First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine promises increased capacity and enhanced reliability for the potent 10mm platform. Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) aims to deliver a magazine that can withstand the rigors of tactical use, range training, and everyday carry. I was immediately drawn to the idea of more rounds and the potential for fewer reloads in scenarios where every second counts.
My quest for this magazine began with a recurring issue: standard Glock magazines often feel limiting, especially when practicing drills that demand high round counts. I’ve always been a proponent of carrying extra magazines, but the thought of a higher capacity magazine, offering both convenience and a potential tactical advantage, was alluring. I wanted something that could give me an edge during competitions or self-defense scenarios without sacrificing reliability.
Unboxing the ETS magazine revealed a translucent polymer body that immediately set it apart from standard Glock magazines. The material felt sturdy, and the slightly extended length was noticeable, yet it didn’t feel unwieldy. The build quality appeared solid, though the polymer had a different feel compared to the factory Glock magazines I’m accustomed to.
Compared to the Magpul PMAG 21 GL9 (9mm Glock magazine) and a standard Glock 15-round magazine, the ETS mag stood out due to its clear design and higher capacity. I opted for the ETS mag because I wanted to test the claims of superior heat, cold, and UV resistance, along with the promise of creep-resistant feed lips – features the other two didn’t explicitly highlight. The extended capacity for the powerful 10mm was also a major selling point.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential benefits of increased capacity and the translucent body, but the polymer material raised some questions about long-term durability compared to the tried-and-true Glock OEM magazines. Only real-world testing would reveal if this ETS magazine lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine was at an outdoor range, simulating various tactical scenarios. I ran several drills, including rapid firing, reloading under simulated stress, and practicing malfunction clearing. I tested it in dry conditions with temperatures around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The magazine functioned flawlessly during the initial testing. It seated positively in my Glock 20, rounds fed smoothly, and I experienced no malfunctions. The 20-round capacity allowed me to run through drills without constant reloads, significantly improving my flow and reducing downtime.
There was one surprise: the magazine felt slightly heavier than expected when fully loaded. This wasn’t a major issue, but it was noticeable during rapid transitions between targets. Overall, the first use was encouraging, showcasing the potential of the ETS magazine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine has proven to be mostly reliable, but not without some caveats. I have put approximately 500 rounds through it, exposing it to various conditions, including cold weather (30 degrees Fahrenheit) and dusty environments. During this time, I’ve experienced a few failures to feed, particularly when the magazine was fully loaded to 20 rounds.
Visually, the magazine shows minor signs of wear and tear. There are a few light scratches on the translucent polymer body, but nothing significant. I make sure to clean the magazine after each range session, disassembling it to remove any debris and wiping down the exterior. The disassembly is easy thanks to the ETS designed baseplate.
Compared to my experience with standard Glock magazines, the ETS mag offers increased capacity, but it is not as consistently reliable. The Glock OEM magazines have never given me any issues, while the ETS magazine has experienced occasional malfunctions. However, the convenience of the higher capacity often outweighs the slight decrease in reliability, depending on the specific application.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is designed for Glock models 20, 29, and 40, all chambered in 10mm Auto. It holds 20 rounds. The magazine body is constructed from an advanced polymer, and it features a clear, translucent design.
The ETS mag has a specially designed base plate for easy disassembly. It is also compatible with Glock extensions, offering further customization. The manufacturer is Elite Tactical Systems. The polymer material is engineered to resist heat, cold, and UV exposure.
These specifications are important because they dictate the magazine’s functionality, durability, and compatibility. The 20-round capacity allows for more shots between reloads, while the polymer construction affects its resistance to impact and environmental factors. The Glock compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine performs adequately, but with some limitations. When properly loaded (around 18-19 rounds), it feeds reliably, delivering consistent performance during rapid firing drills. However, when fully loaded to 20 rounds, it occasionally experiences failures to feed, particularly during the first few rounds.
The magazine’s primary strength is its increased capacity, which provides a tactical advantage and reduces the need for frequent reloads. A notable weakness is the occasional feeding issues when fully loaded. The magazine meets expectations for capacity and ease of use, but falls slightly short in terms of overall reliability compared to Glock OEM magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine features a translucent polymer body that allows you to easily monitor your remaining ammunition. The material feels durable and provides good grip, even when wet. The magazine’s extended length provides a comfortable grip and ensures positive seating in the Glock’s magazine well.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or modifications for installation. The clear design allows for quick visual checks of ammo levels. The polymer construction makes it relatively lightweight, even with the extended capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is constructed from a durable polymer material designed to withstand impacts and resist harsh chemicals. Based on my testing, the magazine should last for several years with proper care and maintenance. The resistance to heat, cold, and UV exposure helps prevent the material from becoming brittle over time.
The magazine is easy to maintain and repair. It disassembles quickly for cleaning. Replacement parts, such as springs and followers, are readily available from ETS.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine comes with a standard base plate that is easy to remove for cleaning and maintenance. It is compatible with Glock extensions, allowing you to further customize the magazine to your specific needs. There are no other accessories included.
The magazine is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as extended base pads and magazine pouches designed for Glock magazines. Its compatibility with Glock extensions allows for further customization of grip length and magazine capacity, using parts from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Increased capacity: 20 rounds significantly reduces the need for frequent reloads.
- Translucent body: Allows for quick visual assessment of remaining ammunition.
- Durable polymer construction: Resists impacts and harsh chemicals.
- Easy disassembly: Makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
- Glock extension compatibility: Enables further customization of grip length and capacity.
Cons
- Occasional feeding issues: Particularly when fully loaded to 20 rounds.
- Polymer feel: May not appeal to those who prefer the feel of metal magazines.
- Slightly heavier: When fully loaded, the weight is noticeable compared to standard magazines.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine?
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters who need a higher round count to minimize reloads during matches. It is also good for tactical training, where the increased capacity can provide an advantage during drills. It is also suitable for those who prioritize knowing the exact number of rounds remaining at a glance.
Those who demand 100% reliability and are unwilling to tolerate any potential for malfunctions should skip this product and stick with Glock OEM magazines. Also, anyone concerned about added weight might find this magazine less appealing.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality magazine pouch designed for Glock magazines to ensure secure and easy access. Consider investing in a magazine loader to expedite the loading process, especially when filling the magazine to its full 20-round capacity.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 20/29/40 10mm Auto 20 Round Extended Pistol Magazine offers a compelling combination of increased capacity and user-friendly design. The translucent body and durable polymer construction make it a worthwhile addition to any Glock 20, 29, or 40 owner’s gear. However, the occasional feeding issues when fully loaded are a concern that must be considered.
The price is justified for the added capacity and features, but it’s essential to weigh the potential for malfunctions against the convenience of more rounds. While not perfect, the magazine is a solid performer that can enhance your shooting experience.
I would recommend the ETS magazine with a slight reservation. If you prioritize higher capacity and are willing to accept the occasional malfunction, then it’s a valuable investment. Try it, and see if it fits your use case.