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  • Post category:AR-15 / Flash Hiders
  • Post last modified:April 30, 2023
  • Post published:April 7, 2021

If you need a quick reaction while shooting especially in bad light conditions, you cannot neglect the flash hiders’ benefits. Popular American M16 and AR 15 rifles are easy-handling and good at precision, but still, even they can show better results after upgrading them.

Best AR 15 Flash Hider - Editor's Choice

Why do we need an AR 15 flash hider?

The key feature of flash hiders is to dissipate the flash not irritating the eyesight. This device is useful in competitive shooting and hunting to stay unrevealed for other shooters or animals. It’s convenient for the eyes at dark when you shoot without bright flare and don’t waste time for eye adaptation.

AR 15 Flash Hider Review | Best Flash Hider for AR 15

ImageProductBrand
VG6 Precision EPSILON AR 15 Flash HiderVG6 PrecisionBUY
SureFire SOCOM Closed Tine AR 15 Flash HiderSureFireBUY
SureFire 3-Prong AR 15 Flash HiderSureFireBUY
Aero Precision AR15 Flash HiderAero PrecisionBUY
Midwest Industries AR-15 Flash HiderMidwest IndustriesBUY
Guntec USA AR-15 Slim Line Flash HiderGuntec USABUY
Manticore Arms Eclipse AR 15 Flash HiderManticore ArmsBUY
Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Gen 2 A2 Ribbed Birdcage AR 15 Flash HiderGuntec USABUY
Spikes Tactical A2 Bird Cage Flash HiderSpikes TacticalBUY
Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 A2 Birdcage AR 15 Flash HiderGuntec USABUY
SureFire 3 Prong Eliminator AR 15 Flash HiderSureFireBUY
Angstadt Arms 3-Lug A1 Style AR 15 Flash HiderAngstadt ArmsBUY
Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Spartan AR 15 Flash HiderGuntec USABUY
Yankee Hill Machine Phantom 5.56mm Aggressive AR 15 Flash HiderYankee Hill MachineBUY
Troy Medieval AR 15 Flash Hider TPITroy MedievalBUY

#1 VG6 Precision EPSILON AR 15 Flash Hider

VG6 Precision EPSILON 556SL Muzzle Brake

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Length: 2.21 in
Weight: 1.6 oz
Diameter: 0.745 in

The VG6 three-in-one muzzle unit (Flash Hider, Compensator, and Muzzle Brake) fits for 14.5-inch rifles. The special design of the deep channel cuts allows diminishing the front end overall weight. This muzzle device is easily maintained thanks to simply removing it from the gas block without the necessity to take off the unit completely. The VG6 flash hider is an excellent alternative for legal (can be pinned and welded to the barrel), lightweight, and flat shooting rifles (14.5 inches).

Video review

Pros:
  • Lightweight;
  • Muzzle rise control;
  • Aggressive chamber enhances gas flow and diminishes recoil remarkably;
  • Flash suppression;
  • Slim profile with high-quality performance;
  • Easy to install.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#2 SureFire SOCOM Closed Tine AR 15 Flash Hider

SureFire SOCOM Closed Tine .223 5.56 Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28
Length: 2.33 in

These flash hiders are compatible with M4 and M16 firearms and other 1/2-28 muzzle thread rifle builds without the necessity of permanent modifications during installation. SureFire SOCOM flash hiders with proprietary Impulse Diffusion construction diminish the outcome of side blast and concussion directed to backward. Mitigated recoil impulse and muzzle rise due to the offset porting allow the rifles to track back and keep the shooter on the target for faster next shot recovery. These flash hiders are manufactured from precision machined from US mill-certified heat-treated stainless steel bar stock.

Pros:
  • Inspected for concentricity and leveling;
  • Protective black Ionbond DLC coating resistant to harsh environmental conditions and easy in cleaning;
  • Covered by SureFires No-Hassle Guarantee;
  • Labyrinth seals prevent carbon buildup on suppressor lock ring;
  • High-precision single-point cut barrel threads ensure suitable thread interface;
  • Rigid mounting adapter for SureFire SOCOM Series sound suppressors.
Cons:
  • California’s Proposition 65.

#3 SureFire 3-Prong AR 15 Flash Hider

SureFire 3-Prong Flash Hider Suppressor Adapter

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x51mm NATO, 6.8mm Remington SPC
Threads per Inch: 5/8×24
Length: 2.62 in, 2.67 in, 2.96 in, 2.78 in, 3.05 in

The SureFire designed the three-prong patent-pending construction for its flash hiders, as prong muzzle devices are much more efficient for flash mitigation than plain units. These flash hides are crafted from the bar stock of US mill-certified heat-treated stainless steel and precision machined.

Pros:
  • Solid construction;
  • Black Melonite finish provides reliable protection against severe environmental conditions, allowing to clean it easily after harsh use;
  • Proper thread interface is ensured by the high-precision single-point cut barrel threads;
  • No pinging;
  • Dampens significantly the muzzle flash;
  • Quality materials and machining.
Cons:
  • California’s Proposition 65.

#4 Aero Precision AR15 Flash Hider

Aero Precision AR15 .22 A2 Flash Hider APRH100111C Gun

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO, .223 Caliber
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28
Weight: 1.9 oz

The Aero Precision designed Flash Hiders of Classic A2 Style, which fit AR15 rifles, and bored for 5.56 and .223 Calibers. These muzzle devices with a mil-spec birdcage are finished with a Black anodized matte. A crush washer doesn’t come with the kit.

Video review

Pros:
  • Affordable price and decent quality;
  • Classic design construction;
  • Great fit and Anodized finish.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#5 Midwest Industries AR-15 Flash Hider

Midwest Industries AR-15 Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56mm/.223 Remington
Threads per Inch: 1/2-28

The Midwest Industries Flash Hiders are developed for AR-15. These impact units are crafted from tool steel, covered with a melonite finish. A crush washer isn’t included in the kit.

Pros:
  • The muzzle looks stylish on the AR rifles;
  • Hides the flash signature.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#6 Guntec USA AR-15 Slim Line Flash Hider

Guntec USA AR-15 Slim Line Micro Cone Flash Can

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Specification

Caliber: .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO; 7.62x39mm, 9mm Luger
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28; 1/2×36
Length: 3.5 in
Diameter: 1.25 in

The Guntec USA developed Slim Line Cone Flash Can for AR-15 rifles from rock-solid Anodized Aluminum (T6). Five models of Micro Cone Flash Cans are available in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Red, and OD Green. This Slim Flash Can variation moves the flash forward. It fits inside a Radical Firearms FCR rail with a bit more than 1/16 inches of free space.

Pros:
  • Very range-friendly: directs the blast is in the forward not to the sides;
  • Affordable price;
  • Great color options;
  • Compatible with thin free-floating handguards;
  • Fits well;
  • Made in the USA.
  • Easy installation.
Cons:
  • Not enough description at the Opticsplanet.

#7 Manticore Arms Eclipse AR 15 Flash Hider

Manticore Arms Eclipse 1.2x28 Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28
Height: 2.1 in
Width: 2.8 in
Length: 4.9 in
Weight: 3.6 oz

The Eclipse Flash Hiders feature a barely twisted triple prong design to diminish flash to almost zero even at dark time. These muzzle devices are made of steel (8620) with Rockwell 50C heat treat with Black oxide. The Flash Hiders, marked “MA” and “223, are designed for projectiles up to .30 cal, 2.25” long, and it’s not recommended to use with bigger calibers. The Eclipse Flash Hider comes with a crush washer.

Video review

Pros:
  • Dispels flash well;
  • Made in the USA;
  • Convenient to clean;
  • Competitive and fair price;
  • Neatly rounded edges.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#8 Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Gen 2 A2 Ribbed Birdcage AR 15 Flash Hider

Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Gen 2 A2 Ribbed Birdcage Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: .308 Caliber
Threads per Inch: 5/8×24
Length: 1.5 in
Diameter: 0.8 in

The Guntec engineered all-steel construction Flash Hiders for the AR-10 guns, Gen 2. This Mil-Spec Ribbed Birdcage Design (type A2) features a closed bottom. The Guntec Flash Hiders are manufactured from steel and covered with Black Nitride.

Pros:
  • Not loud;
  • Trendy design;
  • Quality matte finish;
  • Made in the USA;
  • Good price.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#9 Spikes Tactical A2 Bird Cage AR 15 Flash Hider

Spikes Tactical A2 Bird Cage Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28
Length: 1.75 in
Weight: 2.2 oz

The Spikes Tactical developed flash suppressors with A2 birdcage, which are commonly used by the U.S. Armed Forces. These typical muzzle devices are compatible with many M16, M4, and AR-15 rifles too. These suppressors are made of steel and finished with Black
Mil-Spec Heavy Phosphate.

Pros:
  • Smooth operation;
  • High-quality fit and finish;
  • Reasonable price;
  • Acts with some compensation;
  • Looks premium on the end of the Faxon Gunner profile barrel;
  • Mil-Spec Crush Washer comes with the kit.
Cons:
  • Long shipping.

#10 Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 A2 Birdcage AR 15 Flash Hider

Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 A2 Birdcage Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: .308 Caliber
Threads per Inch: 5/8×24
Length: 1.5 in
Diameter: 0.8 in

The Guntec designed all-steel construction Flash Hiders for the AR-10 guns. This Mil-Spec Ribbed Birdcage muzzle device of type A2 is outfitted with closed bottoms. The Guntec Flash Hiders are crafted from steel and finished with Black Nitride.

Pros:
  • Value for money;
  • Durable coating;
  • Made in the USA.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#11 SureFire 3 Prong Eliminator AR 15 Flash Hider

SureFire 3 Prong Eliminator Flash Hider

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Specification

Threads per Inch: 1/2×28
Length: 2.6 in

The SureFire is specialized in manufacturing three-prong flash hiders (developed patent-pending design), which allows the flash 99% better than plain muzzles. These flash hiders are precision machined from stainless steel bar stock. The devices are outfitted with pilot holes for pin-and-weld on the 14.5-inch rifles such as AR-15, M4, M16; during the installation, no modifications are needed.

Pros:
  • Fine-drawn thread interface is provided by high-precision single-point cut barrel threads;
  • All dimensions, alignment, and concentricity are inspected;
  • Weather-resistant Black Melonite finish;
  • Functional and Affordable;
  • Durable quality materials: used stainless steel is mill-certified and heat-treated;
  • Easy cleaning even after extremal use.
Cons:
  • California’s Proposition 65;
  • Adds notable weight to rifle front;
  • Lack of the Flash Hider Orientation Instructions;
  • Tuning Fork Sound.

#12 Angstadt Arms 3-Lug A1 Style AR 15 Flash Hider

Angstadt Arms 3-Lug A1 Style Flash Hider

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Specification

Threads per Inch: 1/2×36, 1/2×28
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Length: 1.42 in
Weight: 0.7 oz

The Angstadt Arms engineered Flash Hiders (3-Lug A1 Style). There are two models of these muzzle devices for two threads options (1/2×36 or 1/2×28). The flash hiders are crafted from sturdy hardened steel with a black finish.

Video review

Pros:
  • Unique peculiarity: a 3-lug adapter and flash hider in one device;
  • Reliable fit and finish;
  • Slides right on.
Cons:
  • California’s Proposition 65.

#13 Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Spartan AR 15 Flash Hider

Guntec USA AR-10 LR-308 Spartan Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: .308 Caliber
Threads per Inch: 5/8×24
Length: 1.5 in
Diameter: 0.8 in

The Guntec USA manufactures this model of Flash Hiders for AR-10 and LR-308 to provide the shooters with dependable functionality and durability. These muzzle devices are made of rigid Aluminum (T6), covered with Nitride. The muzzle kit includes a crush washer.

Pros:
  • Aggressive design;
  • Easily to install and care;
  • Efficient diminish of muzzle flash and recoil.
Cons:
  • None yet.

#14 Yankee Hill Machine Phantom 5.56mm Aggressive AR 15 Flash Hider

Yankee Hill Machine Phantom 5.56mm Aggressive Compensator Flash Hider

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Specification

Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28

Yankee Hill Machine developed a muzzle device, which combines functions of flash hider and compensator. YHM compensators are outfitted with five ports facing upwards and sides, without down ports that allow excluding dust issues. For installation, it is necessary to have a full 360 degree turn to be clocked duly or slip a .005” shim before the crush washer, which is included.

Pros:
  • Two-in-one capabilities of compensator and flash hider;
  • Aggressive design;
  • Easy to install;
  • Good performance;
  • Cheap;
  • Lightweight;
  • Suitable for prone shooting, as there are no ports on the bottom part, so no dust in the face.
Cons:
  • Needs shims;
  • Poor finish.

#15 Troy Medieval AR 15 Flash Hider TPI

Troy Medieval Flash Suppressor 5.56mm 223 1.2x28 TPI

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Tags: ar15 flash hider, flash hider ar15, best flash hider for ar15, best ar15 flash hider, flash hider for ar15, ar15 flash hider install, ar15 flash hider removal

Specification

Caliber: .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO
Threads per Inch: 1/2 x 28 TPI

The tactical flash suppressors are designed for M16, M4, AR15 carbines, and rifles to exclude the flash to support focus with enlarged light slots that efficiently hide the flash. The diamond-shaped teeth can be used as a breaching device, with heat-treated steel construction, for close quarter battle.

Video review

Pros:
  • Sturdy construction;
  • Efficient flash dispersion;
  • Durable finish.
Cons:
  • None yet.

How To Install Flash Hider

  • Unload the rifle, it should stay empty during the installation.
  • Clean the barrel thread and the flash hider’s one as well, if it’s needed.
  • To ensure the device is held in place and pressure is maintained to the spring tension, it’s necessary to apply a bit of grease on the washer to decrease friction while turning.
  • The crush washer contact diameter should be the same or smaller than the mated surface.
  • Place the washer over the muzzle threads, screw the flash hider up against the washer, and hand it firmly.
  • Turn the device 1/4 turn (about 90 degrees) a little to clock it properly with a wrench or other suitable tool.
  • Take into account that a crush washer isn’t a usual washer, it is a cone-shaped spring that will pinch, and at 1/4 turn keeps a 20-28ft/lbs rotational torque till completely flat.
  • The thread profile is provided with a due compression diapason to the muzzle threads.
  • Before shooting, check the proper clamping screws torque and the flash hider position. Long-shot strings should be controlled every 50 shots.

FAQ

Does Flash Hider for AR 15 affect accuracy?
Flash hiders do not affect accuracy, they as well as muzzle breaks protect the barrel crowns.
Is AR 15 Flash Hider better than a muzzle brake?
Some muzzle devices can comprise the features of flash hiders and muzzle brakes. Flash hiders usually disguise the flash from the naked eyes and reduce insignificantly recoil, while muzzle brakes mitigate recoil and muzzle flip, but increase flash and noise.
Does an AR 15 flash hider reduce recoil?
Yes, an AR 15 flash hider can diminish the recoil, but slightly, not as efficient as compensators. As a rule, flash hiders reduce the firing smoke and improve visibility.
Is a flash hider necessary?
Flash hiders disperse the firing outbreak, delivering more visibility and allowing you to hide from other shooters if you need.
How tight should an AR flash hider?
Flash hiders should be firm, it’s possible thanks to the thin and fitted enough washers inside them at the right orientation. Even using Loctite, fix the flash hider tightly on the thread.
How does a flash hider work at AR 15?
The flash hiders for the AR 15 operate by fast dispersing the propellant gases, cooling them, and dissipating or containing the unburnt powder. These devices prongs make the gases and unburnt powder cool and shunt them away from the barrel end.

Conclusion

Apart from a single-function flash hider, there is a combination of flash hider with suppressor or/and compensator. These dependable complex muzzle units ensure both flash dissipation and accuracy improvement while hunting and competitive shooting. Some Flash Hiders don’t have bottom slots, which is good for prone shooting, as Yankee Hill Machine Phantom 5.56mm Aggressive Compensator/Flash Hider.

The Best Pick

  • SureFire SOCOM Closed Tine .223/5.56 Flash Hider SFCT-556-1/2-28. Installation is done without the need for permanent modifications. The proprietary Impulse Diffusion construction and offset porting allow the rifles to track back and keep the shooter on the target for faster next shot recovery. The labyrinth seals prevent carbon buildup on the suppressor lock ring.

Budget pick

Tags: #Best #AR 15 #Flash Hider #Reviews #Instal #Removal #Cheap #Sale #Price

Tatiana Kursakova
Tatiana Kursakova
Professional shooter, traveller, survivalist
My love of guns is in my blood, since childhood I have spent hours enjoying the beauty of guns and adored going through their parts.

Tactical accessories are another passion of mine that I could write about endlessly - my house and garage are full of tactical gadgets, luckily my family shares my interests.

I'm infatuated with traveling that's why work at one place with a daily routine and standard schedule is not for me. I prefer copywriting and English tutoring as a freelancer. I live in a male family among constant talks about cars, guns, hunting, fishing, and, of course, dinosaurs 😊.

My husband is an obsessed hunter, and my two sons are fans of «Demolition Ranch» of YouTube blogger Matt Carriker. They are my best consultants about weapon and all-around ammunition topics. All together we share a love for adventures. Every camping or mounting hiking trip is a "small survival", giving irreplaceable experiences. Nothing can be better than the satisfaction of observing wild nature.

Motto: «Born in Ukraine, made is the USA».

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