The KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin promises a lot: increased capacity for Glock .40 S&W models at an attractive price point. As someone who’s spent years in the tactical gear world, I’m always skeptical but hopeful when aftermarket components make bold claims. I’ve seen high-capacity magazines that feed flawlessly and others that turn your firearm into a frustrating single-shot device, so the stakes are high.
I’m a big believer in being prepared, and that means having sufficient ammunition readily available. Factory Glock magazines are great, but sometimes, you need more. I specifically wanted a higher-capacity magazine for range training and potential emergency situations, something that would give me a significant advantage in rounds without sacrificing reliability.
Out of the box, the KCI magazine felt substantial, although the polymer didn’t quite match the feel of the OEM Glock magazines. The reinforced steel liner, however, inspired some confidence. I compared it to a Magpul PMAG GL9 (for 9mm Glocks, a baseline for aftermarket quality) and a factory Glock 22 magazine. I chose the KCI due to its significantly higher capacity at a compelling price, despite the potential reliability concerns.
My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and caution. Could this be a game-changer, or just another unreliable aftermarket gamble? Only extensive testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at an outdoor shooting range, under relatively ideal conditions: dry, sunny, and around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I ran the KCI magazine in my Glock 22, alternating it with factory magazines for comparison. The first few rounds fed without issue, leading me to believe my initial skepticism was unfounded.
However, after about the 10th round, I experienced my first failure to feed. The slide failed to fully return to battery. A tap-rack-bang drill cleared the malfunction, but this was a worrying sign right out of the gate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and hundreds of rounds fired, the reliability issues persisted. The magazine exhibited intermittent failures to feed, especially when fully loaded or during rapid firing. I noticed increased wear on the polymer body near the feed lips after a few weeks. Cleaning was straightforward, but the polymer seemed more susceptible to scratches compared to factory Glock magazines.
Compared to my experience with factory Glock magazines, which are practically bombproof, the KCI magazine was a clear disappointment. It simply wasn’t reliable enough for serious use.
Breaking Down the Features of KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
- Capacity: 31 Rounds. A high-capacity magazine promises extended shooting time and potentially a tactical advantage.
- Caliber: .40 Smith & Wesson. Specifically designed for Glock models chambered in .40 S&W.
- Configuration: Box. The standard box magazine configuration is familiar and easy to use.
- Materials: Reinforced Steel, Polymer Follower. A steel liner provides durability and structural integrity, while the polymer follower aids in smooth feeding.
- Finish: Black. The black finish offers a low-profile aesthetic and helps prevent corrosion.
- Fits: Glock 22, 23, 27, and 35 Models. This magazine is designed to work with a wide range of popular Glock .40 S&W pistols.
Performance & Functionality
The KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin underperformed in my testing. Its unreliability, particularly with full loads and rapid fire, is a significant drawback. While it functions sometimes, consistent performance is paramount in a firearm magazine.
The magazine’s primary weakness lies in its feeding reliability. It frequently failed to chamber rounds correctly, leading to stoppages. The promise of high capacity is meaningless if the magazine can’t consistently deliver ammunition to the firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is similar to standard Glock magazines, making it easy to insert and remove from the pistol. The build quality, however, is noticeably inferior. The polymer feels less robust, and the overall fit and finish aren’t as precise.
The magazine is easy to load, but the last few rounds require significant effort. There isn’t a significant learning curve, but the questionable reliability overshadows any ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
I am not confident in the long-term durability of the KCI magazine. The observed wear on the polymer body suggests that it won’t hold up to heavy use. Basic cleaning is simple, but the susceptibility to scratching is concerning.
I wouldn’t expect this magazine to last as long as a factory Glock magazine or even some other aftermarket options. The potential for premature wear and tear is a serious concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories or customization options for the KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin. It’s a standalone product designed to function as a standard Glock magazine.
It is compatible with standard Glock .40 S&W magazine pouches. There is no other form of compatibility.
Pros and Cons of KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- High capacity (31 rounds). Offers significantly more rounds compared to standard magazines.
- Affordable price. Much cheaper than factory Glock high-capacity options.
- Compatible with multiple Glock .40 S&W models. Fits Glock 22, 23, 27, and 35.
Cons
- Unreliable feeding. Frequent failures to feed are a major concern.
- Questionable durability. The polymer body shows signs of wear and tear.
- Not suitable for duty or self-defense. Unreliable performance makes it unsuitable for critical situations.
Who Should Buy KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
Perfect for: Plinking and recreational target shooting where reliability is not paramount. Those looking for a very inexpensive way to experience a high-capacity magazine, understanding its limitations.
Who should skip this product? Law enforcement, military personnel, or anyone relying on their firearm for self-defense or serious tactical applications. Those who prioritize reliability and durability above all else.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None. It is probably best to avoid this product.
Conclusion on KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The KCI Magazine For Glock Double Stack .40 S&W Magazine 31 Rounds Polymer Black – 40 S&W Caliber, Aftermarket Origin promises a lot with its high capacity and low price. Unfortunately, it falls short on reliability, which is the most critical aspect of any firearm magazine. The price doesn’t justify the performance compromises.
I cannot recommend this magazine for anything other than casual recreational shooting. Its unreliability makes it unsuitable for serious applications. Save your money and invest in factory Glock magazines or proven aftermarket options.
Skip this one. Your firearm, and possibly your life, are worth more than saving a few dollars on a magazine that might not work when you need it most.