STL Shooting Enthusiasts

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.

Designed to carry large quantities of equipment while maintaining equal weight distribution, the Pathfinder 2.5 by TRU-SPEC® is an evolution over its predecessor by offering improved compartmentalization of essential items and features for expanded capability.

Introduced in 2015, the Pathfinder 2.5 is made from 1050D nylon that offers mid- or high-end abrasion resistance. At approximately 19” (H) x 13” x 7” (D) its overall carrying capacity is approximately 39 liters of cubic space.

Exterior

The adjustable, contoured, dual shoulder straps featurean over-the-shoulder design with sternum strap and padded air mesh for increased comfort when the pack is fully loaded. The air mesh padding is extended throughout the pack’s back panel and weapon concealment pouch as well. On either side is an 8” (H) x 6” accessory pocket secured via drawstring zipper for immediate access to essential items.

On the exterior of the main compartment, is a 10” (H) x 12” admin pocket that includes; a retention lanyard for keys, one 7” (H) x 10” zippered pocket behind a 6” (H) x 10” sleeve, a small hook-and-loop secured accessory pocket, two card sleeves, and two pen sleeves. Above the admin pocket is a 5” (H) x 7” accessory pocket with mesh lining/pocket on the interior side of the access flap. On the external side of the access flap is a 3” (H) x 5” hook-and-loop field for identification patches.

The kidney pad of the pack’s back panel doubles a weapon concealment pocket and is secured via a curved pull-string zipper. On the bottom of the pack are two drainage grommets and four MOLLE panels.

On the pack’s right side is a concealed laptop pouch designed to accommodate most 15” laptops that is protected by the air mesh padding on the back panel and interior compartment, then secured via pull-string zipper.

Throughout the exterior of the Pathfinder 2.5 are multiple MOLLE straps for added compatibility

At the top of the pack is a padded drag handle that is reinforced via bartac stitching, and on either side are hook-and-loop access panels to the interior storage compartment for headphones or hydration tubes. Between the drag handle and shoulder straps is a 4” (H) x 6” fleece-lined sunglasses pouch secured with another pull-string zipper.

Internal

The internal storage compartment to the Pathfinder 2.5 is reinforced on either side of the exterior with side cinch straps and slide-release buckles to ensure the stored items remain secure. The main storage space includes a rigid backboard for stability and support, a hydration sleeve with MOLLE straps on the exterior, and two mesh lining/pockets on the interior side of the access flap.

The Pathfinder 2.5 Backpack comes in Black (featured) and is made of 1050D nylon. While the website still lists Coyote and Multicam as alternatives, those options have been discontinued.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At the time of this writing, the cost of the Pathfinder 2.5 is $119.95 and comparatively priced within the market for similar-sized (approx. 39 cubic liters of storage space), dual-strap backpacks. This is due mainly to the amount of nylon used that ensures long-lasting abrasion resistance.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): With regards to comfort in packs, really it comes down to how the design in the shoulder straps mitigate the weight and strain of the pack on/against the body. In the case of the Pathfinder 2.5, the padded air mesh carrying straps have a unique over-the-shoulder design that ensures the weight of the pack remains close and high to the shoulders. Furthermore, the carrying straps have offset seams so to avoid pressing that up against the neck/spine. Add in the thickness of the overall shoulder strap pads and the padded panels on the back of the pack, the end result is an almost pillow-like feel that helps mitigate carrying a large amount of weight for extended time/distance. By design, there is no waist strap to help further balance the weight of the pack, so the entire load will be on the upper torso.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Pathfinder 2.5 comes in 1050D nylon that will be stiffer and have a tighter weave than lesser denier rated packs and play into the overall increased abrasion resistance. With reinforced stitching and bartac at all key stress points and MOLLE straps, it will have a significant amount of durability regardless of how the user employs it. Likely the hardware will wear out long before the pack does.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): A significant amount of functionality went into the design of the Pathfinder 2.5. The side accessory and eyeglass pockets give you immediate-ready access to essential items, while the MOLLE straps throughout give you added capability for expansion to other accessories with similar mounting devices. Even the side cinch straps have hook-and-loop retainers to keep the excess under control (though it would have been nice if such feature had been extended to the shoulder and sternum straps). The hidden compartment for a laptop is an added bonus for any field researcher or traveler. The firearm pocket is somewhat awkward to access unless you have the pack off, so there is no immediate-access while wearing it (somewhat defeating the purpose of it as a concealed carry pocket). One noted design aspect was when accessing the main compartment, and placed on the straps, the zipper to the main compartment is at the top—thus negating the risk of smaller items spilling out.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At approximately 3.35 pounds (empty) the Pathfinder 2.5 is comparable in weight to other packs of similar size, this is due to the amount of nylon and other materials that go into making it.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.truspec.com/backpacks/double-strap/pathfinder-25-backpack

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.

Designed as a light day or assault backpack, the HANS by Trident Tactical Technical (T3) offers the user a unique way to carry accessories, a ballistic helmet, or keep mission critical equipment at hand.

Introduced in 2014, and made from 500D, solution-dyed Cordura, the HANS backpack is designed specifically for use by members of Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams—but can be also utilized as an EDC pack or day hikes by the everyday individual.

Exterior

On the front of the HANS is a top-open kangaroo pouch with mesh on three sides, and secured with two compression straps/Fastek buckle on each side (four total). On the exterior of the kangaroo flap is a 1.5” (H) x 6” (female) hook-and-loop field for identification patches, and a pouch secured via zipper for smaller items.

On the exterior of the kangaroo pouch is a zipper-secured 7” (H) x 7” x 2.5” (D) accessory pouch that opens 2/3’s down the sides for easy access. On its exterior is a square 4” (H) x 5” (L) (female) hook-and-loop field for identification or morale patches. The bottom of the accessory pouch has a single drainage grommet. At the top of the interior of the kangaroo pouch is a 9.5” (H) x 4.5” zipper-secured accessory pouch for sunglasses, electronics, or other immediate-need items.

At the top of the HANS pack is a hook-and-loop access panel for three ports (any combination of hydration tubes or radio antennas/cables). Each as a separate pull tab for customization. Over the ports is a reinforced carrying handle with an internal rubberized tube that gives the handle its rigidity. The nylon material of the carrying handle continues down the sides and covers an access port on either side of the pack for extra communication cables.

On either side of the HANS is a 4” x 8” (H) x 2” (D) vertical storage pouch designed to fit the standard C4 charge or a Nalgene water bottle. The bottom of each side pouch is a single drainage grommet.

The backpanel has a series seven MOLLE/PALS webbing panels, down two separate rows, of the back. Combined with the extra length of nylon affixed at the top of the pack, will give the HANS the ability to mount to a plate carrier or pack (not included). The 2.5” wide shoulder straps have ¼” thick contoured padding, an adjustable sternum strap, and are removable at the top and have fastek buckles at the bottom.

On the bottom of the HANS is a drainage grommet, and two MOLLE/PALS webbing panels on each side for securing a shooter’s mat or sleeping bag.

Interior

The HANS main storage compartment is 9” x 17” (H) x 6” (D) and secured via dual zipper that opens the top 1/3 of the pack. Inside is a mesh hydration sleeve almost the entire height of the pack with an anchoring strap on the top. The HANS comes with a 100-ounce hydration bladder.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 14” x 17” (H) x 12” (D)
• 500D Cordura
• Fastek Buckles

The HANS Backpack is available in Multicam (featured), Black, Coyote Tan, OD Green, Desert Digital, and ABU Tiger.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At an MSRP of $282.00 the HANS Backpack incorporates many materials that achieve a lightweight and functional EOD or Assaulter’s pack, that can double as an effective EDC or bug out bag. Other market alternatives are the Exigent Circumstance Pack ($281) by First Spear, or the Huron Assaulter’s Sustainment Pack ($299) by TYR Tactical. All options follow the same design and incorporate similar materials that make the HANS of average and equal cost to that of its competitors.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): Given the HANS had multiple means of mounting, the comfort of the pack was related to how it was carried.
  • In its stand-alone backpack configuration, the HANS was comfortable given its shoulder pads, although contoured, were only a ¼” closed foam. When worn loaded with items for an extended time (3+ hours) the shoulder straps did mitigate some of the weight, but were not as comfortable as other market shoulder pads utilizing thicker open-cell/air mesh padding. It was evident the principle means of carrying the HANS was for it to be on a plate carrier or pack.
  • When mounted to a plate carrier, the weight was far more comfortable, integrating itself into the weight distribution of the carrier and over the entire upper torso. There is little risk of overloading the HANS as the size of its main storage compartment and other pockets would be well within the abrasion resistance and strength of the materials and hardware.
  • A final observation noted were the zippers, although not YKK, functioned easily and did not bind or cross-feed.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): There was extensive use of bartack/reverse stitching, as well as double and X-pattern reinforcement at all key stress points. That included added durability to; the shoulder straps, the pack’s pockets, and all MOLLE/PALS webbing. The HANS is designed for field use and the durability of its 500D Cordura and stitching helped ensure it handled a FAST helmet, ammo, hydration bladder, and gear.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The HANS was lightweight and functional as an EOD or Assaulter’s pack. As such it was not intended to carry extensive amounts of gear and supplies. The external kangaroo pouch did provide immediate access to contents, although a Large FAST helmet was a bit tight with the mesh materials. User’s should note any items stored in the kangaroo pouch should be either waterproof or in a protective container/bag as the elements (specifically the rain) will penetrate the sides. The alternative was to place items in the accessory or main storage compartment because both had overlap material over the zippers to avoid moisture penetration. The three access ports on the top and two sides provided a unique means to keep communication cables and hydration tubes organized but accessible.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 2.3 pounds the HANS Backpack was very lightweight thanks to a traditional blend of Cordura and mesh fabrics. Thus, for a light pack it was a very functional piece of gear that carried daily and mission essentials without wearing on the body. The HANS was worn for approximately three hours (completely loaded) to gage its effects on the back and shoulders, with minimal fatigue noted during stressors. In comparison, the newer ECP weighs 2.0 pounds and the Sustainment pack came in at 1.5 pounds, both of which owe their lighter weights to newer fabrics while still keeping similar designs.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-hans-backpack/

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.