I have the standard "bird cage" flash hider on my Oly, when I was in the gun shop the other day the guy behind the counter tried to sell me one that didn't have the "cut outs" on the bottom. I told him I already had one at home and he told me I should put it on my weapon because "it is better!" What's the difference? One is solid on the bottom and the other isn't, how could one be any better than the other?

- Clint hinking.gif

http://ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=118&t=270911

Nevermind I just read this and pretty much answered my own question...........

The A1 version has slots on the bottom, the A2 version has no slots on the bottom to reduce dust signature and muzzle climb.

Your flash hider is just fine.  The A2-style flash hider has one slot missing-it's left closed and assembled on the bottom to reduce a shooter's dust signature when shooting prone.  THAT'S ALL.  Your gun shop guy wants to make some money off of you.  You do NOT need to help him do that.

I hate reading for a week on the board to answer a question, and then finding the answer 5 seconds after I post the question....h- Clint

sounds like the dealer was trying to make a sale on a fool.


the short a2/a1 flashhiders dont work good to begin with and the only thing the a2 offers is dust kickup. muzzle rise is not noticably effected with the closed bottom.