To compensate or not; that is the question
By: Clark - Carryconcealed.net

We went to the range to try out several different models of Glocks.  Our real excuse we used for another trip to the range was to see how much “Compensators” make on accuracy. Our spouses did not totally buy the excuse. But we had a good time shooting. Helping with this test was one of our police advisors. Scott has had lots of practice with the different Glock models including the 23c model and is pictured on the right.

The Glock compensator package is basically holes in the barrel and the slide to allow the gasses to pass out the top and reduce recoil. For the untrained shooter the flames coming out the top of the gun may be unnerving. However the reduction in recoil makes a difference on the second and third shot in a group.

Using several rounds of tests the patterns were an average of 1.6 inches closer on fast shooting drills using the Glock 23c. In the tests where we had lots of time the difference was only .8 inches. The bottom line is that for the experienced shooter or the novice the compensator package makes a difference on the follow up shots. The second and third shot could be the difference of life and death in a shoot out. New shooters need to keep in mind that the flames shooting out the top of the barrel may be distracting unless you practice.   

The models we used were very close in details so it was very difficult to tell the difference between the two models.  There was only about .7 grams difference with the 23c being lighter. I could not tell the difference in weight, but could tell in recoil.

We recommend that anyone who is serious about personal defense that  they consider the Glock product line and while they are shopping, they also check out the “c” models that have the compensation systems.