Gunsmithing Muzzle brake question...

[lane1]

I have a Remington 700 P in .308 with threaded barrel and Gemtech HVT suppressor. I don't have thread protector and plan to use a JP Enterprises muzzle brake for this when not using suppressor. When I place the brake on the barrel, there is a gap that I would imagine I need to use shims to fill. I'm sure this is basic/common sense but not to me just yet. Please advise the proper way to do/fit this.

Thanks!
-JL

 

[wnroscoe]

Re: Muzzle brake question...

The gap may be caused by a shallower or smaller diameter thread relieve groove in the brake. The thread relieve groove in the suppressor may be deeper or larger. Look at the two together, the thread relieve groove is the unthreaded portion between the shoulder that hits your barrel shoulder and the start of the threads in the brake or suppressor. You can measure the ID with calipers and get close.

 

[lane1]

Re: Muzzle brake question...

I agree...the suppressor has a "deep" thread and the class 3 dealer/armorer that fit this intentionally did this to provide a very secure fit. This is part of the problem though when I put on a "standard" brake, as the non-threaded portion of the muzzle brake is hitting the barrel. Can I or should I use either a washer of some sort (like with the ARs) or some type of shim to compensate for this space?

Thanks.
-JL

 

[wnroscoe]

Re: Muzzle brake question...

You can either take the brake to a machinist/gunsmith or send it out and have the thread relieve groove opened up. That won’t change the way it fits the threads or locks up on the barrel. It'll just give you a slight bit more clearance so the shoulders will make contact and give a better appearance.