Go Straight: Buyer’s Guide for Linear Compensator

As a result, linear compensators are different from traditional compensators in that they direct gases forward instead of radially. As with any muzzle device they have their place and purpose but also a lot of myths, lore, and misleading marketing surrounding them. We’ll go over what a linear compensater does, how it would suit your needs, and then the best models to purchase. Compensators are designed to direct gas upwards or to the sides of a muzzle. This prevents it from rising and/or listing under recoil. This allows the shooter to get back on target faster and, therefore, get faster split times. Linear compensators, on the other hand, direct these gases in a straight forward direction to the target. The exact way depends on the device design, but the general idea is that the gas chambers of the muzzle device direct gas in the barrel to the same direction as projectile. Linear compensators are designed not to reduce muzzle rise, but to push all muzzle gas and muzzle blast forward. There are some misconceptions regarding linear comps. They claim to reduce felt recoil. Even if this were true, it would be a small improvement compared to a muzzle-mounted device that is designed to reduce recoil. The best results were measured at the shooter’s ear and a 9mm PCC saw a reduction between 7 and 9 dB. Most other calibers or platforms only saw a reduction of less than 5 dB and in most cases only by 1 to 2 dB. This shows that linear compensators are effective in different calibers and platforms. However, none of them quieten a gun enough to be noticed. Linear compensators cannot be specifically designed to reduce sound, as that would make them silencers. Four linear compensators in different calibers from Kaw Valley Precision. This means that linear comps are not ideal for home defence setups, contrary to what some have been told. If you want to reduce sound indoors, any noise above 130 dB is going to be traumatic. You’ll still need a real silencer. They are useful if you want to prevent anyone or anything on your side from being concussed. This can be very helpful and courteous for anyone on your left or right, whether you’re plinking at the range or competing in a CQB match. This is especially true for rifles that have short barrels, which are notoriously known for their excessive muzzle blow. They are best used at the range for most gun owners and gun shooters. The cone devices that come on MG-42s or Brens do exactly what they say! The differences between models are largely aesthetic. They are metal shrouds attached to the barrel’s end. These muzzle devices have been around for nearly a century, and they haven’t changed a lot. However, depending on the application you are looking for, there are certain design features that should be considered. Some linear compensators come as shrouds that can be used with other muzzle devices. For example, they can be used to cover a compensator or muzzle brake to make it a linear comp. This is useful if you need to change to a brake, traditional compensator, or remove the linear compensation to attach a suppressor. Some are designed to fit into the handguard on an AR if you want to cover as much barrel as possible. Some are larger than others, so more muzzle blast is directed downward. This is a good option for guns that have a lot flash and concussion. In addition, you should also consider the materials, compatibility with calibers, and whether or not it fits your thread pitch. What are some good choices for a linear compensater? Here are a few examples that you should consider. Kaw Valley Precision Linear Comp, one of the most popular linear comps on the market is available in a variety of thread pitches and calibers (from.223 up to.450 Bushmaster/.458 Socom and PCCs between 9mm and.45 ACP), and fits many different applications. This is the linear comp you should buy unless you have an extremely specific need it does not satisfy. The basic 2-inch model has a MSRP of $54.95. Griffin Armament produces several rifle accessories, including suppressors. The Taper Mount Linear Compensator is a linear compensator that fits into the Griffin Armament product architecture. It has external threads to mount select Griffin Armament Taper Mount Suppressors. The thread protector and pinhole are included. The MSRP for these is $104.95 but you can find them a little cheaper at some retailers. The TacFire linear compensator is the best option for those looking for a simple linear comp at a budget-friendly price. It’s a similar design to the Kaw Valley Linear Compensator. It comes in multiple calibers, and several different finishes. It is slim enough to fit underneath most handguards. You can find them for as low as $20, if you buy them on sale. The SureFire Blast Regulator works with any SureFire Socom muzzle device. It is a slip on blast can/linear compensater. It slides on, locks in place and has a release button that allows you to remove it if desired and shoot without it. It is a requirement to purchase SureFire’s muzzle devices, but it offers a lot of flexibility if you also want to use their suppressors. The Warden’s MSRP is $250. The CMMG Zeroed linear compensator is the perfect choice if you are looking for something simple and low-profile. It’s small but it works. All models are only 1.5 inches long and come in 7.62, 556, 9mm, and.45 ACP calibers. Simple, slim, and sinister. The MSRP for this device is $75 but you can find it for less. The Lantac stingray is different because it uses a gas flow design that functions as both a blow forward brake and compensator. The Stingray achieves this by using vent ports and threaded channels that vent gas both upwards and forwards. It can be used as both a linear compensator and a brake. The only downsides are that it only comes in 1/2×28 and 5.56mm thread pitches and costs $185. The KAK Industry Flash Can is another no-nonsense linear compensator/blow-forward. It is available in a variety of lengths, styles (long, small, micro, fluted or not, slim or not), thread pitches and calibers. Some models have MSRPs as low as $30. More on Muzzle Devices:NEXT: Download Your Free Storm Tactical Printable Target Pack62 Printable MOA targets with DOT drills – Rifle range in YARDSThis impressive pack from our friends at Storm Tactical includes62 printable targets for rifle and handgun ranges. The grids and bullseyes are measured in MOA. Subscribe to the Gun Digest newsletter and we will send you your print-at home target pack immediately. Enter your email below.