Three contenders step into the spotlight but only one can emerge victorious. Who will tame the snappy recoil impulse of a micro compact? It’s time to unveil the conqueror!
Setting the record straight
I think we should level set. This isn’t merely a comparison of brands. As I spent more time with these slides, it became evident that the focus is on the distinctive features that set them apart. It’s crucial to note that this exploration isn’t about pitting brands against each other, as everyone I engaged with in this journey has been exceptionally awesome and helpful.
Individual experiences may vary, and it’s important to note that our specific encounter might not perfectly align with various styles or sizes of handguns.
All three companies bring significant value to the 2A community; each is staffed by dedicated and passionate individuals who genuinely care. Moreover, our interactions revealed their commitment to efficient and responsive customer service.
Customer Service
Everyone I dealt with during this build series had more than acceptable customer service but one in particular stood out to me as being a little more friendly, approachable, and happy to answer questions… That was ARC Division. Patch immediately comes off as genuine, passionate and hungry for success as one of the founders of this young start-up company. Keep a close watch on this company as they evolve and refine their unique style.
Porting Styles
This really comes down to the porting style rather than the brand name stamped on the slide or barrel. Let’s drill down into the specifics of each of our three contenders, presented in the order of my acquisition of parts…
Zaffiri Precision’s ZPS.P ports are quad 45 degree gas port, 2 on each side.
ARC Division Reactor43 comes with what is commonly referred to as a “chunk port” at the end of the barrel/slide.
Monsoon Tactical Lucky 7’s is a straight row of 7 top exit gas ports.
Felt Recoil
Entering into this, I anticipated minimal differences and expected to be splitting hairs for this write-up.
However, reality had a surprise in store, defying my expectations. The differences seemingly so drastic that I found myself questioning my objectivity to the point of self-doubt. Seeking an unbiased perspective, I approached a couple of strangers shooting in the adjacent lane to test these slides and share their honest opinions. (Big thanks to those individuals if they happen to come across this!)
To our collective astonishment, their feedback echoed my observations, leaving us all genuinely surprised by the results!
OEM Glock 43x MOS slide was a little snappy as you’d expect from a micro compact of it’s size.
Zaffiri Precision’s ZPS.P … maybe the biggest shocker of all, did very little to reduce recoil with what I’d quantify as a 10% reduction in felt recoil. Being the first slide and barrel that I tested, I questioned myself and wondered if I was wasting my time.
ARC Division’s Reactor43 was a fair improvement with what I’d quantify as a 20% reduction in felt recoil. I was back! 20% was going in the direction that I wanted but I craved more. I wasn’t yet achieving my goal of a micro compact that shoots as flat as a full size. If this was the best, I’d accept it but I wouldn’t enthusiastically carry this every day.
Monsoon Tactical Lucky 7’s was IT. The bees knees. This impressed everyone who tried it. While this configuration was the most expensive of all and took the longest to acquire with a 3 month wait time, it made the Glock 43x shoot flatter than a much larger handgun. I’d quantify this as a 40% reduction in felt recoil. Mission accomplished!
Winner: Monsoon Tactical
There’s a clear winner in recoil reduction and it’s the straight line of 7 vertical ports by Monsoon Tactical.
Honorable Mention: ARC Division
I can’t wait to see what they do next because they have the enthusiasm, passion, and the balls that it takes to become a major player in this industry by pushing boundaries in ways that people might not think about.
