Posted: 9/26/2006 7:48:44 AM EDT
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I was wondering why LEOs and CCW holders don't use compensated pistols. With compensated I mean for example the Glock C models that have the compensater right in the barrel. Are there some inherent issues that would speak against it as a firearm for defensive purposes? thanks |
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As for some small issues.... The compensator can make holster selection a PITA, it takes longer to clear the leather when drawn, and it adds an inch to the OAL. Don't underestimatethe 1" oal either. that inch makes a world of difference when sitting down while CCWing a 1911. |
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most comps/ports can provide more problems than solutions when it comes to SD uses first, there is increased, but more importantly, directed muzzle/port flash that can further hinder one's night vision (vs the std muzzle flash) h/w, more importantly, debris, such as powder and other particals can enter your eyes due to the direct upward/side venting also, when close in shooting, if the firearm is close enough to your persona, you now have 2 areas of the firearm that can burn or flash you--the muzzle and the porting any one of these problems can arise, and in a fight, you dont want your own gun providing any further hinderance to your ability to engage the enemy w/ the minimum distractions overall, porting is not the best solution for self-defense over a std, non-ported bbl imo |
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As a note, I have a ported handgun, and I don't see any downside for normal, daytime shooting - or cleaning. A pipe cleaner fits in the slots just fine, and they're quite clean after a hundred round range trip or so (my .22's aren't ported, naturally, and they get more rounds put through them). I've never experienced anything coming out of the porting hitting me when firing strong hand, weak hand, or isosceles. Regarding issues, firing a ported or compensated handgun from a retention hold, with the barrel held against your body may result in burning yourself - I haven't tried this. |
I've never fired a compensated pistol at night, but I would think it has everything to do with the ammunition used. My G19 with PMC blaster ammo will blind me at night, but my .45 with SXTs merely posts some sparks out of the muzzle. |
ding ding M-Fing ding. my 23c doesn't have any more flash than a regular 23c when using good ammo. it does, however suck ass to shoot close to the body. |
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They do. Several LE agencies I have worked with have been issued G22C's, including both a local Sherrif and city PD who issue G22C's with Trijicon night sights. Alot of what is said about C model Glocks is speculation or regurgitated information extrapolated from other compensated weapons. Magnaported or ported XD's emit the gas directly in the the shooters line of sight whereas Glocks emit the gas in a "V" formation out and away from the shooters line of sight. You can clearly see this effect on Glocks website or by looking at the position of the ports on a compensated glock. Non compensated handguns emit muzzle flash in a 360 degree circle without any direction. I actually find it easier to find the front sight when shooting my compensated Glocks as opposed to some of my non compensated handguns, especially my M9 and USP's shooting +P ammunition. Other ported handguns like those made by Magnaport or ported XD's will actually make accurate night shooting impossible as the gas is emitted directly in your line of sight, whereas the Glock emits gas out and away in a "V" formation. ETA: I routinely carry both my G22C and G17C concealed and feel perfectly comfortable doing so. Most people who say that compensated Glocks are a liability have never fired one, or atleast have never fired one at night. I routinely shoot my G22C and G17C at night and I find them to be quite agreeable. While the compensators reduce muzzle flip and make for more rapid follow up shots, its not all gravy. People also say the compensator sprays debris in your eyes, again...true of other ported guns, not true of Glocks. Again. Glocks emit gas in a V formation, out and away from your line of sight. Keep your face away from the compensator and you wont have a problem. The only potential issue you may have is during a retention type draw. Though I have practiced this and have never had an issue. Many LE agencies use compensated Glocks, so don't be fooled. Those that don't probably choose not to because they don't feel the extra cost is justified. I have ownd/fired all kinds of Glocks, compensated and not and I vastley prefer the compensated variants as thier performance is well worth any potential drawbacks. Reference the picture on Glocks website and you will notice how the gas is emited in a "V" shape, thus directing it away from your line of sight as opposed to other ported weapons like the XD which emits it directly in your line of sight. Keep in mind, alot of people who bash comp'd Glocks have never fired one, atleast at night, or are regurgitating information extrapolated from other compensated handguns. |