Magwells

(50 products)

A magwell is a funnel-shaped extension mounted at the base of the grip that enlarges and guides the magazine opening. It adds stability in the hand and makes reloads simpler and faster.

That sounds great — quicker, more consistent reloads are valuable. The question is whether you will benefit from them.

Will you benefit from faster and more convenient reloading?

It depends on how you use your pistol. Competitive and sport shooters often install magwells to cut reload time and improve consistency. A good magwell lets you reload without looking at the magwell opening, keeping your eyes on the target and trimming tenths off each mag change. Many defensive and range shooters also appreciate the easier, more forgiving magazine insertion.

Advantages of installing a magwell:

Improves grip stability and balance by adding a flared purchase for the support hand.
Can help manage muzzle movement between shots thanks to added mass low in the frame.
Speeds up and simplifies reloads — especially under stress or when your hands are cold or gloved.

Trade-offs: a magwell increases overall size at the grip and may add weight. For concealed carry, extra bulk can print more; with brass magwells the added weight may be noticeable during all-day carry.

How to choose a magwell

Choose based on the following criteria:

Compatibility with your pistol

The magwell must be designed for your model or grip module. That ensures proper fit, unobstructed magazine catch operation, and reliable seating.

Platform-specific notes (examples):

1911/2011: many magwells replace or integrate with the mainspring housing; some frames require a cut/bevel. Base pad length often needs to be “magwell-compatible.”
CZ: most of the CZ models come from factory without magwell. That means that together with magwell you will also need to replace grips and base pads.
Glock: magwells are frame- or backstrap-specific (Gen3/Gen4/Gen5 vary). Some designs require low-profile or extended base pads to seat reliably.
SIG Sauer P320 / modular pistols: fit is specific to the grip module (Carry, Full-Size, X-Series, etc.).
S&W M&P, Walther, HK and others: check generation/variant and whether factory backstrap inserts remain compatible.

Always verify your exact model, generation, and grip style in the product description before ordering.

Material

The chosen material meaningfully changes weight and feel.

Brass

Pros: higher mass can reduce perceived movement during strings; very durable.

Cons: adds noticeable weight — less ideal for all-day carry.

Best for: competitive and sport use where split times and control matter most.

Aluminum

Pros: strong and light; widely available in various finishes.

Cons: shows wear sooner than brass; less mass to calm the gun.

Best for: shooters wanting easier reloads without much added weight.

With a magwell, you may need to change other parts

Some pistols ship with a factory magwell (typically competition-focused variants). Many do not. When adding a magwell to a pistol not designed for it, you may need supporting parts so everything clears and seats correctly:

Grips / backstraps / grip panels

On pistols with removable grip panels (e.g., 1911/2011 and certain metal-frame models), “short” or magwell-cut panels may be required so the flare can seat against the frame. On polymer pistols, confirm backstrap compatibility — some magwells replace or require a specific backstrap.

Magazine base pads

Base pads that work without a magwell may be too short or have a front lip that interferes with the funnel. Choose base pads labeled “magwell-compatible” for your pistol so magazines seat positively.

Mainspring housing / lanyard loop / frame hardware (where applicable)

Certain platforms (e.g., 1911-pattern) use a magwell integrated with the mainspring housing. Frames with a protruding lanyard loop or heel feature may require a flush plug or different housing so the magwell can sit flat.

Can I install a magwell myself?

Most often, yes. If you’re replacing an existing magwell, remove the old unit, clean/lightly oil contact surfaces, slide the new magwell into position from the rear (or per the design), and fasten it according to the instructions.

If your pistol didn’t have a magwell before, first install any required short/magwell-cut grips or backstrap and magwell-compatible base pads. Then fit and secure the magwell.

Check fastener tightness periodically.

Note: Minor hand-fitting is occasionally needed due to normal manufacturing tolerances. If required, remove a small amount of material from the magwell (not the frame) with care to achieve a clean, flush fit.