First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine promises to bring enhanced capacity and reliability to one of the most iconic submachine guns ever made. As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless magazines come and go, each promising the moon and stars. I was intrigued by ETS’s reputation for durable, translucent polymer magazines and eager to see if this MP5 offering lived up to the hype.
I’ve always appreciated the MP5 platform, but the standard 30-round magazines often left me wanting just a bit more capacity during training drills. My search for a reliable, higher-capacity magazine that wouldn’t break the bank led me to the Elite Tactical Systems option. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of regular range use and provide a clear view of remaining ammunition.
Upon unboxing, the Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine feels surprisingly sturdy despite being constructed from polymer. The translucent “Carbon Smoke” finish allows for easy visual confirmation of the remaining round count, a feature I always prioritize. The magazine’s weight is negligible, even fully loaded, adding minimal burden to the overall firearm.
I considered other options like the KCI USA 40 round steel magazine and the POF-USA 40 round magazine. I ultimately chose the ETS due to its lighter weight, lower price point, and the appealing translucent design. I wanted to avoid potential rust issues associated with steel magazines, and the ETS magazine seemed like a more practical choice.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The magazine felt solid in hand, and the translucent body was a welcome feature. I was excited to test its performance at the range, but also wary of potential feeding issues or durability concerns common with aftermarket magazines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine to my local shooting range for its initial test. I ran it through my PTR 9CT (a clone of the HK MP5), alongside my factory HK magazines for a direct comparison. The weather was dry and sunny, typical for Southern California, providing ideal testing conditions.
The magazine initially had some difficulty seating fully in the magazine well, requiring a firm upward push and slight rearward pressure, as noted by other users. Once seated, however, the magazine fed flawlessly for the first two magazines worth of ammunition. A slight double feed occurred on the third magazine, with the bullet failing to fully chamber.
Despite the initial hiccup, I was pleasantly surprised by the magazine’s overall performance. The clear body made it easy to monitor ammunition levels, and the extended capacity was a definite advantage during rapid-fire drills. The seating issue was a minor inconvenience but something I would address later.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds fired, the Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be generally reliable but not without its quirks. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, using a mix of 115 grain and 124 grain 9mm ammunition. The magazine continues to require a firm push and a slight rearward tug to properly seat, but the frequency of feeding issues has decreased with use.
Durability-wise, the magazine shows no signs of cracking or significant wear. There are some minor scuff marks on the polymer body from repeated insertion and removal, but nothing that impacts performance. The magazine has been dropped on concrete multiple times, both loaded and unloaded, without any apparent damage.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally use a brush to clean out any accumulated debris inside the magazine body. Overall, maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Compared to my factory HK magazines, the Elite Tactical Systems magazine is slightly less reliable, experiencing occasional feeding issues that the HK magazines never exhibit. However, considering the significantly lower price point and the increased capacity, the trade-off is acceptable for certain applications. I would trust my factory magazines for serious defensive use, but the ETS magazine is perfectly suitable for range training and recreational shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine is designed specifically for the HK MP5 and its clones. It boasts a 40-round capacity, offering a significant increase over the standard 30-round magazines. The magazine is constructed from a durable, translucent polymer, allowing for easy visual confirmation of remaining ammunition.
- Manufacturer: Elite Tactical Systems
- Gun Make: Heckler & Koch
- Gun Model: Heckler & Koch MP5, MP5K, HK94, SP89, SP5K
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Magazine Capacity: 40 Round
- Color: Carbon Smoke
The non-tilt follower is designed to ensure consistent feeding and prevent jams. ETS claims their magazines are resistant to heat, cold, UV, and harsh chemicals. This resistance is crucial for maintaining reliability in various environmental conditions. The magazine also features creep-resistant feed lips to help provide consistent feeding of ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine performs admirably, offering a high-capacity alternative to standard MP5 magazines. While not as flawlessly reliable as factory magazines, it provides a substantial increase in firepower for range training and recreational use. Accuracy is not directly affected by the magazine, but the increased capacity allows for longer shooting sessions without reloading.
The magazine’s primary strength lies in its 40-round capacity. This increased capacity significantly reduces the need for frequent magazine changes during training drills and recreational shooting. A notable weakness is the occasional feeding issue, especially during initial use. The need for a firm seating and rearward pressure to secure the magazine is also a slight drawback.
Overall, the magazine meets expectations for a high-capacity aftermarket magazine. It is not perfect, but the increased capacity and affordable price make it a worthwhile addition to any MP5 owner’s collection.
Design & Ergonomics
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine features a straightforward and functional design. The translucent polymer body provides a clear view of the remaining ammunition. The magazine’s weight is comparable to other polymer magazines and does not significantly impact the overall balance of the firearm.
The magazine is relatively user-friendly, although the seating issue does require some getting used to. There is no significant learning curve, but users should be aware of the need for a firm seating and rearward pressure to ensure proper function. The magazine’s translucent design is both aesthetically pleasing and practically beneficial.
Durability & Maintenance
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine is constructed from a durable polymer that is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. ETS claims that the magazine is resistant to heat, cold, UV, and harsh chemicals, which should contribute to its longevity. Based on my testing, the magazine shows no signs of cracking or significant wear, even after repeated use and occasional drops.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep the magazine clean and functioning properly. Disassembly for more thorough cleaning is not generally necessary, but can be done if desired. The magazine’s durable construction and easy maintenance should ensure a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, as the magazine is primarily a self-contained unit. Some users may choose to add aftermarket magazine pouches or carriers to accommodate the larger magazine size.
The magazine is compatible with any HK MP5 or clone that accepts standard MP5 magazines. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories, such as magazine loaders or speed loaders, may vary depending on the specific accessory. Overall, the magazine is designed to be a straightforward and functional upgrade without requiring additional accessories or modifications.
Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- High capacity (40 rounds): Significantly increases firepower and reduces the need for frequent reloads.
- Translucent body: Allows for easy visual confirmation of remaining ammunition.
- Durable polymer construction: Resistant to heat, cold, UV, and harsh chemicals.
- Affordable price: Offers a cost-effective alternative to factory HK magazines.
- Easy to maintain: Simple cleaning process ensures long service life.
Cons
- Seating issues: Requires a firm push and a slight rearward tug to properly seat in the magazine well.
- Occasional feeding issues: May experience occasional feeding problems, especially during initial use.
- Not as reliable as factory magazines: Factory HK magazines offer superior reliability.
Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for recreational shooters and range enthusiasts. Individuals seeking an affordable, high-capacity magazine for their HK MP5 or clone will benefit most from this product. It’s a great option for those looking to extend their range sessions without constantly reloading.
This magazine might not be ideal for those who prioritize absolute reliability for self-defense or duty use. Law enforcement professionals and individuals relying on their MP5 for critical situations should stick with factory HK magazines. The occasional feeding issue, while infrequent, could be detrimental in a high-stakes scenario.
A must-have modification is ensuring proper magazine well fit. Some users may need to slightly modify the magazine’s locking tabs for optimal seating, as the user feedback suggested.
Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine
The Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine offers a compelling combination of high capacity, durable construction, and an affordable price. While not without its quirks, namely the occasional seating and feeding issues, the magazine provides a significant increase in firepower for range training and recreational shooting.
The price is definitely justified. It provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive factory HK magazines.
I would personally recommend this magazine to MP5 owners looking to expand their magazine capacity without breaking the bank. Just be aware of its limitations and potential need for slight modification. It is a solid addition to any MP5 collection for those who understand its strengths and weaknesses.
Consider adding the Elite Tactical Systems HK MP5, 9mm Luger, 40 Round Pistol Magazine to your gear and experience the difference. Its a great way to spend more time on the range and less time reloading.