ETS 380 ACP 9-Round Magazine for Glock 42 Pistols Review
As a firearms enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and high-quality magazines that can withstand the test of time. The ETS 380 ACP 9-Round Magazine caught my attention, especially since it’s specifically designed for the Glock 42 pistols. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this magazine, highlighting its pros and cons, and whether it’s worth the investment.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
I unwrapped the magazine with anticipation, eager to check its construction, finish, and overall build quality. The magazine feels solid in the hand, with a durable polymer body and a smooth, gloss-finish surface. The fit is snug, and the magazine drops freely into the Glock 42 pistol without any hiccups.
Installation and Performance
I loaded the magazine with 9 rounds of 380 ACP ammunition, and it functioned flawlessly every time. The feeding and extraction were seamless, with no misfires or hang-ups. The follower is designed to ride smoothly, and the magazine empties completely with a satisfying clunk. Pros:
• Accurate feeding
• Smooth extraction
• Proper follower function
• Durable construction
On the other hand, I did experience some minor issues with bolt-face contact, where the magazine wouldn’t seat fully into the pistol. This created a slight gap, which might affect the accuracy. However, this issue is mostly related to the Glock 42’s design, not the magazine itself.
Durability and Reliability
I subjected the magazine to a series of drop tests, impact tests, and operational tests, and it withstood all of them with flying colors. The magazine survived repeated drops from various heights, as well as direct impacts from a metal block. It withstood environmental tests, including exposure to water, dust, and extreme temperatures. Pros:
• Durable construction
• Withstands moderate impact
• Withstands environmental exposure
During my testing, I didn’t notice any significant differences in performance or accuracy when using the ETS magazine versus a factory Glock magazine. However, the ETS magazine did seem to hold up better in terms of retaining its shape and maintaining its smooth operation after extended use.
Comparison with Factory Glock Magazine
In direct comparison with a factory Glock 42 magazine, I noticed a few differences:
• The ETS magazine has a more consistent feeding behavior, whereas the factory magazine is prone to occasional misfeeds.
• The ETS magazine has a more reliable extraction, with almost no instances of duffing or tearing.
• The ETS magazine seems to hold up better in terms of retaining its shape and function after extended use.
Conclusion
The ETS 380 ACP 9-Round Magazine for Glock 42 pistols is an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and durable alternative to the OEM magazine. While it’s not perfect, and some minor issues may arise, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The magazine’s durability, smooth operation, and consistent feeding behavior make it an excellent choice for regular shooters.
Cons:
• Minor gap in bolt-face contact
• Slight wobbling when fully loaded
• Not dramatically different from factory magazine performance-wise
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality magazine that won’t break the bank, the ETS 380 ACP 9-Round Magazine for Glock 42 pistols is an excellent option. At an affordable price point, it’s hard to go wrong with this choice. Recommendation: If you’re a Glock 42 owner or an enthusiast, I highly recommend giving this magazine a try. It’s worth the investment.
