5 Great Upgrades for Subcompact Pistols

The following products help to customize subcompact defensive handguns to better suit your needs.

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posted on September 27, 2021
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Magazine, holster, sights and laser for pistol

A. Measuring a mere .28 inch taller than its less capacious 13-round sibling, the Springfield Armory Hellcat 15-round Magazine boasts rugged, stainless steel construction combined with witness holes that allow visual confirmation of round count at a glance. The polymer follower promotes smooth feeding, while the texturing along the face of the magazine extension adds purchase for a non-slip grip and greater control. MSRP: $39.95 springfield-armory.com


B. In addition to being available for right- and left-handed use, CrossBreed Holsters’ Reckoning for the Taurus GX4 can be configured for maximum versatility. Simply swapping hardware allows this hybrid holster to be worn in appendix-carry, IWB, OWB or crossdraw positions. Constructed from a choice of top-grain black cowhide, premium horsehide or 100-percent vegetable-tanned leather and Kydex, the holster features multiple points of retention adjustment that fine-tune for a user-customizable fit. A separate, attachable mag carrier is also available. The Reckoning is also offered for similarly sized handguns such as the SIG Sauer P365 and the Smith & Wesson Shield. MSRP: $63.71 crossbreedholsters.com


C. Made of high-strength polymer, the Pachmayr Grip Extender for the Ruger LCP perfectly matches the shape and texture of the subcompact’s grip and looks like part of the pistol. Though minute, the additional gripping surface enhances overall comfort and controllability while minimizing unwanted bulk. Best of all, they come in packs of two and an extremely affordable price. MSRP: $8.98; lymanproducts.com


D. The Meprolight Mepro FT Bullseye for the SIG Sauer P365 (other handgun models are also available) combines the rapid acquisition of a highly visible fiber-optic pipe together with the no- and low-light visibility of a tritium vial—in single sight. Designed to align one central point of focus, the Mepro FT Bullseye has the feel of an MRDS with the low-profile design of conventional iron sight. A small footprint makes it compatible with most holsters and it installs in a slide’s existing rear-sight dovetail. MSRP: $139.99; meprolight.com


E. Available for the Glock G42, G43, G43X and G48, the Crimson Trace LL-803G Laserguard Pro enhances your pistol’s accuracy potential via a fully adjustable green laser and powerful 150-lumen LED light in a single unit that mounts easily to the gun’s trigger guard. It features the company’s practical, instinctive activation and four modes of operation. A CR2 battery is included for two hours of run time. MSRP: $399; crimsontrace.com

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