First Impressions of FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine aims to provide reliable feeding and increased durability for Glock 19 owners, particularly in regions where magazine capacity is restricted. FAB Defense is known for its tactical accessories and aftermarket parts, so I was eager to see how their magazine offering stacked up against established brands and the Glock factory magazines themselves. The promise of enhanced polymer construction and improved reliability at a reasonable price point is certainly appealing.
I recently moved to a state with a 10-round magazine capacity limit. Finding quality, reliable magazines that fit my Glock 19 without extending beyond the grip was essential. I wanted something that wouldn’t compromise concealability or handling.
Upon receiving the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine, the first thing I noticed was the robust polymer construction. The magazine felt solid and well-made, definitely more substantial than some of the cheaper aftermarket Glock magazines I’ve handled. The finish was clean, and the extended baseplate provided a comfortable grip.
Compared to Magpul’s GL9 10-round magazine, the FAB Defense offering appeared slightly more compact. The FAB Defense magazine also felt more rigid than a KCI Glock magazine I had on hand. I chose the FAB Defense magazine hoping for increased durability and a more reliable feeding experience.
My initial impression was positive. I was cautiously optimistic that the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine would deliver on its promise of reliability and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine at an outdoor shooting range in varying conditions. The weather was relatively mild, but the range was dusty due to recent construction. I ran approximately 200 rounds of mixed 9mm ammunition through two magazines.
The magazines performed well overall. They seated positively into my Glock 19 and Glock 19X, and the rounds fed smoothly. I experienced one failure to feed in the first magazine, which I attributed to the magazine being brand new.
The magazines were easy to load, and the extended baseplate provided a comfortable gripping surface when drawing the magazine. I didn’t notice any significant difference in recoil management compared to using the factory magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine has held up well. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through each of the two magazines I own. I’ve experienced no further failures to feed.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The polymer body shows some minor scuffs, but the feed lips and magazine spring appear to be in good condition. The magazines continue to function reliably, even after being dropped on hard surfaces during reload drills.
The magazines are easy to clean. Disassembling the magazine for cleaning is straightforward, and reassembly is equally simple. A quick wipe-down with a cloth and some CLP keeps them in good working order. They outperform cheap KCI mags that are known to swell after minimal use.
Breaking Down the Features of FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine
Specifications
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine is designed specifically for Glock 19 and compact Glock platforms chambered in 9x19mm. It features a 10-round capacity, making it compliant with magazine capacity restrictions in certain states. The magazine body is constructed from a high-strength polymer, designed to withstand significant impact and resist deformation.
The magazine utilizes an industry-standard steel spring and feed lips for reliable feeding. The inclusion of a polymer body is important because it is more resistant to corrosion and damage compared to steel magazines. It maintains its shape and feeding properties under duress and harsh conditions. The 10-round capacity may be a negative if you live in a non-restrictive state.
Performance & Functionality
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine performs its primary function of feeding ammunition into the Glock 19 reliably. The enhanced polymer construction and robust spring contribute to consistent and dependable operation. The magazine consistently locked the slide back on empty after the break-in period.
The only weakness I identified was the one failure to feed experienced during the initial use, which is no longer an issue. The magazine meets and exceeds expectations for an aftermarket Glock magazine, especially given its affordable price point. It is certainly a viable alternative to factory magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine features a simple, functional design. The magazine body is textured for improved grip, and the extended baseplate provides a comfortable surface for manipulating the magazine. The polymer construction keeps the magazine lightweight.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques to load or unload. Disassembly for cleaning is also straightforward. The ease of use makes it suitable for both experienced shooters and those new to Glock firearms.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-strength polymer construction of the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine suggests that it should last for an extended period. Based on my experience, the magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after considerable use. The magazine is easy to maintain.
The magazine can be easily disassembled for cleaning and inspection. Replacing the spring or baseplate, if necessary, is also relatively simple. Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of this magazine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, the easily swappable base plates can be replaced with aftermarket options, such as those offered by FAB Defense for enhanced grip or visual identification. The magazine is compatible with most standard Glock 19 magazine pouches and carriers.
Pros and Cons of FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine
Pros
- Reliable feeding: After initial break-in, the magazine functions reliably with various types of 9mm ammunition.
- Durable construction: The high-strength polymer body withstands impacts and resists deformation.
- Affordable price: The FAB Defense magazine is significantly cheaper than factory Glock magazines.
- Easy maintenance: Simple disassembly and cleaning process.
- Extended baseplate: Provides a comfortable gripping surface for manipulation and tactical reloads.
Cons
- Initial failure to feed: Experienced one failure to feed during the first use.
- 10-round capacity: May be restrictive for users in states without magazine capacity limits.
Who Should Buy FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine?
The FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine is perfect for Glock 19 owners in states with magazine capacity restrictions. It is also a good option for those seeking affordable, reliable magazines for range training or recreational shooting. The extended baseplate makes it ideal for users wanting more positive magazine changes.
This product is not ideal for individuals who need a high-capacity magazine because they live in a state without magazine capacity limits. Those who prefer to only use factory Glock magazines should also avoid this product. A must-have accessory is a magazine loader.
Conclusion on FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine
Overall, the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine is a solid and dependable option for Glock 19 owners seeking a cost-effective alternative to factory magazines. While I did experience one minor issue during the initial use, the magazine has proven to be reliable and durable over time. At $14.99, the price is definitely justified.
I would recommend the FAB Defense Ultimag Glock 19 9x19mm 10-Round Magazine to anyone looking for a reliable, affordable magazine for their Glock 19, especially those living in areas with magazine capacity restrictions. Give these magazines a try and increase the reliability of your Glock 19 today!