I love keeping my barrel flat as I pump multiple rounds into the target, which is why I like muzzle brakes and compensators like the Griffin Armament M4SD II. Like everyone else on the Internet, I’ve run into the 5.56 vs. 7.62 debate. It gets even messier when you throw in my favorite caliber, the 5.45x39mm, provided by AIM Surplus.
I remember a range session not too long ago where another shooter was lecturing me on the lethality of the 7.62 NATO round. He drilled a target at 25 yards from a standing position, using his PTR rifle. Turning to me, he said, “There, I just put 147 grains of hurt into him. That’s a lot more than your little round.”
I nodded my head and brought my AR up, firing three rounds into the same target. My muzzle stayed flat. All three rounds hit the upper thoracic cavity. “One hundred and fifty nine grains,” I stated.
Though this was a rather obnoxious thing to do on my part, it proved the point that a good muzzle brake can increase the lethality of your weapon system. By allowing the shooter to keep the carbine on target, problems relating to the “stopping power” of smaller rounds are practically rendered moot.
Notice the minimal flash exhibited by the M4SDII muzzle brake
The dual port design of the M4SD II muzzle brake offers some advantages over the shorter Rainier Arms RMC. While longer, it exhibits less flash, which can be distracting to both the shooter and bystanders. I don’t want to downplay the usefulness of the Rainier Arms product in any way. It has a special place in my heart and will always have a place in my arsenal. The RMC will eventually go on the end of a 20 inch barrel, and the muzzle blast shouldn’t be too annoying to nearby shooters. Furthermore its short length will be appreciated on an already-long rifle.
When evaluating the Griffin Armament M4SD II, I noticed several things right away. Muzzle flash and blast were both increased in comparison to a standard A2. While not exactly the type of muzzle brake that sends those shooting next to you scurrying for cover, it can be less than comfortable if a body part is right next to the muzzle. See the video below for details.
The M4SD II Muzzle Brake is CNC machined from precipitation hardened 17-4 stainless steel and is a simple, rock solid addition to your AR-15. If you are inclined to purchase a suppressor, this muzzle brake will hold even more interest for you. Included in the kit is a tabbed washer, which allows you to attach a Griffin Armament M4-SD silencer. Unfortunately, I’m not sure even my rugged good looks and roguish charm are enough to get a free silencer.
Alas, I’ll have to content myself with a fine muzzle brake.
By Allen Cosby
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