Carry Comps

[BillBro]

If you have one what is your opinion of it? I certainly cannot afford one of the old K Comp guns, Ive looked, for several years.
I dont have a high opinion of the PC so not expecting anything special but I do loke the concept theyre built on. If the comp is effective it would be pretty cool. Also, of the two models, the K Comp and the L Comp which do you own? Why? Comparing the stayed stats on the S&W site thwres not very much difference between the two weight wise nor dimensionally. I myself like the L but could probably live with either of them.
Have there been any systemic qc issues with them or is is the standard S&W QC stuff?
Ive just been drawn to those things since first laying eyes on them and my mind and tastes havent changed so maybe I should.

 

[chief38]

Let me preface my answer with, I currently do not own any comped revolvers. I do own a 6" M586 L Frame and a plethora of all different model and size K Frames. That said, I have shot many comped guns over the years including guns similar to my uncomped guns and at least in calibers up to .357 magnum I find no need at all for a compensator. In larger calibers or guns that shoot magnums and have very short barrels it might be a small advantage with regard to muzzle flip however not enough for me to ever consider getting one.

Comped guns present a set of negatives, just so you are aware. They make a revolver much louder than normal, they are just another place that collects gunk, lead and powder residue and needs to be cleaned after shooting and they will reduce the velocity to some extent. They will also create more intrusive muzzle flash, especially when dark. Yes, they will curb muzzle flip and some perceived recoil but unless you are shooting really hot loads more than not - I don't really see the allure. I know some just comp their guns for "looks" as they like that look.

 

[686PC]

I own a few of the original dash-3 and dash-4 PC comped 3" revolvers, but I don't shoot them as they are collectables in unfired condition.

To me they are a last stand from S&W to make combat revolvers more relevant when Glocks were taking over the world. I find them very attractive and I do love the look and shooting characteristics of the comped Smiths.

I used to own a model 19-9 Carry Comp that I loved to shoot. The comp works well and I ended up selling my 2.5" 686 PC after I shot it next to the 19-9 Carry Comp. The comp really made the modern K frame more pleasant to shoot (less muzzle rise) than the 2.5" 686 with the scalloped barrel.

I'm sure the 586 L-Comp would be even nicer to shoot with its beefier L-frame. If Smith & Wesson starts offering 586 L-Comp again without the IL, like they are doing with their newest revolvers released and like they did on the original 586-5 L-Comps, I will definitely buy one.

I never noticed the comped revolves being louder than normal. A 3" magnum revolver is loud to begin with if you're using magnum rounds and I would think it this only becomes a problem if you shoot without proper ear protection.

Cheers,
686PC

 

[Palmetto Sharpshooter]

686 Carry Comp

 

[zogger]

How much does the compensated barrel help on .38 Special loads? Every youtube I watch indicates the comp really helps magnums but no real comments on standard .38 Special loads.

 

[bobsguns]

How much does the compensated barrel help on .38 Special loads? Every youtube I watch indicates the comp really helps magnums but no real comments on standard .38 Special loads.

Very little effect on standard loadings.

Race gun guys tell me even standard 9mm loads are worthless in a comp. It needs +P loads to gain any advantage at all. That's why magnum loads work with a comp, IMO.

I have a 19C I carry in rotation & love it!

 

[madmikeb]

I have both the 19 Carry Comp and a 586 L comp. I do like both.

The 19 is a little more concealable, but the 586 holds one more round and is factory cut for moonclips, it is a little heavier though. I did send the 19 cylinder to TK Customs and had it cut for moonclips so that is a moot point for me. Which one I carry depends on how cold it is and what I'm wearing for a jacket.

I would really be hard pressed to say which one I like best.

 

[Jeep 1]

I have quite a few power ports and honestly, I don’t shoot any Magnum rounds without ear protection so I really do not notice a difference in noise, but there is a difference in control.
I’ve shot tens of thousands rounds through them and regardless what all the keyboard warrior say it does make a difference but their dad drove a Chevrolet so that’s the only truck you can drive……
Tom

By the way, I’m a professional at stirring the pot…..

[/IMG]

 

[two-bit cowboy]

Thread needs a J-frame.

Performance Center Model 60 ET Comp, shipped August 1993, one
of 325 in the PCQ and PCR serial number series. Badger Custom Grips
made the OEM stocks.

I haven't shot it so I'll rely on the "professional pot-stirrer's" point.