Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine Review

First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine promises to deliver reliable feeding and durability for Glock 17 owners, especially those in capacity-restricted areas. Its translucent polymer construction and resistance to harsh chemicals are advertised as key features, making it an intriguing alternative to factory magazines. As someone who’s handled countless magazines in the field and on the range, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Living in a state with magazine capacity restrictions, finding reliable 10-round magazines is always a challenge. I was looking for a magazine that could withstand the rigors of regular range use and potentially even self-defense scenarios. The Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) magazines caught my eye due to their aggressive pricing and the promise of extreme durability.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the magazine’s weight and the feel of the polymer. It felt solid, though slightly lighter than the OEM Glock magazines I was used to. The translucent “Carbon Smoke” finish was a nice touch, allowing for a quick visual check of remaining rounds.

Compared to Magpul’s Glock magazines, which are a common alternative, the ETS magazine felt less refined initially. However, the price point was significantly lower, making it an attractive option if performance matched the claims. I also considered Amend2 magazines, but the ETS‘s translucent body appealed more to my preference for quick visual confirmation.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the price and features but remained skeptical about long-term durability based on the polymer’s feel. Only range testing would reveal if the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine could truly compete with established brands.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine primarily at my local outdoor shooting range. This range offers a variety of shooting distances and scenarios, perfect for evaluating magazine performance. I used it in conjunction with my Glock 17 Gen 5, firing a mix of 115-grain and 124-grain FMJ ammunition.

The magazine performed well under normal conditions. Loading was relatively easy, and it seated positively into the magazine well of my Glock. I intentionally subjected it to some abuse, including rapid firing drills and dropping it (unloaded) onto a hard surface.

Initially, I experienced one failure to feed in the first 50 rounds with one of the magazines. This could have been attributed to the magazine not being fully broken in. After that, the magazines cycled rounds reliably throughout the rest of the session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be surprisingly durable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through each magazine, and they continue to function without major issues. There are, however, some observations.

The polymer has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Some minor scuffing is visible, but no cracks or significant damage. I make sure to wipe down the magazines after each range session to prevent any buildup of carbon or debris.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe with a cloth and occasional cleaning with a brush is all that’s needed. Compared to some other aftermarket magazines I’ve used, the ETS magazines seem more resistant to deformation of the feed lips. They also seem to resist bulging when fully loaded for extended periods.

Compared to my experience with Glock OEM magazines, the ETS magazines are not quite as smooth, but offer an acceptable compromise given the lower cost. They are a marked improvement over some of the cheaper aftermarket options I’ve tried in the past, specifically in terms of feeding reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Specifications

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for Glock 17 pistols chambered in 9mm Luger. Its reduced 10-round capacity caters to regions with magazine restrictions. The magazine is also compatible with Glock 18, Glock 19X, Glock 45, Glock 34, Glock 26, and Glock 19 models.

• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Magazine Capacity: 10 Rounds
• Color: Carbon Smoke (Translucent)
• Finish: No Finish Specified
• Fabric/Material: Polymer
• Height: 1.25 inches
• Gun Make: Glock
• Gun Model: Glock 18, Glock 19X, Glock 45, Glock 34, Glock 17, Glock 26, Glock 19

The magazine’s polymer construction contributes to its lighter weight, but more importantly, it is extremely resistant to impact, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures. This means the magazine can handle demanding environments. The translucent body is another key feature, allowing users to quickly assess the number of rounds remaining.

Performance & Functionality

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine generally performs its primary function of feeding ammunition reliably. I found that after a short break-in period, the magazines cycled rounds smoothly and consistently. The positive seating and secure lock-up in the Glock 17’s magazine well are also important factors.

The main strength of this magazine is its price-to-performance ratio. For a budget-friendly option, it delivers acceptable reliability and durability. One potential weakness is the polymer’s slightly less refined feel compared to higher-end magazines like those from Glock or Magpul.

Overall, it meets expectations for a magazine in its price range. It’s not perfect, but for range use and general plinking, it’s a solid option. It may be a solid choice for those in states with magazine capacity restrictions who are looking to train regularly without breaking the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine features a straightforward design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The translucent “Carbon Smoke” finish is a nice touch, allowing for quick visual checks of the remaining ammunition. The polymer construction keeps the weight down.

The magazine is relatively easy to load, although the reduced 10-round capacity can make it slightly more challenging to load the last few rounds compared to standard capacity magazines. There’s no significant learning curve; it operates just like any other Glock magazine.

Durability & Maintenance

The polymer used in the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is touted as being extremely durable and resistant to impacts, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. My testing has confirmed that it is indeed tough and holds up well under normal use conditions. The ETS magazine is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it is compatible with a range of aftermarket Glock magazine accessories. This includes magazine base plates, extensions, and loaders. Many users may find that adding a base plate extension improves grip and facilitates easier magazine changes.

The magazine is designed to function with standard Glock magazine wells and is compatible with most aftermarket Glock frames and modifications. This makes it a versatile option for Glock owners looking to customize their firearms.

Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine?

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for:

• Shooters in states with magazine capacity restrictions seeking affordable and reliable magazines.
• Budget-conscious Glock owners who need multiple magazines for range use and training.
• Individuals looking for a durable magazine that can withstand harsh conditions.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who demand the absolute highest level of performance and reliability, regardless of cost.
• Users who prefer standard-capacity magazines and are not subject to capacity restrictions.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A magazine loader can make loading easier, especially for extended range sessions.
• Base plate extensions can improve grip and facilitate faster magazine changes.

Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine delivers a solid value proposition for Glock owners seeking an affordable and reliable magazine option. While it may not be quite as refined as some higher-end magazines, it offers acceptable performance and durability for a fraction of the price. Its translucent body is a welcome feature, allowing for quick visual confirmation of remaining rounds.

At a price of $15.49, the price is justified, especially for shooters on a budget or those who need to purchase multiple magazines to comply with capacity restrictions. The cost savings compared to OEM Glock magazines can be significant.

I would personally recommend the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 17 9mm 10-Round Pistol Magazine to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, reliable option for range use, target practice, or general plinking. Just be aware that a brief break-in period may be necessary for optimal performance. Equip your Glock with these magazines and hit the range with confidence!