Is there a difference between a compensator and a muzzle brake?

 

I'm trying to choose a muzzle attachment for an ar upper and I just want to make sure I don't get one that's not "okay" for NJ.

 

Here's an example: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/Primary-Weapon-Systems-FSC556-Tactical-Compensator-p/pws-fsc556.htm

 

Please let me know.

 

Thanks!

As far as NJ is concerned, I don't know. The pws-fsc556 is a nice compromise between comp and flash reduction, and I believe they are not considered "flash hiders" in NJ, please check their website to verify. The design is also somewhat dated and there is newer stuff that gives better brake and even less noise.

 

Technically, comp vs. break, there is no fixed definition. But, generally, most people refer to comps as muzzle rise reducers and most people refer to brakes as recoil reducers. Most products do at least a little of both.

anything with a closed front is a comp...generaly flashiders are open on the end.

http://primaryweapons.com/store/pc/documents/ATF_FSC556.pdf

anything with a closed front is a comp...generaly flashiders are open on the end.

 

Comps like that from PWS have what appears to be an "open" front end.

http://primaryweapons.com/store/pc/documents/ATF_FSC556.pdf

 

Thanks Paul!

I completely blew away a PWS FSC556. Not due to any damage or bullet strikes, just eroded away due to hard use. I brought this up about six months ago and was reminded they have a lifetime warranty. I'm going to call them this week.

 

Thanks for the reminder. It's about $100, that's worth the effort.

Comps are indeed a wear part which really sucks for us in NJ because they need to be pinned so replacing them when worn is not fun. Of course, this depends on how much you shoot and the design of the comp. If things work out the comp ends up starting to burn out about the same time as the barrel or at least around the time you get the urge to get a new barrel anyway.

Apparently, my military barrels (not "milspec" or "these are made by FN to spec") last a hell of a lot longer than a comp. The one I ruined fired mostly BETA dumps in FA off of an 11.5" barrel, so that's probably about as bad as it gets without intentionally doing a torture test. But $100 is $100, and I didn't do anything wrong, and we want our money back, and we're going to get it (product replacement)

 

I'll post a pic of mine.