Should You Get a Compensator? 4 Considerations

Published on September 29, 2023
Duration: 10:39

This guide, informed by John Lovell and Paul Perkerson of Warrior Poet Society, details how to evaluate the effectiveness of a firearm compensator. It covers comparing muzzle rise, assessing low-light performance, ensuring reliability, and considering practical aspects like holster fit and cost. The emphasis is on understanding if a compensator offers tangible benefits beyond aesthetics or serves as a crutch for poor shooting fundamentals.

Quick Summary

Firearm compensators reduce muzzle rise by redirecting gas, enhancing follow-up shots and shootability, particularly on sub-compacts. Reputable testing shows they don't significantly increase muzzle flash in low light and maintain reliability with common ammunition, though they add length and cost.

Chapters

  1. 00:44Introduction to Compensator Testing
  2. 01:40Shooting Comparison: Compensated vs. Standard
  3. 02:39Performance Impressions on Sub-Compact
  4. 04:53Consideration 1: Training and Grip
  5. 05:56Consideration 2: Low-Light Performance
  6. 07:23Consideration 3: Practicality and Reliability
  7. 08:48Consideration 4: Cost

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of using a firearm compensator?

Compensators primarily reduce muzzle rise by redirecting propellant gases upward, leading to a flatter shooting pistol, faster follow-up shots, and potentially improved accuracy, especially on smaller firearms.

Does a compensator significantly increase muzzle flash in low light?

Testing indicates that compensators, like the Shadow Systems model discussed, do not substantially increase muzzle flash in low-light conditions, addressing a common concern for defensive use.

What are the practical downsides of adding a compensator?

Compensators add length to the firearm, which may require purchasing new holsters. They also represent an additional cost, typically around $100, and should not be used to mask poor shooting fundamentals.

How does a compensator affect firearm reliability?

When tested with common 115gr ball ammunition from various manufacturers, the compensator did not negatively impact the reliability of the Shadow Systems pistols.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Warrior Poet Society

View all →