Work ran late recently, so I was able to photograph a fairly consistent comparison of the muzzle flash resulting from the use of Federal .223 Rem 55gr FMJBT – also known as AE223 – and a 16″ AR-15. Actually, there were two AR-15s used for this photo. The PWS TTO requires a thin wrench for removal and installation, and all I had at the range was a standard AR-15 armorer’s wrench. All of the other devices were used on a Spike’s Tactical 16″ carbine length AR-15. Other than the bare muzzle and the PWS TTO, I also used a Spike’s Tactical Dynacomp, Vltor VC-1, standard A2, YHM Phantom 5C2, Smith Vortex, and AAC Blackout.

I do own a Rainier Arms XTC, but it was on a 5.45 rifle that I wasn’t shooting that day. Some might notice the absence of a BattleComp – I don’t own one (no, this is not a plea for a BattleComp, I just don’t own one).

I would like to reiterate that, in my opinion, any device which allows more flash than the A2 is not suitable for combat use. This does not mean that it is not suitable – or even ideal – for use outside of armed confrontation.