Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring Review

Inside the Experience: Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring

For any firearm enthusiast, maximizing the utility and effectiveness of their chosen platform is a constant pursuit. When it comes to the reliable Smith & Wesson M&P platform, a common desire is to squeeze out a bit more capacity or enhance handling characteristics. This led me to investigate the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the M&P series, this aftermarket upgrade promises increased magazine capacity and improved magazine handling during reloads. It’s a relatively small change, but one that can have a significant impact in high-stress or competition scenarios.

My journey with this specific accessory began after a particularly demanding range day where I found myself wishing for just a few more rounds between magazine changes. While my S&W M&P M2.0 9mm is a fantastic pistol, the standard capacity, while adequate for general self-defense, felt limiting during extended drills. I’d seen other shooters utilizing similar enhancements on their M&P magazines and decided it was time to explore the options beyond the factory offerings. The promise of adding more rounds without drastically altering the overall profile of the magazine was particularly appealing, especially since my primary firearm is a duty-ready pistol.

Upon unboxing the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring, my initial impression was one of solid, robust construction. The billet aluminum base pad felt substantial and well-machined, with a clean, anodized finish. It exuded a sense of quality that suggested it was built to withstand the rigors of frequent use and occasional drops. Unlike some other aftermarket options I’d encountered that felt flimsy or poorly fitted, this Taran Tactical Innovations component exuded a confidence that immediately set it apart.

Prior to settling on this particular unit, I’d briefly considered a few generic, unbranded base pads that were significantly cheaper online. However, the user feedback I’d read, along with the reputation of Taran Tactical Innovations in the competitive shooting circuit, steered me towards a more reputable, albeit slightly more expensive, option. The potential for increased reliability and a better fitment justified the marginal price increase in my mind. My immediate feeling upon holding it was one of satisfied anticipation; it felt like a genuine upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring to the Test

My initial testing of the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring took place on my personal indoor shooting range and a local outdoor range known for its varied terrain and shooting stations. The goal was to simulate both static target practice and dynamic movement drills, including reloads under simulated pressure. I focused on how the base pad integrated with my S&W M&P M2.0 9mm magazines, specifically assessing its impact on magazine insertion, retention, and ejection.

The first magazine change after installing the new base pad was surprisingly smooth. Inserting the fully loaded magazine felt just as secure as with the factory plate, and crucially, it dropped free cleanly when I hit the magazine release. I intentionally performed several tactical reloads, both dry and live, under a moderate time constraint. The added weight provided by the aluminum base pad, though subtle, did seem to contribute to a slightly quicker magazine drop, shaving precious fractions of a second off my reload times.

Over several weeks, the base pad saw consistent use, at least twice a week on the range. This included hundreds of rounds fired and dozens of magazine changes. The unit held up remarkably well. Despite a few unintentional drops onto the concrete floor of my workshop and the gravel surface of the outdoor range, the billet aluminum showed only minor cosmetic scuffs. Crucially, there was no compromise in functionality; the base pad remained firmly attached, and the magazines continued to function flawlessly.

Maintenance was straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth after each range session kept the anodized finish looking sharp and prevented any buildup of debris around the base. Unlike some plastic or polymer extensions that can become brittle over time or develop stress cracks, the machined aluminum felt exceptionally durable. When compared to previous experiences with less expensive, one-piece polymer extensions that occasionally failed under hard use, this Taran Tactical Innovations product definitely felt like a significant step up in terms of longevity and reliability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring has proven itself to be a reliable and valuable addition to my M&P pistol. The impact on reload speed, while not monumental, is noticeable and contributes to a more efficient shooting experience. The added weight at the base of the magazine is particularly beneficial during rapid reloads, ensuring a clean and unhindered magazine drop, even when the magazine is fully loaded.

Durability has been exceptional. The hard-anodized finish has resisted scratches and wear even after being subjected to the rigors of a busy training schedule. There are no signs of cracking, flexing, or any other compromise in structural integrity, which is a testament to the quality of the billet aluminum and the manufacturing process. This is a component that feels built to last.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a light lubricant keeps it in top condition. I haven’t encountered any issues with the spring or the pad itself becoming loose or requiring adjustment. It’s a set-and-forget upgrade that integrates seamlessly into the existing magazine without adding any complexity to its upkeep. Compared to other extensions that might require regular tightening or are prone to damage, this unit’s robust design is a significant advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring

The Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring is designed to enhance the capacity and handling of Smith & Wesson M&P pistol magazines. It features a CNC-machined billet aluminum base pad and a proprietary spring designed to accommodate the increased capacity. This combination is engineered to integrate without tools and to ensure a secure fit while also facilitating easier magazine drops.

The primary technical specification is its ability to increase magazine capacity. While the product description mentions “0 Round” capacity, this is likely a technicality from the system listing it. In practical terms, for a S&W M&P 9mm magazine, it typically adds 2 to 3 rounds of capacity, bringing a standard 17-round magazine to 19 or 20 rounds. This is a significant advantage for training, competition, or self-defense scenarios where every round counts. The billet aluminum construction ensures durability and a premium feel, while the hard anodized finish provides resistance to wear and corrosion.

Specifications

The core components of the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring are its billet aluminum base pad and an accompanying recoil spring. The base pad is CNC machined for precision and features a red, hard anodized finish, which not only adds a touch of visual appeal but also provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. The product is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P model firearms, ensuring a precise fit.

Crucially, the base pad is engineered to fit within the USPSA 140mm gauge, making it compliant for competitive shooting divisions that adhere to this length restriction. This specification is vital for competitive shooters looking to maximize their magazine capacity within the rules. The one-piece design of the base pad itself minimizes the risk of losing small parts during installation or maintenance, a thoughtful consideration for field use.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring performs exceptionally well. The advertised ease of reloading into the gun with a full magazine is accurate; the slightly wider base, combined with the added weight, seems to facilitate smoother seating. The magazine drops free with remarkable ease, a key benefit that significantly speeds up reloads.

A notable strength is the patented, proven push-pin design for attachment and detachment. This allows for tool-less disassembly and reassembly, which is incredibly convenient for cleaning or when swapping base pads between magazines. While it adds capacity, it doesn’t compromise the magazine’s ability to stay locked to the gun, preventing accidental drops. The primary weakness, as noted by some users, is that the actual capacity increase may not be as dramatic as some might hope, often yielding only 2-3 extra rounds rather than a more significant jump.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring is sleek and functional. Machined from billet aluminum, it feels robust and high-quality in hand. The hard anodized finish provides a comfortable, non-slip texture that aids in grip during magazine changes, even with sweaty hands. The one-piece construction eliminates the need for separate screws or complex assemblies, contributing to its overall user-friendliness.

Ergonomically, the base pad is well-shaped and doesn’t add excessive bulk. It maintains a profile that is generally compatible with most holsters, although minor holster modifications might be necessary for some custom or very tight-fitting options. The integration of the spring ensures that the follower is properly supported, maintaining consistent feeding. The only minor ergonomic quibble could be the vivid red color, which might not suit all users’ aesthetic preferences, though it does aid in quickly identifying upgraded magazines.

Durability & Maintenance

The Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring is built for durability. The CNC machined billet aluminum construction means it can withstand significant impacts and stresses encountered during demanding use, such as competitive shooting or tactical training. The hard anodized finish further enhances its resistance to wear, scratches, and environmental factors like moisture and dust.

Maintenance is remarkably simple. The tool-less attachment mechanism makes it easy to detach the base pad for cleaning the magazine body and spring. There are no small parts to lose during disassembly, which is a significant advantage over designs that rely on tiny set screws or pins. I have experienced no degradation in performance or structural integrity even after hundreds of cycles of insertion, ejection, and magazine drops.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring kit includes the billet aluminum base pad and a specifically designed replacement spring. There are no additional accessories included with this particular product, as its function is to directly enhance the existing magazine. The base pad itself is available in different colors, with the red finish being quite common, though other options might be available from different retailers.

While the product itself is not designed for further customization in terms of interchangeable parts (beyond color options), it is built to be compatible with the standard S&W M&P magazine system. This means it works seamlessly with existing magazine springs and followers from Smith & Wesson, ensuring a reliable feeding pathway. The main customization is the capacity increase itself, offering a significant functional upgrade over stock components.

Pros and Cons of Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring

Who Should Buy Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring?

The Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring is an excellent choice for competitive shooters in divisions governed by the USPSA 140mm gauge, where maximizing capacity within legal limits is crucial. It’s also ideal for serious M&P owners who prioritize enhanced performance and reliability during training or high-stress situations and are willing to invest in premium aftermarket parts. Law enforcement officers or security personnel who carry the M&P as a duty weapon might also find the increased capacity and faster reloads beneficial.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for a massive increase in magazine capacity, as the gain is modest. Users on a very tight budget who are only seeking a slight capacity increase might find cheaper, though potentially less durable, alternatives. For casual range shooters who are perfectly content with standard capacity, this upgrade might be considered a luxury rather than a necessity. A compatible high-quality magazine body from Smith & Wesson is a must-have for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring

The Taran Tactical Innovations M&P Base Pad and Spring is a well-executed upgrade that delivers on its promises of enhanced capacity and improved magazine handling for Smith & Wesson M&P pistols. Its CNC machined billet aluminum construction and hard anodized finish speak to a level of quality and durability that justifies its premium price point, especially for those who demand reliability and performance. The tool-less installation and USPSA 140mm compliance are significant advantages for both casual users and competitive shooters.

While the capacity increase is modest, typically adding only two to three rounds, this is often sufficient to make a tangible difference in training or competition. The improved magazine drop speed and secure fit are noticeable benefits that contribute to faster and more fluid reloads. Overall, I would confidently recommend this product to any M&P owner looking for a durable, high-performance magazine extension that prioritizes functionality and longevity. It’s an investment in optimizing your platform for critical situations.