First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent promises to enhance the capacity and visibility of ammunition in the popular Glock 42 platform. As someone with over a decade of experience in tactical gear, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and innovative upgrades, especially for firearms. This magazine’s translucent design and extended capacity immediately piqued my interest, offering a potential advantage for both tactical and recreational use.
I was searching for a magazine solution for my Glock 42 that would provide a higher round count without significantly impacting concealability. The promise of a nine-round capacity in the Elite Tactical Systems magazine, coupled with its visual round count verification, seemed like a perfect fit. Upon unboxing, the magazine felt robust, and the translucent polymer body offered a clear view of the dummy rounds I used for testing. The build quality appeared solid, with no noticeable imperfections or flimsy parts.
Compared to the standard Glock 42 six-round magazine, the Elite Tactical Systems magazine offers a 50% increase in capacity. I’ve also used a couple of aftermarket seven-round magazines, but the nine-round capacity of this one seemed like the sweet spot between added firepower and manageable size. Initially, I was excited about the potential advantages, but also cautiously optimistic, knowing that aftermarket magazines can sometimes be unreliable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for assessing the magazine’s performance. I ran approximately 100 rounds of various .380 ACP ammunition types, including FMJ and JHP rounds, to ensure compatibility.
The magazine was relatively easy to load, although the last round required a bit more effort. Insertion into the Glock 42 magwell was smooth, and the ergonomic floorplate provided a secure grip during magazine changes. There were no initial feeding issues, and the rounds chambered consistently without any failures to feed or eject.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Elite Tactical Systems magazine has proven to be generally reliable. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, and it has held up reasonably well. While there haven’t been any catastrophic failures, I did experience a few instances where the slide failed to lock back after the last round.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the magazine body itself, indicating good durability. The translucent polymer has resisted scratches and impacts, maintaining its visual clarity. Cleaning the magazine is straightforward; I simply disassembled it and wiped it down with a dry cloth and occasional use of a nylon brush. Compared to the standard Glock magazine, the Elite Tactical Systems magazine requires slightly more attention during cleaning, especially around the feed lips.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent is designed specifically for the Glock 42 pistol, chambered in .380 ACP. It boasts a 9-round capacity, a significant upgrade over the stock 6-round magazine. The magazine body is constructed from a durable translucent polymer, allowing for easy visual confirmation of remaining ammunition.
This magazine is compatible with Glock and aftermarket floorplates, providing some customization options. Its ease of disassembly, achieved through the specially designed baseplate, simplifies cleaning and maintenance. The ergonomically designed floorplate facilitates a secure grip, aiding in quick magazine changes.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this magazine is to provide a reliable feeding mechanism for the Glock 42 while increasing its capacity. For the most part, the magazine performs this function well. Accuracy is not directly affected by the magazine itself, but a higher capacity can offer a psychological advantage during shooting sessions. The extended grip area also contributes to better control, especially for shooters with larger hands.
The magazine’s primary weakness lies in occasional slide lock failures, which I noted earlier. The promise of an increased round count is definitely met, but the reliability issues prevent it from exceeding expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is generally good, with a robust polymer construction. The translucent design is a noteworthy feature, allowing users to quickly assess their remaining ammunition. While lightweight, the added length extends .75 inches below the magwell. This slightly impacts concealability, but the ergonomic floorplate is a welcome feature, providing a comfortable and secure grip during reloads.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading or disassembly. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible even for novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The magazine’s polymer construction seems durable and resistant to impacts. The extreme impact resistance ensures that it won’t crack or break easily when dropped. It’s also resistant to harsh chemicals, making it suitable for use in various environments.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The superior heat, cold, and UV resistance ensures that the magazine won’t become brittle over time, even when exposed to harsh elements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent is compatible with Glock factory floorplates, as well as many aftermarket options. This allows users to customize the magazine with different basepads for improved grip or aesthetics. There are no other significant customization options directly related to the magazine itself.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Offers a 9-round capacity, a 50% increase over the standard Glock 42 magazine.
- Translucent Body: Allows for easy visual confirmation of remaining ammunition.
- Durable Construction: Made from a robust polymer that resists impacts and chemicals.
- Easy Disassembly: Simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
- Ergonomic Floorplate: Provides a secure grip for quick magazine changes.
Cons
- Slide Lock Issues: Occasional failures to lock the slide back after the last round.
- Slightly Reduced Concealability: The extended length might make it slightly harder to conceal.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent?
This magazine is perfect for Glock 42 owners looking to increase their firearm’s capacity without significantly compromising concealability. It is also beneficial for shooters who want to easily monitor their remaining ammunition count. Individuals seeking a range magazine or a backup magazine for self-defense scenarios could find this magazine a valuable addition.
Those who prioritize absolute reliability above all else might want to consider sticking with factory Glock magazines. Anyone deeply concerned about printing during concealed carry may also find the extended length a drawback.
Must-have accessories or modifications would include a quality magazine pouch designed for extended magazines and possibly a different floorplate to adjust the grip profile.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent
The Elite Tactical Systems Glock 42 .380 Auto 9 Rounds Magazine, Translucent offers a compelling blend of increased capacity and visual round count verification. While not without its flaws, particularly the occasional slide lock issues, it provides a valuable upgrade for many Glock 42 owners. The enhanced grip and durable construction contribute to a positive shooting experience.
At $60.99, the price is slightly higher than some other aftermarket magazines, but the translucent design and increased capacity justify the cost for those who value these features. I would recommend this magazine with the caveat that users should thoroughly test it with their preferred ammunition to ensure reliable performance. Consider it a worthwhile addition to your gear if you’re seeking more rounds and a clear view of your remaining ammunition.