Choosing an extended slide release (specifically for the P80 or Glock) can help mitigate problems by providing more texture, a more prominent shelf, or a better-optimized design.
Glock or Polymer 80 Slide releases aren’t something you spend a lot of time thinking about until you mess up a reload because of one.
The standard Glock slide release fits nearly flush with the pistol which keeps it out of the way but also makes it harder to use. Your thumb can easily slip off it, wasting time as you try and drop the slide.
Looking for a slide kit for your Polymer 80 or Glock 19? Check out our custom-designed slide kit assembly
Here are five of the best slide releases available for your Glock.
5 Best Glock Extended Slide Releases
1. Husky Armory Extended Slide Stop Release
Product Specs
- Compatible with the Polymer 80: Compact, Full Size, Sub Compact, Large, Single Stack
- Compatible with the Glock: 17, 17L, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35
- Easy to Install
- Made in the United States
- Electrocoated for consistency & Performance
If you have a P80 build or just want to increase the functionality of your standard Glock, this extended slide release is easier to use without being too expensive.
It features a projection on the release “paddle” creating a shelf for more positive activations. The Husky Armory extended slide stop release works with the Polymer 80 full-size, compact, and sub-compact models as well as gen 1-3 Glock 26, 19, and 17 models.
This slide release is electro-coated for durability and easy installation/removal.
2. Kagwerks Extended and Raised Slide Release
Raised slide release making this one dead easy to put your slide back into battery.
One of the more expensive options, this slide release allows you to activate the slide release while still having a high grip on the gun. It features an additional shelf on the external slide release, but the release is shaped to place it higher on the slide of the gun.
This is beneficial since you won’t have to adjust your grip as much to activate it, which in turn allows you to maintain consistency during shooting and reloading. It also keeps your shooting grip from riding or unintentionally activating the slide release while shooting.
This slide release is compatible with Gen 5 Glocks, and will also feature some scratching on your slide. This can be easily solved by slightly bending the release out, no need to remove the material or grind away at the release.
3. Glock Compatible Extended Slide Release
Unique design with a bit more surface area to press down on.
This slide release is the first CNC machined replacement release. It is a drop in part made out of 6061 anodized aluminum. It provides a better texture on the slide release to keep your thumb from slipping off it when you try to use the release.
The larger surface area, combined with the texture, cuts down on wasted effort when trying to release the slide. This helps in competition shooting by saving you time on the clock.
It comes fully assembled and is available in 3 options. Each option determines what Glock models and generations it works on. Be sure to check which option is compatible with your model of Glock.
4. Glock Extended Slide Stop 2 Pin
This budget and OEM style slide release by Lone Wolf Arms will get the job done.
One of the most affordable slide stop replacements, this version is compatible with 2 Pin Glock 17, 17L, 19, and 34 models.
If your current slide stop has a spike projection on top, also known as a “spike limiter”, this slide stop will work with your pistol. Make sure you have the right part for your pistol.
If you are not looking for something fancy, this basic OEM compatible slide stop will give you that extra purchase on the slide release without being too expensive
5. Vickers Tactical Slide Stop
Solid option if you like low-profile slide releases.
The least impressive of the slide stop options out there, this version features deeper grooves for a better grip. This design functions better with gloves due to the more aggressive texture of the slide stop.
Made of stamped and formed 4130 chrome moly steel, this is more durable than a polymer or aluminum piece. It has a protective coating for long-term use and works in most Glock pistol models.
This model is a slight improvement over the base slide stop and is geared towards keeping the same profile of the base part. The only difference is better texturing, it does not feature any shelves or projections for a larger surface area for your thumb to work with.
Conclusion
Slide stops are a matter of preference. Some can use the stock version just fine, but if you’re trying to get the most out of your pistol, an improved slide stop can help get the gun back into action quicker.
Most extended slide stops feature more leverage and a wider area for your thumb. This makes it easier for you to push down on the slide stop, deactivating it. Others will opt for a rougher texture to grip your thumb or glove but remain roughly the same as the standard slide stop.
Which one you go with is a matter of preference. Let us know what your favorite slide stop is or if you have a memorable experience involving a slide stop.
