Introduction
Getting together with your range crew is always rewarding. Not only for the healthy competition but also for the real gear talk. The "What’s your top handgun accessory list?" is always a hot topic.
With all the options available in the market today, it’s hard for anyone in the gun community not to get excited about accessories. At 45 Blast, we specialize in compensators, but there is a lot of other interesting gear out there: red dot sights, magazine base plates, holsters, and more.
So, we thought, why not come up with our top gun accessories list? Of course, we'll include our compensators, but we wanted to share even more for those of you preparing the ultimate gun accessories shopping list.
Before diving into the must-have accessories, let's explore the benefits of using Canik compensators and why we love making these at 45 Blast.
Benefits of Using Canik Compensator
How did we get started with Canik compensators here at 45 Blast? We were already digging into their products, and being able to work with them was a dream come true. We wanted to add the perfect accessory to their handguns.
So we thought, why not create the ultimate Canik compensator? We wanted to take the benefits to the next level. And so we did.
First off, let’s talk about recoil. That sharp kickback when you fire can really mess with your aim. So when we started making comps, we set a goal not so easy to achieve: 60% to 80% reduction. We wouldn’t accept anything below that. And we finally got it! Just take our Canik TP9 Elite Combat Compensator. That gun is already a great shooter right out of the box, and we worked hard to make it the flattest shooter ever.
Our Canik comps also add that bit of extra weight right where you need it. The result? Better control and comfort, less fatigue, and more accurate shots. We wanted our shooters to feel great.
And who doesn’t want faster follow-up shots? Not only in competitive shooting but also when enjoying a good day at the range. We want to shoot the stage clean, and we want to do it fast.
So there you have it. Recoil reduction, more comfort, and faster follow-up shots. Now, what else makes our top 10 gun accessories? Come on, let’s do this.
Red Dot Sights
In the gun community, red dot sights are always a hot topic. And can you blame us? Red dots are not only awesome gun accessories, they also look great. They’re a favorite for a good reason.
Red dot sights offer an alternative aiming method that can complement or enhance the use of traditional iron sights. One of the coolest setups is co-witnessing, where your red dot and iron sights align perfectly, giving you multiple aiming options. This is especially handy for quick target acquisition. Want to aim fast? A red dot sight makes it a breeze.
When picking a red dot sight, just keep in mind the mounting footprints. Make sure your handgun is RMR, Delta Point Pro, or RMSC compatible. Many Canik models come optics-ready, like the Canik TP9 Elite SC and Canik METE SFT.Â
Suppressor Height Sights
Next in line, is a gun accessory we see a lot: suppressor height sights. They are taller than your standard sights, and they’re perfect for co-witnessing with red dot sights. They offer a reliable aiming backup. Plus, they just look cool, don’t they?
One thing to keep in mind is parallax issues. Ever noticed your red dot seems to shift a bit when you move your head? That’s parallax. It can mess with your accuracy if you’re not careful. The good news is, that suppressor height sights can help solve this problem.Â
Extended Magazine Base Plates
Another gun community favorite: Extended magazine base plates. A real game-changer, especially for competition shooters. Many Caniks already come with extended magazines, which is a really cool feature. Now, if you are looking for even more capacity, there are many interesting extended magazine base plates in the aftermarket. Some options can give you an additional +9 rounds. Imagine turning your 18-round Canik magazine into a 27-round beast!Â
Extended magazine base plates are especially great for competitions. Just keep in mind the open division regulations, which typically allow magazines up to 170mm. You have to stop at some point, right?
Gun Holster
Let’s start with leather holsters. These offer a timeless look and mold to your firearm's shape over time. They’re classic and stylish, but be aware that leather can absorb moisture and oils, which might lessen its durability over time.
Kydex holsters, like our high-quality 45 Blast Holster, are a different story. We craft them to be extremely durable, water-resistant, and virtually maintenance-free. They provide a secure fit that’s tough to beat. Plus, they’re ready to go right out of the box with no break-in period required.
Now, is there a no-go with holster materials? For us, that would be nylon. It’s budget-friendly, but not always the safest choice. Nylon holsters often lack the robust security features of other materials, which is why it’s a no-go for us. Safety first!
Light/Laser Combo
In low-light scenarios, like night shooting, having a flashlight is essential. But you’re not going to attach a regular flashlight to your barrel—that’s just not safe, man! And since you don’t have an extra third hand, the solution is a Light/Laser Combo.
A Light/Laser Combo is perfect for low-light shooting situations. It illuminates your surroundings, giving you a clear view of what you’re aiming at.
Upgraded Trigger
Caniks already come with great triggers, featuring a crisp break and short reset. But really, it’s all about personal preference. Some shooters prefer a flat trigger, and nowadays there are some interesting aftermarket options available.
Flat trigger or curved trigger? It’s all about finding what feels best for you and your shooting style.
Grip Tape or Grip Enhancement
These are essential for improving your hold on the firearm, especially in less-than-ideal conditions like wet or sweaty hands. A better grip helps prevent your firearm from slipping or shifting during firing.
There are different types of grip tape to consider. Textured rubber grips and granulate grips are popular choices. A fine texture is better for smaller hands or those who prefer a less abrasive surface. A coarse texture is ideal for larger hands or when you need maximum grip.Â
Magazine Loader
Reloading magazines is something most of us don’t enjoy. If you're tired of losing to your friends at the range and end up reloading everyone else's magazines, well... the best solution is to improve your aim! But in the meantime, a speed loader can help.
A magazine loader can save you time and effort, making the reloading process much quicker and easier. No more sore thumbs or struggling to get those last few rounds in.Â
Cleaning Kit
A good cleaning kit is always a must. You’ll need a cleaning rod to reach the barrel, and a bore brush is perfect for scrubbing away residue and buildup. A good cleaning solvent will help break down and remove carbon and fouling while lubricating oil keeps your firearm running smoothly. Utility brushes are great for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, and cleaning jags ensure thorough cleaning of the bore.
Compensators
And finally, we are right at where we started. A good comp is the top accessory you can get for your handgun. We already talked about the amazing benefits of using a 45-blast compensator on your Canik handgun. From significant recoil reduction to improved control and faster follow-up shots, a compensator is a must-have for any serious shooter.
Here you can take a look at our complete 45 Blast Canik Compensators line.
Maintenance Tips
So, you’ve got your top gun accessories for your Canik, and your setup is looking pretty sweet. Now, let's talk about how to keep everything, especially your compensator, in top-notch condition.
The ports of a compensator can get dirty with copper, carbon, and hard carbon buildup. These contaminants can affect your shooting experience if not cleaned regularly. However, don’t stress about achieving a perfect clean. It's nearly impossible and doesn’t significantly impact performance. In fact, compensators with a bit of copper buildup can have a unique, rugged look.
A regular cleaning routine will do the trick. As we referred to on our top gun accessories list, use a good cleaning solvent and a brush to scrub away the buildup. Focus on the ports and ensure you remove as much residue as possible. After cleaning, apply a light coat of lubricating oil to protect the metal surfaces.
When it comes to storage, keep your compensator in a dry, cool place. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, so make sure it's well-protected. Using a desiccant in your storage case can help keep moisture at bay.
If you found this info interesting, you can check out our post about the science behind compensators.
Conclusion
There you have it—our top 10 must-have accessories for your Canik handgun. Just like those lively discussions at the range with your shooting buddies, we've shared our favorite gear to help you get the most out of your firearm. From red dot sights to our very own 45 Blast compensators, each accessory brings something unique to the table.
Remember, having the right gear can make a world of difference. And while we’re all about those awesome accessories, don’t forget the basics: keep your gear clean and well-maintained to ensure peak performance and safety every time you shoot.
So, what’s your top accessory pick? Have you tried any of our recommendations? Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us on 45 Blast's social media channels. Here’s to better shooting and more fun at the range!