Enhancing Glock 19 Performance: My Experience with the Radian Weapons Afterburner Ramjet Compensator/Barrel

As a long-time Glock 19 owner, I've always appreciated its reliability and versatility. However, I was initially skeptical about compensators, viewing them as overhyped accessories. That changed a few years ago when I installed the Radian Weapons Afterburner Ramjet compensator and barrel system on my G19. After countless rounds in both casual shooting and competitive settings, I've become a firm believer in its benefits.

Specifications and Design

According to Radian Weapons, the Afterburner compensator and Ramjet barrel are designed to work seamlessly together, offering a significant reduction in felt recoil and muzzle rise. The system is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. One of the standout features is its user-friendly installation process, which doesn't require timing—a notable advantage over other compensators like the Parker Mountain Machine comp for the G43X.

The Afterburner compensator is machined from hardened 17-4 stainless steel, while the Ramjet barrel is crafted from hardened 416R stainless steel; both components feature a Radianite™ coating for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. The system utilizes Radian's INTRA-LOK® mounting mechanism, which employs a taper-lock screw interface, eliminating the need for Loctite, shims, or set screws during installation. Notably, the threadless barrel design ensures legality across all 50 states. 

In terms of dimensions, the compensator adds only 0.47 inches to the slide length, bringing the overall length of a Glock 19 to that of a Glock 17, thereby maintaining compatibility with G17 holsters. The system is optimized for 115-grain and heavier 9mm ammunition, offering a 44% reduction in recoil when using 115-grain rounds. 

Performance Insights

In my experience, the Afterburner Ramjet system has notably improved my shooting performance. The reduction in muzzle rise allows for quicker follow-up shots, which is crucial in competitive scenarios. Additionally, during nighttime shooting sessions, I've observed minimal muzzle flash, a significant advantage over other compensators that can produce excessive flash, especially under night vision conditions.

Maintenance and Compatibility

Maintenance is straightforward; the design allows for easy cleaning, ensuring the system remains in optimal condition. The hassle-free installation process, without the need for timing, adds to its appeal. Given my positive experience, I'm eager to equip a future Glock 17 with the Afterburner Ramjet system and am also considering the newly announced version for the G43X.

Market Impact

The innovation demonstrated by Radian Weapons with the Afterburner Ramjet system is commendable. It not only enhances individual firearm performance but also fosters healthy competition in the market, ultimately benefiting consumers with more advanced and diverse options.

Conclusion

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Ramjet compensator and barrel system has become an integral part of my Glock 19 setup. Its performance, ease of maintenance, and innovative design have transformed my perspective on compensators. I anticipate it will remain a staple on my G19 for the foreseeable future.