Muzzle brakes and compensators help counteract the forces of recoil to help you shoot more quickly and accurately.

The 2 devices are similar but slightly different in their effects:

Muzzle Brakes – reduces the feel and effect of recoil

Compensators – reduces muzzle “flip” (muzzle rise)

A flash hider reduces muzzle flash, and serves 2 purposes: Conceal your position from enemies, and reduce “night blindness” after shooting.

Some flash hiders, like the classic A2 “half birdcage”, also have the properties of a compensator (reduce the effect of muzzle “flip”).

Want to learn more about muzzle devices? Check out our article: What is the Best Muzzle Device for my AR-15? Muzzle Brake vs. Flash Hider vs. Compensator