Inexpensive muzzle device recommendations

[pubb]

I am finishing up a build based on a colt 14.5 inch M4 SOCOM barrel.

I have always used standard bird cage muzzle devices, but the local shop is out and has an S&J hardware linear compensator for about $50. The same shop sells the bird cage for $12.

My general philosophy is to spend my money on parts that enhance accuracy, utility/durability, and looks in that order. This is a range toy, and I am not a high-speed/low drag operator (in fact, I'm low-speed/high hairline). That being said, I like the simple and distinct look of the S&J device. I can see no obvious benefit to spending the money on it as opposed to putting that $40 towards a better trigger.

What say you, hive mind? What are my high-value low cost options for muzzle devices?

EDIT: barrel length isn't a concern - I don't have to get it to 16"

[MegademiC]

I would buy an extended A2.
Measure the barrel, some 14.5” are closer to 14.7” and with a crush washer- the std a2 may work. Its a stretch but worth a look.

[pubb]

I don't need to get to 16" - in Canada, an AR is a restricted firearm, which means barrel length doesn't mean squat. I just need something to finish the barrel.

[HeruMew]

Cheap and effective:

A2.

But I am biased.

[26 Inf]

double tap

[26 Inf]

in Canada, an AR is a restricted firearm

Can you get these in Canada:

Nice looking IMO linear comp: https://www.kawvalleyprecision.com/K...linear-blk.htm

https://www.kakindustry.com/ar-15-pa...reaks/comp-556 (I haven't seen one in the wild)

https://www.kakindustry.com/ar-15-pa...slim-flash-can (I use these under rails, they look okay in that application, don't like the look hanging off a M4 - you may)

[MQ105]

A2 via internet...

[TomMcC]

Cheap and effective:

A2.

But I am biased.

Everyone is biased...and I agree with you, an A2. It works pretty well and is like $9.

[GH41]

I am finishing up a build based on a colt 14.5 inch M4 SOCOM barrel.

I have always used standard bird cage muzzle devices, but the local shop is out and has an S&J hardware linear compensator for about $50. The same shop sells the bird cage for $12.

My general philosophy is to spend my money on parts that enhance accuracy, utility/durability, and looks in that order. This is a range toy, and I am not a high-speed/low drag operator (in fact, I'm low-speed/high hairline). That being said, I like the simple and distinct look of the S&J device. I can see no obvious benefit to spending the money on it as opposed to putting that $40 towards a better trigger.

What say you, hive mind? What are my high-value low cost options for muzzle devices?

EDIT: barrel length isn't a concern - I don't have to get it to 16"

Wait for an A2. The SJ device weighs over 4 ounces. Do you really want to hang 4 ounces on the end of the barrel?

[TomMcC]

I am finishing up a build based on a colt 14.5 inch M4 SOCOM barrel.

I have always used standard bird cage muzzle devices, but the local shop is out and has an S&J hardware linear compensator for about $50. The same shop sells the bird cage for $12.

My general philosophy is to spend my money on parts that enhance accuracy, utility/durability, and looks in that order. This is a range toy, and I am not a high-speed/low drag operator (in fact, I'm low-speed/high hairline). That being said, I like the simple and distinct look of the S&J device. I can see no obvious benefit to spending the money on it as opposed to putting that $40 towards a better trigger.

What say you, hive mind? What are my high-value low cost options for muzzle devices?

EDIT: barrel length isn't a concern - I don't have to get it to 16"

IMO, linear comps don't do anything particularly well. They don't comp well and they don't really subdue muzzle flash that well. If an A2 and a LC were sitting on the table and I had to choose one (and couldn't sell it), I'd take the A2. I use comps in 3gun, and hardly anyone uses them, I know one guy that uses one, but his rifle weighs like 10-11 lbs. so it's pretty much functioning as a thread protector.