Many gun enthusiasts take pride in owning a Glock firearm. These handguns are popular among many people for several reasons: they are well-engineered, and their reliability makes them an excellent means of self-defense, which is one of the main reasons why both police officers and private citizens tend to choose Glocks when selecting a sidearm. One simple way to improve your sidearm’s abilities is to equip it with a magazine extension that will allow your firearm to carry more rounds.

Steps to Install a Glock Magazine Extension

Gather Your Materials

Before beginning the installation process, you’ll need to ensure you have all the necessary components on hand. For this project, you’ll require the following items:

Glock magazine:

This is the core component that holds and feeds ammunition into the firearm. Depending on your Glock model, ensure you have the correct magazine.

Glock magazine extension:

This component is used to increase the magazine’s capacity. The extension allows for additional rounds to be loaded, providing extended shooting capability.

Magazine spring:

This spring ensures proper tension and feed of ammunition within the magazine. When installing a magazine extension, a longer or stronger spring is often required to accommodate the additional rounds and maintain reliable feeding.

Read More: Top 10 Glock Magazine Extensions on the Market

Appropriate tools:

You’ll need various tools  (such as a punch, pliers, and a small flathead screwdriver) to assist with the disassembly and assembly of the magazine:

• Punch: Used to remove pins and other small components.
• Pliers: Handy for gripping and maneuvering parts.
• Small Flathead Screwdriver: Useful for prying and adjusting small components during the installation process.

Having these materials ready will ensure a smooth and efficient installation, allowing you to enhance your Glock magazine’s capacity and performance.

Ensure Safety

Safety should always be the top priority when working with firearms. Before you start disassembling your Glock magazine, double-check that the firearm itself is unloaded and secured in a safe direction. Keep your workspace clear of any live ammunition, and maintain a heightened sense of caution throughout the entire installation process.

Disassemble the Magazine

Now that you have all your safety gear on, you can start disassembling your Glock magazine. First, confirm whether or not the magazine is empty. If it is not, empty it. Now, get a small flathead screwdriver or a punch tool and use it to gently pry off the baseplate at the bottom of the magazine.

Be careful with the spring plus the follower, as they will be released once you pull this off. The firearm magazine is a detachable part of the firearm that holds and feeds the ammunition. There are two types of magazines with a minor difference. A magazine with a box is referred to as a magazine, while a magazine with no box is referred to as a clip.

Install the Magazine Extension

Now, it’s time to attach the magazine extension. Begin by inserting the new spring into the magazine tube. Ensure that the spring is properly aligned and sits flush against the bottom of the magazine. Next, place the magazine extension over the magazine tube, lining up the threads or attachment points.

Depending on the specific design of the magazine extension, you may need to use pliers or a tool to secure it. Apply firm, even pressure to fully seat the extension, making certain that it is properly aligned and will not come loose during use.

Test the Magazine

With the magazine extension installed, it’s time to perform a function check. First, insert the follower back into the magazine tube, ensuring it moves freely. Then, replace the baseplate, listening for an audible “click” to confirm it is firmly in place.

Next, load the magazine with a few rounds of ammunition and test the action. Verify that the rounds feed properly and the slide locks back when the magazine is empty. If you encounter any issues, double-check your work and make any necessary adjustments before proceeding.

Common FAQs About Glock Magazine Extensions

Will adding a magazine extension affect the reliability of my Glock?

When installed correctly, a Glock magazine extension should not negatively impact the reliability of your firearm. The extension is designed to work seamlessly with the original magazine, maintaining Glock’s well-earned reputation for dependability.

However, it’s important to follow the installation instructions carefully and test the magazine thoroughly before relying on it for self-defense or other critical uses.

Can I install a magazine extension on any Glock model?

While magazine extensions are available for most Glock models, it’s crucial to ensure you purchase the correct size and type of extension for your specific handgun. Glock offers a variety of magazine sizes and capacities.

Hence, it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations or work with a reputable firearms dealer to select the appropriate extension for your Glock.

Do I need any special tools to install a magazine extension?

The basic tools required for installing a Glock magazine extension are relatively common and inexpensive. You’ll typically need a small flathead screwdriver or punch tool to remove the magazine baseplate, as well as pliers or a similar tool to secure the extension in place.

Some extensions may also require the use of a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening. If you’re unsure about the specific tools needed, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek guidance from an experienced gunsmith.

Will a magazine extension make my Glock harder to conceal?

The addition of a magazine extension will increase the overall length and size of your Glock’s magazine, which can affect the firearm’s concealability.

However, the extent to which this impacts concealment will depend on the specific model of Glock, the size of the extension, and the type of holster or carry method you use.

It’s essential to evaluate your carry setup and personal preferences to determine if a magazine extension is a suitable choice for your needs.

Are there any legal restrictions on magazine extensions?

Magazine capacity and magazine extension laws vary significantly by location, so it’s crucial to research and understand the regulations in your area before making any modifications to your Glock.

Some jurisdictions may have restrictions or outright bans on magazine extensions, so be sure to check with your local authorities or a knowledgeable legal professional before proceeding.

Conclusion

Installing a Glock magazine extension is a straightforward process that can provide you with additional firepower when you need it most. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can successfully add this enhancement to your Glock handgun.

Remember, if you ever feel unsure about the installation process or have concerns about the legality of magazine extensions in your area, it’s always best to consult with a professional gunsmith or seek guidance from a trusted firearms expert. With the right knowledge and attention to detail, you can confidently take your Glock to the next level with a magazine extension that meets your specific needs and preferences.