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Best 1911 Compensator

What is 1911 Compensator? 🤔

It is a muzzle device that fits onto the barrel of the handgun. It works to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots. This is especially useful for competitive shooting or self-defense, where having a fast reaction time can be essential.

1911 Compensator
Features 🔥

A compensator is a firearm accessory designed to reduce recoil and muzzle rise while shooting.
🛠️ It is typically attached to the barrel of a pistol and functions by redirecting some of the hot gas released from firing a round to reduce muzzle flip.

  • ✅ In addition, it can also help improve accuracy when shooting. By minimizing muzzle flip, your sights will always stay in place during the follow-up shots, leading to more accurate shot placement.
  • ✅ These devices also act as sound suppressors, muffling a portion of the noise that’s created during firing. This makes them especially useful for range use or even home defense scenarios where having a quieter gun can be beneficial.
Our Top Pick
Wilson Combat Full Size Multi-Comp Bushing Compensator
Made from high-quality bar stock and designed to have a bead blast finish and polished sides, this compensator will bring out the true potential of your 1911! Plus the entire unit is blued steel for superior strength and long-lasting performance. This exceptional barrier system is suitable for all calibers up to .45 ACP, so you know it can handle whatever challenge you throw its way.
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Benefits 🤩

The compensator is a great addition to any 1911 pistol. The compensator enhances the gun’s accuracy and helps the shooter keep their sights on the target. 

  • 🔷 Best of all, they are easy to install and do not require any special gunsmithing or modifications of the firearm.
  • 🔷 In addition to improving accuracy, muzzle brakes can also reduce felt recoil by redirecting gasses away from the shooter’s body.

Best 1911 Compensator

  • 🔷 Finally, they can also help reduce report noise by diverting some of the sounds away from the shooter’s ears. This is particularly beneficial for those who shoot indoors or in confined spaces where loud gunshots can be uncomfortable or even dangerous depending on local regulations.

😉 In short, compensators offer shooters an easy way to upgrade their pistols with a variety of benefits!

How to clean it? 🧑‍🔧

A compensator should be cleaned periodically to keep it operating at its best. The following steps will help guide you through the process of cleaning:

  • 🫧 Make sure your compensator is unloaded before cleaning. This means all rounds must be removed from the magazine and chamber as well as any loose ammunition that may be near the gun.
  • 🫧 Remove the barrel bushing, recoil spring plug, and slide lock from the gun frame. This will allow easy access to clean inside these components if necessary.
  • 🫧 Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any damaged or hardened crud or debris from the compensator. You may also use an appropriate solvent to help break down grime or dirt that is stubbornly adhered to the surface of the gun.

  • 🫧 If necessary, disassemble and clean the recoil spring, barrel bushing, and slide lock as well. Make sure to use a soft cloth or brush and the appropriate solvent to avoid scratching or damaging the gun parts.
  • 🫧 Use a lubricant designed for firearms on all of the metal contact surfaces, such as rails and pins. This will help keep your compensator in peak condition during its lifetime of service.
ImageProductBrand
EGW 1911 FIVE CHAMBER COMPENSATOREGW 1911 FIVE CHAMBER COMPENSATOREGW BUY
EGW 1911 HYBRID TITANIUM COMPENSATOREGW 1911 HYBRID TITANIUM COMPENSATOREGW BUY
WILSON COMBAT 1911 MULTI-COMPWILSON COMBAT 1911 MULTI-COMPWILSON COMBATBUY
VOLQUARTSEN SCORPION, .22 LR 1911 STYLE OD GREEN, HOGUE, 4.5 “, COMPENSATORVOLQUARTSEN SCORPION, .22 LR 1911 STYLE OD GREEN, HOGUE, 4.5 “, COMPENSATORVOLQUARTSEN SCORPIONBUY
Presma 1911 Full Size Handgun Muzzle BrakePresma 1911 Full Size Handgun Muzzle BrakePresmaBUY
Wilson Combat Full Size Multi-Comp Bushing CompensatorWilson Combat Full Size Multi-Comp Bushing CompensatorWilson CombatBUY
TANDEMKROSS Game Changer PRO Compensator For RugerTANDEMKROSS Game Changer PRO Compensator For RugerTANDEMKROSS GameBUY

Our Selection TOP 6 🎯 1911 Compensator

1# EGW 1911 Five Chamber Compensator

EGW 1911 FIVE CHAMBER COMPENSATOR

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Specification

Steel, in-the-white.
Hybrid-Style – 2.3″ (5.8cm) long. Threaded .685″-40 tpi.
Cone-Style – 3¼” (8.2cm) long, 926″ (23mm) wide, 3.4 oz. (111g).
Conversion Cone – Stainless steel 1¾” (4.4cm) long. .705″ (18mm) diameter. Threaded .685″-40 tpi male, .575″-40 tpi female.
Comps are available in 9mm/.38 only.

The EGW 1911 Five Chamber Compensator is the finest option for people wanting to reduce red dot bounce and recoil. Featuring forward canted ports that diminish powder fouling on your scope, this compensator is available with an integral cone or threaded for use with Hybrid Compensated Barrel Systems. Made from 7075 T6 aluminum, the EGW 1911 Five Chamber Compensator is designed for use with a longer barrel that has a threaded section from in front of the bushing extending out half an inch.

Pros:
  • Eliminates red dot bounce and recoil
  • Forward-canted ports diminish powder fouling on the scope
  • Available integral cone or threaded models
  • Machined from aluminum
Cons:
  • May not be compatible with all 1911s

 

2# EGW 1911 Hybrid Titanium Compensator

EGW 1911 HYBRID TITANIUM COMPENSATOR

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Specification

Make: 1911
Model: Government, Commander

The EGW 1911 Hybrid Titanium Compensator is the perfect accessory for your 1911 pistol. This compensator is designed for use with reduced loads, making it ideal for competition shooting. The silver finish and sleek design give your gun a modern look, while the titanium construction ensures durability and performance.

Pros:
  • Reduces recoil
  • Improves accuracy
  • Looks modern and sleek
Cons:
  • May not fit all barrel models

 

3# Wilson Combat 1911 Multi-Comp

WILSON COMBAT 1911 MULTI-COMP

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Specification

Make: 1911
Model: Government

Check out the Wilson Combat – 1911 Multi-Comp! It is designed to help you control recoil and muzzle climb, so you can get back on target faster. Installation is a breeze – just fit it onto your barrel bushing and you’re good to go. Plus, it looks great and adds a touch of style to your already badass weapon. So why wait? Get yourself a Wilson Combat – 1911 Multi-Comp today!

Video review

Pros:
  • Controls recoil and muzzle climb
  • Easy installation
  • Fits all calibers of Govt-length barrels
Cons:
  • Minor fitting required

 

4# Volquartsen Scorpion Compensator

VOLQUARTSEN SCORPION, .22 LR 1911 STYLE OD GREEN, HOGUE, 4.5 ", COMPENSATOR

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Specification

Action Type: Blow Back
Barrel Length: 4.5″
Capacity: 10+1-Round
Cartridge: 22 Long Rifle
Finish: Black
Front Sight: Adjustable
Length: 6.5″
Magazine Included: 1 x 10-Round
Magazine Type: Removable
Muzzle: Threaded
Rear Sight: Adjustable
Stock Material: Polymer
Weight: 1.75 lbs

Volquartsen Scorpion Compensator is the perfect choice for 1911 fans who want to enjoy the benefits of shooting a rimfire pistol. The frame is machined from aluminum alloy and features a rear-weighted balance point that makes it easy to get the sights aligned on target. The trigger is adjustable and has a crisp break and fast reset, making it ideal for competition shooting.

Pros:
  • Machined from aluminum alloy
  • Adjustable trigger with a 2½ lb. pull with a crisp break and fast reset
  • Competition bolt for excellent reliability in cycling
  • Extended Bolt Racker for improved manual operation of the bolt
  • Comfortable grips for excellent control
  • Hi-Viz front and adjustable rear target sights
Cons:
  • Does not include a side Picatinny rail

 

#5 Presma 1911 Full-Size Handgun Muzzle Brake

Presma 1911 Full Size Handgun Muzzle Brake

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Specification

Caliber: .45 ACP
Fabric/Material: Stainless Steel
Gun Make: 1911 Platform
Gun Model: 1911 5in
Weight: 2.4 oz

Presma 1911 Muzzle Brake is the best solution to reduce recoil on your 5in 1911 .45 ACP Handgun. Unlike other muzzle brakes that only expel gasses, our Mil-Spec Muzzle Brake Recoil Compensator works by adding weight to the barrel end – both help reduces recoil and improve shooting accuracy. So you can finally shoot with precision and without fear of losing control. Pick up your Presma 1911 Muzzle Brake today and see the difference for yourself!

Pros:
  • Reduces recoil
  • Improves accuracy
  • Easy to install
  • Adds weight to the barrel end
Cons:
  • May require a different recoil spring

 

6# Wilson Combat Full-Size Multi-Comp Bushing Compensator

Wilson Combat Full Size Multi-Comp Bushing Compensator

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Specification

Color: Blue
Finish: Blued

The Wilson Combat Full-Size Multi-Comp Bushing Compensator is the best recoil-reducing compensator for your 1911 Auto. This innovative compensator features a built-in barrel bushing for easy installation, three chambers, and seven exhaust ports for maximum recoil reduction, and is designed to be used with your stock barrel. The CNC-machined compensator is blued steel with a bead blast finish and polished sides to match your pistol, and minor fitting is required. So if you want to improve the performance of your 1911, pick up a Wilson Combat Full Size Multi-Comp Bushing Compensator today!

Pros:
  • Exhaust ports for maximum recoil suppression
  • The built-in barrel bushing for easy installation
  • Designed to be used with a stock barrel
  • Works on all 5″ 1911 Autos with .576″ – .580″ Muzzle O.D
  • Suitable for calibers up to .45 ACP
Cons:
  • Fitting may be required
  • May affect firearm reliability

 

How to install it? 🔧️

When installing a compensator, it is important to keep safety in mind. So, follow these steps:

  • ➡️ Ensure the firearm is unloaded and all ammunition is stored away safely.
  • ➡️ Unscrew the existing barrel bushing from the slide by using an appropriate tool such as an armorer’s wrench or pliers.
  • ➡️ Remove any existing recoil spring guide rod from the slide assembly and discard it, depending on what type of compensator you are installing.
  • ➡️ Slide the compensator onto the barrel bushing and ensure that it is properly seated so that it does not move when the slide is pulled back.
  • ➡️ Install the new recoil spring guide rod into the slide assembly, again depending on what type of compensator you have chosen to install.
  • ➡️ Reinstall a new barrel bushing with an appropriate tool such as an armorer’s wrench or pliers. Be sure to use the correct size for your 1911 model.
  • ➡️ Reassemble all other components of the firearm and test fire it in a safe location after installation and before using it with live ammo, if possible.

FAQ 😎

What are some things to look for when choosing?

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a compensator for your 1911:

  • 1️⃣ First, you will need to decide whether you want a barrel-mounted or gun-mounted compensator.
  • ✔️ Barrel-mounted models tend to be easier to install and remove, but they can add some length to your gun.
  • ✔️ Gun-mounted compensators are more difficult to install but they do not add any extra length.
  • 2️⃣ Next, you will need to decide what size compensator you need.
  • ✔️ If you choose a compensator that is too large, it will not work properly and could actually make your accuracy worse.
  • ✔️ On the other hand, if you choose one that is too small, it will not do much to reduce recoil or muzzle rise.
  • 3️⃣ Finally, you will need to decide what material you want your compensator to be made from.
  • ✔️ Aluminum is a popular choice because it is lightweight and durable.
  • ✔️ Stainless steel is another option, but it is important to note that it can add some weight to your gun.
  • ✔️ Titanium is the lightest option but it is also the most expensive.
Which is better muzzle brake or compensator?
  • 🔶 One of the main differences between muzzle brakes and compensators is that muzzle brakes typically require more gunsmithing to install than compensators.
  • 🔶 Another difference is that muzzle brakes tend to be more effective at reducing recoil than compensators.

🤔 So, which is better – a muzzle brake or a compensator? Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what you are looking to accomplish with your 1911 pistol.

  • 🪛 If you are looking for a device that will reduce recoil and make your gun easier to control, then a muzzle brake is the way to go.
  • 🪛 However, if you are simply looking for a device that will help to reduce muzzle rise, then a compensator may be the better option.

More info in the video:

Are compensated pistols worth it?

😉 This is a matter of opinion, but in general, yes they are❗

  • 🔷 A compensated handgun can help you shoot more accurately and with less recoil. They are especially beneficial if you plan on using your pistol for self-defense or competition shooting.
Do compensators reduce muzzle velocity?

🤠 Compensators are designed to reduce the felt recoil of a firearm, but they can also reduce the muzzle velocity. 

  • ✅ However, the exact reduction varies depending on the gun, cartridge, and compensator design.
  • ✅ In most cases, a properly designed compensator can increase muzzle velocity due to its ability to redirect some of the expanding gases away from it.
Do compensators reduce flash?

😀 Yes❗Compensators can reduce the amount of flash seen when firing.

  • ❇️ A compensator works by redirecting the propellant gases upward to counteract muzzle rise. This typically results in reduced felt recoil and a much smaller fireball from the end of your barrel.
Do compensators screw on?

⚙️ Yes❗Most compensators screw onto the end of the barrel.

  • 🧑‍🔧 The compensator is attached using a thread adapter that screws into the muzzle. This allows you to easily remove and switch out different types of compensators without having to remove or replace the entire barrel.

Conclusion 😊

If you’re in the market for a 1911 compensator, we hope our buyer’s guide has helped you narrow down your options. We’ve included some of the best compensators on the market and shared some tips to help you make the most informed purchase possible. Now it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your needs. Thanks for reading! ❤️‍🔥

Zack Buck

Gunsmith, Hunter, Gentleman Adventurer. Life is too short to shoot mass-produced guns. A once-in-a-lifetime hunt deserves a one-of-a-kind gun. Read about me.
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Jan Nunez
Jan Nunez
11 months ago

I’m on the hunt for a compensator that is compatible with my 1911 pistol. I’ve come across some compensators that cost around $35 and replace the barrel bushing but based on my research, they don’t offer any practical benefits and are mostly just for show – although I must admit that appearance is important to me as well. I’m now seeking recommendations for compensators that can be attached to a threaded barrel or even replace the barrel entirely on my 1911. Can you help me?

YeargLitch
YeargLitch
Reply to  Jan Nunez
11 months ago

I’m facing the same issue – I’m in search of a compensator for my 1911, but all the research I’ve done indicates that they aren’t effective. While a match barrel paired with a compensator might have some impact, it seems that any benefits would likely be minimal.

MutantFate
MutantFate
Reply to  Jan Nunez
11 months ago

I wanted to share my experience with a compensator that I recently acquired from Volquartsen Scorpion Compensator. This particular compensator replaces the barrel bushing and I have to say, I’m very impressed with its performance. I’m so pleased with the results that I’m planning on making a post about my 1911 with the compensator installed.

Irene Clark
Irene Clark
11 months ago

I’m considering adding a compensator to my full-size 1911 .45 ACP and I’m wondering if it’s a worthwhile investment. Will it effectively reduce recoil?

KnifeRing
KnifeRing
Reply to  Irene Clark
11 months ago

In my opinion, the effectiveness of a compensator largely depends on the specific model. For a full-sized .45 ACP, I don’t believe that a compensator is necessary. If you’re looking to achieve high-speed shooting, you would likely be better served with a .40, .38 super, .9×19 major, or a similar cartridge instead.

Fusecrush
Fusecrush
Reply to  Irene Clark
11 months ago

Based on what I’ve heard, compensators that replace the barrel bushing on 1911 aren’t particularly effective. However, I have personally shot 1911 with a Wilson Combat 1911 Multi-Comp and found that the recoil was noticeably reduced compared to shooting a 45 ACP.

William Hill
William Hill
11 months ago

I have the chance to purchase a Wilson Combat 1911 bushing compensator at a reasonable price and I’m wondering if it’s worth putting on my 1911. In the past, I’ve bought a lot of fun gadgets and upgrades that didn’t do much to improve my skill level, so I’m hesitant to invest in something that won’t be effective. I’m curious if a 1911 compensator would make a significant difference or if it’s mostly just for looks.

MarchHare
MarchHare
Reply to  William Hill
11 months ago

In my experience, bushing compensators for 1911s don’t offer much in terms of recoil reduction. The issue is that they move along with the slide and as a result, the compensator is positioned behind most of the gas that exits the muzzle. The only real effect is adding a bit of weight to the gun, without any significant reduction in felt recoil.