Mounting Devices vs. Muzzle Devices: They Are Not the Same
David Higginbotham
When it comes to choosing an accessory for the end of your firearm’s barrel, it’s essential to recognize that not everything is an adapter. Muzzle devices are designed to serve specific functions at the end of a firearm’s barrel, from mitigating recoil to suppressing muzzle flash. In contrast, mounting devices play a pivotal role in securely attaching suppressors to firearms, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
As you have likely noticed, navigating the world of firearms accessories can be a complex task due to the diverse terminology and options available. In this guide, we’ll demystify the terminology surrounding muzzle devices and mounting devices, shedding light on their significance and functionality.
Understanding Mounting Devices
Mounting devices play a crucial role in connecting suppressors to firearms. When dealing with a suppressed firearm, there are essentially three key components: the firearm itself, a muzzle device, and the suppressor.
The firearm is straightforward, provided it has a threaded barrel. Suppressors can be attached to various firearms, with few exceptions, such as some revolvers.
Now, let’s focus on the vital link between the firearm and the suppressor – the mounting device. There exists a variety of mounting devices, each with its own purpose and advantages.
- ASR Mounts (Active Spring Retention): These come with an added benefit – a locking mount collar that prevents the suppressor from unscrewing during high-round shooting. The ASR Mount system allows the use of an ASR Flash Hider or ASR Muzzle Brake, and with a suppressor attached, these devices are all-but-invisible.
- Direct Thread Mounts: These provide the shortest configuration, which is a factor that many find important — especially hunters who move through brush. A direct thread mount threads into the barrel of the firearm, and then the suppressor threads to the mount. Simple and effective.
- Thread Over Mounts (TOM): Acting as a bridge between Direct Thread Mounts and ASR Mounts, these protect the muzzle, offer solid recoil reduction, and provide a straightforward mounting solution. The brake component attaches to the barrel, and the radial ports facilitate multi-directional gas dispersion, as compared to the bi-directional ports on ASR brakes.
- Piston Mounts: Essential for attaching suppressors to pistols with floating barrels, piston mounts facilitate suppressor attachment to handguns when combined with a piston. Working in harmony with the piston assembly, the piston propels the suppressor forward as the barrel recoils upward and rearward, effectively offsetting the weight of the suppressor and ensuring smooth firearm operation.
- 3-Lug Mounts: The quickest method for attaching and detaching suppressors, the 3-Lug mount uses a spring to keep the mount attached to an adapter that’s affixed to the barrel. A simple twist locks the suppressor onto the lugs and creates a secure connection. This is ideal for situations requiring rapid deployment. 3-Lug mounts can only be used on semi-auto platforms.
Each of these mounting options has its unique advantages, depending on the intended use and preference
Deciphering Muzzle Devices
Muzzle devices, on the other hand, are primarily associated with unsuppressed rifles, although they are increasingly found on pistols and revolvers. These devices, attached to the end of a barrel, serve various practical purposes beyond mere adapters.
For example, a muzzle brake, like the ASR Muzzle Brake, redirects gases to reduce muzzle rise and felt recoil. It is installed so that the openings direct gases laterally from both sides of the gun. It enhances muzzle stability during rapid fire, and provides some rearward pressure.
Flash hiders, as the name suggests, minimize muzzle flash upon firing. The SilencerCo ASR Flash Hider eliminates the tuning-fork effect seen in other 3-prong designs with a patent-pending resonance suppression method.
Both muzzle brakes and flash hiders also serve the critical function of protecting the muzzle from damage. Damaging the crown of a rifle’s muzzle can compromise accuracy.
SilencerCo offers a range of muzzle devices designed not only for suppressor attachment but also for enhanced performance on unsuppressed firearms. The ASR Blast Shield, for instance, protects threads, redirects gases, and minimizes noise.
In summary, understanding the distinctions between muzzle devices and mounting devices is crucial for selecting the right components to optimize your firearm setup. Each device serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your shooting experience.
Whether you’re looking for stability, recoil reduction, or flash suppression, there’s a device tailored to your needs.
David Higginbotham
