Chances are, if you’re looking at an AR15 build kit that comes with a threaded barrel (and nearly all do) then it also comes with a muzzle device called a flash hider.
It’s nice that it’s included but as muzzle devices go, flash hiders don’t really do much. They redirect gasses slightly at the muzzle, so they can keep your muzzle flash to a minimum.
This accomplishes two things. One is that it helps prevent the muzzle flash and gasses from obstructing your sight picture, so you don’t get blinded by them. This can in theory help you make faster, more accurate follow up shots.
Also, to a lesser degree, it can obstruct your muzzle flash, keeping your position hidden - although this is not the main application of a flash hider.
All the same, the benefits basically end right there. If you’re considering an upgrade to a compensator (AKA a muzzle brake) or a suppressor (AKA a silencer) here are some of the things to look for that might tip you off that it’s time to ditch the flash hider for something better.
The Argument for a Trade
So you’re thinking you might be better served by a compensator or a suppressor but you aren’t sure. Here are some things to consider:
- You’re not a fan of recoil A good compensator can cut felt recoil by anywhere between 20% and 40%, and some can cut felt recoil by nearly 50%. That’s a huge deal. Even a suppressor can usually cut felt recoil by about 10% or so - not great, but better than a flash hider. This makes these muzzle devices indispensable for shooters that don’t like recoil and are shooting heavier cartridges than 5.56.
- You don’t want to sacrifice shot power The good thing about compensators is that they don’t adversely affect shot power at all. And, for the part of suppressors, they actually increase muzzle velocity and power slightly because they are basically and functionally short barrel extensions.
- You want to save your hearing This one’s for the suppressor crew. A suppressor is called a silencer for a reason, and it’s that the inside of the device contains vanes and baffles that trap expanding gasses, considerably cutting back on the noise of the shot. Disregard this if you’re considering a compensator, though, as they will actually make the gun quite a bit louder.
- You want to add some power to your shots A suppressor is, in some ways, basically just a barrel extension. As a result, it gives the bullet more time to accelerate by trapping gasses behind it for longer. The end result is a slight boost in FPS and muzzle energy, along with a slightly flatter trajectory.
- You’re still concerned with sight picture Compensators can cloud your sight picture but a good one will not. As for suppressors, they trap a lot of gas at the muzzle, so in reality, both of these options can offer the main benefit of a flash hider and then a whole lot more. All in all, suppressors probably take the edge here over compensators, though.
- You don’t feel like dealing with the red tape of a suppressor If you want a muzzle device that cuts recoil but you don’t feel like dealing with the paperwork and fees associated with a suppressor purchase, just get a compensator. They can be relatively affordable and are easier parts to purchase, anyway.
The long and short of it is this: if you care most about recoil, upgrade to a compensator. If the big burden for you is noise, and you want to add a little power, go with a suppressor. Just be aware that they are NFA items and will require an additional tax stamp, paperwork, and background check.
In the Interim…
On the off chance you remove the flash hider but haven’t decided on a replacement yet, one of the most important pieces of information we can offer you is to install thread protectors.
Thread protectors are basically metal collars that install on the muzzle threads and protect them from damage. Keep one of these on the muzzle at all times when you don’t have some other dedicated muzzle device installed.
Here for AR15 Build Kits and Muzzle Devices
Whether you’re here for an AR15 build kit for your next project or you’re simply looking around at muzzle devices to make a practical upgrade to your current kit, we can help you out. We carry a wide range of build kits for AR style rifles as well as plenty of parts, including muzzle devices - that includes compensator and flash hiders.
Take a look through our collection of AR15 parts and kits and get in touch with us directly if you need help before buying at Sales@MCSGearup.com.