First Impressions of Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34
The Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 promises to be a game-changer for Glock enthusiasts looking to enhance control and consistency. Faxon Firearms has a reputation for quality components, and this compensator aims to deliver on that promise by reducing muzzle climb and recoil for improved shot placement. As someone who has spent years tinkering with and optimizing various pistol platforms, I was eager to see if this compensator could live up to the hype.
I’ve always chased that flatter shooting experience; I was looking to minimize muzzle flip on my Glock 19 Gen 4 without the expense and hassle of a full-blown custom build. The promise of improved consistency, especially in rapid-fire scenarios, was what ultimately drew me to the EXOS-543.
Unboxing the Faxon Firearms compensator revealed a sleek, black anodized piece of aluminum. The finish was clean and professional, and the included hardware (set screws, thread locker, and Allen wrench) was a nice touch. My initial impression was positive, noting the lightweight design and the aggressive porting angles.
I considered other compensators like the Agency Arms 417 compensator and the Strike Industries Strike Comp, but the Faxon stood out due to its seemingly simple, yet effective, single-port design and the fact that it was optimized for Faxon barrels (I already had a Faxon threaded barrel on my Glock). I ultimately chose the Faxon for its reported reliability and ease of installation. My first reaction was excitement – could this relatively inexpensive part genuinely enhance my shooting experience and tighten up my groupings?
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and mild, a perfect day for dialing in a new setup. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with the provided tools and thread locker.
The first magazine through my Glock 19 with the EXOS-543 was immediately noticeable. Muzzle flip was significantly reduced, allowing for faster follow-up shots. There was a small learning curve in adapting to the slightly different recoil impulse and the increased report, but the improved control was undeniable.
I experienced no immediate issues, and the compensator seemed to function as advertised during my first session. There was no noticeable change in reliability, and the gun cycled flawlessly with standard 115-grain FMJ ammunition.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and roughly 1500 rounds, the Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 has proven to be a reliable addition to my Glock 19. The black anodized finish has held up well with minimal signs of wear, even after countless draws from the holster. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth to remove any carbon build-up.
Compared to other compensators I’ve used in the past, the Faxon EXOS-543 has impressed me with its consistency and durability. It consistently delivers noticeable recoil reduction without negatively impacting the reliability of the Glock platform. I have been extremely impressed with this compensator.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34
Specifications
The Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 is constructed from durable 6061 Aluminum with a black anodized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance. It is designed to fit Glock Gen 4 models 19, 17, and 34 chambered in .355 caliber (9mm). The compensator’s uniquely angled front port, single chamber design, effectively redirects gasses to reduce muzzle climb and recoil.
The inclusion of thread locker, two 6-32 set screws, and a 1/16 Allen wrench ensures easy and secure installation. This matters because it guarantees minimal slippage and maintain consistent performance. The lightweight aluminum construction keeps the overall weight of the pistol manageable, which can be crucial for prolonged use or concealed carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 significantly improves shooting performance by reducing muzzle flip and recoil. This allows for faster and more accurate follow-up shots, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. It’s important to ensure you use quality ammunition and maintain proper lubrication for optimal function.
The angled port design effectively redirects gasses, minimizing vertical movement and improving overall control. The main weakness of the EXOS-543 is that it may require adjustments to your pistol’s recoil spring for optimal performance with certain ammunition types. Overall, the EXOS-543 exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 is excellent. The 6061 Aluminum is both lightweight and durable. Its compact design ensures that it doesn’t add excessive bulk to the pistol.
The installation process is simple and user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal technical knowledge. The Faxon compensator blends seamlessly with the aesthetics of a Glock pistol.
Durability & Maintenance
The black anodized finish on the Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring that it will last for years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain optimal performance. The robust design ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use without any significant issues.
Cleaning requires only a simple wipe-down with a solvent and a brush to remove carbon build-up. This compensator should last a very long time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 is primarily designed to function as a standalone performance upgrade, but it pairs perfectly with threaded barrels. Specifically, it’s optimized for Faxon branded barrels, ensuring a flush fit with the slide. While it doesn’t directly support additional accessories like lights or lasers, its enhanced recoil control can indirectly improve the use of such accessories by maintaining a more stable platform.
Compatibility with various aftermarket barrels is generally good, but it is important to ensure that the barrel protrusion is within the recommended specifications (.600 or less) for a flush fit. The EXOS-543 will work with most Gen 4 Glock 19/17/34 models.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34
Pros
- Significantly reduces muzzle flip and recoil.
- Improves accuracy and follow-up shot speed.
- Durable 6061 Aluminum construction with black anodized finish.
- Easy installation with included hardware and thread locker.
- Optimized for Faxon barrels for a flush fit.
Cons
- May require recoil spring adjustments for optimal performance with certain ammunition.
- Increased muzzle report (louder sound) compared to uncompensated pistols.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34?
Perfect for competitive shooters, Glock enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve their shooting accuracy and control. This compensator is also a great option for those who prioritize faster follow-up shots in self-defense scenarios.
Those who are extremely sensitive to increased noise or prefer a completely stock pistol should skip this product. Shooters who aren’t willing to experiment with different recoil springs might also find this compensator less appealing.
Must-have accessories include a quality threaded barrel (ideally Faxon), a variety of recoil springs to fine-tune performance, and high-quality ammunition for reliable cycling.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34
The Faxon Firearms EXOS-543 Pistol Compensator for Glock Gen 4 19/17/34 is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the performance of their Glock pistol. Its ability to significantly reduce muzzle flip and recoil leads to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
At $78.20, the price is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the quality of construction. I would personally recommend the Faxon EXOS-543 to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to improve their Glock shooting experience. If you are serious about improving your shooting accuracy and control, give the Faxon EXOS-543 a try.