First Thoughts on the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG promises a significant increase in firepower for some of the most popular Glock models chambered in .40 S&W. The transparent design is certainly eye-catching, and the promise of reliable feeding from a 30-round capacity in an aftermarket magazine is a tempting proposition. Let’s dive deep and see if it lives up to the hype.
As a firearms instructor and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve always been interested in accessories that enhance performance and provide a practical advantage. I was looking for a high-capacity magazine for my Glock 22 primarily for range use and training scenarios. This seemed like a cost-effective way to achieve that extended capacity.
Upon receiving the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG, my initial impression was a mixed bag. The clear polymer definitely gives it a unique look, but the build quality seemed lighter than the factory Glock magazines I’m accustomed to. It felt reasonably sturdy, but a side-by-side comparison with a factory magazine immediately highlighted the difference in material density.
Several aftermarket Glock magazines exist, like those from Magpul and Amend2. I chose the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG primarily for its transparent design, hoping to easily monitor round count and identify potential issues. The price point was also a significant factor, as it’s considerably less expensive than some of the higher-end aftermarket options.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The transparent design was appealing, and the price was right, but I reserved judgment until I could put it through its paces at the range. My concern was about reliability and feeding issues, common problems with aftermarket magazines, especially high-capacity ones.
Real-World Testing: Putting ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG at my local shooting range on a relatively clear day. The temperature was moderate, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and there wasn’t much wind. I ran a variety of .40 S&W ammunition through it, including FMJ target rounds and some hollow-point defensive loads.
The magazine was easy to load, although the last few rounds required significant thumb pressure due to the increased spring tension. The magazine seated firmly in my Glock 22, and the initial few shots were without incident. However, after about 15 rounds, I experienced a few failures to feed, with the slide failing to fully chamber the next round.
After the first use, I was slightly concerned about the magazine’s overall reliability. While it functioned adequately for the first half of its capacity, the failures to feed towards the end were a red flag. I cleaned and re-lubricated the magazine, hoping it would resolve the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following months, I continued to use the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG during range sessions. The frequency of failures to feed remained consistent, typically occurring when the magazine was nearing empty, which mirrors the user feedback of others. This led me to believe it was a design or spring tension issue.
After approximately 500 rounds, I noticed some wear marks on the feed lips of the magazine. The polymer seemed to be slightly softer than the steel-reinforced feed lips of the factory Glock magazines. The magazine itself still holds together, however the degradation has increased with use.
Cleaning the magazine is relatively easy, thanks to its clear polymer construction. I could quickly visually inspect for debris and clean it thoroughly. Compared to my experience with factory Glock magazines, the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG has been less reliable, with more frequent malfunctions.
Breaking Down the Features of ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin
Specifications
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG is designed to fit Glock models 22, 23, 24, 27, and 35, all chambered in .40 S&W. It has a capacity of 30 rounds, significantly increasing the standard capacity of these pistols. The magazine’s length is 210mm, making it noticeably longer than factory magazines.
The magazine is constructed from a clear/transparent polymer, allowing users to visually inspect the remaining round count and identify potential issues. It is an aftermarket product, not manufactured by Glock. The .40 S&W caliber is a common and powerful cartridge, and the increased magazine capacity offers a tactical advantage in certain situations.
Performance & Functionality
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG increases the firepower but suffers from reliability issues. The failures to feed, especially when the magazine is nearly empty, are a major concern. The transparent design is a good feature for monitoring round count, but it doesn’t compensate for the lack of consistent performance.
Its strength is increased capacity, but its weakness is decreased reliability. While it holds 30 rounds, the functionality is questionable. It meets some expectations (increased capacity and visual round count) but falls short in overall reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, but the polymer feels less robust than factory Glock magazines. The weight is relatively light, even when fully loaded, due to the polymer construction. The ergonomics are acceptable, although the extended length of the magazine can make it slightly more difficult to conceal.
It is user-friendly in terms of loading and seating, but the reliability issues create a significant learning curve in terms of managing potential malfunctions. It looks great, however, it isn’t as robust as one would hope.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG is questionable. The wear marks on the feed lips after only 500 rounds suggest that the polymer may not be as resistant to wear and tear as steel-reinforced magazines. Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential, but they may not prevent the long-term wear of the magazine.
It is easy to maintain and repair in terms of cleaning, but replacing worn-out parts may be challenging, as aftermarket replacement parts are not readily available. The long term durability is worrisome considering the observed wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone product designed to be compatible with standard Glock pistol platforms. There are no customization options available for the magazine itself, such as different baseplates or enhanced followers.
The magazine is compatible with most standard Glock magazine pouches and carriers. However, the extended length may require specialized pouches designed for high-capacity magazines. Its compatibility is limited to other brands, as it only works with the specified Glock models.
Pros and Cons of ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin
Pros
- Significantly increases magazine capacity to 30 rounds.
- Transparent design allows for easy monitoring of round count.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other high-capacity magazines.
- Compatible with multiple Glock models chambered in .40 S&W.
- Easy to load and clean.
Cons
- Prone to failures to feed, especially when nearing empty.
- Polymer construction feels less durable than factory magazines.
- Wear marks on feed lips after limited use.
- Reliability is questionable for self-defense or duty use.
Who Should Buy ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin?
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG is perfect for recreational shooters looking for increased magazine capacity for range use and drills. It is also good for individuals interested in a transparent magazine to easily monitor round count.
Those who should skip this product are individuals seeking a reliable magazine for self-defense or duty use, or individuals who depend on Glock magazines for survival.
A must-have modification would be a stronger magazine spring to improve feeding reliability.
Conclusion on ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG (length 210mm) – 40 S&W Caliber, 30 Rounds, Clear / Transparent, Aftermarket Origin
The ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG offers an appealing combination of increased capacity and a transparent design at an attractive price. However, the reliability issues are a significant drawback. While the increased capacity is nice, the failures to feed, especially when the magazine is nearly empty, make it unreliable for serious use.
At $18.99, the price is justified for a range toy or training aid, but not for anything more. I would not personally recommend it for self-defense or any situation where reliability is paramount.
Proceed with caution. While the ETS FITS GLOCK 22, 23, 24, 27, 35 – 30RD .40 MAG is interesting, be prepared to address potential reliability issues and understand its limitations. If you need guaranteed performance, stick with factory Glock magazines or higher-end aftermarket options.