Looking for the best Glock 19 compensator in 2026? We've ranked the top stand-alone comps and integrated barrel+comp systems by recoil reduction, reliability with common ammo, and value. This guide covers threaded barrel requirements, holster compatibility, ammo sensitivity, and whether a comp is worth it for carry vs competition. From the budget-friendly Herrington Arms HC95 to the Radian Ramjet Afterburner system, we'll match you to the right compensator.
Best Overall Value: Herrington Arms HC95 V2 ($95) - 34% muzzle flip reduction, runs on stock springs with 115gr-147gr.
Best Integrated System: Radian Ramjet + Afterburner ($389) - 44% recoil reduction, no threaded barrel needed.
Best for Concealed Carry: Griffin Armament Micro Carry Comp ($65) - Thread protector size, fits most holsters.
Note: All stand-alone compensators require a threaded barrel (1/2x28) except the Strike Industries Mass Driver and Radian Ramjet. See our Glock 19 upgrades guide for barrel recommendations.
Ranked by recoil reduction, reliability with common ammo, build quality, and value. All require a threaded barrel with 1/2x28 threads.
Best Overall Value - 34% muzzle flip reduction, reliable on stock springs
Best for Custom Builds - Front sight relocation from premium Glock builder
Easiest Install - No set screws, tool-free with included wrench
Best for Concealed Carry - Thread protector size, fits most holsters
Lightest Option - 0.8 oz with clean guide rod cover fitment
Premium Stand-Alone - Tool-free install with lifetime warranty
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All-in-one barrel and compensator packages that eliminate threading concerns and offer the best bore alignment. Higher cost but simpler installation.
Best Integrated System - 44% recoil reduction with INTRA-LOK mount
Best No-Thread Option - Works with stock barrel, gas-driven counterweight
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A compensator redirects propellant gases upward through ports in the top of the device as the bullet exits the barrel. This downward force counteracts the natural upward rotation (muzzle flip) caused by the bore axis sitting above the grip. The result is a flatter-shooting pistol with faster target reacquisition between shots.
Compensator effectiveness depends on three factors: port size and angle (larger ports redirect more gas), ammunition pressure (hotter loads produce more gas to redirect), and comp weight (heavier comps add muzzle weight that resists flip). This is why micro comps like the Griffin Micro Carry Comp offer less reduction than full-size options like the Herrington Arms HC95.
Important distinction: Compensators redirect gas to reduce muzzle flip (upward rotation). Muzzle brakes redirect gas to reduce felt recoil (rearward push). Many Glock "compensators" are technically hybrid devices that address both. The Radian Ramjet Afterburner and Strike Industries Mass Driver use entirely different mechanisms: the Ramjet uses a matched barrel with integrated ports, while the Mass Driver uses a gas-driven counterweight.
The biggest decision when adding a compensator to your Glock 19 is whether to go with a stand-alone comp (threaded onto an aftermarket barrel) or an integrated barrel+comp system. Each approach has distinct tradeoffs.
Verdict: If you already have a threaded barrel or plan to run a suppressor, a stand-alone comp like the Herrington Arms HC95 ($95) is the most cost-effective path. If you want maximum recoil reduction with zero concern about threading loosening, the Radian Ramjet Afterburner ($389) is the gold standard.
Before buying a compensator, make sure you have (or budget for) these requirements.
Standard Glock 19 barrels are not threaded. You need an aftermarket barrel with 1/2x28 threads (the 9mm standard). Good options: SilencerCo ($199), Faxon ($170), Agency Arms Mid-Line ($200). The barrel must protrude enough for the compensator to thread on securely. See our Glock 19 upgrades guide for barrel recommendations.
Many compensators raise the muzzle device above the factory sight line or block the front sight entirely. Suppressor-height iron sights (Trijicon HD XR, Ameriglo GL-429, or Night Fision) ensure you can still co-witnessCo-witness[Optics]Ability to see iron sights through a red dot or LPVO at 1x. Lower 1/3 co-witness is most common, placing the red dot above the iron sights for a cleaner view. through a red dot or use irons over the comp. Some comps like the Agency Arms 417 include a front sight relocation hole.
A compensated Glock 19 is longer than stock. Most standard holsters will not accommodate the extra length. Order a holster specifically made for a compensated or threaded-barrel G19 from makers like T.Rex Arms, Tier 1 Concealed, or Legacy Firearms. The Griffin Micro Carry Comp is the only option compact enough to work in most threaded-barrel holsters.
Some compensators (notably the Killer Innovations Velocity) recommend a lighter recoil spring (13 lb instead of factory) to ensure reliable cycling. Most comps from Herrington Arms, Agency Arms, and Tyrant Designs work fine with the factory spring and standard 115gr-124gr ammunition.
Adding a compensator changes your Glock's operating dynamics. Here is what to expect and how to ensure reliability.
Compensators add weight to the muzzle and can slow slide velocity. Weak 115gr target loads may not generate enough gas pressure to reliably cycle a compensated pistol, especially during break-in. The Herrington Arms HC95 is notable for running reliably with 115gr on stock springs. If your comp short-strokes with light loads, try 124gr NATO-spec or 124gr +P before swapping springs.
Run 200-300 rounds through a new compensator setup before trusting it for carry. This allows the comp to seat, threads to settle, and you to verify function across different ammunition types. Test with at least two brands of your intended carry ammo.
Compensator ports accumulate carbon rapidly. Clean the comp every 300-500 rounds to prevent port blockage that reduces effectiveness. Check set screws or thread tightness at the same interval. Carbon buildup can also affect the gap between the comp and slide on integrated systems.
| Model | Price | Material | Weight | Threaded Barrel? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Herrington HC95 V2 | $95 | 6061 Aluminum | - | Yes |
| Agency Arms 417 | $79 | Aluminum | - | Yes |
| Tyrant T-Comp | $89 | 7075 Aluminum | 1.5 oz | Yes |
| Griffin Micro Carry | $65 | Stainless Steel | - | Yes |
| Arc Sparc-M V2 | $86 | Aluminum | 0.8 oz | Yes |
| Killer Innovations Velocity | $249 | - | 2.12 oz | Yes |
| Radian Ramjet | $389 | Steel (matched) | - | No (integrated) |
| SI Mass Driver | $149 | - | 3.2 oz | No (stock barrel) |
Shaded rows are integrated barrel+comp systems that do not require a separate threaded barrel.
A compensator is one piece of the Glock 19 upgrade puzzle. These guides cover the other essentials.
Essential accessories to round out your setup
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