Muzzle Brake Installed Without Crush Washer: Is It OK?

[Narutakikun]

I had my local gunsmith install a muzzle brake on my rifle, and he didn't use the crush washer that came with it. He said you only need the crush washer if the brake won't time correctly, and this timed fine without it so he didn't need it.

Does that sound right?

[MongooseV8]

Yes.

[lordmorgul]

It is ideal. The crush washer is the compromise.


Andrew - Lancaster, CA
NRA Life Member, CRPA member, Calguns.net contributor, CGF / SAF / FPC / CCRKBA / GOA / NAGR / NRA-ILA contributor, USCCA member - Support your defenders!

[Whiterabbit]

ideal. Your barrel and action also need no crush washer.

When I do revovler barrels (and yes brakes) I time it so hand tight is about 10 degrees from top dead center. If I'm not about there, I cut the shoulder or polish the brake, etc etc.

Once at 10 degrees, it gets the vise and torqued down. Doesn't move.

No crush washer needed.

[DrJeds44]

As long as it is tight and timed correctly your fine, actually makes for a really clean installation.

[Mayor McRifle]

I had my local gunsmith install a muzzle brake on my rifle, and he didn't use the crush washer that came with it. He said you only need the crush washer if the brake won't time correctly, and this timed fine without it so he didn't need it.

How much did he charge you to screw it on for you?

[Jimi Jah]

My Levang linears don't have a crush washer. You need a strap to attach/remove them. I let someone else do those so I don't scratch them up.