Suppressors A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

[Conrad101st]

I have an elite iron can that I shoot on my two 30 cal bolt guns. Anyway I'm thinking about getting a 308 semi auto. Most come with a birdcage. Can these A2 birdcages be easily screwed off and on in the field to allow me to use my can or should I just go with threads and put a screw-on thread protector on it.

 

[Redmanss]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

The A2 compensator is installed using a crush washer, so no you will not be able to easily remove/install it in the field.

For your semi auto the best option to have both a flash suppressor and suppressor is to get a muzzle device that is designed for the attachment of a suppressor directly onto it, but that will of course require a new suppressor. Sounds like a thread protector or another tax stamp is in your future.

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

That's the answer I needed. Not the answer I wanted.

Thanks

 

[Redmanss]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Sorry to rain on your parade...

Also, if you do use the existing threads, I would be very careful and have them checked to make they are true and concentric before you end up with a baffle strike.

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Hmm you are just full of good news sir!

So you would definitely have a "new build" gun barrel left untouched by the maker and have it shipped to the can maker for threading and indexing?

Seems wasteful to not use my existing can. Had Dale at Elite Iron thread both my 308 and 300 win mag for the same can and its been just the ticket.

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

My buddy who shoots an OBR swears that I need a flash suppressor anyway on a 308 short barrel semiauto so that may be a better option anyway? Do you like the surefire combo as a reliable brake and does the can mated to the quick connect setup hold zero better than a standard threaded can?

 

[Redmanss]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Yeah, definitely a purpose specific build and not any old OEM barrel unless you're going to get it re-threaded. Doesn't have to go to the suppressor manufacturer for threading, just use a competent gunsmith. Mine are going to GAP when I get home to be barreled.

I like Surefire and am having two AR builds done right now for it. It's more than adequate and any shift that is repeatable can always be adjusted for through proper testing and recording. There's others out there too, such as the new brake mounted TBAC if you want the thread on style. I would shift to that direction is I wasn't trying to keep the OAL down when mounted. Shark, AAC and AWC are supposed to be pretty nice too, but I've never used theirs.

Read through this thread for some really good info from many different users:
.308 Best Suppressor

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Thanks, be safe.

 

[j-huskey]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Redmanss has given you some good advice based on his experience. However, you can use a flash-hider that is easy to take on and off.
You remove the flash-hider and the crush washer, then you can time the flash-hider to your barrel where you can put it on with your hands and a small wrench, easy on and easy off.

Timing the flash-hider? Flat file and cold blue. Remove metal slowly, check fit, then when where it needs to be, cold blue the exposed metal and you are in business.

PM if you have further questions.

 

[RollingThunder51]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

You didn't actually think you had to go off and buy a whole new can just to screw off your flash hider did you? The only issue you need to be aware of it that you do not want to over torque your regular old flash hider when you take it off for your can. If you do you can distart the threads on the barrel and the timing will change on the brake.

You need a new can like a fish needs a bicycle.

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

Well this is better news. I'm pretty adventurous when it comes to tinkering but I know my limits and like to ask lots of questions and measure three times before I cut the proverbial board. I think the ability to do what you gentlemen are articulating is exactly what I was trying to get at. I really appreciate all the input from the group.

 

[Redmanss]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

He said in his OP that he wanted to take it on and off "in the field". That key element of his post is what I was basing my advice on.

 

[Conrad101st]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

It's all good. I'm tracking on everyone's points.

 

[j-huskey]

Re: A2 Flash hider verses muzzle thread protector

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Redmanss</div><div class="ubbcode-body">He said in his OP that he wanted to take it on and off "in the field". That key element of his post is what I was basing my advice on. </div></div>

Done right, a leatherman tool.