload.

Ergonomically, the slight increase in the base’s surface area can also aid in grasping the magazine for a quicker draw from a pouch. While not designed for extreme comfort like a grip panel, its shape is practical and functional, contributing to efficient magazine manipulation.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive testing and the materials used, the Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring is built for longevity. The billet aluminum is inherently durable, and the hard anodizing offers substantial protection against scratches and abrasion. I’ve experienced no cracks, deformation, or signs of premature wear even after numerous drops onto various surfaces (though I always aim to avoid this!).

Maintenance is exceptionally simple. The one-piece design means there are no hidden nooks or crannies for debris to accumulate. A quick wipe-down is generally all that’s needed. The spring, being heavy-duty, is also designed for high cycle rates and durability.

The only potential concern for long-term durability would be extreme neglect or misuse, but under typical competitive or tactical usage, this kit should last for years. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of high-volume shooting and the occasional accidental drop.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” included with the Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring is, of course, the heavy-duty spring itself, crucial for reliably feeding the increased capacity. This integrated spring design means there are no separate spring components to purchase or worry about.

While the base pad itself isn’t typically customized with further attachments, its design is compliant with the USPSA 140mm gauge, which is a critical “specification” for competition. This ensures it integrates seamlessly into the competitive shooting environment without violating class rules. TTI does offer various base pads for different Glock models and purposes, but this particular kit is a self-contained solution.

Pros and Cons of **Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring**

Who Should Buy **Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring**?

This kit is an excellent choice for competitive pistol shooters, particularly those involved in disciplines like USPSA or IDPA where magazine capacity and reload speed are critical. If you own a Glock 17 or Glock 34 and are looking to maximize your firearm’s potential in competition, this is a worthwhile investment. It’s also a solid option for law enforcement or military personnel who might benefit from increased magazine capacity and faster reloads during duty operations.

Individuals looking for a simple, no-frills magazine extension for casual range use might find the cost higher than necessary. Those prioritizing deep concealment for everyday carry should also reconsider, as the added length and weight can impact concealment effectiveness. For optimal performance, ensure you are purchasing the correct model for your specific Glock generation and caliber.

Conclusion on **Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring**

The Taran Tactical Innovations Glock Base Pad and Spring is a precision-engineered upgrade that delivers on its promises. Its robust billet aluminum construction, smart one-piece design, and functional enhancements like increased capacity and improved magazine drop are hallmarks of quality aftermarket firearm accessories. For the competitive shooter or anyone prioritizing rapid, reliable reloads, this kit offers significant advantages that justify its price.

The value proposition is strong for its intended audience; you’re paying for superior materials, meticulous engineering, and a product designed to enhance performance under pressure. I wholeheartedly recommend this TTI kit to any Glock owner looking to elevate their firearm’s capabilities for competition or duty use, where every second and every round can make a difference. It’s a reliable, durable, and effective upgrade that stands out from the crowd.