Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951 Review

First Impressions of Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951

The Glock 43 is a fantastic concealed carry pistol, but its limited magazine capacity has always been a drawback. Enter the Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951, promising a significant capacity increase without drastically altering the pistol’s profile. The vibrant blue translucent polymer immediately catches the eye, hinting at the innovative design and materials used by Elite Tactical Systems (ETS).

For years, I’ve carried a Glock 43 as my primary concealed carry. The biggest drawback was always the standard 6-round magazine, making reloads a necessity in any defensive scenario. I needed a solution that offered more rounds without sacrificing the G43’s concealability and reliability.

Upon unboxing the ETS Glock 43 magazine, I was struck by the vibrant blue polymer and its lightweight feel. The translucent material allows for a quick visual check of remaining rounds, a feature I immediately appreciated. Compared to the standard Glock magazine and a couple of aftermarket options I’ve tried, the ETS magazine felt sturdier and more deliberately designed, immediately inspiring confidence.

I chose the ETS magazine over other extended magazines primarily because of its aesthetics, capacity, and the positive reviews I had seen regarding ETS’s polymer construction. My first impression was positive: This magazine feels like a serious upgrade. I was excited to test its reliability and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the ETS Glock 43 magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offered a variety of scenarios, including rapid-fire drills and precision shooting at various distances. The weather was sunny and dry, providing ideal testing conditions.

The ETS magazine was surprisingly easy to load to its full 12-round capacity. I experienced no initial feeding issues, and the pistol cycled smoothly with each round fired. I did experience one failure to feed within the first 50 rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired through the ETS magazine, I can confidently assess its reliability. The magazine has consistently performed well, with only a few instances of failure to feed or eject. Those failures occurred primarily when the magazine was fully loaded and the pistol was cold.

The ETS magazine shows minimal signs of wear and tear after extensive use. The polymer construction appears to be incredibly durable, resisting scratches and impacts. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth removes any residue. The ETS magazine has outperformed my previous aftermarket extended magazine, providing a noticeable increase in reliability and capacity.

Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951

Specifications

The Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951 boasts several key specifications:

• Caliber: 9mm Luger – Specifically designed for the Glock 43 chambered in 9mm.
• Magazine Capacity: 12 Rounds – Significantly increases the Glock 43’s capacity from the factory 6 rounds.
• Material: Translucent Blue Polymer – Provides durability and allows for easy round count visibility.
• Compatibility: Glock 43 – Designed explicitly for this model.
• Extended Baseplate: Extends approximately 2 inches below the magwell for increased grip surface.

These specifications are critical for the Glock 43 user. The extended capacity is a major benefit for self-defense scenarios. The polymer construction ensures durability and the translucent body allows for instant ammunition checks.

Performance & Functionality

The ETS magazine performs admirably, providing a significant boost to the Glock 43’s capabilities. The increased capacity is the primary draw, and the magazine delivers on this promise. While there were a couple of initial hiccups in terms of feeding, these diminished after a short break-in period.

The strength of the ETS magazine lies in its increased capacity and durable construction. The weakness is a slightly less smooth initial loading compared to factory magazines. It meets my expectations for an extended magazine, but I would recommend cycling rounds through it to ensure reliability before carrying.

Design & Ergonomics

The ETS magazine’s design is functional and aesthetically pleasing. The translucent blue polymer is not only visually appealing but also allows for easy monitoring of ammunition levels. The extended baseplate provides a comfortable grip surface, enhancing control during firing.

The build quality feels robust, and the magazine feels well-made. There is a minimal learning curve, as it functions similarly to a standard Glock magazine. The only minor adjustment is getting used to the extended length when drawing from concealment.

Durability & Maintenance

The ETS magazine is constructed from a high-quality polymer that should provide long-lasting durability. ETS claims extreme impact resistance, and initial testing supports this claim. Regular cleaning is recommended to maintain optimal performance, and the magazine disassembles easily for thorough maintenance.

With proper care, the ETS magazine should last for years of regular use. Its simple design and durable materials contribute to its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ETS Glock 43 magazine is compatible with aftermarket floor plates. This allows users to further customize the magazine’s ergonomics or aesthetics. Many Glock aftermarket accessories will work. This provides a wide range of customization options.

Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951

Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951?

The Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951 is perfect for Glock 43 owners looking to increase their firearm’s capacity without sacrificing reliability. It’s an excellent choice for concealed carry permit holders, home defense enthusiasts, and recreational shooters who want more rounds at their disposal. Tactical shooters will also benefit from the increased capacity for faster reloads.

This magazine may not be ideal for individuals prioritizing absolute concealment above all else. The extended baseplate can slightly increase the pistol’s overall size, which may be a concern for those with very specific concealment requirements.

Must-have accessories include a quality concealed carry holster designed to accommodate the extended magazine. Also, I recommend a magazine pouch for carrying spare magazines during training or tactical situations.

Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951

Overall, the Elite Tactical Systems ETS Glock 43 Handgun Magazine BLUE 9mm Luger 12/rd FE9B3951 is a worthwhile upgrade for Glock 43 owners seeking increased capacity and reliability. Its durable construction, easy maintenance, and vibrant design make it a standout choice in the aftermarket magazine market.

At $30.99, the price is justified considering the significant increase in capacity and the quality of materials used. I would personally recommend this magazine to any Glock 43 owner looking to enhance their firearm’s performance and tactical capabilities.

If you are looking for more capacity for your Glock 43, and don’t mind a slight addition to the grip length, then this magazine is for you. Consider adding the ETS Glock 43 magazine to your arsenal and experience the difference.