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Posted: 12/14/2012 8:42:40 PM EDT
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Looking at a Gemtech HALO.
Gemtech refers to the proper flash suppressor as "NATO spec". Any suggestions for an M-16A1 type source. I'd like to go with a Mil type, and not anything proprietary as the rifle is a Colt model 639 clone. Joe O |
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A1's were around in Vietnam- the A1 "birdcage" the A2 really isn't a "birdcage" but is actually called a "compensator" but a lot of people call it a birdcage anyway.
Those are NATO devices. It bothers me a little how companies loosely refer to "A2 dimensions" with devices that aren't even NATO accessory grooved. I guess they mean OD/OAL? Maybe not even? The Halo is more tolerable than most designs, there are 5 suppressors on the market that require NATO grooves and dimensions. |
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The muzzle attachment on the M16A2 and M4 is called a compensator in the service manuals. The muzzle attachment on the M16A1 is called a flash hider in the service manual. The two are dimensionally identical, except the slots on the A2 version are clustered at the top, leaving the bottom solid. The A2 'comp' is supposed to be 'timed' with the 3rd slot at top dead center. I prefer the 'birdcage' A1 style, that I can just screw down until it stops. I don't use crush washers or peel washers to time the A1 flash hider, as I have a Gemtech Halo that I run on mine.
Both are 22mm in diameter, as that is the NATO standard for rifle grenades, which both are capable of launching. FWIW, I had a hard time finding A1 flashiders... but at gun shows, and on line, I just kept an eye out and eventually found enough for my rifles. Vltor makes a really cool 'modernized' A1 style flash hider, that dimensionally is more consistent than many flash hiders, but I'm too cheap to buy one. DPMS has them, but I'm afraid of DPMS parts. http://dpmsinc.com/A1-Flash-Hider_p_606.html |
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