Compensators vs. Ported Barrels: Which Glock Upgrade Is Best for You?

Compensators and ported barrels pretty much perform the same functions. However, they are truly different kettles of fish. Sure, both of them operate via a series of vent holes that release the gases caused by the exploding gunpowder in the chamber of the weapon. 

However, a ported barrel (as the term states) is a barrel that has holes in its forward and upper area. These perforations release the excess gases that lead to muzzle flip every time the weapon is fired. Here, the term ‘muzzle flip’ denotes that all locked breech, tilt-barrel mechanism operated handguns (which means almost all big bore pistols) flip upward as their barrels tilt during the firing sequence. 

Apart from slowing down the whole ‘aim and shoot’ manual of arms of your pistol, it can also lead to missed shots. That’s because the muzzle jerks upward after every shot, and you have to re-acquire and subsequently realign the sights for any follow up shots.  

A ported barrel can be used without a ported slide (a slide with perforations that align with the ported barrel’s vent holes). It is better to mate a ported barrel with a ported slide, though. This will eliminate a lot of fouling from your carry weapon—especially after a long shooting session. 

However, when opting for a ported barrel for your Glock 19, 17, or 26, you will have to consider the fact that your carry weapon’s barrel and (preferably) slide will also have to be changed. Add to that the inevitable fouling as the powder fouls up the innards as well as the external surfaces of your gun. 

The Case for Compensators 

Now, a compensator, on the other hand, doesn’t gum up the works of a gun. Nor would you have to change the slide of your favorite Glock pistol. And a compensator can easily be attached or removed as and when you want. Here, the Herrington Arms 3.0 Micro Compensator is the ideal accessory for your weapon. All you need is a 1/2-28 barrel, and you are good to go. 

Made from ultra-light 6061 aluminum, it is so very light that you won’t even feel it’s there, which means it won’t upset the perfect balance of a pistol that claims “Glock Perfection.” This compensator has been specifically designed to work with Glock’s 9mm pistols. It can be installed on the G17, G19, as well as their miniature cousin, the G26—as long as they are from the Glock family’s Gens 2 till 5.  

The 3.0 Micro Compensator will work perfectly well with the regular OEM springs of your EDC 9mm Glock. Perhaps you would be able to carry it in a regular concealed carry holster since its diminutive dimensions won’t make much of a difference in size. At the same time, it will reduce felt recoil drastically, so you will be able to take very accurate and rapid follow-up shots. This is one Glock Compensator that is arguably the best accessory you can get for your trusty Glock.