Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo Review

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo Made a Bold First Impression

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo promises a significant upgrade to the Gen5 Glock 19 platform, focusing on recoil reduction and enhanced performance. Radian Weapons has built a reputation for high-quality AR-15 components, so I was eager to see how their expertise translated to the handgun market. What piqued my interest most was the claim of a 44% recoil reduction, and the all-50-state legal, non-threaded design.

Years of shooting various handguns, including numerous Glocks, have left me constantly seeking ways to improve control and accuracy. I had been struggling with muzzle flip on my Gen5 G19, impacting my follow-up shots in rapid-fire scenarios. So, when I heard about the recoil-reducing capabilities of the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo, I knew I had to try it.

The unboxing experience was impressive. The components felt solid and well-machined. The black DLC finish on both the Afterburner and Ramjet exuded quality. I was particularly struck by the tight tolerances and the confident design, suggesting a product engineered for precision and durability.

I considered other compensators and barrel combos, such as those from Agency Arms and Parker Mountain Machine. Ultimately, I chose the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo because of its taper-lock screw interface, which promised a secure and hassle-free installation without Loctite or shims. This eliminated a major concern I had with other aftermarket compensators. My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism – could it really live up to the hype?

Real-World Testing: Putting Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place at my local outdoor range. I wanted to experience the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo in a familiar setting before pushing its limits. I started with 115-grain FMJ ammunition, as specified in Radian Weapons’ performance claims.

The immediate difference was noticeable. Muzzle flip was significantly reduced compared to my stock Glock 19. Control during rapid fire was markedly improved. The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo made the gun feel more stable and predictable.

It rained intermittently during my first session, which gave me an opportunity to test the grip in less-than-ideal conditions. Even with wet hands, I maintained a secure purchase on the pistol, further enhancing control. No malfunctions were observed during the initial 200-round test.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through it, using various grain weights and bullet types, with only standard cleaning and lubrication. There are minimal signs of wear on the DLC finish, even after repeated holstering.

Maintenance is straightforward. The taper-lock screw makes disassembly and cleaning a breeze. It is much easier than dealing with Loctite or shims. The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo continues to deliver consistent performance, round after round.

Compared to other Glock upgrades I’ve tried, this combo stands out for its reliability and ease of installation. The recoil reduction is significantly better than a simple heavier guide rod. The improved control during rapid fire surpasses any gains I previously achieved with alternative modifications.

Breaking Down the Features of Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo

Specifications

• The Afterburner is constructed from hardened 17-4 stainless steel for maximum durability. Its angled front faces are designed to aid in holstering. The most important feature is the taper-lock screw interface that makes it possible to remove without Loctite, shims or setscrews.
• The Ramjet barrel is made from hardened 416R stainless steel with match-grade cut rifling. It also features a gas sealing chamber to maximize the effectiveness of the recoil reduction. A loaded chamber indicator is included, and it is coated in black DLC for increased corrosion resistance and durability.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The high-quality steel ensures longevity and consistent performance under demanding conditions. The match-grade barrel enhances accuracy, and the gas sealing chamber maximizes recoil reduction.

Performance & Functionality

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo excels at its primary function: reducing recoil. The claimed 44% reduction with 115-grain ammunition felt accurate during my testing. This leads to faster follow-up shots and improved overall accuracy, especially during rapid fire.

The main strength of the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo is its balanced approach. It reduces recoil without sacrificing reliability or ease of use. The only potential weakness I can identify is the increased overall length.

The combo meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations. The recoil reduction is better than expected, and the ease of installation and maintenance is a significant plus.

Design & Ergonomics

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo exhibits excellent build quality. The materials feel premium, and the finish is flawless. It is important to note that the weight is only slightly increased compared to the stock barrel and guide rod.

The design is user-friendly. Installation is straightforward with the taper-lock screw. There’s virtually no learning curve for experienced Glock users.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, I expect the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo to last for many years with proper care. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure longevity. Simple cleaning and lubrication are all that is required to maintain optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo itself doesn’t require additional accessories for functionality. It transforms the Glock 19 Gen5 into a Glock 17 length, allowing it to fit in G17 holsters. The end-user may choose to customize the Glock with different sights or triggers, which are compatible with the combo.

Pros and Cons of Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo

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Who Should Buy Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo?

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo is perfect for competitive shooters. It is also ideal for law enforcement personnel, and any Glock owner looking to improve control and accuracy. It is beneficial for those who prioritize recoil reduction. Anyone who lives in a state with restrictions on threaded barrels should consider the all-50-state legal design.

Those who should skip this product include individuals primarily concerned with concealed carry due to the added length. Also, those who are on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives adequate.

A must-have modification is ensuring you have a reliable Glock 17 compatible holster to accommodate the increased length.

Conclusion on Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo

The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo is a well-engineered and high-performing upgrade for the Gen5 Glock 19. Its primary selling point is the significant reduction in recoil. Also, it is the ease of installation, and the all-50-state legal design.

The price of $389.95 is justified by the quality of materials, the noticeable performance improvement, and the convenience of the taper-lock screw interface.

I would personally recommend the Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo to anyone serious about improving their Glock 19’s performance. The Radian Weapons Afterburner Gen5 + Ramjet Combo is a worthwhile investment that will elevate your shooting experience.

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