Glock Magazines, Magpul Or ETS Can You Trust Aftermarket Mags

Published on January 8, 2019
Duration: 9:39

This guide, drawing on the expertise of a firearms instructor, compares Glock factory magazines with popular aftermarket options from Magpul and ETS. It details construction differences, focusing on feed lip durability and base plate functionality. The expert recommends using factory magazines for self-defense and duty, while aftermarket options are best suited for cost-effective training to preserve the longevity of critical-use magazines.

Quick Summary

For self-defense and duty, trust Glock factory magazines due to their durable, steel-reinforced feed lips. Aftermarket options like Magpul and ETS are cost-effective for training, but their all-polymer construction may present long-term reliability concerns. Magpul's base plate design offers an advantage for magazine stripping during malfunctions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Aftermarket Mags
  2. 00:24Glock Shooting B-Roll
  3. 00:30Aftermarket Mag Brands Discussed
  4. 01:20Personal Experience & Usage
  5. 02:07Self-Defense vs. Training Mags
  6. 02:51Close-up Magazine Comparison
  7. 03:40Feed Lips: Polymer vs. Steel
  8. 04:30Magpul Base Plate Advantage
  9. 05:08ETS Mag Flexibility Concerns
  10. 05:59Aftermarket Mag Failure Rates
  11. 06:21Final Thoughts: Trust and Application
  12. 08:21Training vs. Self-Defense Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Glock factory magazines and aftermarket options like Magpul and ETS?

The primary difference lies in construction. Glock factory magazines feature polymer bodies with steel-reinforced feed lips for enhanced durability. In contrast, many aftermarket magazines, including Magpul and ETS, are constructed entirely from polymer, which can make their feed lips more susceptible to wear and damage over time.

Are aftermarket Glock magazines reliable enough for self-defense?

While aftermarket magazines like Magpul and ETS are excellent for training due to their cost-effectiveness, most experts, including the instructor in this video, recommend using only Glock factory magazines for self-defense or duty applications. This is due to concerns about the long-term durability of all-polymer feed lips in critical situations.

What advantage does the Magpul PMAG 17 GL9 offer over a standard Glock magazine?

The Magpul PMAG 17 GL9 often features a slightly wider base plate with serrations. This design can provide a better grip, making it easier to strip the magazine from the firearm if it becomes stuck or fails to drop free during a malfunction, a common issue addressed in tactical training.

Why is magazine feed lip construction important for Glock pistols?

The feed lips are critical as they hold rounds in the magazine and guide them into the chamber. Steel-reinforced feed lips, as found in Glock factory magazines, are generally more durable and less prone to deforming or breaking than all-polymer feed lips found in some aftermarket magazines, ensuring more reliable feeding.

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