ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model Review

First Thoughts on the ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model

The AR-15 platform has become synonymous with modularity and customization, and the magazine is arguably its most vital component. Enter the ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model, a translucent polymer magazine aiming to deliver reliability and visibility. This magazine promises to provide users with a clear view of their ammunition count and type, along with enhanced durability and performance.

For years, I’ve relied on standard USGI aluminum magazines. However, I was looking for a more durable option that would stand up to repeated use and offer a quick visual confirmation of remaining rounds. The ETS Group magazine seemed to fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the translucent “Smoke” finish, allowing a clear view of the rounds. The polymer felt sturdy and well-molded. Comparing it to my Magpul PMAGs, the ETS Group magazine felt slightly lighter. The ETS Group Gen 2 magazine also felt more rigid than my Lancer L5AWM magazines. My initial impression was positive; it looked like a well-built, functional magazine.

Real-World Testing: Putting ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the ETS Group Gen 2 30rd magazine at my local shooting range. I loaded it with both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition. I ran it through my primary AR-15, a Daniel Defense DDM4 V7.

The magazine seated easily and locked securely into the magwell. During my initial testing, I ran approximately 200 rounds through the ETS Group magazine, experiencing no failures to feed or any other malfunctions. The translucent body was indeed very useful, allowing me to quickly check my round count at a glance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and a three-day tactical training course, the ETS Group magazine has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor cosmetic scratches. However, the magazine’s structural integrity remains unaffected.

Cleaning the magazine is straightforward; the floorplate is easily removable without tools. This makes maintenance quick and easy. Compared to my older aluminum magazines, the ETS Group magazine requires less frequent cleaning and lubrication. It consistently outperformed my old aluminum magazines in dusty conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model

Specifications

• Caliber: .223 Remington/5.56 NATO. This ensures compatibility with the most common AR-15 ammunition.
• Capacity: 30 rounds. The standard capacity for AR-15 magazines, providing ample firepower.
• Finish: Smoke (translucent). Offers a clear view of ammunition type and remaining count.
• Model: AR-15. Designed specifically for AR-15 platforms.
• Origin: Aftermarket. Not manufactured by the original firearm manufacturer, but designed to be compatible.

These specifications are critical for ensuring reliable function and ease of use in a standard AR-15. The 30-round capacity is the most common and practical choice for both range use and tactical applications. The translucent finish offers a significant advantage in monitoring ammunition levels.

Performance & Functionality

The ETS Group Gen 2 30rd magazine performs admirably. It consistently feeds ammunition without issue. The no-tilt follower design ensures smooth and reliable operation.

The magazine’s over-insertion tab is larger to increase magazine retention, which worked well in my AR. The standard 30-round capacity is perfect for most shooting scenarios. It met and exceeded my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The ETS Group Gen 2 magazine features a well-thought-out design. The polymer construction makes it lightweight yet durable. The magazine grip ribs provide a secure hold, even with gloved hands.

The ergonomically designed floorplate makes it easy to grab from mag pouches, even under stress. Disassembly for maintenance is fast and easy, requiring no tools. The magazine is user-friendly, with no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The advanced polymer used in the ETS Group Gen 2 magazine offers excellent durability. It’s designed with extreme impact resistance, preventing cracks or breaks when dropped. It is also very resistant to harsh chemicals.

The magazine is also built with superior heat, cold, and UV resistance. This ensures it won’t become brittle over time, even when exposed to harsh environments. With its creep resistant design, the feed lips and body won’t spread when being stored long term, even when fully loaded. The magazine is easy to maintain and repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ETS Group Gen 2 30rd magazine comes with a clip-on dust cover. The cover helps keep dirt and debris out during storage. There are no specific customization options beyond this.

However, the magazine is compatible with most standard AR-15 magazine pouches and loading devices. It works well with Magpul Speedloaders.

Pros and Cons of ETS Group Gen 2 30rd 223 Rem/5.56 NATO Fits AR-15 Smoke – 223 Remington/5.56 NATO Caliber, 30 Rounds, Aftermarket Origin, AR-15 Model