ETS H&K VP9 9mm 17 Round Magazine Review

The Truth Revealed: Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine promises enhanced reliability, durability, and visibility compared to standard VP9 magazines. Manufactured by Elite Tactical Systems (ETS), these magazines boast a translucent polymer construction, allowing users to easily monitor their ammo count. The  17-round capacity offers a good balance between firepower and concealability.

My search for a reliable and easily maintainable magazine for my H&K VP9 led me to the ETS offering. I’ve had experiences with aftermarket magazines of questionable quality in the past, and I wanted a product that offered both reliability and a way to quickly assess remaining rounds. The translucent body and positive reviews convinced me to give the Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine a try.

Upon unboxing, the magazine felt solid and well-made, despite its polymer construction. The translucent body was indeed a welcome sight, offering a clear view of the 9mm rounds inside. The fit and finish seemed on par with factory magazines.

Compared to standard H&K VP9 magazines and Magpul PMAGs for other platforms, the ETS magazine stood out because of its unique translucent design. I chose this one specifically because I wanted the ability to quickly visually confirm round count, something the standard magazines don’t offer. My initial impression was positive, with the magazine feeling robust and offering a clear view of its contents. I was cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine at an outdoor shooting range during a relatively dry and mild day. I ran approximately 200 rounds through it, alternating between various 9mm ammunition types, including FMJ and hollow points. The magazine was loaded and unloaded repeatedly.

The magazine performed flawlessly throughout the initial testing session, feeding rounds smoothly and reliably. I experienced no failures to feed or any other malfunctions. The ease of loading was comparable to the factory H&K magazines.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range trips and a defensive pistol course, the Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine continues to perform admirably. There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the translucent polymer, but nothing that affects functionality. The magazine has been exposed to temperatures ranging from 30°F to 90°F.

The ETS magazine has proven to be exceptionally durable, showing no signs of cracking or deformation despite repeated loading, unloading, and dropping during drills. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring. In comparison to some other aftermarket magazines I’ve used, the Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine has significantly outperformed them in terms of both reliability and durability. I’m pleased with how it has performed.

Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine

Specifications

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: Elite Tactical Systems.
• Gun Make: Heckler & Koch.
• Gun Model: Heckler & Koch VP9.
• Caliber: 9mm Luger.
• Magazine Capacity: 17 Rounds.
• Color: Clear.
• Fabric/Material: Polymer.

These specifications translate to a magazine that is lightweight, durable, and provides ample firepower for a variety of applications. The polymer construction ensures resistance to impacts and chemicals, while the 17-round capacity provides a competitive edge in shooting sports or a practical advantage in self-defense scenarios. The clear body allows for immediate visual assessment of remaining rounds, a significant advantage over traditional magazines.

Performance & Functionality

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine performs its job with exceptional reliability and consistency. Round feeding is smooth, and I have not experienced any malfunctions attributable to the magazine itself. The magazine locks into the VP9 securely and ejects cleanly.

The strength of this magazine lies in its reliability and the ability to easily check remaining rounds. A potential weakness is the polymer construction, which, while durable, may not be as resistant to extreme heat as steel magazines. However, for most practical applications, the magazine exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine features a well-thought-out design. The polymer used feels sturdy and provides a comfortable grip when handling the magazine. The translucent body is the key feature, offering quick visual confirmation of round count.

The design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or awkward angles. The magazine inserts smoothly into the VP9 and releases effortlessly. There is a slight learning curve in getting used to estimating the round count through the translucent body, but this quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine is built to last. The extreme impact resistance of the advanced polymer ensures that it won’t crack or break when dropped. Its resistance to harsh chemicals and UV light also contributes to its longevity.

Maintenance is simple, involving basic cleaning with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the spring. The magazine is easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning thanks to the specially designed base plate. With proper care, this magazine should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine doesn’t come with many accessories directly. The interchangeable base plate, compatible with other ETS 9mm double-stack magazines, offers limited customization. It is designed to be compatible with Glock extensions.

While not offering extensive customization, the magazine’s compatibility with Glock extensions opens up possibilities for increasing capacity or improving grip. There are no specific accessories marketed solely for this magazine.

Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine

Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine?

This magazine is perfect for:

• VP9 owners who want a reliable and durable magazine.
• Shooters who value the ability to quickly assess remaining rounds.
• Competitive shooters looking for a magazine that performs consistently.
• Those who want a magazine that is easy to maintain.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who prioritize extreme heat resistance above all else.
• Collectors seeking only original factory magazines.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A quality magazine pouch to protect the translucent body.
• Glock extensions for those seeking increased capacity.

Conclusion on Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine

The Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine is an excellent aftermarket magazine that delivers on its promises. Its reliable performance, durable construction, and, most importantly, its translucent body make it a worthwhile upgrade for any VP9 owner. At a price of $31.89, the value proposition is justified by the enhanced functionality and peace of mind it provides.

I would personally recommend this magazine to anyone looking to improve their VP9’s reliability and ease of use. If you’re tired of guessing how many rounds you have left, give the Elite Tactical Systems H&K VP9 9mm Luger 17 Round Detachable Pistol Magazine a try. You won’t be disappointed.