Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator Review

First Impressions of Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator

Compensators are a dime a dozen these days, but finding one that balances size, performance, and aesthetics, particularly for a concealed carry Glock, can be a real challenge. I recently picked up the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator after a long search for something that could tame the snappiness of my Glock 19 without adding excessive bulk. The promise of reduced recoil and faster target acquisition in a compact package from Herrington Arms was definitely appealing.

My interest in this compensator stemmed from a desire to improve my follow-up shots during defensive pistol drills. I was looking for something that could mitigate muzzle flip without significantly increasing the overall length of my carry gun. I had been struggling to maintain consistent accuracy during rapid-fire sequences, and I hoped that a compensator could help me get back on target faster.

The initial unboxing experience was positive; the compensator appeared well-machined and the finish was clean. It felt solid in hand, suggesting a robust build despite its compact dimensions. Comparing it to a few other micro-compensators I’d considered – specifically a Strike Industries model and a Suarez International option – the Herrington Arms seemed to offer a better balance of size and porting. The others felt either too bulky or lacked sufficient gas redirection.

I was cautiously optimistic. The fit and finish were promising, but I remained skeptical about how much of a difference such a small device could actually make in terms of recoil reduction. Only live fire testing would tell if the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator could live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator to my local outdoor range for its inaugural run. I mounted it on my Gen 4 Glock 19 with a threaded barrel and brought a variety of 9mm loads, ranging from 115-grain FMJ to 124-grain +P JHPs. My testing primarily focused on comparing timed drills with and without the compensator.

The most noticeable difference was the reduction in muzzle flip. The compensator significantly reduced the upward movement of the pistol during recoil, making it noticeably easier to keep the sights on target. Even with hotter +P loads, the pistol felt more controlled and manageable. I did not experience any issues with function or reliability during this initial testing session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator has held up remarkably well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my Glock 19 with the compensator installed, and I haven’t experienced any malfunctions or failures. The finish has shown minimal signs of wear, even after repeated cleanings and holster use.

Maintaining the compensator is relatively simple. I typically clean it along with the rest of the pistol after each range session, using standard gun cleaning solvents and brushes. It’s easy to remove and re-install, and the two small set screws have remained secure.

Compared to other compensators I’ve used in the past, the Herrington Arms offering strikes a better balance between performance and practicality. Some larger compensators offer greater recoil reduction, but they also add significant weight and length to the pistol, making them less suitable for concealed carry. The HC9C 3.0 provides a noticeable improvement in recoil management without compromising concealability.

Breaking Down the Features of Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator

Specifications

• The Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator is chambered for 9mm Luger. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of Glock pistols chambered in this caliber.
• It is constructed from 7075 Aluminum, offering a great balance of strength and weight. This material choice ensures the compensator can withstand the stresses of repeated firing without adding unnecessary bulk to the firearm.
• The thread pitch is 1/2×28, a standard thread pattern for 9mm barrels. This makes it compatible with most aftermarket threaded barrels designed for Glocks.
• It is designed for Glock 19X, Glock 45, Glock 34, Glock 17, Glock 26, and Glock 19 models (Gen 2-5). This offers versatile fitment across different Glock platforms.
• The compensator has a length of 0.96 inches. The short length minimizes added bulk, making it ideal for carry.
• Available in Black Anodized or FDE Cerakote, users can choose a finish that best matches their Glock. This caters to aesthetic preferences.

These specifications are vital for several reasons. The aluminum construction keeps weight down, ensuring it doesn’t throw off the balance of the pistol. The common thread pitch simplifies installation and expands compatibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator excels at its primary function: reducing muzzle flip and felt recoil. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, especially during rapid-fire drills.

The two top-facing ports effectively redirect gases upward, countering the natural tendency of the muzzle to rise during recoil. I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to maintain a consistent sight picture during rapid shooting strings.

One potential weakness is that the compensator’s effectiveness is somewhat dependent on ammunition choice. Lighter bullets and weaker loads may not generate enough gas to fully utilize the compensator’s capabilities. The compensator definitely met my expectations, providing a noticeable performance boost without significant drawbacks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator features a sleek, low-profile design that integrates well with the lines of a Glock pistol. The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a clean finish.

The compensator is relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the front of the pistol. This helps maintain a balanced feel and prevents the pistol from becoming unwieldy. The installation process is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a basic Allen wrench.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7075 aluminum construction and durable finish ensure that the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator is built to last. I’ve subjected it to hundreds of rounds of live fire and haven’t observed any signs of cracking, bending, or deformation.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents is sufficient to keep the compensator in good working order. The two small set screws should be checked periodically to ensure they remain tight.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator doesn’t require any specific accessories for proper function. However, it does necessitate a threaded barrel.

While not strictly accessories, the compensator’s availability in Black Anodized and FDE Cerakote allows for some degree of customization to match the aesthetics of the host pistol. The use of standard 1/2×28 threading ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket barrels from various manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator

Who Should Buy Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator?

The Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator is perfect for Glock owners who want to improve their shooting performance without sacrificing concealability. It’s well-suited for:

• Competitive shooters seeking to reduce split times and improve accuracy.
• Concealed carry permit holders who want to enhance the controllability of their firearm.
• Home defense enthusiasts who prioritize rapid target acquisition and follow-up shots.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Individuals who are highly sensitive to changes in recoil impulse, as some shooters may find that compensators alter the feel of the pistol in a way they dislike.
• Those who prioritize absolute minimalism and are unwilling to add any additional length or weight to their firearm.

A must-have modification is a quality threaded barrel.

Conclusion on Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator

Overall, the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator is an excellent product that delivers on its promises. It offers a noticeable improvement in recoil management and muzzle control without adding excessive bulk or weight to the host pistol.

At $84.99, the price is justified given the performance benefits and high-quality construction. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance the shootability of their Glock pistol.

I would personally recommend the Herrington Arms Glock 19/17/26 HC9C 3.0 Pistol Compensator to anyone seeking a compact and effective recoil reduction solution. If you’re looking to tame the snappiness of your Glock and improve your shooting performance, give this compensator a try – you won’t be disappointed.