Posted: 1/29/2007 7:42:59 PM EDT
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Guys, This is my first AR I've owned, a 6920. I'm a young guy, and I've got a few questions about the A2? birdcage style FH. First off, this is the correct name for it correct? Secondly, is it threaded with a crush washer? I'm also trying to determine exactly what function it serves. I mean, is it just a flash hider? Why are the slots/porting? all located on the sides and top? Is this perhaps to blow the gases UP and out to the sides, in order to help with muzzle flip?? Is this also to keep a low dust signature, when shooting close to the ground, or when using a bipod??? What will a shot look like, when fired in the dark??? What tool do I use to remove the FH??? Can someone just give me the lowdown on the 6920's Flash Hider???? Thanks so much.. |
the Army calls it an A2 compensator, but ATF sez it's a Flash Hider yes, it's installed with a crush washer...tool is same one used to install a barrel, available for about $12 from Sarco & lots of others... slots are on the top & top sides, yes, to keep the dust signature down... when fired in the dark? well, lets just say it helps, but, not enough if your gonna be shooting in the dark much, get a Vortex, or similar Flash-hider... 
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- I don't. I just want to be fully educated about my firearm, and all of it's parts. I want to learn all that I can, and be sure to understand how everything works, and what each parts purpose is, as well as how well it performs. I thank you for your time, and answering my questions. That really helped. I have a hard time seeing how a simple piece of steel on the end of the bbl, (such as this one), with slots in it, can cut down on the flash signature. I also am trying to find out how well the "Vortex" FH's perform, and also if there is any disadvantage to using them.? Do they take away power/muzzle velocity? Do they help with muzzle flip? Do they do ANYTHING other than hide the flash better than an A2 birdcage? These are all things I'm slowly learning, thanks to the help of you guys. Thanks guys! |
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Razor - the A2 flash hider is exactly what you described it as, and unless you plan to mount something else there (like a bi-lock, or other silencer mating device) I would leave it alone It is correctly indexed like it is, and when you take them off - whether they have a peel washer or crush washer, it is difficult to put back exactly right. As for what purpose they serve..... They are a minor help as a compensator or brake, but the primary role is to keep your signature down when firing (at an enemy) so he cannot tell where your shots are coming from How effective are they? Check this out ------------> Flash Suppressor Testing Photos Congratulations on the Colt!! |
Anytime, Razor! What did you think of those Flash Hider photos? The looked like the A2 is actually one of the least effective when it comes to keeping down the flash. (source: Silencertests.com- Flash Suppressor Testing) |
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Yeah, I hear ya. I will have to check the site out once again, but in my brief overview, it appears that way indeed. I would like to find out which silencer is the best for my 6920, and what results I can get with it, as well as how much it will cost. Is the Vortex the best deal going? I still know nothing about them really. Just haven't had time to research them, as much as other topics.. |
The Vortex is better at reducing flash, but in my opinion, it has limitations. Not a big deal, but the tines can be bent, which depending on your applications, could be a real problem The Phantom on the other hand, is more effective and has a traditional look with a closed end (vs Vortex) Like I offered before, I stick with A2s Silencers? They are costly - $700 - $1,100 for most popular models including $200 Tax stamp. They reduce the sound by around 30Db - 35Db, which is helpful, but you still have around 130- 145Db after suppression. While I do not own one now, I have used them, and been around many of them. Don't think for a minute they are Hollywood quiet- because they aren't. Many compare a suppressed .223 to that of an unsuppressed .22LR shot (which is about 150-160Db) Much more on this in the Class III section or better yet, on the Silencertests.com site. You have a great rifle whether it is bone stock or fitted with accessories to help you make the shot. HTH |
Just be forewarned that Silencertests is an Advanced Armament cheerleader website. I am not in any way discrediting or trash talking AAC, only that you need to be forewarned about that particular site. There are many good options for suppressors and I'll take a suppressed 5.56mm over an unsuppressed any day of the week (though I won't enjoy cleaning the rifle after use). SWR, Gemtech, Yankee Hill, Advanced Armament, Surefire.....all good options. I would try a few different ones out and decide which mounting system and noise reduction profile (I just made that up  ) suites you best. I say noise reduction profile, because to my ears all of these cans are about the same in terms of suppression, they just have a different pitch/tone. Some are more pleasing to my ear than others, and this seems to differ among different users.I own SWR cans and have to say that their customer service is absolutely fantastic. Have never called and not been able to speak directly with Joe. |
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Thanks guys, Just a note, while I've not owned or shot a lot of silenced/suppressed guns, I have heard them and the noise they make (or don't make) plenty of times. I've always known Hollywood was fake. Anyhow, I'm not trying to bash any of these companies at all, but in all honesty, $1200 for a suppressor is one of the biggest rip-offs I could possibly fathom. Now I DO realize they are made on expensive CNC equiptment, and I DO realize they are probably a little more sophisticated than just being "cans" made of metal. HOWEVER, I think the price is STILL a ripoff. In NO way should they cost as much as the rifles we put them on. PERIOD. I respect anyone who's opinion differs, and I probably would own a few models IF my budget was a bit more. For the time being though, I'll put my $1200 into a new rifle/firearm.... Thanks to ALL for all the great info guys. I really do appreciate it... |