60 police handguns could get a recoil-control upgrade

Alpharetta police want to use a $17,394 federal grant allocation to equip about 60 duty handguns with systems designed to reduce recoil. The proposal is scheduled for City Council consideration Nov. 9.⁠[1][2]

The department plans to buy Radian Ramjet + Afterburner barrel-and-compensator systems for compatible police handguns. The equipment estimate is $288.56 apiece, or $17,313.60 for 60.⁠[1]

Police say the systems are designed to reduce recoil and muzzle movement, help officers regain their sight picture and improve firearm control. Those are the department's stated aims—not demonstrated results from this proposed purchase. Officers receiving the equipment would remain subject to all existing firearms training and qualification requirements.⁠[1]

The final quantity and handling of shipping costs remain unsettled in the packet. One budget narrative says the city would pay any shipping separately. Another says the estimate assumes free shipping and that, if freight charges apply, the number purchased would be adjusted to keep the total within the $17,394 grant.⁠[1]

Staff recommends accepting the allocation through the FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program. Receiving the money also requires participation in a joint application with other Fulton County jurisdictions and an interlocal agreement that staff says will be supplied later.⁠[1]

The Nov. 9 meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza. The grant resolution appears under new business as item 6.D.⁠[2]