The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock Review

What to Expect from the The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock

As a gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for upgrades that offer tangible benefits, not just cosmetic changes. The The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock caught my eye as a potential improvement for an often-overlooked component of a firearm. I was searching for a way to enhance magazine handling and durability for my Glock, particularly during stressful scenarios where a firm grip and confident reloads are paramount. The stock plastic basepads, while functional, felt a bit slick and prone to breakage during forceful magazine changes or drops. I considered some of the more common polymer extensions, but the allure of a machined aluminum upgrade from a reputable manufacturer was strong. My initial impression upon handling this model was one of solid craftsmanship and a noticeable weight advantage.

Real-World Testing: Putting The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock took place at my local indoor range. I performed several reloads from a variety of positions, including kneeling and standing, aiming to simulate dynamic shooting scenarios. The basepads fit snugly onto my factory Glock magazines without any wobble or looseness, which was immediately reassuring.

During extended range sessions, I experienced several instances where I intentionally dropped magazines on the concrete floor to gauge the durability of the aluminum construction. This model far outlasted the OEM plastic baseplates, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs after multiple impacts. Furthermore, the textured surface provided a significantly better purchase for magazine stripping, even with slightly sweaty hands.

Initially, I thought the added weight might be a drawback, but it actually contributed to a more substantial feel in the hand during reloads. The process of attaching the basepads was straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond what was expected for magazine disassembly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and countless magazine changes at the range and during training, the The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock has proven its mettle. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction has shown remarkable resilience, with no cracks, deformation, or signs of fatigue. Even after numerous forceful pulls for magazine removal, the grip provided by the textured surface remains consistent.

Cleaning and maintenance are as simple as cleaning the rest of the magazine. A quick wipe down with a solvent-soaked rag and a dry cloth is all that’s needed to keep them looking and performing their best. Compared to the flimsy plastic alternatives I’ve used in the past, these aluminum basepads offer a level of durability that instills confidence.

The hard anodized finish, coupled with the Teflon seal, has resisted scratching and wear surprisingly well, even when mags are stowed in cluttered pouches. This longevity is a significant upgrade from the typical polymer basepads that can become brittle or break under stress.

Breaking Down the Features of The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock

Specifications

The The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock is constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, a robust and lightweight alloy commonly used in aerospace and high-performance applications. This material choice immediately sets it apart from standard polymer options, offering superior strength and impact resistance. The Hard Anodized finish, specifically per Mil-A-8625, type 3, Class 2, provides an exceptionally durable and corrosion-resistant surface. This military-grade finish is further enhanced with a Teflon seal for improved durability and a smoother feel.

These basepads are designed to be Compatible with Glock 9mm, .40 and .357 Mags. This broad compatibility makes them a versatile option for many Glock owners. The material contributes to an improved drop-weight as compared to the plastic stock basepads, offering a more substantial feel. The ergonomic design aims for concealment comfort & positive purchase when loading or forceful stripping from the pistol. Their smart sizing allows for forceful removal of magazine using items like clothing or other gear when off-hand isn’t available. This feature is crucial for tactical reloads or when a traditional grip isn’t feasible.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a magazine basepad is to provide a reliable extension for grip and magazine retention. The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock excels in this regard. The machined texture offers a positive purchase that aids significantly in magazine changes, especially under pressure.

A standout performance aspect is the enhanced ability to strip a magazine forcefully. The basepad’s design allows it to catch on clothing, gear, or even the edge of a holster for a swift removal when a free hand is occupied or unavailable. This feature alone is a significant advantage for defensive use or competitive shooting.

While these basepads add a slight amount of weight to the magazine, this is a negligible trade-off for the vastly improved durability and handling characteristics. The Hard Anodized finish also contributes to a smoother glide when inserting the magazine, preventing snags in pouches.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock focuses on functionality and user experience. The use of 6061-T6 Aluminum gives it a premium feel and a robust build quality that is immediately apparent. The hard anodized finish is not only durable but also provides a subtle grip that is not abrasive.

Ergonomically, the basepad is shaped to provide a comfortable extension for the shooter’s support hand during magazine changes. The slightly wider profile compared to stock basepads offers a more positive grip surface. The smart sizing ensures it aids in forceful removal without being so large that it interferes with concealment or becomes cumbersome.

The overall finish is consistent and free from sharp edges, indicating meticulous manufacturing processes. This attention to detail contributes to the overall comfortable and secure feel when handling magazines equipped with these basepads.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock truly shines. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction, combined with the Hard Anodized per Mil-A-8625, type 3, Class 2 then Teflon sealed finish, offers exceptional resistance to impacts, abrasion, and corrosion. I have intentionally dropped magazines on hard surfaces, and the basepads have held up admirably with only minor cosmetic marks.

Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the basepads clean is as simple as cleaning the rest of the magazine. A quick wipe-down is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris, ensuring the textured surface continues to provide an optimal grip.

Potential failure points are significantly reduced compared to polymer alternatives, which can crack or break under stress, especially in cold weather or after repeated impacts. The robust construction of this model suggests a long service life, making it a worthwhile investment for those who demand reliability from their gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock comes as a standalone replacement part, meaning it doesn’t include additional accessories. However, its primary function is to enhance the existing magazine. It is designed to be a direct replacement for the factory Glock basepads on 9mm, .40, and .357 caliber magazines.

The product itself doesn’t offer further customization in terms of color options in this specific iteration. The focus is purely on the material and functional enhancements provided by the aluminum construction and its specialized finish. This streamlined approach ensures the core functionality remains the priority.

It’s worth noting that these basepads are designed to work seamlessly with standard Glock magazines, so no special magazines are required. The simplicity of their design means they integrate perfectly with your existing gear without the need for additional mounting hardware or proprietary systems.

Pros and Cons of The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock

Who Should Buy The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock?

This product is an excellent choice for Glock owners who prioritize durability, reliability, and enhanced handling in their firearms. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals involved in defensive shooting, competitive disciplines, or those who frequently train and demand robust equipment. Anyone who has experienced broken plastic basepads or desires a more substantial grip during reloads will find significant value here.

Those who are on an extremely tight budget or who prioritize minimalist weight above all else might consider looking at less expensive polymer options. However, for users who need equipment that can withstand repeated use and abuse in demanding situations, this model is a clear winner.

For optimal use, ensure you have the proper tools for magazine disassembly and reassembly. While not strictly necessary, a basic gun cleaning kit will help maintain the finish and ensure smooth operation over time.

Conclusion on The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock

The The Gun Company Magazine Basepad 2 for Glock represents a significant upgrade over standard magazine extensions. Its robust 6061-T6 Aluminum construction, combined with a military-grade Hard Anodized finish, provides unparalleled durability and resistance to wear. The enhancements in grip and the ability to perform forceful magazine stripping are critical benefits for any serious firearm user. While the $32.99 price point is higher than basic polymer alternatives, the longevity and enhanced functionality justify the investment for those who demand reliable performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend this model to Glock owners seeking a dependable, high-quality magazine basepad that can withstand rigorous use.