Can you point to those tests?
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I always liked this.
Our film showed the Vortex to be better than the AAC using M855. We're not scientists so it was far from a perfect test. Sorry, I don't have the video to share.
The tuning fork sound won't bother you while you're shooting it. If it does, you're doing it wrong.
I will say that from my testing and human eyes I could not tell a difference between the AAC and the Smith when it came to flash suppression. I will say that even as close as 5' away it is hard to pick out the flash even when looking for it. From the shooter perspective it is almost non existent in comparison to just your standard A2, that does a pretty good job.
I will say however that in person, the tuning fork effect was noticeably more pronounced (louder) on the AAC than the Vortex. About twice as loud. But these judgments are with my own uncalibrated eyes and ears. :)
yea i have been pretty set on vortex and think i'm going to get one,..for installation all i need is,..the flash suppressor, a barrel clamp, a butane torch to head the existing flash suppressor, a wrench, and lock tight?
I've smacked my Vortex a couple times going to and from the range and those are the only times I've noticed it. With earplugs in its negligible.
All you need is the FH itself and a 3/4" wrench for installation. Of course it obviously helps to have the barrel secured in a vise for installation; however, I don't know why you need a torch to take off the old FH and no you don't need loctite with the Vortex.
I would never buy one for a fighting/defense gun. The tines are too long and prone to bending.
They used to be bad about blooming after a number of rounds, but you don't read too much about that any more.
They have their place, I suppose... just not on any of my guns.