Abstract: An apparatus and method for storing and mixing components for forming a product and dispensing the resultant product. The apparatus comprises a dispensing head, a first cartridge for storing a first fluid component, and a second cartridge for storing a second fluid component. The first cartridge and the second cartridge each have a first open end and a second closed end. A first distributor provides fluid communication between the first cartridge and the dispensing head, and a second distributor provides fluid communication between the second cartridge and the dispensing head. Both the first and second distributors have a preselected effective stroke distance. A compensating assembly is also provided. A housing maintains the dispensing head, first cartridge, second cartridge, first distributor, second distributor, and compensating assembly in operative relation with each other.