Shield Arms Gen 3 9mm 15-Round Magazine for Glock 43X and 48 Pistols Review
As an avid shooter and firearms enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Shield Arms Gen 3 9mm 15-Round Magazine for my Glock 43X pistol. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its features, pros, and cons.
Product Details
- Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
- Caliber: 9mm
- Compatibility: Glock 43X and 48 pistols
- Material: Forged Stainless Steel
- Finish: Nickel Teflon Coated
- Additional Features: Double-stacked magazine design, extended base pad, and a flat, uncoated stainless steel follower
Unboxing and Initial Impression
Upon receiving the magazine, I was impressed with the packaging and overall presentation. The magazine arrived in a compact, protective case with a clear plastic window, allowing me to inspect the magazine without opening it. The magazine itself felt solid and substantial, with a smooth, nickel-titanium coating that indicated a high-quality finish.
Performance
I used the magazine for a week, alternating between rapid fire and deliberate, slow-paced shooting. The results were impressive:
- Reliability: The magazine functioned flawlessly, feeding rounds smoothly and consistently.
- Accuracy: The flat, uncoated stainless steel follower performed admirably, producing minimal lead and no misfeeding or jamming.
- Durability: The forged stainless steel construction withstood intense use, showing no signs of deformation or weakening.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the magazine’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
• Smooth feeding: The magazine’s double-stacked design made for seamless feeding, even with rapid fire.
• Consistent performance: The nickel-titanium coating provided a smooth, consistent surface for the rounds to feed from.
• Robust construction: The forged stainless steel body and 0.050" thick steel follower ensured the magazine could withstand heavy use.
• Easy maintenance: The flat, flat design made disassembly and cleaning a breeze.
• Affordable: Priced competitively with other high-capacity magazines on the market.
Cons:
• Limited compatibility: This magazine is specifically designed for Glock 43X and 48 pistols, so users of other Glock models may not be able to utilize it.
• No fancy features: While the magazine is well-made, it lacks additional features like anti-tilt followers or enhanced base pads.
• Potential for wear: The nickel-titanium coating may wear off over time, potentially exposing the magazine to corrosion or erosion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shield Arms Gen 3 9mm 15-Round Magazine for Glock 43X and 48 Pistols is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, high-capacity magazine for their Gastonia, North Carolina-designed pistols. While it may not boast additional features, its robust construction and smooth performance make it a solid choice for everyday carry or tactical use.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-capacity magazine for your Glock 43X or 48, I highly recommend considering the Shield Arms Gen 3 9mm 15-Round Magazine. Its smooth feeding, robust construction, and competitive pricing make it an excellent value for the money. Just be aware of its limited compatibility and potential for wear on the nickel-titanium coating.