The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag Made a Bold First Impression
In the world of firearms, especially concealed carry, capacity often comes at the cost of comfort. The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag, however, promised to be a game changer for Glock 42 owners like myself. I was immediately intrigued by the prospect of nearly doubling the standard magazine capacity without sacrificing too much concealability.
My search began out of frustration with the Glock 42’s limited 6-round capacity. While I love the pistol’s slim profile and reliability, those six rounds always felt inadequate, especially considering the .380 ACP’s reputation for less stopping power. I needed an option that offered greater capacity without compromising the Glock 42’s core strengths.
Upon receiving the ETS magazine, I was immediately struck by its translucent “Carbon Smoke” finish. It offered a peek at the remaining rounds. The polymer felt robust and well-made, far from the cheap plastic I’d encountered in some aftermarket magazines. Compared to the standard Glock 42 magazine, the ETS mag’s extended length was noticeable but didn’t feel unwieldy. I chose it over other extended magazines primarily for the clear polymer construction, which allows for easy monitoring of round count, and the promise of a lifetime warranty from ETS. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; it looked promising, but I needed to see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my local indoor shooting range. I ran several magazines through my Glock 42, focusing on controlled pairs and rapid-fire drills. The ETS magazine fed reliably, with no jams or misfeeds in the first 100 rounds.
I specifically tested it in a variety of conditions, including after intentionally getting the magazine dusty by dropping it in a designated area. The magazine continued to function flawlessly. I was initially impressed with the ease of loading, although the last few rounds required a bit more effort due to the increased spring tension. There were no initial issues, which was encouraging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag has proven to be a reliable addition to my carry setup. It has consistently fed ammunition without issues, even after hundreds of rounds. I have noticed no significant wear and tear on the magazine body or feed lips.
Maintaining the magazine is straightforward. I disassemble and clean it after each range session using standard gun cleaning solvents. It is easy to disassemble, due to the specially designed base plate. Compared to some other aftermarket magazines I’ve used in the past, the ETS magazine has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. This mag delivers on its promises.
Breaking Down the Features of ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag
Specifications
The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and appeal. It is chambered for .380 ACP and holds 12 rounds. This nearly doubles the capacity of the standard Glock 42 magazine.
The magazine body is constructed from an advanced translucent polymer. This material provides extreme impact resistance, as well as resistance to harsh chemicals, heat, cold, and UV exposure. The extended length adds approximately 2 inches below the magwell. It is compatible with Glock and aftermarket floor plates. These specifications translate to a durable, high-capacity magazine that can withstand harsh conditions while providing a clear view of remaining ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag performs its primary job admirably: reliably feeding ammunition into the Glock 42. Accuracy is unchanged compared to the factory magazine. The added weight of the fully loaded magazine can slightly improve recoil management.
Its strength lies in its increased capacity and reliable feeding. A potential weakness is the extended length, which may slightly hinder concealment for some users. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for an aftermarket magazine, addressing the Glock 42’s biggest shortcoming.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s translucent Carbon Smoke polymer body provides a modern, tactical look. The polymer material is lightweight yet feels sturdy. The ergonomically designed floor plate is easy to grip, facilitating quick magazine changes.
The magazine is designed for easy disassembly, which simplifies cleaning and maintenance. While the extended length adds to the overall profile, it still remains relatively compact considering the increased capacity. The learning curve is minimal; it functions like any other Glock magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The advanced polymer construction suggests a long lifespan. The manufacturer, ETS, backs this up with a lifetime warranty. Cleaning is straightforward and requires no special tools.
Given the robust construction and readily available replacement parts (if needed), this magazine should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and proper storage will maximize its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag does not require any specific accessories to function. However, it is compatible with aftermarket floor plates, allowing users to customize its appearance or improve grip. The magazine works seamlessly with standard Glock magazine pouches.
While not essential, a magazine loader can be helpful for loading the final few rounds. The magazine is primarily designed to enhance the Glock 42’s capacity and reliability, rather than being heavily customizable.
Pros and Cons of ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag
Pros
- Reliable feeding and function.
- Increased capacity (12 rounds).
- Durable advanced polymer construction.
- Translucent body allows for easy round count monitoring.
- Backed by a Lifetime Warranty from ETS
Cons
- Extended length may affect concealment for some users.
- Loading the last few rounds can be difficult.
Who Should Buy ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag?
The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag is perfect for Glock 42 owners who prioritize increased capacity without significantly compromising concealability. It benefits concealed carriers, range shooters, and those seeking a higher round count for personal defense.
Those who prioritize absolute maximum concealability or are highly sensitive to even slight increases in grip length might want to skip this product. A magazine loader is a useful, but not essential, accessory to ease the loading process.
Conclusion on ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag
The ETS For Glock 42 380ACP 12rd Carbon Smoke Mag is a worthwhile investment for Glock 42 owners seeking increased capacity and enhanced reliability. At a price of $11.49, the added capacity and peace of mind are well worth it.
I wholeheartedly recommend the ETS magazine to anyone looking to improve the capabilities of their Glock 42. It transforms the Glock 42 from a limited-capacity option into a more viable choice for self-defense. Upgrade your Glock 42 today and experience the difference!