First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine enters a crowded market, promising reliability, durability, and a clear view of your remaining ammunition. As someone who’s spent over a decade handling firearms and tactical gear, I’m always skeptical of newcomers, especially when they tout features that established brands have refined over years of development. The translucent polymer body immediately caught my eye, hinting at both innovation and a potential weak point if not executed correctly; but only a hands-on review can truly validate the product’s worth.
My interest in this particular magazine stemmed from a frustrating experience at a recent training course. Standard metal magazines for my P320 Compact kept malfunctioning after being dropped on hard surfaces; I needed a more resilient option that could also withstand the rigors of regular use without breaking the bank. The ETS magazine’s price point of $15.30 made it an attractive candidate, offering a potentially cost-effective alternative to higher-priced OEM magazines.
Upon unboxing, the magazine felt surprisingly solid. The polymer felt dense and well-molded, lacking the cheap, hollow feel I’ve encountered with some aftermarket magazines. The translucent body is a neat feature, allowing for a quick visual check of the remaining rounds, though I initially questioned how well it would hold up to scratches and UV exposure. It felt lighter than a standard metal magazine, but not in a way that felt flimsy; it’s simply a characteristic of the polymer construction.
Compared to the standard SIG Sauer magazines and Magpul PMAGs for the P320, the ETS magazine distinguished itself with its clear polymer and baseplate design. I’ve had great experiences with Magpul’s durability, but their P320 magazines lack the round-count visibility of the ETS. I chose the ETS magazine specifically to test its impact resistance and long-term durability, factors that are crucial for a reliable tactical magazine. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was excited to see if it could live up to its claims of extreme impact resistance and creep resistance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine at my local shooting range, under controlled conditions. I ran several drills, practicing rapid magazine changes and engaging targets at varying distances. The magazine loaded smoothly and seated positively in my P320 Compact; no immediate issues arose.
During this initial range session, conditions were dry and mild. The magazine performed flawlessly through several hundred rounds; however, I immediately wanted to test its drop resistance, so I performed several simulated tactical reloads, dropping the magazines onto the concrete floor. The magazines exhibited no cracks or visible damage; they even continued to function perfectly after being stepped on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine has proven surprisingly resilient. I’ve used it in several outdoor training scenarios, including one particularly grueling session in muddy and dusty conditions. Despite the abuse, the magazine continued to feed reliably without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Aside from some minor cosmetic scratches, the polymer body shows no significant wear and tear. Cleaning is remarkably simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth or brush removes most debris. I’ve disassembled the magazine several times for thorough cleaning; the baseplate design makes it easy to take apart and reassemble. It certainly outperforms the cheap metal magazines I used to buy!
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine boasts several notable specifications that contribute to its performance.
- Caliber: 9mm Luger – This ensures compatibility with the widely available and popular 9mm cartridge.
- Magazine Capacity: 15 Rounds – Providing a standard capacity for the P320 Compact frame.
- Material: Polymer – Offering a balance of weight and durability.
- Color: Clear – Allowing for easy visual round count.
- Manufacturer: Elite Tactical Systems – ETS is known for its innovative use of polymer technology in magazine design.
- Gun Model: SIG Sauer P320 – Specifically designed for reliable fit and function with the SIG P320 platform.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the magazine’s functionality and durability. The polymer construction contributes to its impact resistance, while the clear body allows for immediate assessment of remaining ammunition, a critical feature in tactical situations. The 15-round capacity strikes a balance between concealability and firepower for a compact handgun.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine performs admirably, offering reliable feeding and smooth operation. Its key strength lies in its impact resistance; it can withstand being dropped on hard surfaces without cracking or breaking. The clear polymer body provides a significant advantage over standard magazines, allowing for instant verification of the number of rounds remaining.
However, the polymer construction can be a slight weakness in extreme heat. While ETS claims superior heat resistance, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight could potentially cause some deformation; this is something to keep in mind if storing magazines in hot environments for extended periods. It meets and generally exceeds my expectations for a polymer magazine in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine is both functional and practical. The polymer construction keeps the weight down, making it comfortable to carry multiple magazines without adding excessive bulk. The ergonomically designed floor plate is easy to grip and facilitates rapid magazine changes.
The translucent body is a standout feature; however, it’s worth noting that prolonged use can lead to some clouding or discoloration of the polymer, impacting visibility over time. The magazine is generally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or disassembly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine is built to last. Its high-impact polymer construction ensures it can withstand considerable abuse without failing. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water or a wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient.
I haven’t encountered any need for repairs; the magazine’s simple design minimizes potential failure points. The ETS magazine should provide years of reliable service with proper care and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing primarily on functionality. However, the base plate is interchangeable with other ETS 9mm double-stack magazines, offering some customization options. The compatibility with Glock extensions is an interesting feature; I haven’t tested it myself, but it suggests a degree of cross-platform compatibility.
While not directly customizable, the magazine’s compatibility with standard P320 magazine pouches allows for seamless integration with existing tactical gear. Its simple design and focus on durability mean that extensive customization isn’t really necessary.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Extreme Impact Resistance: The magazine can withstand drops and impacts that would cripple standard metal magazines.
- Translucent Body: Allows for quick and easy visual verification of remaining rounds.
- Creep Resistance: Feed lips and body maintain shape even when stored fully loaded for extended periods.
- Ergonomic Floor Plate: Easy to grip and facilitates rapid magazine changes.
- Affordable Price: $15.30 makes it a cost-effective alternative to OEM magazines.
Cons
- Polymer Construction:Potentially vulnerable to deformation in extreme heat, although the manufacturer claims superior heat resistance.
- Cosmetic Wear:The clear polymer body may show scratches and discoloration over time.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine?
The Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine is perfect for:
- Tactical Shooters: Those who need a reliable and durable magazine that can withstand the rigors of training and competition.
- Concealed Carry Holders: The lightweight polymer construction makes it comfortable to carry, and the translucent body provides a quick visual check of remaining rounds.
- Budget-Conscious Shooters: The affordable price makes it an attractive alternative to higher-priced OEM magazines.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who require absolute certainty of heat resistance in extreme environments. While ETS claims superior heat resistance, metal magazines may still be preferable for extreme conditions.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Quality magazine pouches are essential for protecting and carrying the magazines.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine offers a compelling combination of durability, functionality, and affordability. Its extreme impact resistance and translucent body make it a standout option in a crowded market. While the polymer construction might not be ideal for all extreme conditions, it generally performs exceptionally well in most realistic scenarios.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. For around $15, you get a reliable, durable, and easy-to-maintain magazine that performs on par with much more expensive options. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a cost-effective and dependable magazine for their SIG P320 Compact. Upgrade your gear with the Elite Tactical Systems SIG P320 Compact 9mm Luger 15 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine and experience the difference!