First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate
The Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate promises increased capacity and improved reliability for a wide range of Glock pistols. As a seasoned firearms enthusiast with over a decade in tactical gear, I’m always on the lookout for accessories that enhance performance and functionality. This magazine, with its translucent body and Gen 2 floor plate, immediately caught my attention for its potential to offer both.
My journey to this specific magazine started with a persistent issue: limited capacity in my Glock 19 for competitive shooting. I needed a reliable magazine that could hold more rounds without sacrificing performance or adding excessive bulk. The promise of 31 rounds in a package compatible with various Glock models was incredibly appealing, especially considering ETS’s reputation for innovative designs.
Unboxing the magazine revealed a sturdy polymer construction, clear enough to easily see the remaining rounds. The Gen 2 floor plate felt secure and well-designed, a notable improvement over some aftermarket magazines I’ve used. Picking it up, it felt surprisingly balanced, and the ergonomic design of the floor plate looked like it would assist with quicker reloads.
Compared to standard Glock magazines and other extended magazines from brands like Magpul, the ETS magazine stood out for its transparency and advertised compatibility. While Magpul offers reliable options, the ETS magazine promised enhanced feed reliability and greater compatibility with various Glock generations, which was a key deciding factor. My initial excitement was tempered with cautious optimism, eager to see if it would live up to the promises.
My first impression was certainly positive; the magazine felt solid, looked well-engineered, and addressed a specific need I had. I was excited to see if its performance would match its initial appeal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ETS Glock 31-round magazine primarily at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on rapid-fire drills and various reloading scenarios. The temperature was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with dry conditions, presenting an ideal testing environment. I used a Glock 19 for the majority of the testing, and also briefly tested it in a Glock 17.
The magazine loaded easily, and the initial few magazines ran flawlessly, with no feeding issues or malfunctions. The increased capacity was immediately noticeable, allowing for longer strings of fire without needing to reload as frequently. The ergonomic floor plate provided a secure grip during magazine changes, speeding up my reloads considerably.
After approximately 150 rounds, I experienced a single failure to feed with steel-cased ammunition in the Glock 19. While this could have been ammo related, it was the only hiccup during the initial testing session. I was initially surprised at how manageable the extended magazine felt in the Glock 19.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, totaling over 1000 rounds, the ETS magazine has proven to be generally reliable, although some caveats remain. The magazine held up well with brass-cased ammunition, consistently performing without any malfunctions. However, when using steel or aluminum-cased ammo, I observed occasional failures to feed, typically occurring every 100-150 rounds.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the magazine body, despite frequent use and dropping it on various surfaces during drills. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, requiring only disassembly and a quick wipe-down with a cloth and gun solvent. Compared to my standard Glock magazines, the ETS magazine has a slightly higher maintenance demand due to the translucent polymer construction, which shows dirt more readily.
Despite the occasional feeding issues with certain ammo types, the ETS magazine generally outperforms cheaper aftermarket options. Its increased capacity and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to my range gear. It has not fully replaced my factory magazines, but it has earned a spot in my rotation.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate
Specifications
Manufacturer: Elite Tactical Systems (ETS). ETS is known for its innovative polymer magazines and accessories.
Gun Make: Glock. Designed specifically for Glock pistols.
Gun Model Compatibility: Glock 17, 18, 19, 19X, 26, 34, and 45. Offers broad compatibility across the Glock lineup.
Caliber: 9mm Luger. Optimized for the common and widely available 9mm cartridge.
Magazine Capacity: 31 Rounds. Significantly increases the firearm’s capacity.
Color: Clear. The translucent body allows for easy monitoring of remaining rounds.
Fabric/Material: Polymer. Provides durability while remaining lightweight.
The specifications matter because they dictate the magazine’s versatility and practical application. The broad compatibility means users with multiple Glock models can utilize the same magazine. The 31-round capacity provides a considerable tactical advantage, while the clear polymer allows for quick visual confirmation of the remaining ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The ETS Glock 31-round magazine performs admirably overall, providing a significant boost in firepower. Its primary strength lies in its high capacity and compatibility with various Glock models. However, the occasional feeding issues with steel or aluminum-cased ammo are a noticeable weakness.
The magazine meets my expectations for increased capacity and general reliability with brass-cased ammunition. But the feeding issues with cheaper ammo prevent it from fully exceeding expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the ETS magazine is solid, with the polymer construction feeling durable and well-made. The magazine feels balanced, even when fully loaded. The Gen 2 floor plate is ergonomically designed and provides a secure grip, aiding in faster magazine changes.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, loading smoothly and seating securely in the Glock magwell. While the increased length may require some adjustment for concealed carry, it is manageable for range use.
Durability & Maintenance
The ETS magazine appears to be durable and capable of withstanding regular use, based on my testing. The polymer construction resists cracking and breaking, even when dropped on hard surfaces. The magazine is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ETS Glock 31-round magazine does not come with any additional accessories beyond the magazine itself. It is compatible with most aftermarket floor plates designed for Glock magazines. There are no specific customization options beyond swapping the floor plate.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate
Pros
- Significantly increased capacity of 31 rounds.
- Broad compatibility with Glock 17, 18, 19, 19X, 26, 34, and 45 models.
- Durable polymer construction with extreme impact resistance.
- Translucent body allows for easy monitoring of ammo count and type.
- Ergonomically designed Gen 2 floor plate facilitates faster reloads.
Cons
- Occasional feeding issues with steel and aluminum-cased ammunition.
- Increased length may not be ideal for concealed carry.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate?
The ETS Glock 31-round magazine is perfect for competitive shooters and range enthusiasts seeking increased capacity for longer shooting sessions. It’s also suitable for home defense scenarios where additional rounds can be crucial. Those who prioritize visual confirmation of their remaining ammunition will also find the translucent body highly beneficial.
This magazine is less ideal for individuals who prioritize concealed carry due to its extended length. It’s also not recommended for those who primarily use steel or aluminum-cased ammunition, as the potential for feeding issues may be problematic.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch designed for extended magazines.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17/18/19/19X/26/34/45 9mm Luger 31 Round Extended Pistol Magazine w/Gen 2 Floor Plate offers a compelling combination of increased capacity, durable construction, and wide compatibility. While it’s not without its flaws, particularly the occasional feeding issues with certain ammo types, its benefits outweigh its drawbacks for many users.
The price of $37.99 is justified given the magazine’s overall performance and features. I would personally recommend this magazine to shooters looking to enhance their Glock’s firepower, especially those who primarily use brass-cased ammunition.
If you’re looking to increase your Glock’s capacity and gain a tactical edge, the ETS 31-round magazine is worth considering. Just be mindful of potential ammo sensitivities and ensure you test it thoroughly with your preferred ammunition before relying on it in critical situations.