First Thoughts on the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin promises increased capacity and enhanced reliability for Glock users, but does it deliver? As someone who’s spent years relying on Glock platforms in various tactical and competitive environments, I’m always searching for ways to improve performance. The promise of 40 rounds in a magazine compatible with both the Glock 17 and 19 immediately piqued my interest.
My agency requires regular range qualifications, and frankly, reloading drills during those scenarios can be a pain, slowing down overall performance. This magazine’s higher capacity seemed like a good solution, potentially reducing the number of reloads needed during timed drills and offering a tactical advantage. Unboxing the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, my initial impression was mixed.
The Carbon Smoke finish looked sleek, but the polymer felt slightly less robust than the factory Glock magazines I’m accustomed to. I have used Magpul Glock magazines in the past, and compared to those, the ETS magazine felt a bit lighter, which could be a plus or minus depending on how it affects durability. Initial thoughts: cautiously optimistic, but ready to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin was at an outdoor range under typical sunny conditions. I ran it through my Glock 17 and Glock 19, alternating between various 9mm loads, including standard 115-grain FMJ, 124-grain +P hollow points, and even some heavier 147-grain subsonic rounds. The magazine loaded easily enough, although fully loading all 40 rounds required a bit of effort, especially towards the end.
Both the Glock 17 and 19 accepted the magazine without issue, and the initial few magazines fired flawlessly. However, after about 100 rounds, I started experiencing occasional failures to feed, particularly with the hollow point rounds. The magazine also seemed to have some issues in rapid firing strings from my Glock 19.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds through the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin, I’ve developed a more nuanced opinion. The failures to feed persisted, especially when the magazine was fully loaded or near capacity. Durability-wise, the magazine body seems reasonably robust, showing only minor scuff marks from insertion and removal.
Cleaning is straightforward, though disassembling the magazine requires a small punch or similar tool. Comparing it to my experiences with factory Glock magazines, the ETS magazine falls short in reliability. Glock magazines are famous for their dependability and the ETS mag clearly is not up to that level of quality.
Breaking Down the Features of ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is designed to offer increased firepower for Glock pistols.
- Caliber: 9mm. The magazine is designed for the ubiquitous 9mm cartridge, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of ammunition types.
- Capacity: 40 Rounds. A significant increase over standard capacity magazines, offering a tactical advantage and reducing reload frequency.
- Origin: Aftermarket. This indicates it is not a factory Glock magazine, which may affect its reliability and overall lifespan.
- Compatibility: Glock 17/19/26. Designed to fit multiple Glock models, increasing its versatility.
- Material: Polymer. The use of polymer aims to balance durability with weight reduction.
- Color: Carbon Smoke. A translucent smoke color allows for visual confirmation of remaining rounds.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is to reliably feed ammunition into a Glock pistol.
- Performance is inconsistent. While it cycles rounds adequately when relatively clean and not fully loaded, reliability degrades under rapid fire or with certain ammunition types.
- Its primary strength is its high capacity. It reduces reload frequency.
- The magazine falls short of expectations in terms of overall reliability compared to factory magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin focuses on maximizing capacity and visual appeal.
- The Carbon Smoke polymer is visually appealing, but feels less robust than factory Glock magazines. The weight is noticeably lighter, which may or may not be advantageous.
- It has a user-friendly design. The magazine loads easily, even though fully loading to 40 rounds requires significant effort.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability and ease of maintenance are critical aspects of any magazine intended for tactical or defensive use.
- The polymer body appears reasonably durable. Minor scuff marks occurred during testing.
- Maintenance is straightforward, and disassembly is possible with basic tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin is primarily a standalone product, with limited direct customization options.
- There are no included accessories with the magazine itself. Its compatibility with Glock 17/19/26 pistols is its primary customization aspect.
- It is designed to be compatible with standard Glock magazine pouches and carriers.
Pros and Cons of ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- High capacity (40 rounds). Reduces reload frequency in training and potentially provides a tactical advantage.
- Compatible with multiple Glock models (17/19/26). Offers versatility across different platforms.
- Translucent Carbon Smoke finish. Allows for quick visual confirmation of remaining round count.
Cons
- Reliability issues. Prone to failures to feed, particularly with hollow points and at full capacity.
- Polymer feels less robust than factory magazines. Raises concerns about long-term durability.
Who Should Buy ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin?
The ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin might be suitable for recreational shooters who prioritize high capacity over absolute reliability for range use. It could also be useful for specific competition scenarios where reload speed is critical, provided it proves reliable with the chosen ammunition in that specific gun.
Those who rely on their firearms for self-defense or tactical applications should avoid this magazine. Its unproven reliability simply doesn’t justify the risk when lives are on the line. Must-have accessories for this magazine would include a high-quality magazine loader to ease the loading process and thorough testing with your specific firearm and ammunition to identify any potential compatibility issues.
Conclusion on ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin
The ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin offers an attractive promise of increased capacity at an appealing price point ($11.49). However, its inconsistent reliability makes it difficult to recommend for serious applications.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the potential for malfunctions outweighs the cost savings, especially in critical situations. I personally cannot recommend this magazine for duty use or self-defense.
If you’re looking for a range toy and don’t mind occasional malfunctions, the ETS MAG FOR GLK 17/19 9MM 40RD CSMK – 9mm Caliber, Aftermarket Origin might be worth considering. However, invest in reliable factory magazines for anything more serious. Before you buy, thoroughly evaluate your needs and prioritize reliability above all else.
