Short answer: a flash hider cuts visible flash, a compensator reduces muzzle rise, and a muzzle brake reduces felt recoil. Pick by what you want to improve.
Flash hider
Directs gas to reduce the flash you see. Popular on defensive and low-light rifles.
Compensator
Redirects gas, usually up, to keep the muzzle flatter for faster follow-up shots.
Muzzle brake
Pushes gas out sideways to reduce rearward push. It is louder to the sides, so range neighbors notice it.
Thread pattern
Most 5.56 AR-15 barrels use a common 1/2×28 thread. Confirm your barrel before you buy, and see our suppressor buying guide if you plan to mount one later.
Think about your use
For a general-purpose or home rifle, many shooters choose a flash hider. Competition shooters often prefer a compensator. A brake is common on larger calibers such as .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor.
Mount it right
Check the thread pitch first. Ask BMTC to confirm it, or have us install and time the device so the ports line up correctly.
Keep building
Browse AR-15 parts, read the custom AR-15 build guide, or let our Palmetto, FL shop help with gunsmithing and custom AR builds.
Thread Size and Crush Washers
Most 5.56 barrels use a 1/2×28 thread, while many .30 caliber barrels use 5/8×24. Match the device to your barrel thread, and use the correct shim or crush washer so the device ends up aligned at the right position. A device that points the wrong way will not work as designed.
Sound and Concussion
Compensators and brakes push blast sideways, so the shooter and anyone nearby feel more concussion on a covered or indoor range. If you shoot at a busy range, a flash hider is the more considerate choice. A flash hider is also the usual base for mounting a suppressor on many models. Ask us and we can help you pick the right one.
Shop AR-15 parts at BMTC USA, a gun shop and gunsmith in Palmetto, FL.