The Ruger SR9 is a popular and reliable handgun, known for its accuracy and comfortable ergonomics. But one common desire among SR9 owners is increased magazine capacity. This is where the Ruger SR9 extended magazine extension comes in. This guide delves into everything you need to know about these extensions, helping you decide if they're right for you and guiding you through the process of choosing and installing one. We'll cover benefits, drawbacks, compatibility, and even offer some installation tips to ensure a smooth and safe process.
Understanding the Need for an Extended Magazine
The standard Ruger SR9 magazine holds 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition. While this is a respectable capacity, many shooters desire more rounds for self-defense, competition shooting, or simply range practice. An extended magazine provides that increased capacity, giving you more shots before needing a reload. This is especially beneficial in situations where rapid firing may be necessary.
Benefits of Using an Extended Magazine Extension
- Increased Capacity: The most obvious benefit is the extra ammunition. Extensions typically add several more rounds to your magazine's capacity. This can significantly increase your firepower and provide a greater margin of safety in self-defense scenarios.
- Improved Ergonomics (Potentially): While some find extended magazines to make the grip slightly larger and thus more comfortable, others find the added length less comfortable to handle. This is highly subjective and dependent on your hand size and shooting style.
- Enhanced Reloads (Potentially): A larger magazine can sometimes mean fewer reloads, which can speed up your shooting time and improve your overall performance, especially in competitions.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Increased Length and Weight: Extended magazines add length and weight to your firearm. This can impact concealability, especially for concealed carry. The added weight can also cause fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
- Potential for Reliability Issues: Some poorly-made extensions can interfere with the firearm's feeding mechanism, leading to malfunctions. Always purchase extensions from reputable manufacturers.
- Cost: Extended magazines are usually more expensive than standard capacity magazines.
Choosing the Right Ruger SR9 Extended Magazine Extension
Not all extended magazine extensions are created equal. Several factors need consideration before making a purchase:
- Manufacturer Reputation: Stick to well-known and respected manufacturers with a history of producing high-quality firearm accessories. This is crucial for reliable function and safety.
- Material Quality: Look for extensions made from durable materials like high-impact polymer that can withstand the rigors of use.
- Compatibility: Ensure the extension is explicitly designed for the Ruger SR9. Some extensions might not fit properly or function reliably if not correctly matched to your firearm's model.
- Capacity Increase: How many extra rounds do you want? Extensions vary in capacity increase. Choose one that meets your specific needs.
- Reviews: Read online reviews from other Ruger SR9 owners to gauge the quality and reliability of the extension before buying.
Installation Guide
Installing a Ruger SR9 extended magazine extension is typically straightforward. However, always prioritize safety. Never attempt to install any firearm accessory if you are unfamiliar with firearms or firearm maintenance.
Step-by-Step Installation (General Instructions – Always Refer to the Manufacturer's Instructions):
- Unload the firearm: Make absolutely sure the firearm is completely unloaded and the chamber is clear. Visually inspect the firearm and magazine.
- Disassemble the Magazine (If Necessary): Some extensions require partially disassembling the magazine to install the extension. Consult the manufacturer's instructions.
- Attach the Extension: Carefully align the extension with the base of the magazine and firmly attach it according to the manufacturer's instructions. This often involves using screws or other fasteners.
- Reassemble the Magazine (If Necessary): Reassemble the magazine components, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Test Function: Load the magazine with a few rounds and test the function in your firearm. Ensure the magazine feeds and ejects rounds reliably.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Feeding Problems: If your firearm experiences feeding issues after installing the extension, check for proper alignment of the extension and magazine components. Also ensure the magazine spring is properly installed.
- Magazine Failure to Lock: If the magazine fails to lock properly into the firearm, there could be an issue with the extension's fit. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions and double-check alignment.
- Difficult Extraction: Issues extracting spent cartridges can be due to an extension that's too tight or interfering with the firearm's ejection mechanism.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Ruger SR9
Adding a Ruger SR9 extended magazine extension is a relatively simple modification that can offer significant advantages. Increased capacity, improved ergonomics, and potentially faster reloads are key benefits. However, it is crucial to choose a high-quality extension from a reputable manufacturer, and to follow the installation instructions meticulously. Prioritizing safety during the installation and testing phases is paramount. Remember to always follow local and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and modification.