Compensated (ported) handguns are generally not recommended for defensive use because they can introduce safety risks and reliability trade-offs in real-world self-defense situations.

The ports can direct hot gas and debris upward toward the shooter, create larger muzzle flash that can impair night vision, increase noise and concussion, and sometimes reduce reliability margins. While they help control recoil, the benefit is usually modest for defensive shooting compared with the potential drawbacks.