Product Preview: A Compensator With Tunable Baffles

posted on June 23, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
baffles.jpg

Tactical accoutrements seem to be all the rage these days, but finding ones that suit your needs can prove difficult. UM Tactical of Lake Worth, Fla., has a 100 percent American-made product in its line that is worth a look—R.A.G.E. TCS, also known as the Rapid Adjustable Gas Expulsion Total Compensation System, fills the niche of tunable muzzle brake/compensator.

The system is designed to be adjusted. With installation being very straight-forward, I started by removing the factory A2 flash hider from the Ruger AR-556 test rifle. I applied the product as outlined in the instructions; first with the crush washer, TCS Barrel, Port Washers, and lastly the TCS Nut and set screws. Using the factory configuration of Port Washers (baffles) I headed to the range for round one of testing. I immediately noticed a dampening of recoil, but I also observed that the gun wanted to rise ever so slightly. Consulting the user’s manual, it became apparent that I had flipped the last Port Washer in line 180 degrees off axis. Though not incorrect, the flow of gas that was to counteract upward movement was blocked off, resulting in added muzzle rise. After reinstalling the “right way,” it became evident that the R.A.G.E. TCS works—the gun didn’t move. Switching baffles in random order throughout testing produced different effects of muzzle rise and recoil.

The stainless steel construction makes the unit durable, and because the system is easily disassembled, it is also easily cleaned via a sonic cleaner or brush. The company offers the product in various finishes. The device also complies with USPSA Multi-gun and 3 Gun Nation rules.
Price: $160. Contact: UM Tactical, 1955 10th Ave. N., Lake Worth, FL, 33461; (866) 979-4486; umtactical.com.

Latest

Ruger Beretta Agreement F Updated
Ruger Beretta Agreement F Updated

Beretta Holding and Ruger Agree to Partnership

Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. and Beretta Holding S.A. have announced that both companies are entering into a strategic cooperation agreement.

Return of the Encore: T/C Arms Brings Back Its Iconic Single-Shot

In 2024, former owner Gregg Ritz purchased Thompson/Center Arms. Now the company has introduced a modern take on its classic Contender/Encore concept: the ENCORE PROHunter.

7 New ARs for 2026

While it's certainly a saturated marketplace these days, the AR-15 has never been more popular with American firearm enthusiasts, and many manufacturers are continuing to feed the need with new options loaded with new features.

The Drawbacks of Being a Numbers-Oriented Gun Guy

Like any hobby or pastime that is in any way even vaguely related to machines or technology, firearms attract a (possibly) disproportionate number of “right-brained,” STEM-oriented personalities who like numbers.

First Look: MDT Hand Cannon Slingshot

Slingshots are fun, but they can also be a legitimate backup defensive tool—in 2023, a 13-year-old Michigan boy saved his 8-year-old sister from being kidnapped by using a $3 slingshot to fire a marble and a rock at the assailant, striking him in the chest and head.

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.