Magwells

Magwell Modifications for Competition Handguns

Faster Reloads. Fewer Fumbles. More Confidence on the Clock.

Your ability to reload quickly and cleanly can make or break a stage saves seconds. A well-designed magwell can guide your magazine into the grip like a funnel, reducing the chance of bobbles or misfeeds and shaving precious time off your run.

Not all magwells are created equal. They vary in size, shape, materials, and compatibility depending on your pistol platform, division rules, and personal shooting style.

This guide covers what you need to know about magwell modifications, from styles and materials to legality in different divisions.

What Is a Magwell?

A magwell, short for magazine well funnel, is an add-on or modified part at the base of a handgun’s grip that widens and smooths the magazine entry point. It acts as a “funnel” to help guide magazines into place more easily during a reload.

• Funnel the magazine into the pistol during reloads

• Provide better grip geometry (especially for those with large hands)

• Enhance the aesthetics and balance of your firearm

Benefits of a Magwell in Competition

• Faster, more consistent reloads

• Reduced fumbles under stress

• Better hand placement and grip consistency

• Increased confidence during high-speed stage transitions

Types of Magwells

1. Minimalist / Slim Magwells

• Low-profile—adds minimal bulk

• Keeps the pistol slim for carry or tighter boxes (e.g., IDPA)

• Ideal for divisions with strict size rules
  
  

2. Flared Magwells

• Wider mouth guides mags in from more angles

• Better for fast reloads on the move

• Popular in USPSA Limited and Open divisions
  
  

3. Extended / Competition Magwells

• Large funnel optimized for race-style reloading

• Best suited for 2011-style guns or double-stack platforms

• Often paired with basepads for maximum reload speed

4. Integral Magwells

• Machined as part of the frame (common in high-end 2011s)

• Offers seamless transition and extra rigidity
  
  

Magwell Materials

Material Pros Cons

Aluminum Lightweight, common in comps Less durable under hard use

Steel Very durable Heavier

Polymer Lightweight and inexpensive Can wear or flex with time

Brass (weighted) Helps reduce recoil (more weight in hand) Adds significant bulk

Installation Tips

• Some magwells are drop-in, others may require minor fitting or changes to your grip panels or mainspring housing (especially on 1911/2011 platforms).

• Make sure your magazine basepads are compatible—a magwell may require extended baseplates for mags to seat fully.

• Consider grip texture or replacement grips that integrate with your magwell for a flush, secure feel.
  
  

Pro Tips

• Practice reloads with your match gear—a magwell won’t help if your mags or grip angle don’t match.

• Keep your mag funnel clean—dust and carbon can build up over time.

• Combine with basepad upgrades to ensure proper seating and faster indexing.
  
  

Popular Magwell Brands

Brand Known For

Dawson Precision Race-ready magwells for Glock, STI/2011

Springer Precision Great options for CZ, SIG, Glock

EGW High-quality 1911 and 2011 magwells

Limcat Premium magwells for USPSA Open guns

Zev Technologies Magwells for Glock and other polymer guns

Popular Magwell Brands & Systems

This guide breaks down the leading magwell systems used in competition, including brands, models, and their pros and cons.

1. Henning Group Magwells

Overview:
Henning is known for making high-quality aftermarket parts for CZ, Tanfoglio, SIG, and Glock pistols. Their magwells are competition-legal and made of aluminum.

Pros:

• CNC machined aluminum for strength and light weight

• Excellent funneling profile

• Clean aesthetics and finish

• Compatible with Henning base pads

Cons:

• Often requires proprietary base pads for proper fit

• Not cheap—premium pricing

• Limited availability for certain platforms

Best For: USPSA Limited, Open, and Carry Optics shooters using supported pistols (especially CZ and Glock)

2. Taran Tactical Innovations (TTI) Magwells

Overview:
TTI magwells are used by top-level shooters and Hollywood stunt shooters alike. Designed for Glock, SIG P320, STI/Staccato, and more.

Pros:

• Excellent fit and finish

• Large funnel opening for lightning-fast reloads

• Designed to work with TTI base pads

• Lightweight but durable

Cons:

• Price point is high

• Can require fitting

• Not always compatible with OEM mags or baseplates
  
  

Best For: Serious USPSA and 3-Gun competitors using Glock or 2011-style pistols

3. Shooting Sports Innovations (SSI) Magwells

Overview:
SSI offers innovative, purpose-built magwells for 2011 and double-stack pistols. Known for their “Golden Ticket” magwell and “Grip-It” series.

Pros:

• Designed with feedback from top shooters

• Some models offer aggressive texturing for grip indexing

• Excellent durability and flare geometry

• Made in the USA

Cons:

• High-end pricing

• Mostly focused on 2011 and Open/Limited division pistols

• May require modification to fit some frames

Best For: USPSA Open and Limited shooters using 2011 platforms

4. Limcat Custom Magwells

Overview:
Limcat is a boutique manufacturer known for top-tier Open and Limited division pistols. Their magwells are built for performance at the highest level.

Pros:

• Extremely smooth reload guidance

• Lightweight and tough

• Custom-fit options available

• Ideal for custom race guns

Cons:

• Very expensive

• Not mass-market—best suited for Limcat builds

• Can be hard to source quickly
  
  

Best For: High-level competitors using Limcat or 2011-style builds

5. Zev Technologies Magwells

Overview:
Zev produces aggressive, stylish magwells for Glock pistols that prioritize function and speed.

Pros:

• Very snug fit on Glock frames

• Available in various finishes (e.g., bronze, black, gray)

• Lightweight aluminum or polymer options

• Designed for compatibility with Zev base pads
  
  

Cons:

• Some models won’t work with factory magazines or baseplates

• Not universal across all Glock gens

• Mid to high price tier
  
  

Best For: USPSA Carry Optics and Limited shooters using Zev-optimized Glock pistols

6. Atlas Gunworks Magwells

Overview:
Atlas Gunworks builds competition pistols and components to exacting standards. Their magwells are designed to enhance reload consistency and pistol balance.

Pros:

• Exceptional quality and machining

• Made for elite 2011 shooters

• Very large funnel mouth

• Ideal balance of weight and speed
  
  

Cons:

• Premium price range

• Mostly 2011-specific

• Limited compatibility with standard frames
  
  

Best For: Open and Limited division shooters with high-end competition builds

7. OEM Factory Magwells (Glock, SIG, STI/Staccato)

Overview:
Many manufacturers now offer their own competition-style magwells as factory options.

Pros:

• Seamless fit and finish

• Usually don’t require modification

• Easier to stay within rulebook limits
  
  

Cons:

• Less aggressive funneling than aftermarket options

• May require matching OEM base pads

• Limited upgrade options
  
  

Best For: IDPA shooters or those looking for a lower-profile setup

Choosing the Right Magwell

When selecting a magwell for your competition pistol, consider the following:

Factor

Recommendation

Division Rules

USPSA Production doesn’t allow magwells; Limited and Open do. Know your division.

Base Pad Compatibility

Many magwells require extended base pads to seat the magazine fully.

Weight & Balance

Heavier magwells can reduce muzzle flip but may affect pistol handling.

Ease of Installation

Some magwells install with just one screw; others may require fitting or frame mods.

Budget

Magwells range from $30 to over $150. Match your choice to your goals.

Pro Tip:

Always test your magwell and magazine combo during dry fire and live fire. A great magwell won’t help if your mags don’t seat cleanly or the grip angle throws off your reload mechanics.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to a quality magwell can take seconds off your stage times—especially when paired with proper dry-fire practice and compatible base pads. Whether you're building a race-ready Open gun or optimizing your Limited division rig, the right magwell will pay for itself in faster, smoother reloads.