First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine promises increased firepower and enhanced reliability for Glock owners. Boasting a translucent polymer construction and a 24-round capacity, it aims to provide a significant advantage in various shooting scenarios. Let’s dive into my first impressions of this extended magazine, and what makes it different.
As someone who spends a considerable amount of time at the range and also teaches tactical firearms courses, I’m always looking for ways to improve performance and capacity. I’ve often found myself reloading my Glock 22 far too often during drills. The ETS magazine looked like a practical solution to increase round count without sacrificing reliability.
Upon receiving the ETS magazine, the first thing I noticed was its clear polymer construction. It felt surprisingly robust and well-made. The translucent body allows for easy monitoring of remaining rounds, a feature I appreciate.
Compared to standard Glock magazines and Magpul’s offerings, the ETS magazine has a unique aesthetic due to its clear design. While Magpul PMAGs are known for their ruggedness, the ETS magazine intrigued me with its claim of superior heat, cold, and UV resistance. This, combined with the increased capacity, swayed my decision to try it out.
My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. The promise of increased capacity and the unique translucent design definitely piqued my interest. However, I knew that true performance would only be revealed through extensive range testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the ETS magazine was at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested it with my Glock 22, cycling through various .40 S&W ammunition types, including target rounds and self-defense loads. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal testing conditions.
The magazine initially loaded smoothly and seated firmly into my Glock 22. I ran through several drills, focusing on rapid firing and tactical reloads. During this first session, I didn’t experience any immediate feeding or ejection issues.
The ease of use was notable; it felt very similar to using a standard Glock magazine, but with the added benefit of significantly more rounds. I didn’t need any special tools or adjustments to get started. However, the increased length took some getting used to when drawing from my concealed carry holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the ETS magazine has proven to be a valuable addition to my range setup. It has reliably fed hundreds of rounds through my Glock 22. I have experienced only one failure to feed, which I attributed to a slightly damaged round.
The magazine has held up surprisingly well, with no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the polymer body or feed lips. I’ve intentionally subjected it to rough handling and dropped it on various surfaces to test its durability. It seems to live up to its claim of extreme impact resistance.
Maintaining the ETS magazine is quite simple. Its easy disassembly makes cleaning straightforward. I typically clean it after each range session with a standard magazine brush and solvent.
Compared to my previous experiences with some aftermarket magazines, the ETS magazine has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability. While I still trust my factory Glock magazines implicitly, the ETS magazine offers a compelling alternative with its increased capacity.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is designed for Glock pistols chambered in .40 S&W. It is compatible with Glock models 22, 23, 24, 27, and 35, spanning generations 1 through 4. The magazine boasts a 24-round capacity, offering a substantial increase over standard Glock magazines.
The magazine is constructed from an advanced polymer, providing exceptional impact resistance and resistance to various environmental factors. Its clear, translucent body allows for easy visual inspection of remaining ammunition. The magazine also features a specially designed base plate for easy disassembly and compatibility with Glock extensions.
The caliber is .40 S&W, which is a popular and effective cartridge for both law enforcement and civilian use. The use of polymer keeps the weight manageable despite the increased capacity. This magazine is clear in color and comes with an ergonomically designed floor plate.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine performs admirably, delivering reliable feeding and consistent cycling. Its increased capacity significantly reduces the need for frequent reloads, providing a distinct advantage in training and tactical situations. The translucent body allows for quick and easy ammo checks.
One of the strengths of this magazine is its reliability. It has consistently fed a variety of .40 S&W ammunition types without significant issues. The main area for potential improvement is the magazine spring tension, which may require occasional adjustment with heavy use.
Overall, the ETS magazine has met and, in some ways, exceeded my expectations. It offers a well-balanced combination of increased capacity, reliable performance, and durable construction. It’s an excellent upgrade for Glock owners looking for an edge.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the ETS magazine is commendable. The polymer construction feels sturdy and well-finished. The magazine’s weight is surprisingly manageable, even when fully loaded. The ergonomic floor plate ensures easy handling and quick magazine changes.
The ETS magazine is designed to be user-friendly. Its compatibility with standard Glock pistols means there’s no learning curve for experienced Glock users. The easy disassembly feature also simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
The magazine body feels solid and resists flexing, even under stress. The clear polymer offers a modern look and provides practical functionality. The magazine seats positively and locks into the magazine well without any wobble or excessive play.
Durability & Maintenance
The Elite Tactical Systems magazine appears built to last. Its impact-resistant polymer construction is designed to withstand harsh conditions and repeated use. After several weeks of testing, there are no signs of cracking or deformation.
Maintaining the ETS magazine is relatively straightforward. Its disassembly process is quick and easy. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition.
Given its robust construction and simple maintenance requirements, I expect the ETS magazine to have a long service life. Proper care and periodic inspection will ensure reliable performance for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is designed to work seamlessly with standard Glock accessories. It is compatible with various magazine pouches and loading tools commonly used by Glock owners. The magazine’s baseplate is compatible with aftermarket Glock extensions, allowing for further customization.
While the magazine itself does not require specific accessories, the addition of a magazine loader can significantly speed up the reloading process. I found that it worked well with Maglula loaders designed for Glock magazines. The compatibility with Glock extensions provides options for further customizing the magazine’s capacity and ergonomics.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased Capacity: 24 rounds significantly reduce the need for frequent reloads.
- Durable Construction: Impact-resistant polymer ensures longevity.
- Translucent Body: Allows easy visual inspection of remaining ammunition.
- Easy Disassembly: Simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Glock models 22, 23, 24, 27, and 35 Gen 1-4.
Cons
- Increased Size: The extended length may affect concealment and handling for some users.
- Magazine Spring: Spring tension may require adjustment with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine?
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical trainers, and anyone who wants increased firepower and reduced reloading frequency. This is ideal for range training or home defense scenarios. It’s also beneficial for law enforcement and security personnel who require enhanced capacity in their sidearms.
Those who prioritize maximum concealment and are sensitive to added weight or length might want to skip this product. If you need a low profile magazine for concealed carry, a standard capacity magazine would be a better fit. Some users may find the extended magazine too bulky for everyday carry.
A must-have accessory for this magazine is a high-quality magazine loader. Additionally, consider investing in a durable magazine pouch to protect the ETS magazine during transport and storage.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
In summary, the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine offers a compelling combination of increased capacity, durable construction, and reliable performance. It’s a valuable upgrade for Glock owners looking to enhance their firepower. The price of $35.89 is justified given the magazine’s quality and benefits.
I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone who regularly shoots their Glock 22, 23, 24, 27, or 35. It’s a worthwhile investment for competitive shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and those seeking enhanced capacity for self-defense.
Consider adding the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 22/23/24/27/35 Gen 1-4 .40 S&W 24 Round Extended Pistol Magazine to your kit and experience the difference increased firepower can make!