Compensator vs no compensator

[Kincaid]

I'm looking into buying a S&W500, and have read up on the various models. One thing I'm a little confused about is the compensator. I've read that it does reduce recoil, but increases the sound to the point where hearing could be damaged, even when wearing ear protection. I don't mind extra recoil if the ear damage is a possibility.

Can anyone clear this up?

 

[dmancornell]

IMO the average person shouldn't shoot the 500 without a compensator due to potential hand/wrist injuries.

The compensator does increase the noise level but unless you're shooting indoors it's not a big deal if you're wearing protection. I shot under a covered stand outdoors and it wasn't exceptionally loud.

 

[1stmarine]

for the hearing you put silicon earplugs and then put the exteral headset on top. Then the sound will be more like an old big dog barking next to you.
A good muzzle brake ator will make the shooing experince an enjoyable one vs. a wrist surgery.
Make sure you get an efficient brake that doesn't screw up with the systems accuracy and performance. The noise is secondary in your case.
Use double hearing protection.

 

[Guillermo]

While I would never say that a S&W 500 IS a "compensator"...

I would suggest that as long as you are using the tripod it should be okay without a compensator

 

[fmcdave]

I have a Glock 23C (compensated) and my daughter has a vanilla G23. It's hard to tell the difference for me. The best thing about the 23C is that I told me daughters (when teaching them to shoot) that if they didn't see the flame out the top...they had their eyes closed. They told me that was one of the best things I ever told them.