Lenny Magill shows off our Checkered Extended Magazine Catch for G43X/G48

Published on July 16, 2019
Duration: 17:31

Lenny McGill from GlockStore demonstrates the installation of an extended checkered magazine release for the Glock 43X and 48. The process involves field stripping the firearm, carefully removing the factory magazine release spring using specialized tools due to the tight tolerances of the G43X/G48 frame, and then installing the new extended release. The video highlights the challenges presented by the compact design and offers practical tips for a successful installation, emphasizing the functional and aesthetic benefits of the upgrade.

Quick Summary

Installing an extended magazine catch on a Glock 43X or 48 improves ergonomics for faster reloads. The process involves field stripping, carefully removing the tight-tolerance magazine release spring with tools like a curved pick and needle-nose pliers, and then installing the new extended release. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded before starting.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction to Extended Magazine Catch
  2. 00:41Benefits of Extended Controls
  3. 00:51Glock 43X and 48 Overview
  4. 01:47Factory vs. Custom Finishes
  5. 02:08AmeriGlo Sights Explained
  6. 03:22Extended Magazine Release Details
  7. 04:44Safety Check and Field Stripping
  8. 06:06Working with the Lower Frame
  9. 06:34Magazine Release Spring Mechanism
  10. 08:06Removing the Magazine Release Spring
  11. 10:44Using Needle-Nose Pliers
  12. 11:52Removing the Factory Magazine Release
  13. 12:03Installing the New Magazine Release
  14. 12:46Reinstalling the Magazine Release Spring
  15. 13:34Seating the Spring
  16. 14:13Pushing Spring into Notch
  17. 15:27Testing the New Magazine Release
  18. 15:52Reassembling the Slide
  19. 16:33Available Finishes and Models
  20. 16:52GlockStore San Diego Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of installing an extended magazine catch on a Glock 43X or 48?

An extended magazine catch, like the checkered version shown, improves ergonomics by providing a larger, textured surface. This makes magazine release easier and faster, especially during reloads, without compromising holster compatibility or causing accidental drops.

What tools are needed to install an extended magazine release on a Glock 43X/48?

You will need a curved pick or small flathead screwdriver to manipulate the magazine release spring, needle-nose pliers to remove and reinstall the spring, and a flathead screwdriver to help seat the spring into its notch.

Why is installing an extended magazine release on a Glock 43X/48 more difficult than on other Glocks?

The Glock 43X and 48 frames have tighter tolerances than standard Glock models. This means there is less play around the magazine release button and spring, making it more challenging to remove and reinstall the spring without specialized tools or techniques.

How do you remove the magazine release spring from a Glock 43X/48 frame?

First, depress the magazine release button. Then, use a curved pick or small flathead screwdriver to scoop the spring up and over the button so it rests on top. Finally, grip the spring with needle-nose pliers and pull it straight out of the frame.

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