First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine promises to deliver enhanced capacity and reliability for Glock owners. Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) has made a name for themselves by producing magazines that can withstand the rigors of heavy use. Their reputation for durability and innovative design piqued my interest, leading me to explore this high-capacity magazine for my Glock 21.
I was searching for a magazine that would increase my .45 ACP Glock’s round count without sacrificing reliability. Factory magazines are excellent, but sometimes, you just want more rounds without having to swap mags constantly. High-capacity magazines can be hit or miss, with feeding issues being a common complaint, so I was hoping the ETS magazine would buck that trend.
Upon receiving the magazine, the first thing I noticed was the clear polymer body. This allows for easy visual confirmation of round count and ammo type, a feature I appreciate. The magazine felt solid in hand, and the polymer seemed robust enough to handle repeated use. Compared to my standard Glock magazines, this one felt slightly bulkier, as expected with the increased capacity, but not unwieldy. I chose this over some other aftermarket magazines because of ETS’s reputation for durability and the clear body design.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The clear body and solid construction gave me confidence, but the real test would be at the range. I was excited to see if the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine took place at my local outdoor range. The weather was slightly damp, providing a good test for grip and reliability. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid firing and reloads, to see how the magazine performed under stress.
The magazine loaded easily and seated firmly in my Glock 21. Initially, I experienced a few failures to feed in the first couple of magazines. After the first 30 rounds, the magazine began to function flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, with no further malfunctions after the initial break-in period. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scuffs.
Cleaning the magazine is straightforward. The clear polymer body allows for easy inspection, and any dirt or debris is easily removed. Compared to some other aftermarket magazines I’ve used, this one has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine is designed to fit Glock models 21, 30, and 41 in .45 ACP. It boasts an 18-round capacity, significantly increasing the firepower of these pistols. The magazine body is constructed from a durable, clear polymer that is resistant to heat, cold, UV, and harsh chemicals.
The non-tilt follower ensures smooth and reliable feeding, while the creep-resistant feed lips maintain proper alignment of the rounds. The carbon smoke color gives it a tactical look. These specifications combine to offer a high-capacity, durable, and reliable magazine for Glock .45 ACP pistols.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine performs its job admirably. It increases the capacity of my Glock 21 without compromising reliability, after the initial break in. The clear body is a fantastic feature, allowing me to easily see how many rounds I have left.
The main strength of this magazine is its capacity and durability. The initial feeding issues were a concern, but once broken in, it has functioned perfectly. It meets my expectations for a high-capacity magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine is excellent. The polymer feels strong and durable, and the magazine is well-constructed. The slightly increased size compared to a standard magazine is noticeable but doesn’t negatively impact ergonomics.
There is minimal learning curve to using this magazine. It functions just like a standard Glock magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, I expect the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine to last a long time. The polymer body is resistant to damage, and the internal components are well-made. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with any accessories, as it’s a standalone product. However, it is compatible with standard Glock magazine pouches. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- High Capacity: 18 rounds significantly increases firepower for Glock 21/30/41.
- Clear Polymer Body: Allows for easy visual confirmation of round count and ammo type.
- Durable Construction: Resistant to heat, cold, UV, and harsh chemicals.
- Reliable Feeding: Non-tilt follower and creep-resistant feed lips ensure smooth operation.
- Affordable Price: At $12.52, it offers excellent value for the increased capacity and durability.
Cons
- Initial Break-in Period: May experience some feeding issues during the first few magazines.
- Slightly Bulky: The increased capacity adds some bulk compared to standard magazines.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters who need the extra rounds to minimize reloads during matches. It’s also great for home defense enthusiasts who want increased capacity in a reliable package. Anyone who wants to extend their range time without constantly swapping magazines will appreciate this product.
Someone who is extremely sensitive to initial malfunctions or prefers only factory magazines should skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch designed for double-stack .45 magazines to ensure secure carry.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine
Overall, the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine is a worthwhile addition to any Glock 21/30/41 owner’s arsenal. The increased capacity, durable construction, and clear body design make it a compelling option. The initial break-in period is a minor inconvenience that is outweighed by the long-term benefits.
At a price of $12.52, the value proposition is excellent. You get a significant increase in capacity and a durable magazine without breaking the bank. I would personally recommend the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 21/30/41, .45 ACP, 18 Round Pistol Magazine to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable high-capacity magazine. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!