ETS Group Translucent AR Magazines with Coupling System

[UWone77]

ETS Group (http://www.etsgroup.us) has some new magazines they've brought to market. I've only had a little time playing with some samples, so I can't say whether I'd run them or not at this point. Their coupling system looks pretty good (if you like coupling systems in the first place) Read on:


Hello everyone,

We would like to start by saying we are excited to be an industry partner and supporter of this great forum. We want to not only answer questions and promote our products, but we also hope we can contribute to the AR forums in a positive manner.

We are a new company and this is our first product, but don't let that fool you. We spent over a year and a half designing, testing, tweaking, and perfecting our mags. We were not going to release an incomplete or inferior product. We started with a couple of ideas like the integrated coupling system and from there the list of potential improvements to the AR mag grew.
We did not set out to make just "another" AR mag. Our goal was to make the most innovative mag for the AR to date. Some of the notable features of our mags:

•Superior Impact Resistance
•Integrated Coupling System (No extra parts or tools needed. Couples/uncouples in one second)
•Transparent for easy round count (very light smoke color)
•Very High Level Of Chemical Resistance (including DEET)
•Thermal Stability (From 200*F to -40*, our mag won't become soft from heat or brittle from the cold)
•A clip on Dust Cover (To keep out dirt and debris, not needed for storing the mag loaded)
•Special Ribs On The Floor Plate to Aid In Pulling The Mag From A Pouch
•Specially Designed Ribs on the Housing to Provide Superior Grip, Even with Gloves
•Specially Designed Floor Plate Makes Disassembly/Assembly Remarkably Fast and Easy for Cleaning and Maintenance
•Our Advanced Translucent Polymer is Ultra Low Creep So the Feedlips Won't Spread When Stored Fully Loaded.


Our ultimate goal was to create a mag that is so tough and durable that we begin to change the way people think about AR mags. Hopefully they will be thought of as something that will last the life of your rifle. It has been over 50 years since the AR came out and in that time processes and materials have greatly improved the rifles. It's time to apply these advances in technology to the AR mag and bring it into the 21st century...

Below we will post some videos and pictures.
For more detailed info please visit our website at:
http://www.etsgroup.us

We are offering a 20% off coupon for all AR15.com members. Simply enter the discount code AR15com at checkout!

Coupled Mag MSRP: $19.99
Non-Coupled Mag MSRP: $17.99



http://i1334.photobucket.com/albums/w654/richardkim0177/InRifle1_zps1a051f12.jpg (http://s1334.photobucket.com/user/richardkim0177/media/InRifle1_zps1a051f12.jpg.html)
http://i1334.photobucket.com/albums/w654/richardkim0177/CoupledMagsRight3QuarterView_zpsc7d86be9.gif (http://s1334.photobucket.com/user/richardkim0177/media/CoupledMagsRight3QuarterView_zpsc7d86be9.gif.html)

[GOST]

Saw these in a shop awhile back. They had them with and without coupling system. Wasn't a fan of the coupling system, didn't feel real durable.

[M. Gale]

A drop test would sort them out very quickly. That being said, does the polymer magazine market have room for another player? I'd have to believe that Magpul, Tango Down and Lancer have it covered pretty well.

[Thompson]

A drop test would sort them out very quickly. That being said, does the polymer magazine market have room for another player? I'd have to believe that Magpul, Tango Down and Lancer have it covered pretty well.
Hexmag is new to the market and might become a big player too.

Interested in seeing how durable/structural integrity is. The one post about Magpul attempting to do some sort of clear PMAG resulted in a brittle magazine.

If you go to their website, you can find more pictures. Disassembled - it kind of resembles a PMAG - in my opinion.

The mating side looks interesting.

[ETSGroup]

Hey guys,
I just wanted to drop by and let you know that we are here to answer any questions you may have about our mags.

It seems that more than one person in this thread has mentioned durability. We have created a polymer mag that far surpasses other poly mags as far as toughness. In every drop test we have performed not one other polymer mag could withstand a 6 foot drop fully loaded on concrete on it's feedlips. After dropping our mags several times from 6 feet, then dropping them coupled fully loaded with 60 rounds from 6 feet, we could not get them to break. So, we decided to get a little crazy with it. We dropped a mag from 20 feet onto concrete on it's feedlips, it didn't break. We have a video of that drop posted up on our YouTube channel.

The only mag that even comes close in toughness is the lancer, and the steel feedlips do bend before our mag fails. Just to be clear, I don't want to sound like we are bashing other mags, because we are not. We simply want everyone to understand that we have created a mag that is in a league all it's own as far as toughness goes.

If you guys have any questions please feel free to post them and I will answer.

[Thompson]

ETSGroup - did you also do any test firing after the above mentioned drop/torture tests? If so, did you have any FTF, malfunctions, etc?

Nice video comparison by the way.

In any case; I'm always in the market to try out different magazines. Would love to get my hands on one to try out for myself!

[ETSGroup]

ETSGroup - did you also do any test firing after the above mentioned drop/torture tests? If so, did you have any FTF, malfunctions, etc?

Nice video comparison by the way.

In any case; I'm always in the market to try out different magazines. Would love to get my hands on one to try out for myself!

Yeah, we still use that mag in testing. It has been dropped from 20 feet twice (the camera wasn't one the first time) and we ran over it with an 8000lb truck. Since that testing, we have put 600 rounds through that mag. It's still perfectly fine and sitting on my desk. [:D]

[M. Gale]

Not the drop test I was looking for but it's a start. The effects of temperature, chemicals and time will tell the rest of the story. I'll be back in a year and see how things are going.

[ETSGroup]

Not the drop test I was looking for but it's a start. The effects of temperature, chemicals and time will tell the rest of the story. I'll be back in a year and see how things are going.

We did every test that is used for military validation. We tested the mags down to -40 F, up to 200 F for 48 hours, then dropped them and they were not damaged. We have submerged our material in every transportational fluid (aka brake fluid, hydraulic fluid, gas, diesel, jet fuel, ect....) for a week, our plastic was completely unaffected. We also put them in deet, does not react with our plastic. We also tested the effects of heat cycling on our material. We took it to 220 F 10,000 times and it still retained 98% of it's mechanical properties. Our material is far more temperature stable than glass re-enforced Nylon that most mag makers use.

Bottom line, our mag is better in every way. This is no gimmick. We sent almost a year and a half just perfecting our material.

Also, our plastic is ultra low creep, so you can store them fully loaded without worrying about the feedlips spreading.

Our material sounds almost too good to be true until you see the price. It's very expensive so we had to work very hard to be competitively priced in the market. I think we did a good job.

[ETSGroup]

Hello All,
When we designed our mags there was a good reason we made the button on the bottom the shape of a 5.56 round (besides it looking cool). That reason is our Rapid Recognition System, different colors of followers and base inserts so you can differentiate your mags with a quick glance. We are working on getting these items put up for sale. MSRP will be $6.99 for a set of 4 (4 followers + 4 base inserts). They will be available in blue, green, red, orange, yellow, black, and pink. No need to tape, paint, or otherwise mark your mags for different loads/uses.

Plus, with our see through housing you will be able to see your colors from any angle!
www.ETSgroup.us (http://www.etsgroup.us)

Below are some pics....

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsBase_zps841911fe.jpg

http:// http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsFollowers_zpse9e79852.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/ColoredBaseFaned_zpsc56a8e78.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsFollowersRear_zps14d8d35f.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/WithBulletsquarterView_zpsfc254fcb.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/WithBulletsRear_zps8161041f.jpg

[GOST]

Good luck, sounds like a good product. The Lancer is the only polymer mag I use on a regular basis. I may try one of yours without the coupler.

[ETSGroup]

Good luck, sounds like a good product. The Lancer is the only polymer mag I use on a regular basis. I may try one of yours without the coupler.

Thanks. Lancer makes a good mag. I hope we will exceed your expectations.

[ETSGroup]

When we designed our mags there was a good reason we made the button on the bottom the shape of a 5.56 round (besides it looking cool). That reason is our Rapid Recognition System, different colors of followers and base inserts so you can differentiate your mags with a quick glance. We are working on getting these items put up for sale. MSRP will be $6.99 for a set of 4 (4 followers + 4 base inserts). They will be available in blue, green, red, orange, yellow, black, and pink. No need to tape, paint, or otherwise mark your mags for different loads/uses.

Plus, with our see through housing you will be able to see your colors from any angle!
www.ETSgroup.us (http://www.etsgroup.us)

Below are some pics....

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsBase_zps841911fe.jpg

http:// http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsFollowers_zpse9e79852.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/ColoredBaseFaned_zpsc56a8e78.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/AllColorsFollowersRear_zps14d8d35f.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/WithBulletsquarterView_zpsfc254fcb.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/WithBulletsRear_zps8161041f.jpg

[UWone77]

ETS, I like the potential of your mags....which is of course why I posted them. May have to try out a few.

Welcome to our corner of the web!

[CoxeyDiesel]

ETS, I like the potential of your mags....which is of course why I posted them. May have to try out a few.

Welcome to our corner of the web!

Same here. I really love translucent mags anyways but those followers are slick too.

[Thompson]

That's pretty neat how you guys made the bottom in the shape of a bullet, as compared to some random generic shape.

[UWone77]

Picked one up today. I got the non-coupling version. Haven't put any rounds down range with it yet, probably Friday. I did take a few snap shots:


http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2486_zps92dfc6fc.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2486_zps92dfc6fc.jpg.html)
http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2484_zps21cae181.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2484_zps21cae181.jpg.html)

[ksenter]

I like it!!!


a lot

[Thompson]

Let us know how it shoots UW!

[GOST]

Nice pics UW, you sure you and Stick aren't the same person?[BD]

[UWone77]

Nice pics UW, you sure you and Stick aren't the same person?[BD]

Ha! I appreciate the compliment, but I don't have the skills of Stick, or his creativity. He's definitely taught me 90% of what I know about photography... in the big scheme of things I know very little though.

[GOST]

He's done a good job.

[Thompson]

Ha! I appreciate the compliment, but I don't have the skills of Stick, or his creativity.
Are you kidding! Your photos are great; I'd say just as good as Stick's. I can only hope to get to your level one day.

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2488_zpsfd1b3e44.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2488_zpsfd1b3e44.jpg.html)

[Dstrbdmedic167]

I second the above statement. Your photos are awesome! Have you done any function testing with the mag yet?

[ETSGroup]

Thanks for the kind words. If you all have any questions let us know.

[Vel]

Just got 3 in yesterday, taking them tomorrow to try out. Overall first impression is they are very good quality.

[LCSO264]

These look very similar in appearence to another recent entry into the polymer AR mag world. Interested in hearing how they fair from a variety of shooters.

[shimsham]

I'm highly intrigued as to the durability of y'alls magazine over time. Any idea what kind of cycling life one may expect from the follower spring in this magazine before replacement is needed? Is the spring proprietary to y'all, or are there other aftermarket springs which would be compatible for service?

[ETSGroup]

These look very similar in appearence to another recent entry into the polymer AR mag world. Interested in hearing how they fair from a variety of shooters.

Hmmm. I'm not sure which recent mag we look like. Care to share?

[ETSGroup]

I'm highly intrigued as to the durability of y'alls magazine over time. Any idea what kind of cycling life one may expect from the follower spring in this magazine before replacement is needed? Is the spring proprietary to y'all, or are there other aftermarket springs which would be compatible for service?

The stainless steel used for our spring is not new, it's tried and tested. You should expect around 20,000 rounds on the average low side before replacement will be needed. Of course the environment it spends it's life in will make a difference, but that will give you an idea on longevity.

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2503_zps96b83338.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2503_zps96b83338.jpg.html)

[pm07]

I didnt see this asked but how do they fit as far as mag pouches? I'm thinking nylon here not kydex. Mags sit lower in most nylon pouches. Looks like an interesting magazine, I'm going to try a couple.

[UWone77]

Shot my 300 rounds yesterday through the magazine. 10 loads and reloads. No issues, fed every time. To me the magazine feels pretty solid. Only time will tell how they stack up against already established polymer magazines.

[ETSGroup]

We have a few mags that have 6000 rounds through each of them and they are still perfect. We are very excited for everyone to get some good time on our mags. We are confident you all will be impressed.

[camomike]

Anyone see the recent news about this? I know ETS can't comment on pending litigation, but Magpul just went after them for patent infringment. This is interesting to me. My wife is in this field(contract and patent law)

[Computalotapus]

Anyone see the recent news about this? I know ETS can't comment on pending litigation, but Magpul just went after them for patent infringment. This is interesting to me. My wife is in this field(contract and patent law)

So I should pick a couple up before they are gone

[WHSmithIV]

I think you should get in touch with the Gunstruction guys and get them added there also. Wish you made them for 7.62x39 even if only 20 round ones. I'm going to need some 7.62x39 AR mags in the near future.

[WHSmithIV]

Anyone see the recent news about this? I know ETS can't comment on pending litigation, but Magpul just went after them for patent infringment. This is interesting to me. My wife is in this field(contract and patent law)

Just looking at them in comparison with a P-mag from pictures, I'm not sure a patent infringement lawsuit will be successful. For one, it's a different plastic, two, it's translucent and Magpul doesn't make translucent mags. The base is different also. Patents are quite specific so those differences alone probably determine that there is no patent violation.

[camomike]

It's 3 different patents they are claiming infringment on. Half way tempted to pull up the specific patents to see for myself.

[UWone77]

Whether or not there is any actual infringement. The only winners in this is the attorneys. One of my best friends is a patent attorney, and so is my sister in law. That's big $$$ to review and proceed to litigation.

[camomike]

Very much truth in that. I understand the need to defend a brand, and not let your product become generic. But it seems like Magpul is trying to block most poly mag makers from market. Part of the reason I want to see what the specifics they are claiming are.

[Gaspipeshooter]

Whether or not there is any actual infringement. The only winners in this is the attorneys. One of my best friends is a patent attorney, and so is my sister in law. That's big $$$ to review and proceed to litigation.

I've had to sue people three different times over business. In each case, even though I technically "won" on paper so far as a judgement, I didn't. Like you said, the only real winners, except on paper, are the attorneys. They are the ones who benefit financially from lawsuits.

[camomike]

Just looking at them in comparison with a P-mag from pictures, I'm not sure a patent infringement lawsuit will be successful. For one, it's a different plastic, two, it's translucent and Magpul doesn't make translucent mags. The base is different also. Patents are quite specific so those differences alone probably determine that there is no patent violation.

My guess is the geometry and mag shape is one, and another is going to be the mag cover plate as two. The hooked locking part. Not a clue what the third might be.

[WHSmithIV]

My guess is the geometry and mag shape is one, and another is going to be the mag cover plate as two. The hooked locking part. Not a clue what the third might be.

Geometry and shape would have to be identical to be a patent infringement and they aren't. The mag cover plate could be an issue.

[Kopis]

think i may order a few. translucent mags are cool

[Eric]

Uh oh. It would appear that Magpul has filed a lawsuit (http://www.rfcexpress.com/lawsuits/patent-lawsuits/colorado-district-court/916806/magpul-industries-corp-v-elite-tactical-systems-group-llc/summary/) claiming "Patent Infringement against Elite Tactical Systems Group, LLC."

[markm]

I'm running 2 of these mags and they WAY exceeded my expectations. I figured they'd be mushy like Lancers, but they're NICE.

I've been inside and out of these mags and can't find ANY aspect that leads me to believe they anything like the magpul pmag. The follower, the body, the base plate system.... none of it looks like Magpul's parts to me. Magpul's comments have been very vague... "geometry", etc.

Well if whatever they allegedly stole is patented, why not give specifics?

[GOST]

With all the polymer magazines out there makes you wonder why they have went after this one.

[ETSGroup]

Hello guys,
Just so it doesn't look like we are avoiding talking about it, we really can't speak about the lawsuit at this point because we just don't have enough info at this time.

Thanks for everyone's support and kind words. It really means a lot to us...

[Computalotapus]

Hello guys,
Just so it doesn't look like we are avoiding talking about it, we really can't speak about the lawsuit at this point because we just don't have enough info at this time.

Thanks for everyone's support and kind words. It really means a lot to us...

No worries man keep doing what you do and eventually it will all get worked out one way or another.

[camomike]

Hello guys,
Just so it doesn't look like we are avoiding talking about it, we really can't speak about the lawsuit at this point because we just don't have enough info at this time.

Thanks for everyone's support and kind words. It really means a lot to us...

Like I stated before I understand you wouldn't be able to comment about it. Not trying to tip your hand in anyway. Part of being on a forum is being an info seeker, or speculating gossip monger. I'm guilty of both. Like Comp said, really hope this gets ironed out ok.

[M. Gale]

Patents are quite specific so those differences alone probably determine that there is no patent violation.

Wrong...


Geometry and shape would have to be identical to be a patent infringement and they aren't.

Wrong again...


Patents are, and should be as vague as they can be written. The patent for the PMag is no exception. ETS Group shouldn't be the least bit surprised that a suit was brought by Magpul. Prediction: ETS loses... badly.

[din]

Magpul can eat a bag of dicks. I won't buy another one of their products, and not just because of this.

[WHSmithIV]

Patents are, and should be as vague as they can be written. The patent for the PMag is no exception. ETS Group shouldn't be the least bit surprised that a suit was brought by Magpul. Prediction: ETS loses... badly.

I'm not so sure about that. They sued Promag and 3 other companies a year ago and Promag is still selling mags which means Magpul wasn't successful in preventing them from doing so. I just looked up Magpul's patents and they are quite specific. The main patent also includes 17 images. Most likely some kind of compromise will be reached and perhaps some small changes to the ETS mags will be made. I don't see this lawsuit shutting down ETS production. I have looked up the lawsuit to see what Magpul is claiming for the patent infringements and checked the text of it. It's extremely vague and doesn't actually specifically list what is being claimed as infringements. All it does is list the 3 patents that Magpul says have been infringed upon but not specifically how Magpul feels they have been infringed.

We're on your side ETS.

Magpul themselves have been sued over patent infringements so, I have a feeling that this is going to get worked out.

[Eric]

Sounds like I need to test drive some ETS mags soon. Just what I need, more mags... [:D]

[WHSmithIV]

Sounds like I need to test drive some ETS mags soon. Just what I need, more mags... [:D]

I know the feeling. I still have new in the package Pmags. I've offered to donate 2 of them to Sticks giveaway also. He can add them to his duty upper he's giving away.

[Eric]

With the market saturated with AR mags now, ETS has their work cut out for them. Pmags can be found for about $9, so the $18 price-point with the ETS mags will be challenging. If a larger dealer networks opens up, I'm sure we will see lower retail pricing.

[WHSmithIV]

With the market saturated with AR mags now, ETS has their work cut out for them. Pmags can be found for about $9, so the $18 price-point with the ETS mags will be challenging. If a larger dealer networks opens up, I'm sure we will see lower retail pricing.

Their mags are translucent so their only competition is from Lancer. As far as I know only Lancer also has translucent mags. I'd pay the extra for a really good translucent mag simply because they are cool [:)]

[ETSGroup]

Thanks again guys for the support. We will get this worked out, and we will still be making mags.

[markm]

Sounds like I need to test drive some ETS mags soon. Just what I need, more mags... [:D]

You won't be disappointed. I bought 2 of the non-coupling mags, and I like them.

[Vel]

Got to run the 3 non-coupled mags I picked up on Saturday. Worked flawlessly from start to finish!

[ETSGroup]

Got to run the 3 non-coupled mags I picked up on Saturday. Worked flawlessly from start to finish!


Good to hear. Thanks for taking the time to post your feedback.

[Thompson]

Torture test conducted by a third party source (IV8888 and VSO Gun Channel)

Elite Tactical Systems Magazine Torture Test with IraqVeteran8888: Big 3 East (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNgkCvoolis&feature=youtu.be)

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2490_zps391f230f.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2490_zps391f230f.jpg.html)

[ETSGroup]

Torture test conducted by a third party source (IV8888 and VSO Gun Channel)

Elite Tactical Systems Magazine Torture Test with IraqVeteran8888: Big 3 East (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNgkCvoolis&feature=youtu.be)

Yes, that was a lot of fun. When we got home we cleaned the mags up and they both run the AR just fine (except the one ground on by the fan blades doesn't hold the bolt open any more because they ground down the back of the follower)

Here are a few close up pics of these poor mags...

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray1_zps76b10d4c.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray3_zpsb292e0db.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray4_zps1f9725d0.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green2_zps3451f53a.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green5_zps5c39984f.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green4_zps4d4474b2.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green3_zps6874ea88.jpg

[Thompson]

Oh wow. Thanks for sharing! Was curious to see what the end state was from those particular magazines. Didn't seem as beat up as I'd thought it was - especially the one damaged by the fan blades haha

[ETSGroup]

Yeah, they took a beating for sure. But both work just fine...

[markm]

Some more of these will be under the Christmas tree this year.

[GOST]

Magpul has probably up the sales of these.

[GOST]

Promag has agreed to discontinue sales of PMAG look a likes.

[Eric]

Yes, that was a lot of fun. When we got home we cleaned the mags up and they both run the AR just fine (except the one ground on by the fan blades doesn't hold the bolt open any more because they ground down the back of the follower)

Here are a few close up pics of these poor mags...

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray1_zps76b10d4c.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray3_zpsb292e0db.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Gray4_zps1f9725d0.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green2_zps3451f53a.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green5_zps5c39984f.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green4_zps4d4474b2.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a74/ETSgroup/Green3_zps6874ea88.jpg
Nice. I spy a 5.56 hole.

I'm looking forward to getting my order, to inclue one that will be used for totally unscientific abusive testing.

[toolboxluis00200]

they look nice ones some money comes my way i will get a few

[Vel]

Just placed an order for 3 more this morning.

[ETSGroup]

Promag has agreed to discontinue sales of PMAG look a likes.

Yes, they will make changes to their design, but I'm sure they will continue to offer an AR mag in the future.

[UWone77]

Too washed out, and didn't make the cut... but I'll post here:


http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2532_zps85d5eb23.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2532_zps85d5eb23.jpg.html)

[Thompson]

Eh - I don't think it looks that washed out. I actually like the lighting for the picture.

[ETSGroup]

I like that picture.

[UWone77]

ETS,

I really like your magazines so far. I need to find a coupler version to see how well that works now. I think you have yourselves a winner here.

[Eric]

I'll do a review after I get more time with mine, but I've noticed an oddity. On several carbines (Colt x3), the bolt catch contacts the back of the mag, causing the bolt catch to slightly lift up. So far it hasn't caused the action to lock open with rounds left in the mag, but it should not be occurring. Anyone else seeing this?

[ETSGroup]

I'll do a review after I get more time with mine, but I've noticed an oddity. On several carbines (Colt x3), the bolt catch contacts the back of the mag, causing the bolt catch to slightly lift up. So far it hasn't caused the action to lock open with rounds left in the mag, but it should not be occurring. Anyone else seeing this?

Hello Eric,
There are 2 reasons that we made our geometry in that area a bit different than a GI mag. First, by not making that cut way down the wall we were able to make that area significantly less prone to cracking as with other poly mags. Second, we flirted with the boundaries in that area to achieve the most reliable bolt open on the broadest number of weapons. This led to some of our mags slightly rubbing and lifting that bolt catch around 0.020" on some ARs. We saw this on some of our test mules like our Colt. After a lot of testing (over 40,000 rounds in approximately 220 different weapons) we had enough data to know this was not causing a problem. With all of our testing and all 3rd party testing, there has not been a single incident of the bolt locking open before the mag was empty. We also checked to make sure the catch did not slightly rub the carrier and cause any damage. Again, it was not an issue.

Since we were able to put that to rest we decided that no change was needed at this time. We will most likely make a slight change to that area in our next gen.

BTW, you are keen Eric, you are the first person to notice this and mention it to us.

[Eric]

Interesting and thanks for the info. It certainly isn't engaging the catch like the back of the follower does on an empty mag, but .020" lift sounds about right from what I'm seeing (about .0180 on one I checked) and lift on the empty mag is about twice that. As a side note, I was showing the mags to a guy at the range today and he looked at me like I was crazy when I smashed the empty mag against the bench several times...no damage to the mags.

[Eric]

Among the test carbines is a basic Colt SP6920.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v503/AR15forme/Magazines/IMG_5611.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/AR15forme/media/Magazines/IMG_5611.jpg.html)

[UWone77]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA8yaxJ1idE&feature=player_detailpage

[RobSWVA]

I haven't used the mag, so I am definitely not going to stump for them or for Pmag. It is either a situation where it will be considered a patent infringement, which I'm sure was happenstance, and will be worked out; or, it is a company trying to throw around bigger money to push a new guy out of the market, and they should be ashamed of themselves. I know companies are in it to make money, but if this is splitting hairs to retain a portion of the market, they need to remember what community they are a part of. The shooting community is a group of friends that should help each other where and when they can. There are too many out there already against us, and we shouldn't be infighting over a dollar. I know that I may speak from a point of view that has no say or place in the matter, but I like the brotherhood of fellow shooters and the majority of companies in the industry who essentially take out of their pockets to give to others in the community quite frequently. Hopefully this doesn't turn out to be the negative aspect previously mentioned and all can find room on the shelf at the local gun shop. I'll keep my eye out for these when I go mag hunting ;)

[Pyzik]

Wow, just got caught up on the whole ordeal.
Awesome sale going on right now by the way. Looking to see if I can make a purchase.

[harm]

Boy am I late to the party. Seems I make a habit of buying polymer non magpul mags... Where can I get some?

[markm]

http://www.etsgroup.us/ETS-Group-AR15-Magazines-s/1814.htm

[UWone77]

http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab55/UWone77/IMG_2608_zps0f7a3066.jpg (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/UWone77/media/IMG_2608_zps0f7a3066.jpg.html)

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2620_zpsda9cdce9.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2620_zpsda9cdce9.jpg.html)

[UWone77]

I've got a patrol rifle class coming up, and will run one of these mags as my primary magazine. I'll report back with any failures if any. Should be a decent 500-600 round day.

[camomike]

ETS mag in a magpul branded lower... So I'm guessing they'll work in a China doll? [BD]

[markm]

I've been running just the one mag because I gave the other to a buddy. But I've not had a single issue at all with maybe a few hundred rounds so far.

[Thompson]

I've got a patrol rifle class coming up, and will run one of these mags as my primary magazine. I'll report back with any failures if any. Should be a decent 500-600 round day.
Maybe this is something you could look out for when you go to your class.

Had a chance to run a mag I bought from them a little while ago over Thanksgiving break. There was one time where the round failed to catch - it seemed to be due to the magazine. Looking at the round, it wasn't completely pressed against the feed lips - there was a little gap. I'm not 100% what the fault was, but there's a fair chance that it could had to do with those small squares on the inside of the magazine, just below the feed lips.

... keep in mind though, I shot the ETS mag through a MK18 - with a can, and was also the most popular (dirtiest) rental my range had ..

[six8]

I want some of these but I need more mags like I need a hole in the head. I'm a mag whore. :(


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gaspipeshooter]

ETS mag in a magpul branded lower...[BD]

That's rough right there...

[Gaspipeshooter]

ETS mag in a magpul branded lower...[BD]


That's rough right there...

My bad, I just went back and saw the photo which prompted your comment. Shame on you U Dubya!!! [:D]

[GOST]

UW posted this pic somewhere else and said it's just a Magpul sticker on that lower.

[camomike]

UW posted this pic somewhere else and said it's just a Magpul sticker on that lower.

I know, was just busting his chops. Looks like an RA lower to me. Think I have the same model.

[ETSGroup]

Maybe this is something you could look out for when you go to your class.

Had a chance to run a mag I bought from them a little while ago over Thanksgiving break. There was one time where the round failed to catch - it seemed to be due to the magazine. Looking at the round, it wasn't completely pressed against the feed lips - there was a little gap. I'm not 100% what the fault was, but there's a fair chance that it could had to do with those small squares on the inside of the magazine, just below the feed lips.

... keep in mind though, I shot the ETS mag through a MK18 - with a can, and was also the most popular (dirtiest) rental my range had ..

Hey Thompson,
We had one other guy experience this. He is a small maker out of TX and he was shooting our mags in an SBR 10.5" I think and it ran fine until he put the can on it. Then, every now and then he would get a FTF. After talking with him extensively about it, I told him my best guess is that it was way over gassed. He then changed to a heavier buffer and it never happened again.

Now all that said, that may nothing to do with what you experienced because this gentleman never described any gap where the round was not sitting up against the feedlip.

Please let me know if you continue to see this.

[Thompson]

Hey Thompson,
We had one other guy experience this. He is a small maker out of TX and he was shooting our mags in an SBR 10.5" I think and it ran fine until he put the can on it. Then, every now and then he would get a FTF. After talking with him extensively about it, I told him my best guess is that it was way over gassed. He then changed to a heavier buffer and it never happened again.

Now all that said, that may nothing to do with what you experienced because this gentleman never described any gap where the round was not sitting up against the feedlip.

Please let me know if you continue to see this.
Hey ETS,

Next time I hit the range, I'll see if I can pull out that rental/can to see if it happens again. If it does, I'll grab some pics and do some further digging. Last I was shooting with some friends, so didn't quite have some me time to mess around with the mag.

For what it's worth - I did experience a lot of jams with the DDMK18. After every couple of rounds, the round would fail fully seat in the chamber, or would have a failure to feed. But like I said, this was the dirtiest gun they had + the can. Just to prove it wasn't the magazine - I ran that same mag the same day on one of their DDM4 (not sure which). Did a mag dump and it worked flawlessly.

[ETSGroup]

Hey ETS,

Next time I hit the range, I'll see if I can pull out that rental/can to see if it happens again. If it does, I'll grab some pics and do some further digging. Last I was shooting with some friends, so didn't quite have some me time to mess around with the mag.

For what it's worth - I did experience a lot of jams with the DDMK18. After every couple of rounds, the round would fail fully seat in the chamber, or would have a failure to feed. But like I said, this was the dirtiest gun they had + the can. Just to prove it wasn't the magazine - I ran that same mag the same day on one of their DDM4 (not sure which). Did a mag dump and it worked flawlessly.

Ok that makes me feel better. And if you get any more info in the future I would love to see it. Appreciate you doing that for us.

[Thompson]

Ok that makes me feel better. And if you get any more info in the future I would love to see it. Appreciate you doing that for us.
Will do. The pleasure is mine.

[GOST]

Use code: M4CARBINE
For 20% off

http://www.etsgroup.us/ETS-Group-AR15-Magazines-s/1814.htm

[JHoward]

Thanks GOST, I'm about to order two of these.

[markm]

For what it's worth - I did experience a lot of jams with the DDMK18. After every couple of rounds, the round would fail fully seat in the chamber, or would have a failure to feed. But like I said, this was the dirtiest gun they had + the can. Just to prove it wasn't the magazine - I ran that same mag the same day on one of their DDM4 (not sure which). Did a mag dump and it worked flawlessly.

Those friggin DD 10.3s are so ridiculously over gassed it's amazing the things run at all without suppressors.. let alone with a can. A mag spring simply can NOT keep up with such absurd bolt speeds.

[Thompson]

Those friggin DD 10.3s are so ridiculously over gassed it's amazing the things run at all without suppressors.. let alone with a can. A mag spring simply can NOT keep up with such absurd bolt speeds.
Something I didn't really look for back then - but I could definitely see that now that you mention it. I'll look out for that the next time I shoot it.

[UWone77]

Ran the ETS magazine yesterday:

Used it as my primary magazine, typically in a 4 magazine rotation.

Shoot just over 500 rounds or so.

Dropped it free, frequently onto the concrete.

The magazine ran well. A couple of guys who had never seen a translucent magazine were impressed with the novelty of it (these were not gun guys obviously)

The magazine had no damage, and no malfunctions. I say no malfunctions, but I did have an instance when I dropped free the magazine during a couple of secondary malfunction drills. The magazine fell feed lips first into the mud. Because of the low light, I did not initially notice a large amount of mud had scooped into the magazine. The gun would not feed until I cleared the mud. I don't blame the magazine for this malfunction.

I'll continue to run the ETS magazine.

[ETSGroup]

Ran the ETS magazine yesterday:

Used it as my primary magazine, typically in a 4 magazine rotation.

Shoot just over 500 rounds or so.

Dropped it free, frequently onto the concrete.

The magazine ran well. A couple of guys who had never seen a translucent magazine were impressed with the novelty of it (these were not gun guys obviously)

The magazine had no damage, and no malfunctions. I say no malfunctions, but I did have an instance when I dropped free the magazine during a couple of secondary malfunction drills. The magazine fell feed lips first into the mud. Because of the low light, I did not initially notice a large amount of mud had scooped into the magazine. The gun would not feed until I cleared the mud. I don't blame the magazine for this malfunction.

I'll continue to run the ETS magazine.

I'm glad to hear they ran well for you. Thanks for taking the time to post.

[Eric]

I added a short review here. (http://www.weaponevolution.com/forum/showthread.php?6857-Elite-Tactical-Systems-30-Round-Magazine&p=80857#post80857) I've been running the non-coupled version.

[JHoward]

Nice review!

[ETSGroup]

Thanks for taking the time to write up that review! We will change the top round to the opposite side in the next gen.

Also, I think we have permanently fixed the issue where the follower can break sometimes in a violent drop. We removed the back leg on the follower, this prevented all that strain on such a small area when an impact occurs. Since making that change and testing I have now dropped a few mags over 30 times and have yet to see a broken follower.

I'm glad to hear they are standing up to any abuse you throw at them in your classes. Please continue to run them and let us know how they hold up for you in the long run. We have a few members of a SEAL team testing them for us and they have put a lot of rounds though them in training exercises and have not had one malfunction yet.

We are very excited about all of the great feedback coming in.

Thanks again!

[Thompson]

I will also add, that I do like the ribbing on these mags - as compared to the PMAG Gen 2's. These are a bit more raised compared to the PMAG Gen 2's, and as Eric said, provides a solid grip to the mag.

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/IMG_2664_zps9f386337.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/IMG_2664_zps9f386337.jpg.html)

[GOST]

Is that the new duty rifle?

[UWone77]

Is that the new duty rifle?

Yes, otherwise you'd never see me with a M&P15 [BD]

[GOST]

You brand snob.[BD]

[WHSmithIV]

Yes, otherwise you'd never see me with a M&P15 [BD]

you could just spray paint the mag well UWone - then nobody would know for sure [BD]

[mustangfreek]

Just put a sticker on it...it confused others before..lol..

[ETSGroup]

Elite Tactical Systems Group is please to announce that we have reached a settlement agreement with Magpul regarding the patent infringement suit. We have agreed to make a small change to the follower in our AR15 magazine and to pay royalties for mags sold between May and October of 2014.

We would like to give a little background explanation about our design and how the suit progressed. Among other things, Magpul's patent states that their mag design has a follower with a front and back leg, wherein the legs limit tilt if the follower within the housing. When we designed our mag and follower, we engineered all of our anti tilt functionality with just the front leg of our follower. Thus the back leg on our follower was simply there to act as a spring guide, nothing more. We thought that was not infringing on their patents. However, during the course of the suit we became aware of another patent in which Magpul claims only a follower with a front and back leg, no mention is made of those legs limiting tilt of the follower. Once we became aware of this claim and patent, we immediately agreed to remove the back leg from our follower. We knew this would have no impact on the overall anti tilt function of our follower and thus it would not affect the performance of our magazine. We started by manually removing all of the back legs from our existing inventory on 11-17-14. Every mag sold since that date has been of the new configuration without a back leg on the follower. In the following months, after some back and forth, we reached a settlement agreement with Magpul. That agreement was submitted to the court and signed by the judge on 2/19/2015.

We are excited to resolve this issue and move forward. We want to make it clear to everyone that we will continue to sell the most advanced and durable AR15 magazines on the market.

We also want to state that we absolutely did not copy Magpul's designs when we set out to create our magazine, as was evidenced by absolutely no affect on performance when we removed the back leg on our follower. We spent a year and a half designing, testing, tweaking, and perfecting our revolutionary mag to get it ready for market.

The following is a list of features that separates our magazine from a Pmag:
1. Material (obviously our translucent polymer is not even close to the material used in a Pmag, especially in impact resistance)
2. Our patent pending, completely integrated coupling system
3. Super easy disassembly
4. Our specially designed grip ribs on the housing of our mag
5. The grip rib on our floor plate that aids in extracting our mags from a pouch
6. Our RRS (Rapid Recognition System) colored follower and base insert pieces for fast easy recognition from any angle with our see through housing

We will continue to manufacture the best AR mags money can buy and we look forward to new and exciting products coming shortly.

[din]

Good! And I'd just like to reiterate, f*** magpul in the face forever.

Staff edit:
Okay to vent, but edit done to keep it PG13. [BD]

[UWone77]

Good! And I'd just like to reiterate, f*** magpul in the face forever.

Let's keep it classy.

[din]

I try, but I am weak.

[Eric]

We will continue to manufacture the best AR mags money can buy and we look forward to new and exciting products coming shortly.
BEST part quoted.

[JHoward]

I am usually a Magpul guy, but I am always an under-dog guy. I will be buying ETS mags when you guys get them back out! Good luck. Hate to see that.

[six8]

Loving these mags so far!

http://i.imgur.com/3k5u8ac.jpg

[UWone77]

http://i1016.photobucket.com/albums/af282/richdkim77/5S3A3714_zpslwltgwaq.jpg (http://s1016.photobucket.com/user/richdkim77/media/5S3A3714_zpslwltgwaq.jpg.html)

[mustangfreek]

How do these work with the 300 blackout

[velocity2006]

I only have a couple, but they run well, they eat 300 as well as 5.56.

[voodoo_man]

Sort of want but too lazy to buy

[Dave Timm]

Well since the thread got bumped, how are they holding up?

[Eric]

Mine continue to hold up great, no feed/function issues and even though it's a minor gripe, I just wish the new follower would come out so that they feed starting from the same side as original USGI mags.

[BoilerUp]

I picked up a few of these for dedicated use for 300 BLK to hopefully help prevent negligently loading the wrong caliber round in one of my weapons. My initial impressions are good and I like being able to see exactly how many rounds are left. I was able to load 31 rounds in one mag, though, which surprised me. Also, the polymer feels almost slippery, which I would think would be a good thing functionally.

https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-ZPbVhhs/0/XL/i-ZPbVhhs-XL.jpg

[mustangfreek]

I like that^^^

Heard/read somewhere that they have 308 AR mags coming out soon or atleast in the pipeline

[WHSmithIV]

I keep waiting for them to come out with some AR 7.62x39 mags - not yet though as far as I know.

[UWone77]

868