Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator Review

Let’s Talk About Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator

The Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator promises to tame the recoil of your .22 caliber rifle. Badger Ordnance has a reputation for quality, and I was intrigued to see if this compensator lived up to the hype, especially at its affordable price point of $31.47.

My search for this compensator stemmed from a personal challenge. I’ve been trying to improve my rapid-fire accuracy with my Ruger 10/22, and the slight muzzle rise was hindering my progress. I hoped the Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator would help mitigate that rise and allow for faster follow-up shots.

Upon unboxing, the compensator’s stainless steel construction felt solid, though surprisingly lightweight. Its simple, unthreaded design was a bit unexpected, and I wondered how effectively it would attach and function without threading. The finish was clean and professional, indicative of the Badger Ordnance name.

Compared to other compensators I’ve used, like the thread-on models from Tactical Solutions, the Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator felt almost too simple. I chose this particular model for its claimed effectiveness at a low price point, betting that its design would offer adequate recoil reduction without the added complexity and cost of more elaborate systems. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; the price was certainly right, but I was unsure if it could deliver the desired performance boost.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator at my local shooting range, using my customized Ruger 10/22 with a bull barrel. The compensator slipped easily onto the barrel, secured with a few set screws (not included). I tested it under a range of conditions, including bright sunlight and slight wind, focusing on its ability to minimize muzzle rise.

The initial results were subtle but noticeable. There was a slight reduction in muzzle climb compared to shooting without any compensator, allowing me to maintain a sight picture more easily during rapid firing. However, I noticed that the set screw mounting system wasn’t as secure as I’d hoped, requiring occasional tightening to prevent slippage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator held up reasonably well. The stainless steel showed no signs of corrosion or damage, even after cleaning with various solvents. The set screws, however, continued to be a minor issue, requiring regular checks and adjustments.

Cleaning was straightforward, requiring just a quick wipe down to remove residue. Compared to my previous experiences with more elaborate compensators that required detailed disassembly, this was a welcome simplicity. While it provided a measurable improvement, it didn’t dramatically outperform a bare muzzle or a simple flash hider; it met expectations but didn’t exceed them.

Breaking Down the Features of Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator

Specifications

The Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator is designed for .22 caliber firearms. It is constructed from stainless steel for durability and resistance to corrosion. It features a non-threaded design, relying on set screws for attachment to the barrel.

• Projectile Caliber: .22 Caliber – This ensures compatibility with the common .22LR ammunition, ideal for recreational shooting and small game hunting.
• Color: Stainless Steel – Offers a clean look and corrosion resistance, essential for maintaining appearance and function over time.
• Threads per Inch: Non Threaded – Simplifies installation, although it depends on set screws, potentially less secure than threaded options.

These specifications highlight the simplicity and intended use case of the compensator. The stainless steel construction and .22 caliber compatibility make it suitable for a variety of rimfire rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator provides a slight reduction in muzzle rise, improving accuracy during rapid firing. Its performance is adequate for its price point, but it doesn’t offer dramatic improvements compared to higher-end, threaded compensators. It meets expectations for basic recoil management, but it would benefit from a more secure attachment method.

The main strengths are its simplicity and affordability. Its primary weakness lies in its reliance on set screws, which can loosen over time.

Design & Ergonomics

The compensator’s stainless steel build offers good quality for the price. Its lightweight design does not significantly alter the balance of the rifle.

The non-threaded design simplifies installation, although it requires careful alignment to ensure proper function. There’s no significant learning curve; it’s easy to install and use.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a quick wipe-down to remove residue.

There are no complex parts to maintain or repair. The stainless steel resists corrosion, further extending its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator itself doesn’t come with any accessories. Its simple design doesn’t lend itself to significant customization.

However, it is compatible with most .22 caliber rifles that accept compensators via set screw mounting. Set screws are not included, meaning you need to source those yourself.

Pros and Cons of Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator

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Who Should Buy Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator?

This compensator is perfect for casual shooters and plinkers looking for a simple, affordable way to reduce muzzle rise on their .22 rifles. It’s also suitable for those who want to experiment with compensators without investing a lot of money.

Those who demand significant recoil reduction or require a more secure mounting system should skip this product. Competitive shooters or those using high-powered .22 rounds would likely benefit more from a threaded compensator. A quality set of set screws is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator

The Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator offers a budget-friendly solution for reducing muzzle rise on .22 caliber rifles. Its simple design and stainless steel construction make it a decent value for the price.

While it doesn’t provide the same level of performance as more expensive, threaded compensators, it offers a noticeable improvement over a bare muzzle. The price is certainly justified for what you get.

I would recommend it to casual shooters looking for an affordable upgrade, with the caveat that they should be prepared to monitor and tighten the set screws regularly. Overall, the Badger Ordnance Thruster Compensator is a solid entry-level option that provides a modest but tangible benefit.