Taming Pistol Recoil: Ports, Compensators, and Long Barrels

Favorite Vice Handguns
1

I’ve been slowly throwing parts at an XD .40 Service, and I’ve come to a conundrum. I don’t know how I want to replace the barrel. I originally considered getting a compensator and threaded barrel, but it’s both hard to find and expensive for the .40. Now, i’m considering looking for a XD Tactical barrel and porting it where it extends past the slide (or buying a pre-ported barrel), but again, it is difficult to source. However, thinking about this made me curious to see what people prefer for their pistols.

So, what’s the best way to minimize pistol recoil? Is the compensator the king, or do you find value in barrel porting? Maybe neither of these fit the bill, and you would just rather have an extended length barrel and slide?

  • Threaded and Compensated
  • Ported Barrel/Slide
  • Extended Length Slide
  • None

0 voters

6 Likes
2

I could really tell the difference with comps. Longer slides/barrels dont really do anything for me although alot of people like them.

2 Likes
3

Keep in mind that once you start adding comps or brakes to a semi-auto pistol, you will have to start playing with recoil springs.

2 Likes
4

Controlling recoil is more about good technique than gizmos.
If it’s a problem, just go back and review the basics of grip and stance.
Having to rely on stuff instead of skill won’t help if the gun that’s available doesn’t have those aids.

5 Likes
5

I hook my off hand index finger on the front of the trigger guard. That really helps control muzzle rise.

1 Like
6

While true there is a reason they seperate stock guns from race guns in competitions. A person should have solid fundamentals before f****ng around with stuff to improve performance though. I dont compete so I keep my firearms pretty much stock outside of trigger and sights, ymmv.

2 Likes
7

What is the gun intended for? Competition, self defense, target practice?

2 Likes
8

It’s mostly just a “fun” gun. I already have my carry guns, but I’ve enjoyed throwing parts at this one as a project gun. I understand the importance of a solid foundation of technique; i will be the first to tell you the importance of skill over gear.

5 Likes
9

Great! Then tinker away :hammer_and_wrench:

3 Likes
10

Agree totally. Practice and good technique, along with strength training will control recoil better than anything.

3 Likes