First Impressions of Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine
The Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine promises to deliver a significant increase in firepower for Glock .45 ACP owners. This aftermarket magazine boasts a high-capacity design, offering 26 rounds compared to the standard Glock magazine’s capacity. I was intrigued by the potential for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads, especially considering its attractive price point of $14.99.
I’ve always appreciated Glock’s reliability, but felt limited by the magazine capacity, especially in scenarios where increased rounds could be crucial. My interest was piqued by the magazine’s description as a high-quality, reliable third-party replacement, featuring a hardened steel insert encased in a high-tech polymer. The promise of preventing deformation, even when dropped from great heights, further solidified my interest.
Upon receiving the Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine, my initial impression was positive. The magazine felt solid, with a reassuring weight that suggested robust construction. The polymer exterior felt durable, and the magazine locked into my Glock 21SF with a satisfying click.
Compared to factory Glock magazines and Magpul Glock magazines, the Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine is noticeably longer. I selected this magazine hoping for an affordable increase in capacity, accepting the potential for a slightly less refined finish compared to factory magazines. I was initially excited by the prospect of significantly increased capacity at a fraction of the price of some premium extended magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine at my local shooting range. The range provided a controlled environment to assess its functionality and reliability. I specifically focused on ensuring proper feeding, ejection, and overall performance with different types of ammunition.
During the first use, I encountered some initial difficulty loading the magazine beyond 20 rounds. It required significant effort to seat each round, and the last few rounds were particularly challenging. I experienced a few failures to feed in the first 50 rounds, particularly with hollow point ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine‘s reliability has remained inconsistent. While it functions reasonably well with full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition, I still experience occasional failures to feed, especially with hollow points. The magazine body shows minimal signs of wear and tear, but the follower seems to stick occasionally.
Cleaning and maintaining the magazine is straightforward, however. Disassembly is relatively easy, allowing for thorough cleaning of the magazine body and follower. Compared to my experience with factory Glock magazines, which have been flawless, this magazine has been disappointing.
Breaking Down the Features of Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine is designed as a high-capacity replacement magazine for Glock pistols chambered in .45 ACP. Its key specifications include:
- Manufacturer: Global Ordnance
- Gun Make: Glock
- Gun Model: Glock 45 (Although it is advertised for the Glock 45, this magazine fits and functions in a variety of other Glock .45 ACP models such as the Glock 21 and Glock 30.)
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Magazine Capacity: 26 Round
- Color: Black
- Quantity: 1
- Fabric/Material: Polymer
The 26-round capacity provides a significant increase in firepower. The polymer construction with a hardened steel insert aims to ensure durability and prevent deformation.
Performance & Functionality
The Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine aims to provide increased capacity and reliable feeding. Unfortunately, its performance has been mixed. While it generally functions with FMJ ammunition, it struggles with hollow points.
Its strength lies in the increased round count. Its weakness is inconsistent feeding. It meets the expectation of increased capacity, but falls short on reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine features a polymer body and a steel insert for added strength. The weight is comparable to other extended magazines for Glock pistols. The design is simple and functional, but the magazine is notably longer than standard capacity magazines, which can affect concealability.
The magazine’s design is reasonably user-friendly. However, the difficulty in loading the final few rounds presents a notable drawback.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer body seems durable, and I haven’t observed any significant wear and tear. The hardened steel insert should contribute to its overall longevity.
Maintenance is straightforward. Disassembly and cleaning are relatively simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any accessories. It is a standalone product. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself, but it can be used with various Glock .45 ACP models.
Pros and Cons of Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Significantly increased magazine capacity (26 rounds) compared to standard Glock magazines.
- Affordable price point ($14.99).
- Durable polymer construction with a hardened steel insert.
- Relatively easy to disassemble and clean.
- Compatible with various Glock .45 ACP models.
Cons
- Inconsistent feeding, particularly with hollow point ammunition.
- Difficult to load the final few rounds.
- Questionable long-term reliability compared to factory magazines.
Who Should Buy Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine?
This magazine is perfect for shooters looking for an affordable way to increase the capacity of their Glock .45 ACP pistols, primarily for range use or target shooting with FMJ ammunition. It might also appeal to those who prioritize high capacity over absolute reliability and are willing to accept occasional malfunctions.
Those who require absolute reliability for self-defense or duty use should skip this product and stick with factory Glock magazines or other proven high-quality aftermarket options. It’s not recommended for concealed carry due to its extended length.
A must-have accessory would be a magazine loader to assist with loading the final rounds.
Conclusion on Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine
The Global Ordnance Glock .45 ACP 26 Round Pistol Magazine offers an attractive price point and a significant increase in capacity for Glock .45 ACP owners. However, its inconsistent feeding, particularly with hollow point ammunition, is a significant drawback.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the reliability issues diminish its overall value. I would personally not recommend it for self-defense or duty use where absolute reliability is paramount.
In conclusion, if you’re a casual shooter looking for an affordable way to increase your magazine capacity for range use and are willing to accept occasional malfunctions, this magazine might be worth considering. However, if reliability is your top priority, I recommend investing in factory Glock magazines or other high-quality aftermarket options, even if they cost more. Before buying this magazine, weigh the importance of price versus functionality, and remember that in critical situations, reliability is priceless.