Radian Afterburner Compensator: Complete Performance Guide

Reading time: 5 mins 38 secs

Top USPSA shooters can fire follow-up shots in less than 0.15 seconds. That’s the kind of speed that separates elite competitors from casual shooters.

The problem is, most pistol compensators make you trade performance for practicality. They either add extra length that hurts concealability or rely on threaded barrels, which are restricted in states like California.

The Radian Weapons Afterburner changes that. It cuts recoil by up to 44% while adding just 0.47 inches to your pistol. In this guide, you’ll see how this compact system gives you pro-level performance without compromise.

Highlights

• Radian Weapons Afterburner + Ramjet cuts recoil by up to 44% with minimal added length.
• The INTRA-LOK system removes the need for threaded barrels.
• The $389.95 package includes both barrel and compensator.
• Independent reviews show faster follow-ups and better control.

What Makes the Radian Afterburner Different

The INTRA-LOK Revolution

Most compensators need a threaded barrel, which isn’t legal everywhere. For example, California law bans threaded barrels on semi-auto pistols with detachable magazines.

Radian solved this problem with its INTRA-LOK system. Instead of threads, it uses a tapered locking screw that fits into a precision V-groove on the barrel. This taper-lock design keeps the compensator secure without breaking compliance laws.

Installation is simple and doesn’t require permanent changes. You just slide the Afterburner over the barrel, insert the screw, and tighten it to 15 inch-pounds.

Micro Size, Maximum Performance

The Afterburner is only 0.47 inches long, yet it works like a full-size compensator. When you add it to a Glock 19, the overall length matches a Glock 17, so you can still use standard G17 holsters.

What makes it so effective is the port design. Instead of just drilling holes like cheaper comps, Radian engineered precise port angles that redirect gas more efficiently. This design gives you major recoil control without adding extra bulk.

Engineering Excellence

The Afterburner is CNC-machined from hardened stainless steel and built to handle the heat and pressure at the muzzle. It’s finished with Radianite™, a coating that adds hardness, reduces friction, and protects against corrosion.

Because it’s precisely machined, every unit performs consistently. The tight tolerances also keep gas flow predictable—something that’s harder to achieve with less precise manufacturing methods.

Ramjet Barrel: The Perfect Partner

Match-Grade Construction

The Ramjet is machined from 416R stainless steel, a material created specifically for precision barrels. It offers excellent machinability for accurate rifling while still resisting corrosion for long-term durability.

It also features a gas sealing chamber that helps channel pressure into the compensator ports. This design improves consistency and performance, even when you’re running different types of ammo.

On top of that, the barrel has a loaded chamber indicator cut. This gives you tactile confirmation when a round is chambered, adding a layer of feedback you don’t get with standard Glock barrels.

Why Components Must Work Together

The Afterburner and Ramjet are engineered as a pair. You only get the full 44% recoil reduction when both are used together.

The Ramjet’s gas sealing chamber is designed to line up perfectly with the Afterburner’s ports. That means if you try to run the compensator on a stock barrel, you won’t see the same results.

For best performance, Radian recommends 124-grain ammo. The system will still run with heavier bullets, but you may notice less recoil reduction since the pressure curve changes.

Performance Analysis: Real-World Results

Documented Testing Results

Shooters who’ve run thousands of rounds through the Afterburner system report that it holds up well over time. Many of these reviews mention a big drop in felt recoil, especially during rapid fire.

Some users notice a short break-in period—usually around 100 to 200 rounds—before reliability smooths out. Any minor feeding issues tend to disappear as the parts settle in.

As mentioned, the system works best with 124-grain ammo, which produces the ideal gas pressure for the ports.

Competition Applications

Competitive shooters often see faster target transitions and quicker sight recovery right away. The reduced muzzle flip makes follow-up shots faster without giving up accuracy during timed stages.

Shooters running the Afterburner in matches report solid reliability, even with high round counts. Plus, it’s easy to remove for cleaning between events, which helps keep your setup running smoothly.

Accuracy Improvements

The Ramjet barrel does more than just support the compensator—it also improves accuracy on its own. As a match-grade barrel, it’s built to deliver tighter tolerances than a factory Glock barrel.

Some shooters report noticeably better groups at 25 to 50 yards when using the Ramjet. Combined with the Afterburner, the system makes it easier to hold a steady sight picture and stay accurate during rapid fire.

Muzzle Brake vs Compensator Design

Understanding the Differences

Muzzle brakes and compensators solve different problems. Brakes vent gas to the sides to reduce recoil, while compensators push gas upward to counter muzzle rise.

The Afterburner is a true compensator, using upward-facing ports to push the muzzle down and help keep your sights level during rapid fire. Its design is tuned specifically for 9mm pressures, giving it an edge over “universal” comps that spread performance thin across multiple calibers.

Hybrid Engineering Benefits

The Afterburner isn’t limited to controlling muzzle flip—it also helps reduce overall recoil. Its ports vent gas at carefully calculated angles, working together to push the muzzle down and soften the rearward kick.

This dual effect is what allows Radian to claim up to 44% recoil reduction in such a compact 0.47-inch design—performance that usually requires much larger compensators.

Installation Guide: Professional Setup

While the Radian Afterburner and Ramjet system is designed for drop-in installation, we highly encourage seeking professional gunsmith assistance if you’re unfamiliar with firearm disassembly and modification procedures. Improper installation can result in unsafe firearm operation and potential injury.

Preparation Essentials

Before starting, gather a set of metric hex keys and a torque wrench that can measure 15 in-lbs. Double-check your Glock is completely unloaded and keep all ammunition away from your workspace.

Field-strip the pistol as you normally would, then inspect the parts for wear or damage. Finally, confirm that your Glock generation matches the Afterburner/Ramjet kit, since each version is precision-fit for specific models.

Installation Steps

1. Barrel Swap

Remove the factory barrel and drop in the Ramjet. No fitting or modifications are required—just install it as you would a standard Glock barrel.

2. Compensator Mounting

Slide the Afterburner over the barrel until it seats against the muzzle shoulder. Line up the V-groove and tighten the locking screw to exactly 15 in-lbs. Avoid overtightening, which can damage the lock system.

3. Function Testing

Manually cycle the slide to check for smooth operation. Then use dummy rounds to verify feeding and ejection before taking the pistol to the range for live-fire testing.

Competitive Analysis

Market Position

Micro compensators have grown more popular as concealed-carry shooters look for upgrades that don’t add bulk. You want performance gains, but not at the cost of carrying a longer pistol.

Most small compensators give up effectiveness to save space. Others work well but add too much length, making concealment harder.

Many alternatives also need threaded barrels and tricky installation steps. The Afterburner avoids this with its taper-lock system, which locks solidly in place without the extra hassle.

Value Assessment

The $389.95 price, which is for the black color, includes both the Afterburner compensator and the Ramjet match-grade barrel as a package. Buying a comparable barrel and comp separately from other brands usually costs about the same.

The bronze variation is priced at $409.95.

Platform Compatibility

The Afterburner + Ramjet system works with Glock 19 Gen 3, 4, and 5 without modification. If you run a G19X or G45, you’re also covered since both use a G19-length slide on a G17 frame.

Radian also makes a version for the SIG P365, bringing compensator performance to the ultra-compact market. Even with the smaller design and less gas to work with, early testing shows similar benefits in recoil and muzzle control.

You don’t have to worry about special holsters either. A modified G19 with this setup still fits into standard G17 holsters, avoiding the custom holster problem that most compensated pistols create.

We sell the Afterburner + Ramjet set that fits the following:

• Sig P365
• Sig P365XL
• Glock 43
• Glock 48
• Glock 43X
• Glock G19 Gen 5 / G19X / G45
• Glock 19 Gen4
• Glock 19 Gen3
• Glock 17 Gen5

Conclusion

The Radian Afterburner and Ramjet system offers real performance gains, claiming up to 44% recoil reduction with 115-grain ammo. Independent reviews consistently confirm noticeable improvements in control and faster follow-up shots.

At $389.95, the package delivers both the Afterburner compensator and Ramjet barrel, pricing on par with other premium setups. For shooters seeking proven performance and innovative engineering, it’s a strong upgrade choice.

If you want yours, Gold Trigger sells different Afterburner + Ramjet comps (listed above in the previous section). You may also call us at 713-485-5773.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this comprehensive Radian Afterburner compensator guide is for educational purposes only. Firearm modifications can affect safety, legality, and performance characteristics. Users are solely responsible for ensuring all modifications comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws before purchase or installation.

Improper installation of compensators can result in serious injury, firearm damage, or dangerous malfunction. We strongly recommend professional installation by qualified gunsmiths, especially for users unfamiliar with Glock disassembly procedures. This guide does not substitute for manufacturer instructions, proper training, or professional expertise.

Legal requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction. Some states and localities restrict certain firearm modifications, threaded barrels, or muzzle devices. California, New York, and other states have specific restrictions that may affect compensator legality. Always verify compliance with your local laws before purchasing or installing any muzzle device.

Performance claims, including recoil reduction percentages, are based on manufacturer testing and user reports. Individual results may vary based on shooting technique, ammunition selection, firearm condition, and other factors. Gold Trigger is not responsible for any modifications, installations, or performance outcomes based on this information.

Users assume all risks associated with firearm modifications, including but not limited to personal injury, equipment damage, legal liability, and performance variations. Always prioritize safety, legal compliance, and proper training over performance modifications. When in doubt, consult with qualified gunsmiths, legal professionals, or law enforcement agencies.

Prices, availability, specifications, and legal requirements are subject to change without notice. Verify all current information with Radian Weapons, authorized dealers, and relevant legal authorities before making purchasing decisions. This information reflects current market conditions and may not apply to future product availability or regulatory changes.