The Story of My Time with the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19
My journey with the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 began out of a familiar need: more rounds downrange without sacrificing the ergonomics and reliability I’ve come to expect. As someone who’s spent over a decade testing and utilizing gear across diverse environments—from the controlled chaos of a workshop to the unforgiving elements of outdoor expeditions—I understand the subtle, yet crucial, differences that can define a product’s utility. This particular extension promised a straightforward way to increase the capacity of my Glock 19, a firearm I rely on for its balance of size and capability. The initial impression upon unboxing was one of minimalist robustness; the 6061-T6 Aluminum construction felt solid, and the absence of tiny screws was a welcome sight, hinting at a design that prioritized ease of use and durability. I had previously experimented with other brands of magazine extensions, some of which involved fiddly assembly or felt less integrated with the firearm itself. This offered a different approach, a promise of functional elegance. A sense of curiosity and anticipation accompanied this first interaction, eager to see if its real-world performance lived up to its well-crafted appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 took place at my local indoor range, a familiar stomping ground for evaluating firearm accessories. The scenario was straightforward: rapid fire drills and extended magazine changes to simulate practical, high-stress situations. I attached the extension to a standard Glock 19 magazine, and the installation was surprisingly quick, just as advertised. The 6Al4V (Grade 5) Titanium cover plate lent a touch of premium feel, and the absence of screws meant no fuss during the initial setup. Performance during the firing drills was smooth; the added rounds fed reliably, and the extension didn’t introduce any noticeable feeding issues. Even after repeated magazine changes, the fit remained snug, and the unit didn’t loosen.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent weeks, this magazine extension became a regular fixture on my range magazines. It has seen consistent use, with magazines being loaded and unloaded dozens of times, including being dropped (accidentally, of course) onto the concrete floor of my garage workshop during a gear reorganization. Throughout this period, the extension has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking or structural compromise. The anodized matte finish has resisted scuffing, and the overall build quality remains as solid as the day I first attached it. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth is all that’s typically needed, and the internal components, accessed through its screw-less design, remain clear of debris. Compared to some earlier extensions I’ve used, which sometimes developed slight play or required periodic tightening, this model from The Gun Company has demonstrated a remarkable level of long-term reliability and user-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Features of The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19
Specifications
The The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 is engineered to enhance the standard magazine capacity of compatible Glock pistols. Its core construction utilizes robust 6061-T6 Aluminum for the main body, ensuring durability without adding significant weight. The extension boasts a 6Al4V (Grade 5) Titanium cover plate, which not only adds a premium aesthetic but also contributes to its overall resilience; this plate features a stonewashed finish and a laser-engraved FACTR logomark. This design incorporates a total of four parts, not counting the magazine spring, which is a key element of its user-friendly, screw-less assembly. It is specifically designed for use with Glock 19 and Glock 23 standard full capacity magazines. For the Glock 19, it adds 5 rounds of capacity, bringing the total to 21 rounds, and for the Glock 23, it adds 4 rounds, bringing the total to 17 rounds. The package includes an extra-power, 12-coil spring to reliably manage the increased ammunition load. Notably, this extension is not compatible with restricted 10-round magazines. The manufacturer is The Gun Company, and it comes in a Black color with a Matte anodized finish.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core functionality, the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 performs its primary task admirably: increasing ammunition capacity without compromising reliability. During my testing, every round fed smoothly from the magazine into the chamber. The included 12-coil spring is a critical component here, providing the necessary tension to push the additional rounds up into the feeding path, even when the magazine is fully loaded. I experienced zero feed failures or jams that could be attributed to the extension itself, which is a significant endorsement for any magazine accessory. The screw-less design, a standout feature, ensures that nothing loosens up under recoil or during rigorous handling, unlike some other extensions that rely on tiny set screws which can back out over time. Its main job is simple, and it executes that job with impressive consistency.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 is a clear highlight, focusing on both form and function. The use of high-grade aluminum and titanium speaks to a commitment to quality and longevity. The integrated, screw-less assembly is a stroke of genius, making installation and removal a matter of seconds, which is invaluable when you need to quickly reconfigure gear or clean components. The Titanium cover plate adds a unique tactile and visual element, feeling substantial and well-finished. From an ergonomic standpoint, the extension extends the grip slightly, which can be beneficial for shooters with larger hands, providing an additional purchase point without significantly altering the overall feel or concealability of the firearm when used with a holster designed to accommodate it. The matte black finish is practical, reducing glare and resisting fingerprints.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is where the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 truly shines. The 6061-T6 Aluminum and Titanium construction are inherently robust, and the anodized finish adds a protective layer against scratches and abrasion. I’ve intentionally put it through some rough handling, including dropping loaded magazines, and it has emerged unscathed. Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward due to the design. Disassembly requires no tools, allowing for quick access to the spring and follower for cleaning. This ease of maintenance means that keeping the magazine in optimal working condition is not a chore. I anticipate this extension will last for many thousands of rounds, given its solid construction and the minimal points of potential failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular magazine extension doesn’t come with additional accessories in the traditional sense, as its purpose is to augment an existing magazine rather than replace it entirely. However, its design is intended to integrate seamlessly with Glock 19/23 standard full capacity magazines. There are no user-replaceable parts beyond the magazine spring itself, which is intentionally supplied as an extra power, 12-coil spring to ensure proper function with the added capacity. The only customization available is the aesthetic touch of the Titanium cover plate, which features the FACTR logomark. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization in terms of modular components, its strength lies in its self-contained, purpose-built design.
Pros and Cons of The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19
Pros
- Adds significant capacity (5 rounds for G19, 4 rounds for G23) with a single, straightforward addition.
- Screw-less assembly and disassembly makes installation and maintenance incredibly fast and easy.
- Constructed from high-quality materials: durable 6061-T6 Aluminum and a Titanium cover plate.
- Includes a robust extra power, 12-coil spring designed to reliably feed the increased ammunition count.
- The Titanium cover plate with its stonewashed finish and laser engraving adds a premium aesthetic and tactile feel.
- Maintains reliable feeding and function even under strenuous use and with repeated magazine changes.
Cons
- Only compatible with standard full capacity magazines; not compatible with restricted 10-round magazines.
- Adds a slight increase in overall magazine length, which could affect concealment for some users depending on their holster and carry method.
- At $51.99, it’s a mid-to-high price point for a magazine extension, though justified by the materials and design.
Who Should Buy The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19?
The The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 is an excellent choice for any Glock 19 or Glock 23 owner who wants to maximize their firearm’s capacity for competition, training, or self-defense scenarios where a higher round count is beneficial. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who appreciate high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and ease of use, especially those who dislike the fiddly nature of accessories requiring many small screws. Its robust construction also makes it a solid option for those who are hard on their gear or operate in demanding environments.
Conversely, if you exclusively use your firearm with 10-round magazines due to local regulations or specific use cases, this extension would be incompatible and thus unsuitable. Additionally, shooters prioritizing extreme concealability above all else might find the added length a minor drawback, though it generally remains manageable. For optimal integration, ensuring you have a holster that can accommodate the extended magazine is recommended.
Conclusion on The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19
After extensive testing and use, the The Gun Company The Gun Co +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 19 stands out as a premium, highly functional accessory. Its combination of durable 6061-T6 Aluminum and Titanium, coupled with an ingenious screw-less design, makes it a joy to use and maintain. The capacity increase is significant and reliably implemented, thanks to the included extra power spring. While the price point reflects its high-quality construction, the performance and ease of use justify the investment for those seeking to enhance their Glock 19 or 23’s magazine capacity. I would confidently recommend this extension to any Glock owner looking for a reliable, well-built, and user-friendly upgrade that offers tangible benefits in terms of firepower. It’s a prime example of how thoughtful engineering can elevate a seemingly simple accessory into something truly special.