Consensus on Glock extended basepads?

[spyderco monkey]

So theres now been several years of extended basepads for Glocks.

Taran, Dawson, Hyve, Springer, etc.

My questions is, are they good to go for serious use? Or simply for range use? And if so, which base pad is best?

Right now I've heard conflicting reports:

On one side, lots of guys, including a number of serious volume competitive shooters, are running extended basepads and praising them.

On the other, I have hear 2 main complaints:

1: Basepads breaking open when dropped onto a hard surface:
https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?23988-TTI-base-pad-spontaneous-disassembly

2: Aftermarket springs wearing out after 6-12 months, preventing the gun from locking back:
https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?36019-Dawson-Precision-Glock-HiCap-Basepad&p=867799&viewfull=1#post867799

In regards to #2, I wonder if trimming a Glock OEM 33rd mag spring to 12 coils would solve that issue for the +5/6 basepads. Or alternatively, just stick with the smaller +3/4 basepads and use the Glock factory 11 coil spring used in the factory 19rd g19x mags.

Anyway, is there a consensus on these extended basepads?

[rd62]

I've had good luck with the Glock factory +2 baseplates and have one on my EDC reload. I picked up a couple of factory 24rnd 9mm mags too, but the length is more than I care for in a belt carried reload, but one rides in my truck console. The 24 and 33rnd mags make good PCC mags/reloads but I find the 33 unwieldy in a handgun. I dont have any experience with the Taran or other baseplates.

[Lost River]

I have used Taylor Freelance +5s for years. Used them OCONUS where they got used heavily and never had a problem.

That said, now days I would (and do) just by factory 24 round mags if I want an extended mag for non USPSA purposes.

I find the 33 round mags impractical for carry, the 24 round mags are doable for me in certain circumstances.

shown here next to a 15 round mag.


https://i.imgur.com/Q9BlRlh.jpg?3

[EVP]

I agree with LostRiver

I did some searching on this awhile ago. It seemed that the Glock oem+2 were the most reliable but still occasionally would fail when dropped.

In the age of OEM 24 rounders, I don’t see the need for anything else when looking at extended magazines.

[pastaslinger]

I carry with Arredondo's. The OEM +2's work well but do depend on the spring you use. For example, 17 round mags with a +2 may work for a little while with the regular spring but should really be used with a +10% aka extra coil spring.

[Navin Johnson]

So theres now been several years of extended basepads for Glocks.

Taran, Dawson, Hyve, Springer, etc.

My questions is, are they good to go for serious use? Or simply for range use? And if so, which base pad is best?

Right now I've heard conflicting reports:

On one side, lots of guys, including a number of serious volume competitive shooters, are running extended basepads and praising them.

On the other, I have hear 2 main complaints:

1: Basepads breaking open when dropped onto a hard surface:
https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?23988-TTI-base-pad-spontaneous-disassembly

2: Aftermarket springs wearing out after 6-12 months, preventing the gun from locking back:
https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?36019-Dawson-Precision-Glock-HiCap-Basepad&p=867799&viewfull=1#post867799

In regards to #2, I wonder if trimming a Glock OEM 33rd mag spring to 12 coils would solve that issue for the +5/6 basepads. Or alternatively, just stick with the smaller +3/4 basepads and use the Glock factory 11 coil spring used in the factory 19rd g19x mags.

Anyway, is there a consensus on these extended basepads?


Once again, please define the purpose. Is this for high speed or high stakes?

It seems that no one in their right mind carries a modified Glock. It seems that an extra magazine is a better solution than +2 for carry.

Games....the only way to know is to go do it.....it's not much money for a base pad. Or see what the competitors are using in the game you choose.

[blues]

I carry a Glock +2 on my G26...and a spare +2 in my pouch. I've carried higher capacity, but don't ordinarily feel the need. If I did, I'd carry a 15 round from my G19...but I prefer the flush fit.

[ECVMatt]

With factory options at higher capacity and the Magpul GL21 I really don't see the need for base plates. I know they look cool, come color coordinated, and are used by quite a few folks, but for real or pretend I would just rather just keep it simple.

[GJM]

The Glock base pad design, which is a bugger to get off, is a feature and a bug. A bug when you want to disassemble the magazine and a feature to keep the magazine from disassembling when you don’t want it to.

I had a Taran base plate on a M&P magazine come loose as I made ready last weekend at a match. 140mm extensions are near mandatory for Carry Optics, but I use OEM base plates for carry.

[Cypher]

I use the factory extended baseplate on my Glock 26 magazines. I've never had a problem with them shooting or carrying that gun in my pocket for a year at work. I use a standard Glock 19 magazine as a reload.

https://i.postimg.cc/BbGBp6yL/20190628_145740.jpg (https://postimg.cc/r0Q4F8qM)

[PD Sgt.]

I use the factory +2 mags on my work pistol (G17.5) and have found them reliable and durable. Some of my co workers opt for the Taran or Zev extensions, partly for capacity, partly for the extra purchase when pulling them from flapped pouches on kit, particularly when wearing gloves.

As an aside, does anyone know if Glock is still making the black factory G17 +2 mags? I can only ever find the tan ones when I look online.

[TCB]

PDSgt...Call your Glock LE Rep, I just ordered the Black 17 w +2 mags off our contract for use at work. If he can’t take care of you I’ll swap you some black ones for tan ones. I like the factory +2 for general use, I have the TTI +5 for match use. Never had problems with either but I’m fairly new to the Glock platform.

[JSGlock34]

I've had good experience with OEM magazines with the +2 basepad. Just remember that the +2 basepad should be accompanied by the OEM 11 coil magazine spring.

[JonInWA]

I just stick with the OEM "normal capacity" magazines; if I feel the need for more ammunition on hand than one magazine in the gun and 2 reload magazines provides, I prefer simply to add a 3rd reload magazine than dabble with potentially problematic add-ons.

Best, Jon

[littlejerry]

I've had good luck with Taran and OEM extensions. I've used both, a lot, and haven't had a failure from either. Beyond standard USPSA use I've run 12+ biathlons using both. They've taken some hard hits while running through obstacles and haven't popped off yet

Anecdotally some have said various revisions of Glock mags have more or less engagement with the baseplate. All of mine are on older Gen3 and Gen4 mags.

I've had far better service from OEM and Taran extensions than Magpul or ETS 21 rd mags. ETS is literal junk, and Magpuls have a short lifecycle IME.

The OEM 24 rd is a great option(and vastly more cost effective) if it fits the rules of your game.

ETA: the Taran extensions I've used are the smaller +4/3 type. Ive used them on both 17 and 15 rd mags.

[YVK]

TTI, Taylor Freelance and ZEV experience here. The TF I have are brass and I had several instances of them unseating in recoil under their weight. I think this was with aftermarket mag releases. I wouldn't use those weighted types for anything other than games but others I wouldn't have much concern about.

[PD Sgt.]

PDSgt...Call your Glock LE Rep, I just ordered the Black 17 w +2 mags off our contract for use at work. If he can’t take care of you I’ll swap you some black ones for tan ones. I like the factory +2 for general use, I have the TTI +5 for match use. Never had problems with either but I’m fairly new to the Glock platform.

Thank you for the kind offer. If I can’t get them through the rep I may very well take you up on it.

Unfortunately, got hit with the Covid here so it will be a minute before I am sending anything to anyone lol.

[blues]

Thank you for the kind offer. If I can’t get them through the rep I may very well take you up on it.

Unfortunately, got hit with the Covid here so it will be a minute before I am sending anything to anyone lol.

Get better soon, PD Sgt.

[Jason M]

I have used the TT extensions on a G43. They were structurally stable. Mag function was spring dependent but that is another matter that has been discussed in other threads. The only other extensions I’ve used have been the +2 OEM and their use has been limited to G26. They too have remained structurally sound. FWIW, for my G26 (Gen 2.5/3) I really liked the feel of the Magpul 12 round mags. The were stone reliable over several thousand rounds. Now that I’m using a G26 (Gen 5) I’m back to OEM +2s. They are only at about the 1k mark but I trust them to stay attached to the mag tube.

[blues]

The only other extensions I’ve used have been the +2 OEM and their use has been limited to G26. They too have remained structurally sound. FWIW, for my G26 (Gen 2.5/3) I really liked the feel of the Magpul 12 round mags. The were stone reliable over several thousand rounds. Now that I’m using a G26 (Gen 5) I’m back to OEM +2s. They are only at about the 1k mark but I trust them to stay attached to the mag tube.

Exactly my experience...and approach.

[Nephrology]

I've had good luck with OEM and Pierce +2 and +1 (pierce only) extensions in the 9mm doublestacks.

Mixed experience with the TTI +2s in my G43 mags - the ones I installed didn't work, but the complete mags I got from them did, so very possibly just my fuck up. Vickers +2 and Piece +1 43 extensions seem GTG but I haven't tested them nearly as much as the doublestack extensions.

[JSGlock34]

I also bought a few of the Dawson Precision Glock basepads (https://dawsonprecision.com/basepad-hicap-for-glock-extended-tool-less-design-by-dawson-precision/) at Gio's suggestion for carry optics competition. So far they've served me well, and must be the easiest base pads to install.

[TCB]

Thank you for the kind offer. If I can’t get them through the rep I may very well take you up on it.

Unfortunately, got hit with the Covid here so it will be a minute before I am sending anything to anyone lol.

All good brother, get better! And yea, hit me up if you want to swap a few, I like using the tan ones for training mags to easily keep them segregated from my work mags.

[Jason M]

I was at the range yesterday with OEM 10 rounders. Being next door to NJ/NYCT makes me keep three of those with 147gr flat point (Don’t want my name on ammo/LEOSA case law) in the car but I digress. On the timer, the +2 OEM backed with a G19 reload was on par with the OEM 10s during a draw to 2 rounds on a “Noner” steel at 25 yds. The 10s were noticeably slower on the reloads. Harder to consistently get clear of the empty gun and a little harder to yank from a BFG 10 speed pouch. Slower but not slow enough to dissuade me from using OEM 10s. I am considering ditching the +2 just based on the feel.

[the Schwartz]

I use the factory extended baseplate on my Glock 26 magazines. I've never had a problem with them shooting or carrying that gun in my pocket for a year at work. I use a standard Glock 19 magazine as a reload.

https://i.postimg.cc/BbGBp6yL/20190628_145740.jpg (https://postimg.cc/r0Q4F8qM)

So, then, is the G26 magazine with the +2 extension the same length as the standard non-extended G19 magazine?

[blues]

So, then, is the G26 magazine with the +2 extension the same length as the standard non-extended G19 magazine?


No. About 1/2" shorter in the front of the grip...about 1" shorter in the rear.

[vcdgrips]

For defensive purposes-Std Capacity-OEM baseplates. Full Stop. No after market, no OEM +2. Not reliable for me early on. Had and saw more than one grenade when dropped on hard concrete at speed in a match.

For training and up to semi serious competitive purposes- do whatever you are big enough to do.

For serious competitive purposes-out of my lane- I would do and use whatever Robert Vogel does and uses.

[rayrevolver]

Can anyone speak to these?

I traded into 4 sets for a G48, which I will most likely never carry or employ for anything other than fun. They use the factory base plates, so the kit comes with a sleeve and spring only.

To be honest, I was planning to install 1 for grins and see whats what.

I have only used Arredondos once with a G19 but very low round count. The +2 that came with my G26 was never used.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50818060527_f458b3fecc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kqBQVn)

[the Schwartz]

No. About 1/2" shorter in the front of the grip...about 1" shorter in the rear.

OK. Thanks.

I've been thinking about acquiring a G26 (well, two, actually 'cause "one is none, two is one") because...well...just because. Like I really "need" more guns? 🙄 🤣😂🤣😂

Ruled out the G43 because of the size of my hands (alien/mutant length fingers), so for a full-power (9mm and up) subcompact the G26 is it.

Knowing that G19 magazines are a close fit and won't appreciably increase printing is a nice option to have for spares in the belt carrier.

Thanks, blues.

[blues]

OK. Thanks.

I've been thinking about acquiring a G26 (well, two, actually 'cause "one is none, two is one") because...well...just because. Like I really "need" more guns? 🙄 🤣😂🤣😂

Ruled out the G43 because of the size of my hands (alien/mutant length fingers), so for a full-power subcompact the G26 is it.

Knowing that G19 magazines are a close fit and won't increase printing is nice option to have for spares in the belt carrier.

Thanks, blues.

You're welcome. It's a great gun, imho...and the only one I've backed up with a spare. (And perfect for LEOSA.)

[TCB]

Magazines falling apart when dropped on concrete to me are really only a concern to me in training / match application...in my world if I drop that magazine (non retention reload) it’s gone...the investigators can recover it later. Not to say I don’t want robust magazines but fullish magazines falling on to concrete is about as bad as it gets and I wouldn’t really expect any magazine to be able to do that repeatedly.

[farscott]

My personal practice is to only carry with stock Glock magazines that have never had the floorplate removed. As we have often discussed, magazines are key to the performance of semi-auto pistol. It also appears that none of the non-OEM magazines perform as well as the OEM ones. As such, I see no reason to mess with them.

I use a stock ten-round G26.3 magazine with nine loaded and the spare(s) is/are a G17 magazine with sixteen loaded when carrying my chopped G17.3 or the NPE Glock 26.3. I also consider Glock magazines to be consumables, so spending additional funds to add a round or two does not make sense for me. YMMV.

[Norville]

I also bought a few of the Dawson Precision Glock basepads (https://dawsonprecision.com/basepad-hicap-for-glock-extended-tool-less-design-by-dawson-precision/) at Gio's suggestion for carry optics competition. So far they've served me well, and must be the easiest base pads to install.

I have had great luck using the Dawson extensions over 2 seasons of Carry Optics. 22 fit easily, 23 can be made to fit and will function for those times when the insurance factor replaces a reload, which is not often.

[PD Sgt.]

All good brother, get better! And yea, hit me up if you want to swap a few, I like using the tan ones for training mags to easily keep them segregated from my work mags.

That is exactly what I do. Thanks .

[the Schwartz]

You're welcome. It's a great gun, imho...and the only one I've backed up with a spare. (And perfect for LEOSA.)

Perhaps if I get everything that I need before the end of June, I'll be able to run the 26 when my LEOSA requal is due. Otherwise, it'll be the tried 'n true 17 which ain't a bad thing since it is as comfortable to me as a pair of well worn jeans and t-shirt.

[RJ]

Can anyone speak to these?

I traded into 4 sets for a G48, which I will most likely never carry or employ for anything other than fun. They use the factory base plates, so the kit comes with a sleeve and spring only.

To be honest, I was planning to install 1 for grins and see whats what.



I am very interested to hear about your experience with these.

[Nephrology]

OK. Thanks.

I've been thinking about acquiring a G26 (well, two, actually 'cause "one is none, two is one") because...well...just because. Like I really "need" more guns? 🙄 🤣😂🤣😂

Ruled out the G43 because of the size of my hands (alien/mutant length fingers), so for a full-power (9mm and up) subcompact the G26 is it.

Knowing that G19 magazines are a close fit and won't appreciably increase printing is a nice option to have for spares in the belt carrier.

Thanks, blues.

I think the g26 is one of the best guns that Glock sells. If I could only be limited to one, It'd probably be a G26. Certainly their most versatile carry gun. On my build (5'10, ~165lb), the G26 w/+2 mag hides just better enough (AIWB) vs. a G19 to make it a worthwhile trade-off. It's probably the gun that I carry the most often year-round.

[rayrevolver]

I am very interested to hear about your experience with these.

PM your address and I will send you 2 of them. And between the 2 of us we can provide some feedback to PF. My shooting for 2021 will slow way down but I hope to put some rounds through the used but new to me G48 (traded with a PF member).

[RJ]

PM your address and I will send you 2 of them. And between the 2 of us we can provide some feedback to PF. My shooting for 2021 will slow way down but I hope to put some rounds through the used but new to me G48 (traded with a PF member).

Ray that is most generous of you. I’ll send you a PM shortly.

I’ve heard about and used several basepads, extended and +0, for my double stack Glocks I’ve owned (26, 19, 34) but I wasn’t even so much as aware that Ghost made these for the 43X/48. I will certainly give them a run, post the results and send them back to you.

[Cypher]

So, then, is the G26 magazine with the +2 extension the same length as the standard non-extended G19 magazine?

Like Blues said it is just a little shorter. And of course the 26 magazine holds 12 rounds where the 19 magazine holds 15.

ETA I know it's slightly off topic but I've had good luck with the Magpul 12 Glock 26 magazines also. The only issue that I've had with them is they don't tend to drop free like the factory magazines do.

[the Schwartz]

I think the g26 is one of the best guns that Glock sells. If I could only be limited to one, It'd probably be a G26. Certainly their most versatile carry gun. On my build (5'10, ~165lb), the G26 w/+2 mag hides just better enough (AIWB) vs. a G19 to make it a worthwhile trade-off. It's probably the gun that I carry the most often year-round.

The significantly smaller profile that you describe that makes AIWB a little more 'do-able' is why I am interested in the 26. The 42 that I have is nice for what I call 'hard' NPEs, but when I can get away with a somewhat larger gun in 9mm with greater magazine capacity than the 42 in less restrictive environments, I prefer an SOB/IWB arrangement. Running a 26 with 19 mags, even with an extra inch of protrusion by the 19 mag sounds like it's going to work for me.

[Nephrology]

The significantly smaller profile that you describe that makes AIWB a little more 'do-able' is why I am interested in the 26. The 42 that I have is nice for what I call 'hard' NPEs, but when I can get away with a somewhat larger gun in 9mm with greater magazine capacity than the 42 in less restrictive environments, I prefer an SOB/IWB arrangement. Running a 26 with 19 mags, even with an extra inch of protrusion by the 19 mag sounds like it's going to work for me.

I usually carry the 26 with either the flat OEM 10rd mags or the OEM +2 baseplates. Because the G26 and G19 use the same magazine spring, no replacement is required, which is an added plus. I find the +2 mag gives it a "bobtailed Glock 19" profile that I've found works especially well for me. Typically have a G19 mag in a front pocket Desantis pouch for a reload.

When I get the money saved up I will be sending one of my 26s off for direct milling for an optic of some kind. It really is a highly under-rated pistol.

[JonInWA]

I had a G27 years ago, and eventually traded or sold it. Here's why:

1. The juice didn't equal the squeeze-per DocGKR's comments, with .40 (or .357 SIG), when you go smaller than the full-size frame, the effort to control the recoil becomes disproportionately difficult;

2. For control, I ended up attaching a Pierce Grip magazine extension to facilitate grip-which essentially took the frame portion to Compact size, so a major attraction of the Sub-Compact format was eliminated (yeah, ok, so the slide was still shorter, but that in and of itself I didn't find to be a good enough reason to keep it-my draw with the Compact frame Glock wasn't significantly slower, or concealment inhibited by the longer slide)

3. While I had a G27 (and concurrently a G23), I ended up deciding on a G19, with zero regrets-especially given recent 9mm cartridge improvements.

4. While I acknowledge that the G26 is a viable 10-round Glock choice, I'll just stick with my G19. If I feel a need for a 10 round 9mm Glock, I'd be more inclined to go the G48 route, due to the more viable grip length, at least for me.

Best, Jon

[RJ]

Running a 26 with 19 mags, even with an extra inch of protrusion by the 19 mag sounds like it's going to work for me.



Just curious, but if you can do that, why not carry the G19 and have the advantage of the longer sight radius and more slide mass/bigger RSA to dampen felt recoil?

In full disclosure, I am not a fan of the G26. I carried it for several months AOWB in an RCS Perun with a +2 OEM mag. I sold it with less than 200 rounds. It just wasn’t fun to shoot. The mag interchangeability with 19s/17s is a huge plus, obviously. But as a 10 round gun by itself, I just think there are lots better options these days (having just gone through a P365, G43X, P365XL and G48 in the last 18 months to settle on the G48 as my EDC.)

[blues]

Just curious, but if you can do that, why not carry the G19 and have the advantage of the longer sight radius and more slide mass/bigger RSA to dampen felt recoil?

In full disclosure, I am not a fan of the G26. I carried it for several months AOWB in an RCS Perun with a +2 OEM mag. I sold it with less than 200 rounds. It just wasn’t fun to shoot. The mag interchangeability with 19s/17s is a huge plus, obviously. But as a 10 round gun by itself, I just think there are lots better options these days (having just gone through a P365, G43X, P365XL and G48 in the last 18 months to settle on the G48 as my EDC.)

Not fun to shoot? You're out of the club and I'm telling GAP

I think it's fun to shoot...just as much as my 19. But I'm weird.

:cool:

[the Schwartz]

Just curious, but if you can do that, why not carry the G19 and have the advantage of the longer sight radius and more slide mass/bigger RSA to dampen felt recoil?

In full disclosure, I am not a fan of the G26. I carried it for several months AOWB in an RCS Perun with a +2 OEM mag. I sold it with less than 200 rounds. It just wasn’t fun to shoot. The mag interchangeability with 19s/17s is a huge plus, obviously. But as a 10 round gun by itself, I just think there are lots better options these days (having just gone through a P365, G43X, P365XL and G48 in the last 18 months to settle on the G48 as my EDC.)

The 9mm—even when I've fired it from lighter platforms—has never been much of a problem for me when it comes to recoil mitigation/management so it's not a factor in my choice.

I've ruled out the narrower grips of the P365, G43, and G48 for the larger circumference of the grip of the G26 which is identical to the G17 and the most comfortable for me to handle due to the size of my hands.

I'll be comfortable carrying it SOB/IWB as my proportions are reasonably slim at my present 6'2'', 185 - 190 pounds.

[RJ]

The 9mm—even when I've fired it from lighter platforms—has never been much of a problem for me when it comes to recoil mitigation/management so it's not a factor in my choice.

I've ruled out the narrower grips of the P365, G43, and G48 for the larger circumference of the grip of the G26 which is identical to the G17 and the most comfortable for me to handle due to the size of my hands.

I'll be comfortable carrying it SOB/IWB as my proportions are reasonably slim at my present 6'2'', 185 - 190 pounds.

Well, cool. Hope it works out then. I shot my 26 with a 19 mag once, and recall it was very uncomfortable since the lower part of the grip had gaps at the bottom. Might have just been the way it hit me; perhaps an X grip might be an idea.

I used my P30SK w 13 round mag in my first Tom Givens class, reloads failing to drop were also a problem with the short grip.

Look, lest people think I’m bashing the 26, I’m not. Mine was accurate and reliable. It’s just what I thought was a great gun in the store didn’t turn out to be a match for me. Which happens.

Anyway, It sounds like the 26+19 mag will work for you though. Good luck with it, and back to the extended basepad discussion!

[GAP]

Opinion on extension:

After a lot of testing, I think the +2 OEM gives the best bang for the buck.

Even though it appears as long as a G19 grip, it provides a significant bobtail effect. The back corner of the grip and the slide are what print. Some mags with the extensions allow +2 with or without rattle; or you can avoid it all together and just load +1.

Mindset:

I have contemplated carrying with the +2, but after years and easily over 10K rounds through several G26’s, the two finger grip feels fine and I have learned how to manage reloads and draws on par with an extension. Additionally, the smaller profile allows you to clear your holster a bit faster and gives an enemy less to grab on to during an extremely close altercation.

It’s all mental, unless your grip truly sucks then work on deadlifting and/or utilizing captains of crush. There are far more important things (physical fitness, hand to hand combat training) than worrying about a two finger grip or a thin grip or whatever. Practice, practice, practice — but do it with a tool you can have on you 365 days a year.

[blues]

Opinion on extension:

After a lot of testing, I think the +2 OEM gives the best bang for the buck.

Even though it appears as long as a G19 grip, it provides a significant bobtail effect. The back corner of the grip and the slide are what print. Some mags with the extensions allow +2 with or without rattle; or you can avoid it all together and just load +1.

Mindset:

I have contemplated carrying with the +2, but after years and easily over 10K rounds through several G26’s, the two finger grip feels fine and I have learned how to manage reloads and draws on par with an extension. Additionally, the smaller profile allows you to clear your holster a bit faster and gives an enemy less to grab on to during an extremely close altercation.

It’s all mental, unless your grip truly sucks then work on deadlifting and/or utilizing captains of crush. There are far more important things (physical fitness, hand to hand combat training) than worrying about a two finger grip or a thin grip or whatever. Practice, practice, practice — but do it with a tool you can have on you 365 days a year.

Very well said, on all counts, GAP.

[Jason M]

When reading the last from GAP I found myself thinking along the same lines. When I got my first 26 (about the time they came out) I was doing a lot of gym rat time. Deadlifts, pull-ups, etc helped develop a great deal of grip strength. After getting a red 26 (with a flat bottom profile), it went to the mat room and was "rolled around" with. This was before AIWB and was done with Kramer leather products. They survived! The stubby slide did hamper gun grabbers when the gun was out of the holster. The stubby grip made it harder for grabbers trying to snatch it from the holster. The strong 2 finger grip did not hamper weapon retention abilities in or out of the holster. I think its size made it easier to cover while in the holster.

In the spirit of "chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry" everyone has what works for them. I shoot from a more or less traditional position. Being a bigger mammal, I have some weight behind the gun. G26 recoil seems to come straight back into my hands with less muzzle rise than one would expect from the little gun. This is even so with a one handed grip from awkward positions. The 43x does not feel the same. The 43x is workable but the fatter 26 grip feels better and (for me) is easier for sight tracking.

I also like how the 26 is "scalable" for task/conditions/location based on magazines. Fair warning to those who are tuned off by this: I'm going to apply some cop context here but it is likely applicable to non-cops too :-)

I frequently carry the 26 off-duty. Usually with a G19 reload and now with a 10 round OEM mag in the gun. This provides a great deal of capability. The small, reliable, easy to carry/deploy package makes for a great "save me" gun. (Think robbery, etc.) The longer reload gives a little more time in the game with one manipulation of the gun versus another 10 round for a reload in the less likely event of an extended "save me" scenario. (Think multiple robbers or a targeted attack.) The gun can also be scaled up with bigger/more mags if going someplace in which there may be legal, moral, or ethical imperative to have a "save others" gun . (Think employment or school shooting rather than a coordinated terrorist action.)

The gun can also be scaled down to comply with mag restriction laws. From where I live, any travel in a northeasterly direction requires flat bottom mags in the gun and on the belt. I even keep 3 OEM 10 rounders in my vehicle. Sometimes I have to make an unplanned journey to those places.

All things considered, the little beast is pretty versatile! As others have mentioned, If limited to only one pistol, given my needs for the foreseeable future, the 26 would very likely be the one.

[GAP]

When reading the last from GAP I found myself thinking along the same lines. When I got my first 26 (about the time they came out) I was doing a lot of gym rat time. Deadlifts, pull-ups, etc helped develop a great deal of grip strength. After getting a red 26 (with a flat bottom profile), it went to the mat room and was "rolled around" with. This was before AIWB and was done with Kramer leather products. They survived! The stubby slide did hamper gun grabbers when the gun was out of the holster. The stubby grip made it harder for grabbers trying to snatch it from the holster. The strong 2 finger grip did not hamper weapon retention abilities in or out of the holster. I think its size made it easier to cover while in the holster.

In the spirit of "chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry" everyone has what works for them. I shoot from a more or less traditional position. Being a bigger mammal, I have some weight behind the gun. G26 recoil seems to come straight back into my hands with less muzzle rise than one would expect from the little gun. This is even so with a one handed grip from awkward positions. The 43x does not feel the same. The 43x is workable but the fatter 26 grip feels better and (for me) is easier for sight tracking.

I also like how the 26 is "scalable" for task/conditions/location based on magazines. Fair warning to those who are tuned off by this: I'm going to apply some cop context here but it is likely applicable to non-cops too :-)

I frequently carry the 26 off-duty. Usually with a G19 reload and now with a 10 round OEM mag in the gun. This provides a great deal of capability. The small, reliable, easy to carry/deploy package makes for a great "save me" gun. (Think robbery, etc.) The longer reload gives a little more time in the game with one manipulation of the gun versus another 10 round for a reload in the less likely event of an extended "save me" scenario. (Think multiple robbers or a targeted attack.) The gun can also be scaled up with bigger/more mags if going someplace in which there may be legal, moral, or ethical imperative to have a "save others" gun . (Think employment or school shooting rather than a coordinated terrorist action.)

The gun can also be scaled down to comply with mag restriction laws. From where I live, any travel in a northeasterly direction requires flat bottom mags in the gun and on the belt. I even keep 3 OEM 10 rounders in my vehicle. Sometimes I have to make an unplanned journey to those places.

All things considered, the little beast is pretty versatile! As others have mentioned, If limited to only one pistol, given my needs for the foreseeable future, the 26 would very likely be the one.

Excellent context; thank you.. need this one in the G26 thread! Jason M

[Jason M]

It is done, Sir! Good call!

[spyderco monkey]

I've had good luck with Taran and OEM extensions. I've used both, a lot, and haven't had a failure from either. Beyond standard USPSA use I've run 12+ biathlons using both. They've taken some hard hits while running through obstacles and haven't popped off yet

Anecdotally some have said various revisions of Glock mags have more or less engagement with the baseplate. All of mine are on older Gen3 and Gen4 mags.

I've had far better service from OEM and Taran extensions than Magpul or ETS 21 rd mags. ETS is literal junk, and Magpuls have a short lifecycle IME.

The OEM 24 rd is a great option(and vastly more cost effective) if it fits the rules of your game.

ETA: the Taran extensions I've used are the smaller +4/3 type. Ive used them on both 17 and 15 rd mags.

For the +3/4 small basepad, what spring are you using in them?

I had figured 10 coil for the G19, 11 coil for the G17.

And in the 17, do you get a full 21rd? And is it able to be seated with the slide closed?

[RJ]

Ray that is most generous of you. I’ll send you a PM shortly.

I’ve heard about and used several basepads, extended and +0, for my double stack Glocks I’ve owned (26, 19, 34) but I wasn’t even so much as aware that Ghost made these for the 43X/48. I will certainly give them a run, post the results and send them back to you.

Very much appreciate rayrevolver's generosity for sending me, gratis, a pair of these +4 Ghost mag extensions to try on my Glock 48 magazines. Here's what happened when I tried to use them today.

Parts that come with the kit are a +4 base extension for the mag tube, and a longer spring.

Packaging, Ghost Mag Tube Extension and Spring at left, OEM Magazine Tube, Spring, Follower, Floor plate at right.
66202

I tried them out on two previously used two OEM Glock 43X/48 stock mags.

Mag 1: Disassembled. Swapped in new Ghost spring, and attached Ghost mag tube extension. The follower did not "click" into place on the new spring. Otherwise it all snapped in. I could only load 12 rounds with this mag. (spec is +4). Removed all rounds (brand new American Eagle 124 FMJ, I've shot this box before), and tried again. Even with my Uplula, I could not get more than 12 rounds into this mag. Hmmm.

Mag 2: Same install process. Same issue with the new spring not clicking onto the follower.

In this case, I was able to load 14 rounds, however, at about the 12th or 13th round, the rounds started to get really loose, like all the tension had gone out. Very weird.

I pushed in the 14th round and stopped. At this point, there was very little pushing up on the cartridges. I started to eject the rounds, and they all basically "fell" out of the mag tube, up until about 7 or 8 rounds. Then none came out. No follower, nothing. Zip. Nada.

I removed the floor plate, and then very suddenly the rest of rounds spilled out, followed shortly after by the spring, which bounced enthusiastically off the wall.

I reassembled the mag again with the new parts, and repeated the above sequence, pretty much verbatim. Except this time I was ready and caught the spring before it launched itself across the room. I had to use my BF dead blow hammer to separate the mag tube from the Ghost tube extension. It came off after a light tap or two. I decided to put them back in the package, and put the Glock OEM parts back on.

I don't know if anyone at Ghost actually tried these things, but I'm not really sure I'd like to use them at the range.

[littlejerry]

For the +3/4 small basepad, what spring are you using in them?

I had figured 10 coil for the G19, 11 coil for the G17.

And in the 17, do you get a full 21rd? And is it able to be seated with the slide closed?

Oh man, it's been a while since I set them up. I think used a spare G17 magazine spring in the 15+3 mag, and I bought new springs for the 17+4 mags.

When brand new I recall they weren't easy to seat, but at this point I don't have any issues. You definitely need a mag loader to get that 21st round in, but the mag isn't difficult to seat.

[rayrevolver]

I reassembled the mag again with the new parts, and repeated the above sequence, pretty much verbatim. Except this time I was ready and caught the spring before it launched itself across the room. I had to use my BF dead blow hammer to separate the mag tube from the Ghost tube extension. It came off after a light tap or two. I decided to put them back in the package, and put the Glock OEM parts back on.

I don't know if anyone at Ghost actually tried these things, but I'm not really sure I'd like to use them at the range.

Ouch. Thats what you get for accepting free crap from strangers!!! :p Sorry man.

I installed 1 of the kits 2 nights ago. It did not feel like it fit flush on the front. I hit it with a small mallet but it didn't seem to close the small gap. The follower, when pushed down, didn't quite come back all the way up. Hmmm.

I was able to use a maglula to load 13 rounds and the 14th by hand. So now it sits with 14 rounds loaded until my next range session. I predict it will not lock back when empty. I am not impressed and imagine this mag will go back to standard.

...that said, I might have 2 more kits for someone who thinks they can make it work. Preferably a sight supporter.

[spyderco monkey]

As an aside, does anyone know if Glock is still making the black factory G17 +2 mags? I can only ever find the tan ones when I look online.

I did a simple mod for the Tan 19X 17+2's, as I didn't care for the color, but also didn't want to risk weakening the mag by taking off the base pad and swapping it for a black one.

https://i.ibb.co/c1QQpWk/Hockey-Tape-Base-Pad.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/q1cLNTs/Hockey-Tape-Base-Pad-2.jpg

https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Tape-White-Hockey-Rolls/dp/B01F867314/

My OCD color matching is satisfied, and I also think the hockey tape ads a little bit more grip when pulling the mag from a pouch.

Tape is low enough on the magazine body that it doesnt create any drag on dropping free.

[rd62]

Just picked up another 10 G17 mags from Brownells. My standard parctice is to carry a G17 with OEM +2 baseplate as a reload for whatever 9mm Glock I may be carrying. I prefer the extra grip/length when running reloads from IWB and the extra couple of rounds is really just an added benefit. I'd like to add OEM +2 baseplates to a couple of the new mags as well. Can anyone recommend a source for them and an 11 coil mag spring. Its been ages since I converted the last ones and can't recall the particulars of the springs specifically.

[ViniVidivici]

I believe recent production G17 mags already come with 11-coil.

In years past I ordered OEM +2s directly from Glock.....but they have stopped doing that, it seems.....and everything's hard to find right now. I'd check the usual suspects.....optics planet has them for backorder......

https://www.opticsplanet.com/glock-40-s-w-357-sig-9mm-plus-two-magazine-extension-does-not-include-mag-insert.html

My 2 cents on 'em, I've used them for years on G17, G23, and G22 mags, never any kind of problem. In .40 they only give you +1. I think they're great.

I also think Magpul 21 rounders are great, mine are 100% reliable (with brass or nickel ammo), and kind of negate the value of future acquisitions of OEM +2s for me, I already have plenty anyway.

My 2 cents on the G26: outstanding pistol, I'm always amazed at how it handles so very much like a G19 when I shoot....very versatile gun. And the Magpul 12 rounders are great forthose, too, in my experience.

[Jason M]

The Magpul 12 round mags work great in the Gen 2.5/3 G26s. My 26.5 dislikes them with a white hot hate.