High Ground Media, LLC

Regardless if you need it for competition, EDC, or just personal preference—handgun magwell extensions aid in rapid reloads and allow you keep your eye on target while driving home the magazine. The Magwell Adaptor (Short) by SLR Rifleworks is one of many offered for the extensive Glock line of handguns, including the newer Gen 5, accomplishes those tasks flawlessly.

Made from 7075 billet aluminum, the Magwell Adaptor Short for the Gen 5 G19 gives added purchase for the hand, similar to other magwells, without the added shelf for the pinky finger. This makes it ideal for EDC and duty applications without making the pistol grip bulky. The Magwell Adaptor (Short) is compatible with high-capacity or 10-round magazines, and includes a relief for Taran Tactical pins.

SLR offers magwells for each Gen 5 models with/without the half-moon cut in the pistol grip. These accessories are machine cut specific to the model, a process that negates excess movement that often comes from one-size-fits-all magwells.

The matched hardware for the Magwell Adaptor (Short) is merely a low-profile billet attachment screw that anchors the base of the magwell to the grip. Users should take care not to overtighten the attachment screw.

Please note: The Magwell Adaptor (Short) is not compatible with the additional Glock Gen 5 backstraps due to length of the attachment screw.

The Magwell Adaptor (Short) is only available in a matte black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): For all of SLR’s Glock Magwell Adaptors, each costs $79.99 and are available for Gen 3 – 5 patterned handguns. Each is made from hardened billet aluminum for long term durability. The magwell is also designed to fit that specific model of Glock so there is no gap, wiggle, or excess material that other “one-size-fits-all” designs. In comparison, other market magwells for the G19 would be the Magwell ($100) by Agency Arms, the PRO One-Piece Glock Magwell ($99-109) by ZEV Technology, or the Full-Size Carry Magwell ($89.99) by Taran Tactical Innovations. All of these market alternatives use the same materials and are above the cost of the SLR, thus making the SLR one of the more affordable magwells on the market.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): While somewhat subjective to the hand size of the user, for this review we were only able to evaluate the “short” variant of the Magwell Adaptor. The idea being that it would eliminate the half-moon cut in the Gen 5 grip and improve overall purchase of the firing hand on the grip. When properly installed (it clips in from the front and then a screw anchors the backstrap) it did completely cover the half-moon cut. The shortened lip of the magwell didn’t give the shooting hand a full shelf that presumably the longer version does, but the shortened version did provide a solid base for the overall grip on the front and sides. The subsequent funnel of the magwell did give an added benefit of driving magazines home, as the overall device comfortably filled up the bottom of the hand and channeled the magazines where they needed to go. Logically, the longer Magwell Adaptor would do this moreso.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Made from 7075 billet aluminum the SLR Magwell had the same durability and performance as other guns and gun parts. This alloy is commonly found in most machined parts and is known for its ability to withstand both heat and friction, as well as corrosion. The difference over alloy magwells and polymer are obvious, both in durability and price. During evaluation, magazines were repeatedly driven home and showed no significant wear or marring on the Magwell Adaptor. At no point did the single retaining screw become loose nor back out. It is most likely that over time and with extensive handling some surface marring may build up, but not to the extent to undermine the underlying aluminum. Care should be taken by the user when anchoring the retention screws so as not to overtighten it and risk damage to the firearm.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the shortened Magwell Adaptor was simplistic in its installation and application. For a larger hand it comfortably covered the half-moon cut that was an annoyance to the bottom of the Gen 5’s grip, and gave it a minimal shelf. It felt the short version was better suited for EDC carry as it was flush with the bottom of the hand and kept a low-enough profile to not snag on clothing. Longer magwells often are larger and have significant bulk to them and are better suited for competition. The only negative from a functional aspect that was noted on the Magwell Adaptor was a small shelf just inside the well. This shelf is part of its design to snap into the front of the pistol grip. This shelf could prove problematic to those who load magazines from the rear of the handgun and cause a hang-up (a similar problem by those unfamiliar with the problems of the half-moon cut in the Glock’s grip to begin with). SLR may want to consider in the future angling the inward-facing side of that shelf (if it is necessary at all) and eliminate that problem. It would be ideal if SLR would include a longer anchoring screw, or make the Magwell Adaptor compatible with the different sized backstraps that come with the Gen 5 to improve its application to match the Glock’s customization.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Despite made from billet aluminum, the SLR Magwell Adaptor itself only weighed 0.6 ounces (with anchoring screw), making it very lightweight, and its application did not unbalance the handgun in any degree. In comparison; Agency Arms Magwell (0.7 ounces), the PRO Magwell (1.5 ounces), and the Taran’s Full-Size (1.7 ounces) had weights proportional to their size (short magwells v long). While flared, the shorter EDC-type magwells necessitate lesser material needed, and thus a lighter weight. As the longer version of the SLR Magwell Adaptor was unavailable for testing, it can be assumed it would weigh slightly more. Regardless either Magwell adaptor is still one of the lighter billet aluminum products on the available market.

Overall Rating – Good (22/25)

Product Link: https://slrrifleworks.com/gen-5-g17-34-5-17-mos-34-magwell-short/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Transporting all your range gear can often necessitate a case or bag big and tough enough for all the essentials. The Gen 3 Kit Bag from T3 Gear allows a voluminous, enclosed space for the end-user to store and transport all their mission essentials.

Made from robust 500D Cordura nylon, the Kit Bag is designed as a large, rectangular storage bag measuring 23” (L) x 18” (H) x 11” (W) that can easily fit full tactical kit, a dedicated helmet bag similar to T3’s Padded Helmet Case, and night vision case or other accessories.

Exterior

The exterior of the Kit Bag is a minimalist unstructured bag rectangular in design, with a flip-top lid secured by a dual-shuttle oversized zipper.

At the front, the Kit Bag is sleek and free of features to avoid accidentally snagging the Kit Bag on other items, equipment, or vehicles. The rear of the Kit Bag is likewise sleek and unremarkable, but has reinforced hardware (polymer D rings and slide adjustors) at the top and bottom for attaching shoulder straps (sold separately) if necessary.

The thick, 2” wide, nylon webbing handles run continually from the front, support the bottom of the bag, and up the rear to provide maximum support while being transported. A padded cuff (secured by hook-and-loop) helps secure the handles together while providing comfort while hand carried.

Both sides of the Kit Bag have 10” wide sleeve pockets for stowing any documents or small accessories as needed. In addition, both sides have reinforced hardware (polymer D-rings) for attaching the removable shoulder strap (via slide release buckle).

At the top, the Kit Bag is designed to be stored vertically and the flip-top itself has a 23” diagonal, quick-access zipper that grants the end-user immediate access into the main storage compartment.

Interior

The interior of the Kit Bag is accessed via oversized zipper (with dual paracord pull-tab shuttles) and that runs along three sides to allow for the flip-top to open completely.

Around three sides of the Kit Bag’s interior are three bands of 3” wide hook-and-loop (female) material for attaching patches, pouches, or other items using similar attachment methods.

The Gen 3 Kit Bag is available in Multicam (featured), Black Coyote, Ranger Green, and Multicam Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its MSRP of $159.99, the Gen 3 Kit Bag is a large soft case for storing and transporting all of your mission essentials and/or other gear as needed. With its 500D Cardura nylon, reinforcement webbing, and oversized zippers, the Kit Bag has the storage capacity and strength of many civilian hard cases without all the excess bulk. In contrast, similar market “kit” bags would include the Enhanced Kit Bag ($204.99) from RE Factor Tactical, the Rush LBD Lima Bag ($125) from 5.11, and the Huron Armor Carry Bag ($109.95) from TYR Tactical. After that the market gets into structured rolling duffle/storage bags, such as the Rolling Locker Bag ($560) from SOTech Tactical, at considerably higher price points due to their integrated frame and materials. Considering size, design, and materials used, the Kit Bag is appropriately (or of average) price for the market and its competitors.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a comfort aspect, the Kit Bag (empty) had the appropriate measures necessary to ensure full storage of mission essentials, while still being appropriately (or of average) comfort in transporting the overall bag. The Kit Bag did include a removable shoulder strap but it was unpadded, so using this method of transport was really intended only for short-term carriage—and under full load became fatiguing after short distance/time. It would have been preferred had T3 also included shoulder carrying straps (since the Kit Bag comes with associated hardware for attaching them) should they prove necessary for the end-user. Elsewhere, the padded nylon cuff attached to the carrying handle not only helped join both sides, but aided in making the handle-carry method more comfortable with its wider surface area for the hand. The zipper, while not outwardly a YKK-branded one, still functioned smoothly and did not bend nor cross-feed. The zipper enclosure line opened along three sides of the lid, thus it allowed for full access to the contents and full reach of the interior.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The durability of the Kit Bag lent itself to T3 Gear’s choice of using 500D Cordura nylon as the principle material throughout the entire bag. This material choice is common amid the tactical market, and gave the Kit Bag itself an appropriate (or average) level of abrasion resistance against gear or other hard-edge items that were otherwise thrown into the storage container with it. The paracord pull-tabs ensured a smooth pull on the oversized dual shuttles and that the zipper line itself wasn’t over-strained. There was extensive bartack, X-pattern, and double-line stitching noted throughout the bag at all stress points along the zipper, anchoring the carrying handles, and securing the internal pockets/hook-and-loop.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Kit Bag did a good job of doing as intended, meaning it was an unstructured, oversized bag for securing mission essential gear and kit. This gave it the intentional benefit that (when not in use) the Kit Bag could also be folded up easily and stored in a reasonably small space. There was no means of organizing or securing items to the interior (such as removable dividers), so it was an all-or-nothing storage bag. The hook-and-loop bands on the interior were good for adding attachment pouches, placards, or other associated items (not included) using corresponding attachment material, but that was the extent of internal organization. But the extensive reinforcement throughout the bag meant that it was more than capable of storing some of the heaviest pieces of gear and kit possible.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 2.7 pounds, the Kit Bag had no internal frame or other materials other than its corresponding 500D Cordura and supportive nylon webbing. There is little in terms of support for carrying the Kit bag aside from the removable shoulder strap and carrying handles, so much of the weight to any contents in the Kit Bag will be handled accordingly. Consumers should not that for the volume, the Kit Bag can become just as heavy or heavier than a fully loaded Pelican case. But for the overall size of the product and reinforcement, the weight of the Kit Bag was good for what was included. In contrast the Enhanced Kit Bag (5.5 pounds) from RE Factor Tactical, the Rush LBD Lima Bag (3.0 pounds) from 5.11, and the Huron Armor Carry Bag (1.7 pounds) from TYR Tactical all support the position that for its design and materials, the T3 Gear Gen 3 Kit Bag is of a good overall weight amid the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-kit-bag-gen-3/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

The Mk-2 is the second iteration to the popular PIG BRIG Shoulder Pad Set from SKD Tactical, and is part of SKD’s larger SYSTEMA line of tactical gear. Released in 2015, the Mk-2 is an advent over its predecessor in that it features a full enclosure over the shoulder padding, while allotting for cables or tubes to be threaded underneath.

With an overall length of 10”, the Mk-2 runs 1” thick open-cell foam, wrapped in Drilux treated Cordura for moisture wicking and anti-bacterial function the entire length of the pad—this despite only needing 8” of shoulder strap material on which to mount.

The Mk-2 uses a fold-over flap design, secured via hook-and-loop, to attach to the shoulder strap and includes a band of corresponding hook-and-loop (male) fabric along the length of the interior for shoulder straps that use a similar female band of fabric to anchor shoulder pads. However, the overall length of the Mk-2 does not necessitate this and is designed to offer full coverage between front and rear carrier.

The PIG BRIG Mk-2 is available as a set in Multicam (featured, Black, Coyote, and Ranger Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): With a list price of $40, the PIG BRIG Mk-2 brings together modest open-cell padding and Cordura nylon to give the end-user an optional after-market accessory to help improve the comfort and fit of plate carriers. Often companies put only a cursory thought into elements of a carrier like shoulder padding, so the Mk-2 provides a solution for those who seek to make their preferred carrier more comfortable. In contrast, the Shoulder Pads ($50) from Ferro Concepts, the Plate Carrier Shoulder Pads ($49.00) from Raptor Tactical, or the Deluxe Shoulder Pads ($69.30) from First Spear illustrate that for comparable products with similar thickness, the Mk-2 is the lowest cost and at an excellent price point amid the market of alternatives.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the Mk-2 added approximately 1” thick padding (via the foam stitched into the underside of the shoulder pad sleeve) which easily improved the comfort to a variety of plate carrier straps. The wide hook-and-loop material used to secure the wrap-around fabric was wide enough to appropriately accommodate various strap thicknesses, or when threading through hydration tubes/communication cables. The hook-and-loop also had a very good level of retention between both sides of the fabric, and the corners did not curl or become excessively abrasive against exposed skin. The overall length of the shoulder bar itself also ensured the pad didn’t slide or move and become lop-sided.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The Mk-2 had a majority of typical Cordura fabric in its design, which was appropriate (or average) for the market of similar products (and indeed the overall tactical gear industry). This gave it an average balance between abrasion resistance and flexibility to contour as needed, and not be excessively rigid or abrasive. Minimal bartack stitching was noted along the stitch lines (appearing more to end the line rather than to reinforce the material) and some over-threading was noted that had to be removed. In addition, the thread lines themselves were mostly straight, however a few were clearly noted drifting as the stitch machine was in operation—but not to the detriment of the product’s function. This is common when products are sourced overseas or made in haste.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Mk-2 was very simplistic. As an aftermarket solution, it augmented either pre-existing minimalist shoulder padding, or added to that which was non-existent on other carrier types. It attached easily, and presented a flush exterior without any features that otherwise snagged or became abrasive. The noted length of the overall pad was enough to fill up the entire length of the shoulder strap from front to rear carrier, and maintained the pad in a solid position. Those who utilize a shortened length in shoulder strap however (such as women) may experience some overlap/conflict of material as the Mk-2 is clearly designed with the average length of shoulder strap in mind. There was no noted “small” version of the Mk-2 available, so presumably this is a one-size-fits-all product, or not at all. There was no external loops or tabs that would otherwise be encumbering for hydration tubes or communication cables, and by routing them under the Mk-2 enclosing flats it provided a flush profile. The nylon mesh material over the open-cell foam padded also ensured appropriate drainage and avoided from saturation remaining behind after exposure to rain or sweat, with the added benefit of also controlling odor.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 3.6 ounces (for the pair) the PIG Brig Mk-2 was a very light, and breathable product that added little to the overall weight of a fully encumbered carrier. It was also light enough that it didn’t pull or become fatiguing on the shoulders while worn, nor feel on the torso as if it were pulling down into the body and allowed for good dispersal of the overall weight. In contrast, the Shoulder Pads (2.2 ounces) from Ferro Concepts, the Plate Carrier Shoulder Pads (2.72 ounces) from Raptor Tactical, or the Deluxe Shoulder Pads (16 ounces) from First Spear all illustrate the variance in products and corresponding weight—and placed the Mk-2s within a good weight amid the overall market of products utilizing similar materials and design.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://skdtac.com/pig-brig-mk-2-shoulder-pad-set-2-pads-systema/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.