Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine Review

First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine promises a blend of affordability and functionality for Glock owners in capacity-restricted areas or those seeking reliable range magazines. Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) aims to provide a durable, translucent alternative to factory magazines, and I was eager to see if they delivered on that promise. The translucent polymer construction and compatibility with multiple Glock models caught my eye, offering a potentially versatile and cost-effective solution.

Living in a state with magazine capacity restrictions, finding reliable 10-round magazines is a constant challenge. I needed magazines that could withstand regular use at the range without breaking the bank, but that still functioned reliably in my Glock 19.

Upon unboxing, the magazine felt surprisingly sturdy for its price point. The polymer had a reassuring thickness, and the translucent “Carbon Smoke” finish allowed a clear view of the remaining rounds. Compared to standard Glock magazines and some other aftermarket options I’ve tried, the ETS magazine felt more robust than some, less refined than others. Ultimately, I chose this magazine because of the promise of durability combined with the visual appeal of the translucent body. Initial impressions left me cautiously optimistic, hoping it could serve as a dependable training magazine.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at an outdoor shooting range on a moderately warm day. I ran the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine through my Gen 3 Glock 19 alongside my factory Glock magazines. Loading the magazine was straightforward, although the polymer felt a little slick compared to the textured steel-lined factory magazines.

The magazine seated positively in the magwell and fed the first few rounds without issue. However, after about 30 rounds, I experienced a couple of failure-to-feed malfunctions, where the slide failed to fully chamber a round. While concerning, it wasn’t a total deal-breaker, as some magazines require a break-in period.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and approximately 300 rounds fired through the ETS magazine, the reliability improved noticeably. The initial feeding issues subsided, and the magazine performed consistently with a variety of 9mm ammunition types. I’ve continued to use the magazine in varying conditions, from dry and dusty to slightly damp range days, with no significant degradation in performance.

While the magazine shows some minor scuff marks from insertion and removal, there are no cracks or signs of structural weakness. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue. Compared to some cheaper aftermarket magazines I’ve used in the past, the ETS magazine has proven to be far more durable and reliable, though I still trust my OEM mags more.

Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is designed for compatibility with Glock 19, 19X, and 26 pistols chambered in 9mm Luger. It features a 10-round capacity, adhering to regulations in capacity-restricted areas. The magazine body is constructed from a translucent polymer material in a “Carbon Smoke” color.

This polymer construction offers extreme impact resistance, promising to withstand drops and impacts without cracking or breaking. The translucent body allows for easy visual confirmation of the remaining round count, a feature that some shooters find valuable.

Performance & Functionality

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is intended to provide reliable feeding and consistent performance in compatible Glock pistols. While it experienced some initial break-in issues, it ultimately performed adequately for range use after a few cycles. The magazine’s ability to function reliably after the break-in period suggests that it is a viable option for training and practice.

The primary weakness lies in the initial unreliability, which may deter some users, especially those seeking magazines for defensive purposes. However, the affordability and improved performance after break-in make it a reasonable choice for budget-conscious shooters.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine is constructed from a durable polymer that feels solid in hand. The translucent design is aesthetically pleasing and functionally useful, allowing for quick visual inspection of the remaining rounds. The overall design is similar to standard Glock magazines, ensuring a comfortable fit in the pistol’s magwell.

The polymer construction keeps the weight relatively low, contributing to comfortable handling. There is a slight learning curve associated with loading the magazine due to the slickness of the polymer, but this is easily overcome with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine appears to be reasonably durable, showing minimal wear after extended use. The polymer material is resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents, making maintenance relatively simple. With proper care, the magazine should provide a reasonable service life, although it may not match the longevity of factory Glock magazines.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Since it is a standard Glock magazine pattern, it is compatible with most standard magazine pouches and carriers designed for Glock 9mm magazines. While no specific customization options are available for the magazine itself, its compatibility with standard Glock platforms means it can be used with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for those firearms.

Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine?

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for range shooters and budget-conscious Glock owners looking for affordable training magazines. It’s also suitable for individuals living in capacity-restricted states who need compliant 10-round magazines for their Glock pistols.

This magazine might not be the best choice for those seeking absolute reliability for defensive purposes or for individuals who prioritize premium quality and durability above all else. In such cases, sticking with factory Glock magazines or higher-end aftermarket options may be preferable.

Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine offers a compelling blend of affordability and functionality for Glock owners. While it requires a break-in period to achieve optimal reliability, it ultimately proves to be a useful and cost-effective option for range use. The translucent body is a welcome feature, allowing for easy visual confirmation of the remaining round count.

Considering its price point and performance after break-in, the value proposition is reasonable. While I wouldn’t rely on it as my primary magazine for self-defense, it’s a solid choice for range training and practice. I would personally recommend it to Glock owners looking to expand their magazine collection without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for an affordable and functional training magazine for your Glock 19, 19X, or 26, give the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 19/19x/26 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine a try. Just be sure to put a few rounds through it to ensure reliable performance before relying on it heavily.