Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators Review

Let’s Talk About Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators

The Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators is a thread-on compensator designed to reduce muzzle climb and felt recoil on your M&P9 1.0 pistol. Crafted by Agency Arms, a respected name in the firearms industry, this compensator promises enhanced control and accuracy.

As a seasoned shooter with over a decade of experience in tactical gear, I’m always looking for ways to improve performance and handling. I was searching for a compensator that could tame the snappy recoil of my M&P9 1.0, specifically for faster follow-up shots in competitive shooting.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Agency Arms compensator’s clean lines and the hard anodized finish. The 7075 aluminum felt lightweight yet robust, and the included set screws and Loctite were a thoughtful touch. Compared to other compensators I’ve used, like the Strike Industries Mass Driver, which requires a proprietary guide rod, the Agency Arms 118 seemed simpler and more straightforward to install. My initial reaction was excitement – I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range session with the Agency Arms 118 was at an outdoor range in varying weather conditions. The day started dry and sunny, then shifted to intermittent light rain. I primarily tested it with 115gr and 124gr factory ammunition.

Installation was relatively simple, though I did need to ensure the barrel protrusion was within the specified tolerance using calipers. The Agency Arms 118 certainly reduced muzzle climb, allowing for quicker target re-acquisition. However, I did experience a few malfunctions with the lighter 115gr rounds, indicating a need for recoil spring tuning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including participation in a local pistol match, the Agency Arms 118 has held up well. The hard anodized finish shows no signs of significant wear, despite repeated installation and removal. Regular cleaning with a solvent and brush has kept it functioning flawlessly.

Compared to my previous experience with a heavier steel compensator, the Agency Arms aluminum construction is a welcome change, reducing overall weight. It undeniably improves recoil management, though the necessity for recoil spring adjustment, depending on ammunition, is something to consider.

Breaking Down the Features of Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm Luger. This ensures compatibility with the most common M&P9 ammunition.
• Material: 7075 Aluminum. This provides a balance of lightweight and durability.
• Finish: MIL-A-8625 Type 3 Hard Anodize. This offers excellent corrosion resistance and a tough surface.
• Weight: 1.7 oz. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the pistol.
• Thread Pitch: 1/2×28. This is a standard thread pitch for 9mm barrels, maximizing compatibility.
• Compatibility: Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 (4in, 4.25in, & 5in). This ensures a proper fit on a range of M&P9 models.
• Included Accessories: Vial of Red Loctite, 2 Set Screws, Allen Wrench. These items facilitate easy installation and secure mounting.

Performance & Functionality

The Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators excels at reducing muzzle climb, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. It features a two-chamber design with two vertical ports and one port on each side.

The primary strength is its ability to significantly tame muzzle flip. The need for possible recoil spring tuning, depending on ammunition, is a minor drawback. Overall, it meets expectations for a high-quality compensator.

Design & Ergonomics

The Agency Arms 118 features a sleek, minimalist design that complements the M&P9 without adding excessive bulk. The 7075 aluminum construction keeps the weight down.

Installation is straightforward, but proper barrel protrusion is critical. Some users may require assistance from a gunsmith.

Durability & Maintenance

The hard anodized finish of the Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. Regular cleaning with a solvent and brush is sufficient for maintenance. With proper care, it should last for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Agency Arms 118 comes with the necessary set screws and Loctite for installation. It is compatible with any M&P9 1.0 threaded barrel with the correct thread pitch (1/2×28) and proper barrel protrusion.

While it doesn’t directly integrate with other accessories, its impact on recoil may influence the choice of sights or other aftermarket parts.

Pros and Cons of Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators

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Who Should Buy Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators?

The Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical shooters, and anyone looking to improve the handling and control of their M&P9 1.0 pistol. It benefits those prioritizing faster follow-up shots and reduced recoil.

This product might not be ideal for casual plinkers or those unwilling to experiment with different recoil springs. It is also not suitable for those who prioritize simplicity over performance enhancement. A must-have modification to accompany this comp would be a lighter recoil spring kit, allowing the user to fine-tune the action to a broader range of ammo.

Conclusion on Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators

The Agency Arms 118 Dual Port Smith & Wesson M&P9 1.0 Barrel Compensators is a worthwhile upgrade for serious M&P9 1.0 shooters seeking enhanced control and faster follow-up shots. At $72.00, the price is justified by the tangible performance benefits and high-quality construction.

I would recommend this compensator to anyone looking to improve their shooting experience with the M&P9 1.0. Upgrade your pistol today and experience the difference!