Quick Answer
What is the S15 Starter Kit? A complete bundle containing one S15 Gen 3 15-round magazine and one Standard steel magazine catch - everything required to upgrade your Glock 43X/48 from 10 to 15 rounds. Save $10 compared to buying components separately. Perfect entry point into the S15 system.
Transform Your Glock 43X/48 to 15 Rounds
The Shield Arms S15 Starter Kit is the most affordable and convenient way to upgrade your Glock 43X or Glock 48 from 10 rounds to 15 rounds of 9mm capacity. This complete bundle includes both essential components needed for a seamless capacity upgrade: one Gen 3 S15 magazine and one precision-engineered steel magazine catch designed specifically for the S15 system.
The S15 Starter Kit saves you money compared to purchasing components separately. It's the perfect entry point for shooters new to the S15 system who want to experience 50% more capacity without sacrificing the slim, concealable profile that makes the Glock 43X/48 ideal for everyday carry.
What's Included in Your S15 Starter Kit
(1) Shield Arms S15 Gen 3 Magazine
- Capacity: 15 rounds (50% more than OEM 10-round magazines)
- Construction: Premium steel with patented staggered-round geometry
- Profile: Flush-fit design maintains concealability
- Finish: Multiple coating options available (Nitrocarb, Silver Nickel, Black Nickel)
- Compatibility: Glock 43X and Glock 48 (all generations)
- Made in USA: Precision manufactured domestically
(1) Standard S15 Steel Magazine Catch
- Material: Durable steel construction (required for S15 magazines)
- Design: Ambidextrous - works for left and right-handed shooters
- Profile: Lower profile ideal for concealed carry
- Finish: Black Nitride standard; additional PVD colors available
- Function: Prevents wear from steel-on-steel contact with S15 magazines
- Installation: Easy 5-10 minute install with basic tools
Both components are backed by Shield Arms' 100% Lifetime Warranty against manufacturing defects and the exclusive Spring for Life guarantee - providing free replacement springs for the life of your magazine.
Why the Steel Mag Catch is Essential
The included Standard S15 Steel Mag Catch is not optional - it's required for reliable S15 magazine operation. Here's why:
- Steel-on-Steel Contact: S15 magazines are steel, unlike Glock's plastic OEM magazines. Steel mag catch prevents accelerated wear
- Increased Capacity = Increased Weight: 15 rounds creates greater mass that the magazine catch must retain
- Reliable Retention: Steel catch ensures consistent magazine lock-up and drop-free operation
- Durability: Prevents reliability issues caused by plastic catch wear with steel magazines
- Dual Compatibility: Standard catch works with both S15 steel magazines AND OEM plastic magazines
Important: Using S15 magazines with the OEM plastic magazine catch will result in accelerated wear and reliability issues. The steel mag catch is mandatory for optimal S15 performance.
Why Choose the S15 Magazine System?
The Shield Arms S15 magazine uses a patented double-stack design with a single-stack footprint, giving you 50% more capacity than factory Glock magazines without adding bulk or requiring extended base pads. The S15 Starter Kit provides the most affordable entry point into the S15 system while maintaining the slim, concealable profile your Glock 43X/48 is known for.
Key Advantages
- 50% More Capacity: 15 rounds vs 10 rounds in the same flush-fit profile
- Maintains Concealability: No added length or bulk compared to OEM magazines
- Enhanced Durability: Steel construction outlasts polymer alternatives
- Proven Reliability: Gen 3 improvements include enhanced steel thickness, US manufacturing, and raised positioning ribs
- Corrosion Resistant: QPQ nitrocarburized or Electroless Nickel finish options
- Easy Installation: Mag catch installs in 5-10 minutes with included instructions
S15 Starter Kit vs Individual Components
| Option |
What's Included |
| S15 Starter Kit |
(1) S15 Gen 3 Magazine + (1) Standard Mag Catch |
| Buying Separately |
S15 Magazine + Standard Mag Catch |
The Starter Kit saves you money and ensures you have both essential components needed for your S15 upgrade. It's the smart choice for anyone new to the S15 system.
Unmatched Warranty Protection
100% Lifetime Warranty
Every Shield Arms S15 magazine included in the Starter Kit is backed by a comprehensive lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. If you experience any issues with materials or workmanship, Shield Arms will replace it free of charge - no time limits, no hassles.
Spring for Life Guarantee
Wear out your magazine spring through normal use? Shield Arms will replace it free of charge, for life. No questions asked. This exclusive guarantee ensures your S15 magazine maintains peak performance throughout thousands of loading cycles.
The included Standard Steel Mag Catch is also covered by Shield Arms' lifetime warranty, giving you complete peace of mind with your upgrade.
Available Finish Options
Customize your S15 Starter Kit with multiple finish options to match your setup:
Magazine Finish Options
- Nitrocarb (QPQ): Matte black nitrocarburized finish - excellent wear resistance and corrosion protection
- Silver Nickel: Electroless nickel coating - superior corrosion resistance with premium silver appearance
- Black Nickel: Electroless nickel coating - maximum corrosion resistance with sleek black finish
Mag Catch Finish
- Black Nitride: Standard durable black finish included with all kits
- PVD Colors: Gold, Bronze, and other premium finishes available for additional cost
All finishes offer excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Choose based on your aesthetic preference and intended use environment.
Compatible Glock Models
The S15 Starter Kit is designed specifically for:
- Glock 43X (all generations)
- Glock 48 (all generations)
Not compatible with: Glock 43, Glock 19, or any other Glock models. The S15 system is engineered exclusively for the slim-frame Glock 43X/48 platform.
Note: The included Standard steel magazine catch must be installed for proper S15 magazine function. However, it remains compatible with factory Glock magazines, allowing you to use both S15 and OEM magazines interchangeably.
Installation Guide
Installing the Standard S15 Mag Catch takes just 5-10 minutes with basic tools. No gunsmithing experience required.
Detailed Resources:
Most users complete installation themselves in one session. If you prefer professional installation, any qualified gunsmith can install it quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why buy the Starter Kit instead of components separately?
The S15 Starter Kit saves you $10 compared to buying the magazine ($42) and mag catch ($12) separately. You save money while ensuring you have both essential components needed for your upgrade.
Do I really need the steel mag catch?
Yes, absolutely. The steel mag catch is required for reliable S15 magazine operation. S15 magazines are steel and hold 50% more capacity, creating greater weight. Using the OEM plastic catch with S15 magazines causes accelerated wear and reliability issues. The steel catch is mandatory, not optional.
Can I still use my OEM Glock magazines with the steel catch?
Yes. The Standard steel mag catch included in the Starter Kit is compatible with both S15 steel magazines AND OEM plastic Glock magazines. You can use them interchangeably, though prolonged use of OEM magazines with the steel catch may cause some wear on the plastic magazine catch notch.
Is one magazine enough?
The Starter Kit provides everything you need to begin using the S15 system. One magazine allows you to experience the 15-round capacity advantage. Many users start with the Starter Kit, then add additional S15 magazines as they become familiar with the system. Consider the S15 Combo Pack 1 (3 magazines + mag catch) if you want multiple magazines immediately.
What's the difference between Gen 2 and Gen 3 S15 magazines?
The Starter Kit includes Gen 3 S15 magazines, which feature enhanced steel thickness and toughness, new US-based manufacturing for consistent quality, raised ribs for perfect positioning, improved finishes, and modular tooling for precision. Gen 3 represents significant reliability improvements over Gen 2.
How difficult is installation?
Installation is straightforward and takes 5-10 minutes with basic tools. Shield Arms provides detailed video guides and customer support. Most users successfully complete installation themselves. If uncomfortable, any qualified gunsmith can install it quickly.
Which magazine finish should I choose?
All finishes offer excellent durability. Nitrocarb (QPQ) is the most popular with matte black appearance and great wear resistance. Silver Nickel offers maximum corrosion resistance with premium appearance. Black Nickel combines corrosion resistance with sleek black finish. Choose based on aesthetic preference and carry environment.
Is the Starter Kit legal in my state?
The S15's 15-round capacity is legal in most states. However, some jurisdictions restrict magazines over 10 rounds. Please check your local and state laws before purchasing. Shield Arms cannot ship to restricted locations.
What if I want to upgrade to the Premium mag catch later?
You can upgrade anytime. The Premium S15 Mag Catch ($36.99) offers enhanced ergonomics, extended knurling, and hand-specific design. However, note that the Premium catch only works with S15 magazines - it's not compatible with OEM magazines. The Standard catch in the Starter Kit works with both.
Can I buy multiple Starter Kits?
Yes, but if you need multiple magazines, consider the S15 Combo Pack 1 (3 magazines + mag catch for $122) for better value. You only need one mag catch, so buying multiple Starter Kits means paying for mag catches you won't use.
Who Should Buy the S15 Starter Kit?
- New S15 Users - Perfect introduction to the S15 system with both essential components
- Budget-Conscious Shooters - Save $10 vs buying components separately
- Glock 43X/48 Owners - Looking to increase capacity from 10 to 15 rounds
- Concealed Carry Permit Holders - Want more capacity without sacrificing concealability
- First-Time S15 Buyers - Unsure how many magazines they need; start with one
- Gift Buyers - Complete kit makes an excellent gift for Glock 43X/48 owners
- Those Testing S15 - Want to try the system before committing to multiple magazines
Consider a larger bundle if: You already know you want multiple magazines - the S15 Combo Pack 1 (3 mags + catch) offers better value.
Upgrade Path & Add-Ons
Start with the S15 Starter Kit, then expand your capability:
Next Steps After Your Starter Kit
Alternative Bundles
- S15 Combo Pack 1 - (3) S15 Magazines + (1) Standard Mag Catch - $122 (best value for multiple mags)
- S15 Combo Pack 2 - (3) S15 Magazines + (1) +5 Extension - $155 (competition ready)
Why Choose Shield Arms?
- Patented Innovation - Proprietary double-stack single-column design you won't find elsewhere
- Made in USA - Designed, engineered, and manufactured domestically
- Proven Reliability - Trusted by law enforcement, military, and competitive shooters
- Premium Materials - High-grade steel construction with advanced coatings
- 100% Lifetime Warranty - Unconditional quality guarantee on all components
- Spring for Life - Free replacement springs for life - no other manufacturer offers this
- Expert Support - Knowledgeable customer service and installation assistance
- Continuous Improvement - Gen 3 enhancements demonstrate ongoing commitment to quality
Summary: Is the S15 Starter Kit Right for You?
The Shield Arms S15 Starter Kit is the smartest way to upgrade your Glock 43X/48 from 10 to 15 rounds. You save $10 compared to buying components separately while ensuring you have both essential pieces needed for your capacity upgrade.
What You Get:
- (1) S15 Gen 3 15-round magazine - flush-fit, steel construction, 50% more capacity
- (1) Standard steel mag catch - required for S15 operation, works with OEM mags too
- 100% Lifetime Warranty on both components
- Spring for Life guarantee - free replacement springs forever
- Detailed installation instructions and video guides
- Multiple finish options to match your setup
Key Benefits:
- Save $10 vs buying separately
- Increase capacity by 50% without adding bulk
- Maintain the slim, concealable profile of your Glock 43X/48
- Steel construction outlasts polymer alternatives
- Easy 5-10 minute installation
- Made in USA with premium materials
Perfect for: New S15 users, budget-conscious shooters, concealed carry permit holders, and anyone looking to maximize their Glock 43X/48 capacity without sacrificing concealability.
Ready to upgrade? Order your S15 Starter Kit today and experience 15 rounds of 9mm in the same flush-fit profile as your 10-round OEM magazine. Your Glock 43X/48 will thank you.
