What is the difference between a muzzlebreak and a compensator.  On the new Colt website, it features the M16 with a compensator.

The military calls the A2's birdcage flash suppressor a 'compensator' because it also helps reduce muzzle rise.  The BATF says its a flash supressor so its a no-no on post ban rifles.

Muzzle Brakes are devices that are used to reduce RECOIL in a rifle.  They also have a tendancy to increase the muzzle blast (particularly to the sides) and flash.

Compensators are devices that reduce muzzle climb.  They help keep the rifle on target during a rapid fire string (or in the M16s case on burst or full-auto).

Now there are combination devices for example most post ban 'Muzzle Brakes' are actually a combination Muzzle Brake & Compensator.  And as noted above the A2 Bird Cage is a combination Flash Supressor & Compensator.

Note for Muzzle Brakes or Compensators to be post ban legal they must not reduce the flash nor can they be 22mm +/-1 in diameter (to prevent usage as a grenade launcher).

...and it's b-r-a-k-e not b-r-e-a-k.

I'm surprised you got away this long without someone scolding you.

My very first post I made that mistake and I was blasted [:D]