Should You Use A Compensator On Your Everyday Carry?

Published on December 5, 2022
Duration: 26:36

This video explores the pros and cons of using compensators on everyday carry (EDC) pistols. While compensators can reduce muzzle rise and felt recoil, they also increase firearm length, potentially leading to snagging issues, and can amplify muzzle flash and noise. The presenters test several compensated and ported firearms, concluding that for most self-defense scenarios at typical engagement distances, the benefits of a compensator may not outweigh the drawbacks for concealed carry, emphasizing the importance of training with a non-compensated firearm.

Quick Summary

Compensators on concealed carry pistols offer reduced muzzle rise but increase firearm length, potentially causing snagging issues and amplifying muzzle flash. For typical self-defense distances, their benefits may not outweigh these drawbacks, making a standard firearm often a more practical choice for EDC.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction: Compensators on EDC
  2. 00:35Popularity of Compensators
  3. 00:50Concealable Compensated Options
  4. 01:11Guest Opinion: Not Sold on Compensators for EDC
  5. 01:37Concealed Carry Size vs. Snappiness
  6. 02:02Grip Length and Concealability
  7. 02:52How Compensators Work
  8. 03:39Shadow Systems DR920P Example
  9. 03:53Pros: Muzzle Rise and Recoil Control
  10. 04:16Cons: Increased Length and Snagging
  11. 05:03Compensator Design Variations
  12. 05:31Sharp Edges and Clothing Snagging
  13. 05:53Increased Loudness
  14. 06:23Increased Muzzle Flash
  15. 06:57Summary of Cons
  16. 07:30Fouling and Cleaning Concerns
  17. 08:09Symmetric 9mm Ported Barrel
  18. 08:52Personal Experience with Compensated Pistols
  19. 09:18Range Test: P365 OG (No Comp)
  20. 11:40Range Test: P365X Macro (Comp)
  21. 13:22Range Test: FN 509 Edge (Comp)
  22. 16:54Range Test: S&W M&P9 (Ported)
  23. 18:12Post-Range Recap: Pros and Cons
  24. 18:30FN 509 Edge Grip Sensitivity
  25. 19:21Recoil Comparison: P365 vs. P365X Macro
  26. 20:20P365X Macro Balance and Capacity
  27. 21:23Recoil on FN 509 Edge
  28. 22:41S&W M&P9 Ported Slide/Barrel
  29. 23:00Tactical Implications of Ported Systems
  30. 24:18Final Verdict: Compensator for EDC?
  31. 25:11Self-Defense Distances and Compensator Need
  32. 25:52Recommendation: Non-Comp Version
  33. 26:09Viewer Engagement: Your Thoughts?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of using a compensator on a pistol?

Compensators primarily aim to reduce muzzle rise by redirecting expanding gases upwards. This can lead to a more controllable follow-up shot and a perceived reduction in recoil, making the firearm feel softer shooting.

What are the significant drawbacks of using a compensator for concealed carry?

Compensators increase the overall length of the firearm, potentially making it harder to conceal and requiring a different holster. They can also increase the risk of snagging on clothing during a draw and may amplify muzzle flash and noise.

Does a compensator make a firearm significantly louder?

While some claim compensators increase loudness, the difference may not be drastic, especially when wearing ear protection. However, the redirection of gases can alter the sound signature and potentially increase perceived loudness for bystanders.

Is a compensator necessary for effective self-defense with a pistol?

For typical self-defense engagement distances (3-5 yards), a compensator is generally not considered necessary for accurate shot placement. Proficiency and proper training with a standard firearm are often more critical.

What is the difference between a compensator and a ported barrel/slide?

Both compensators and ported barrels/slides aim to reduce muzzle rise by venting gases. Compensators are typically attached accessories, while ported barrels/slides have holes machined directly into them to achieve the same effect.

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