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Equipment & Gear => Guns and Ammo => Topic started by: trophyhunt on June 22, 2020, 03:43:57 PM


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Title: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 22, 2020, 03:43:57 PM
One thing about my browning A bolt .300 win mag rifle that affects my shot is the kick.  My buddy put a brake on his .300 but I can't remember if it made a difference, but I do remember how unbelievably louder it made his rifle. Does a muzzle brake on a .300 win mag, make a big enough difference to have one installed?  Will you really notice that much less kick?
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: zwickeyman on June 22, 2020, 03:50:50 PM
I have a stock radial brake on my x bolt and makes a littel difference on recoil but not a lot. A directional brake tames recoil better though
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: HUNT JR on June 22, 2020, 03:55:00 PM
I have a side port brake on my 28 nosler. I've never shot it without break so i have no input on recoil. The nicest thing i have noticed is that it helps reduce muzzle jump as i have the screws on the top. It is really nice to be able to see where your shots are hitting through your scope.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Buckmark on June 22, 2020, 03:55:48 PM
It does tame recoil
I have a BAR in 300 win mag with the factory boss brake and it does not kick very hard but it is also what i consider to be on the heavy side for a rifle, it is loud and blows crap when in prone  :twocents:
I also have a syn stocked stainless A Bolt in 7 win mag that is ported, tames the recoil and does not seem as loud as the BAR  :twocents:

Just my opinion, if one needs a brake due to recoil one should buy a smaller caliber, if recoils bothers the shooter the extras noise and flash will as well...  :twocents:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Bob33 on June 22, 2020, 03:56:32 PM
A good brake will significantly reduce the recoil of a .30 caliber magnum. It will also significantly increase the decibel level.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: BNAElkhntr on June 22, 2020, 03:57:03 PM
One thing about my browning A bolt .300 win mag rifle that affects my shot is the kick.  My buddy put a brake on his .300 but I can't remember if it made a difference, but I do remember how unbelievably louder it made his rifle. Does a muzzle brake on a .300 win mag, make a big enough difference to have one installed?  Will you really notice that much less kick?
Have him Unscrew it them shoot  have one on 300win mag recoil like 308
my 338 rem ultra mag recoils like a 300 win mag but with a helluva blast sideways
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 22, 2020, 04:06:56 PM
He moved so meeting up w him will be hard, my biggest problem is "pulling" my shot. I'm not a bad shot, just killed my bear at 384 yards, but just can't seem to quit jerking the trigger.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: bullfisher on June 22, 2020, 04:09:33 PM
You will definitely appreciate a brake on that thing.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Bob33 on June 22, 2020, 04:18:07 PM
In my opinion there are better solutions to addressing a flinch than a muzzle brake. For one, many flinch as much or more from anticipation of the loud "bang" than the recoil. Adding a brake will only intensify that.  :twocents:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 22, 2020, 04:24:10 PM
In my opinion there are better solutions to addressing a flinch than a muzzle brake. For one, many flinch as much or more from anticipation of the loud "bang" than the recoil. Adding a brake will only intensify that.  :twocents:
You are probably right now that I think about it, I guess it's not the punch that gets me at all, it's definitely the bang.  A suppressor would probably be my solution more than anything, maybe they will come down in price someday. 
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: huntnfmly on June 22, 2020, 04:52:32 PM
You will notice a huge difference with a brake I had a Browning a bolt in .338 kicked like a mule had a brake put on and it didn't kick even close to what it did good pair of ear protection noise not an issue
Definitely worth it.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: jrebel on June 22, 2020, 05:05:10 PM
Makes a significant enough difference that I won’t buy a magnum caliber without one.   I even put one on my kids 7-08 and it is a dream to shoot.  :tup:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Magnum_Willys on June 22, 2020, 05:48:35 PM
Makes a significant enough difference that I won’t buy a magnum caliber without one.   I even put one on my kids 7-08 and it is a dream to shoot.  :tup:

Me too! But with the short Ruger compact barrel it is the loudest rifle Ive shot and I shoot braked  Lapua, and 338-378 .
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: BULLBLASTER on June 22, 2020, 06:05:37 PM
Everything i have that i shoot any decent amount has a brake. 6mm bra to creedmoor to win mag. With my win mag it tames it enough that i can spot my hits while hunting. Pretty awesome watching the bullet impact in the scope.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: buckfvr on June 22, 2020, 06:10:25 PM
 :yeah:

Have brakes on .243, 6.5, and 7mm rem mag.  Love seeing the puff of dust, when that happens, and instantly knowing the shot is good.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: stlusn30-06 on June 22, 2020, 06:54:44 PM
He moved so meeting up w him will be hard, my biggest problem is "pulling" my shot. I'm not a bad shot, just killed my bear at 384 yards, but just can't seem to quit jerking the trigger.

Not intending to sound a like a jerk here, this is genuinely in hopes you shoot better, but a muzzle break probably won't solve this. Do you not "pull" shots with any other caliber? Is it just the .300 win mag bruiser that causes you to move? Finally, which way are you pulling? down and to the left? up and to the right? Is it all over the place?

That said, a muzzle break will lower the amount of recoil.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: NWShooter on June 22, 2020, 08:03:16 PM
I use a muzzle brake on pretty much everything. I also have a thread protected for everything. So I can shoot with or without one. I prefer a good suppressor to a muzzle brake on bolt rifles.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: jasnt on June 22, 2020, 08:19:00 PM
Definitely makes a difference.  With my 37XC if not braked it will bruise you. With the brake it’s like shooting my 18lb 243
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Bofire on June 22, 2020, 08:31:58 PM
Depends on what you want and need. Lots of target shooters use them on fairly light cartridges. They are loud and they do reduce recoil.
Carl
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Harbor_hunter on June 22, 2020, 08:51:46 PM
One thing about my browning A bolt .300 win mag rifle that affects my shot is the kick.  My buddy put a brake on his .300 but I can't remember if it made a difference, but I do remember how unbelievably louder it made his rifle. Does a muzzle brake on a .300 win mag, make a big enough difference to have one installed?  Will you really notice that much less kick?

I would put one on without question.  I've got an A bolt .300 win and it packed a punch. I am not a big guy, at 165lbs.  Still killed with it, but after putting the brake on it was much more enjoyable to shoot.  I would catch myself jerking the trigger once in awhile.  No jerking anymore. 

I really do not think noise is an issue either.  With muffs on at the range, it is just fine.  In hunting situations, I have not had ringing ears after shooting animals.  I would put one on without a doubt!
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: mountainman on June 22, 2020, 09:25:11 PM
Great for at the range. Not so great when in the field do to the noise. I have hearing loss from shooting. I would rather not make it worse👍. And in the field on game, you won't notice the recoil. Sometimes there's no time to put plugs in😊
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: HntnFsh on June 23, 2020, 06:00:43 AM
If its the recoil try a good butt pad. Limbsavers are great. There are others out there that work well. But the limbsavers make a big difference.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: opdinkslayer on June 23, 2020, 06:34:53 AM
I would recommend trying one first & make sure it’s a side ported model. I’ve found nothing good about the radials. They do help quite a bit but the noise is an issue & I agree with having the best pad available as well.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Sakko300wsm on June 23, 2020, 06:38:30 AM
I have radial brakes on 2 300wsm's and a now a side port on a 280Ai - I know on the 300wsm's it made a huge difference! have not shot the 280 without one
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 23, 2020, 06:47:41 AM
He moved so meeting up w him will be hard, my biggest problem is "pulling" my shot. I'm not a bad shot, just killed my bear at 384 yards, but just can't seem to quit jerking the trigger.

Not intending to sound a like a jerk here, this is genuinely in hopes you shoot better, but a muzzle break probably won't solve this. Do you not "pull" shots with any other caliber? Is it just the .300 win mag bruiser that causes you to move? Finally, which way are you pulling? down and to the left? up and to the right? Is it all over the place?

That said, a muzzle break will lower the amount of recoil.
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake. 
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 07:18:19 AM
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake.

A good muzzle brake, which there are many, will do more for reducing recoil than anything else.  The only real downside to a brake is they make the gun louder and they add to the overall length, but, I can't say either has ever really been a problem.

I think the only real way to work through your problem/s is to shoot more, probably even a lot more, and a muzzle brake will certainly make shooting more a more enjoyable experience.

I don't know how good your trigger is or how heavy it is but you could try a little lighter trigger pull but unless it's a dedicated bench gun I wouldn't go much lower than 2lbs.

Also, maybe try relaxing your grip a tad on your trigger hand and going with a thumb forward grip instead of wrapping it over the top.  When I was younger I used to grip whatever I was shooting like my life depended on it and doing so would always cause me to roll the gun into my face so I stopped wrapping my thumb over the top and went with a thumb forward grip which naturally caused me to not put such a death grip on it.  It took a little getting used to but it definitely made me a better shooter.  I don't know that it'll necessarily cure your jerking problem but I've found the more relaxed I hold the gun, the better I shoot.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: BULLBLASTER on June 23, 2020, 07:58:31 AM
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake.

A good muzzle brake, which there are many, will do more for reducing recoil than anything else.  The only real downside to a brake is they make the gun louder and they add to the overall length, but, I can't say either has ever really been a problem.

I think the only real way to work through your problem/s is to shoot more, probably even a lot more, and a muzzle brake will certainly make shooting more a more enjoyable experience.

I don't know how good your trigger is or how heavy it is but you could try a little lighter trigger pull but unless it's a dedicated bench gun I wouldn't go much lower than 2lbs.

Also, maybe try relaxing your grip a tad on your trigger hand and going with a thumb forward grip instead of wrapping it over the top.  When I was younger I used to grip whatever I was shooting like my life depended on it and doing so would always cause me to roll the gun into my face so I stopped wrapping my thumb over the top and went with a thumb forward grip which naturally caused me to not put such a death grip on it.  It took a little getting used to but it definitely made me a better shooter.  I don't know that it'll necessarily cure your jerking problem but I've found the more relaxed I hold the gun, the better I shoot.
:yeah: All the stuff b23 said. Also dry fire dry fire dry fire. Then dry fire some more.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: JohnVH on June 23, 2020, 08:01:48 AM
google  tinnitus  :dunno:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: BULLBLASTER on June 23, 2020, 08:02:49 AM
google  tinnitus  :dunno:
Google ear plugs....
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: ctwiggs1 on June 23, 2020, 08:10:18 AM
In my opinion there are better solutions to addressing a flinch than a muzzle brake. For one, many flinch as much or more from anticipation of the loud "bang" than the recoil. Adding a brake will only intensify that.  :twocents:
You are probably right now that I think about it, I guess it's not the punch that gets me at all, it's definitely the bang.  A suppressor would probably be my solution more than anything, maybe they will come down in price someday.

A less expensive solution might just be better ear protection.  A lot of folks are doing plugs under muffs now.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: ctwiggs1 on June 23, 2020, 08:14:03 AM
Also, you might consider running some dime drills in your living room.  Get into a prone position (start supported) and have someone balance a dime or a flat washer on your barrel (or receiver if that's not possible).  Try to squeeze the trigger without that washer falling off.  Focus on your fundamentals while you are squeezing the trigger, and never let go of that trigger.  I always tell people that it's ok to be a little surprised when you finally bring the trigger back up.  Do this several times over the course of a few weeks to build up that muscle memory.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Karl Blanchard on June 23, 2020, 08:18:10 AM
Every single time you shoot a gun without hearing protection, with or without a brake, you are doing damage to your hearing.  My kids and i shoot with protection 100% of the time., no exceptions. A deer or elk isnt worth hearing loss. If I don't have time to slip plugs in then I'm just not taking the shot. I'll find something else to shoot at.

With that said, brakes on everything big and small anymore. Massive Recoil reduction and muzzle jump. Spotting hits is really important to me especially when hunting solo  :twocents:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 08:25:07 AM
google  tinnitus  :dunno:
Google ear plugs....

Thanks a lot, I just spit coffee out my nose, but I'm still LMAO, that was funny!
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Limhangerslayer on June 23, 2020, 08:32:18 AM
Breaks all the way around for me anymore, my Christensen in 28 nosler with a radial break shoots like a 22-250.  And I've got A 6.5 with a side port that doesn't kick at all.  Both guns ate a little over 9lbs with everything on it.  Wear ear plugs that go around your neck.  Its easy for me because I wear them at work all day long so I don't even realize I have them on
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: opdinkslayer on June 23, 2020, 08:37:02 AM
I agree with earplugs 100% of the time, even hunting. Brake or no brake it will damage your hearing.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Karl Blanchard on June 23, 2020, 08:39:09 AM
I agree with earplugs 100% of the time, even hunting. Brake or no brake it will damage your hearing.
  :yeah: it's like anything new, at first it is unnatural but practice like you play, build the muscle memory and they become second nature.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Jonathan_S on June 23, 2020, 08:44:38 AM
google  tinnitus  :dunno:
Google ear plugs....

Thanks for the tip. After my preliminary searches, it looks like there are a few options between $.01 and $100.  :tup:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 08:58:01 AM
My kids and i shoot with protection 100% of the time., no exceptions.
I shoot most of my stuff, from 22lr's up, suppressed and most of them are really quiet, but even with my stuff that's hearing safe, I catch myself pushing plugs in my ears just out of habit.  Every so often I'll be shooting with someone that isn't shooting suppressed and forget to pop my ear plugs back in when the touch one off.  It instantly pisses me off, but I don't have anyone to blame except myself for being a dumbazz.  :rolleyes:

My hearing isn't all the great anymore so you'd think I'd be less bothered by it, but I hate loud noises.  I can't even mow the d*mn lawn or run my shop vac without wearing ear plugs.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: fishngamereaper on June 23, 2020, 08:58:38 AM
Nice thing about a brake is that no one will want to shoot next to you at the range....don't ask how I know :chuckle:

They do help with felt recoil. Which it sounds like you've developed muscle memory for recoil so your body equates flinching to pulling the trigger. It kind of like the two for flinching game, your mind tells you its going to hurt so you automatically react.

Its fixable with dry fire like others have said, add the brake, limb saver, ear protection and you'll be fine. Add a suppressor if nothing else helps. Heavy, but fun as heck to shoot.

Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 09:02:47 AM
Add a suppressor if nothing else helps. Heavy, but fun as heck to shoot.
:yeah:   :tup:
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Bob33 on June 23, 2020, 09:24:06 AM
Losing your hear sucks, and there’s no medical fix. Hearing aids help but they will never replace what was lost. I’ve lost a lot of hearing and I attribute it in large part to shooting for many years without hearing protection.

A high powered rifle shot produces around 160 decibels. From what I’ve read the use of most muzzle brakes adds about five decibels. That may not seem like much but decibels are logarithmic. A five decibel increase is a 5 fold (500%) increase. I have a 300 Win Mag with a brake and I can clearly recall two instances where I shot it in the field while hunting and my ears rang for several days afterwards. I believe that one shot can cause permanent hearing loss. It may be small and not noticeable, but the effects are cumulative and over time add up.

I try to never shoot without hearing protection while hunting, but it does happen on occasion. For that reason I will not hunt with a gun that has a brake. I can shoot calibers that are more than powerful enough for my needs without a brake. To each his own.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 23, 2020, 09:43:51 AM
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake.

A good muzzle brake, which there are many, will do more for reducing recoil than anything else.  The only real downside to a brake is they make the gun louder and they add to the overall length, but, I can't say either has ever really been a problem.

I think the only real way to work through your problem/s is to shoot more, probably even a lot more, and a muzzle brake will certainly make shooting more a more enjoyable experience.

I don't know how good your trigger is or how heavy it is but you could try a little lighter trigger pull but unless it's a dedicated bench gun I wouldn't go much lower than 2lbs.

Also, maybe try relaxing your grip a tad on your trigger hand and going with a thumb forward grip instead of wrapping it over the top.  When I was younger I used to grip whatever I was shooting like my life depended on it and doing so would always cause me to roll the gun into my face so I stopped wrapping my thumb over the top and went with a thumb forward grip which naturally caused me to not put such a death grip on it.  It took a little getting used to but it definitely made me a better shooter.  I don't know that it'll necessarily cure your jerking problem but I've found the more relaxed I hold the gun, the better I shoot.
great advice,thanks. Didn't even think about my grip, I did install a 3 lb trigger, I have a 2 lb but thought it was too light.  We are heading out for one last try at bear for my hunting partner this Friday and I'll try that grip on a target. Thank you
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 09:44:18 AM
Some time ago, I read a write up where they tested a bunch of different muzzle brakes and the ones that provided the biggest reduction in recoil, were also the loudest so like most things, it's all about trade offs.

It certainly wasn't the highest rated for recoil reduction but it still had pretty decent recoil reduction and wasn't as loud, was the Seekins ATC muzzle brake.  They're pretty reasonably priced at $89 so maybe give that one a look.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: magnanimous_j on June 23, 2020, 09:50:12 AM
Two things can cause a flinch: recoil and noise.

It's important to figure out which one is troubling you, because if its noise, a brake will only make it worse and 300 win mag isn't a particularly punishing cartridge.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 09:52:24 AM
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake.

A good muzzle brake, which there are many, will do more for reducing recoil than anything else.  The only real downside to a brake is they make the gun louder and they add to the overall length, but, I can't say either has ever really been a problem.

I think the only real way to work through your problem/s is to shoot more, probably even a lot more, and a muzzle brake will certainly make shooting more a more enjoyable experience.

I don't know how good your trigger is or how heavy it is but you could try a little lighter trigger pull but unless it's a dedicated bench gun I wouldn't go much lower than 2lbs.

Also, maybe try relaxing your grip a tad on your trigger hand and going with a thumb forward grip instead of wrapping it over the top.  When I was younger I used to grip whatever I was shooting like my life depended on it and doing so would always cause me to roll the gun into my face so I stopped wrapping my thumb over the top and went with a thumb forward grip which naturally caused me to not put such a death grip on it.  It took a little getting used to but it definitely made me a better shooter.  I don't know that it'll necessarily cure your jerking problem but I've found the more relaxed I hold the gun, the better I shoot.
great advice,thanks. Didn't even think about my grip, I did install a 3 lb trigger, I have a 2 lb but thought it was too light.  We are heading out for one last try at bear for my hunting partner this Friday and I'll try that grip on a target. Thank you

A thumb forward grip, instead of wrapping over the top, will likely feel a little weird to you at first so I'd practice dry firing using it at home before you head out.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 23, 2020, 09:54:40 AM
Some time ago, I read a write up where they tested a bunch of different muzzle brakes and the ones that provided the biggest reduction in recoil, were also the loudest so like most things, it's all about trade offs.

It certainly wasn't the highest rated for recoil reduction but it still had pretty decent recoil reduction and wasn't as loud, was the Seekins ATC muzzle brake.  They're pretty reasonably priced at $89 so maybe give that one a look.
you need a gun smith to put on don't you?  Or do I just thread the barrel myself? You guys are great, thanks for all the opinions.  I'll be buying a new huskemaw scope to replace my older one here soon, so after this last bear trip it might be a good time to put a brake on.  Wearing ear plugs while hunting is something I've never done, never even thought it would help me shoot better. But I've been taking a brand new hunter w me on this spring bear and he missed an easy shot w my gun, this trip I will bring ear plugs for him and see if that helps w the buck fever type shots.  Good info guys, thanks
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: b23 on June 23, 2020, 10:15:08 AM
Some time ago, I read a write up where they tested a bunch of different muzzle brakes and the ones that provided the biggest reduction in recoil, were also the loudest so like most things, it's all about trade offs.

It certainly wasn't the highest rated for recoil reduction but it still had pretty decent recoil reduction and wasn't as loud, was the Seekins ATC muzzle brake.  They're pretty reasonably priced at $89 so maybe give that one a look.
you need a gun smith to put on don't you?  Or do I just thread the barrel myself? You guys are great, thanks for all the opinions.  I'll be buying a new huskemaw scope to replace my older one here soon, so after this last bear trip it might be a good time to put a brake on.  Wearing ear plugs while hunting is something I've never done, never even thought it would help me shoot better. But I've been taking a brand new hunter w me on this spring bear and he missed an easy shot w my gun, this trip I will bring ear plugs for him and see if that helps w the buck fever type shots.  Good info guys, thanks

Unless you're a machinist by trade, you'll need to have it threaded by someone.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: lamrith on June 23, 2020, 10:20:06 AM
My shoulder these days cannot take the recoil it used to.  I have outfitted my 30cal rifles with a brake.  Long and short, yes they do help.

They do not make the gun "louder" as much as they change where it is loud so that it is more noticeable to the shooter and anyone standing to the sides/ just behind them.  There are different designs that change where this happens as well.  At the shooter it does get louder, but not louder than it was before the brake, it is just louder where people are located to notice it.

You can put a brake on yourself depending on what one you get.  Obviously your barrel needs to be threaded too.  If it is not then I would say take barrel and brake in to a gunsmith and they can thread and properly install it.  Might be worth researching both a can and a brake, there are places out there that make a brake that is threaded to also take a can, best of both worlds...
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: stlusn30-06 on June 23, 2020, 10:22:43 AM
He moved so meeting up w him will be hard, my biggest problem is "pulling" my shot. I'm not a bad shot, just killed my bear at 384 yards, but just can't seem to quit jerking the trigger.

Not intending to sound a like a jerk here, this is genuinely in hopes you shoot better, but a muzzle break probably won't solve this. Do you not "pull" shots with any other caliber? Is it just the .300 win mag bruiser that causes you to move? Finally, which way are you pulling? down and to the left? up and to the right? Is it all over the place?

That said, a muzzle break will lower the amount of recoil.
I seem to pull to the right, I tend to jerk the dang trigger no matter how long I've been hunting and shooting.  I do, do better when it's an animal for some reason, normally.  This last bear I killed I was shaken like a leaf on a tree for some reason, whet to take a shot and I pulled the crap out of it without actually firing the gun.  I was able to calm down, breath, and made the 384 yard shot.  Just tired of me pulling to the right and jerking the trigger.  Not sure why, that's why I'm asking about the brake.

I'm no instructor by any stretch, and obviously trying to diagnose over the internet will probably lead to nothing, but normally if you are anticipating recoil you tend to push down. You are right to focus on breathing, getting yourself calmed down, working on squeezing through the pull. You may also look into your basic form. How tight you have snugged into your shoulder. How tight your cheek weld is. Where are your elbows? yada yada yada. Breathing and repetition will help calm the nerves. Working through the basics of form should help keep those shots centered.

Just my experience, but rifles, pistol, tactical, doesn't matter. It is rare that modifications, or aids will fix a problem. It might make shooting more pleasant, but consistent accuracy almost always comes down to fundamentals and practice. 
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: fishngamereaper on June 23, 2020, 10:32:16 AM
Heavy caliber rifle recoil makes you pull. It's the reaction to pull your shoulder back when you pull the trigger.. it's learned and it's the bodies reaction to minimize pain..

Pushing is generally a handgun issue.

Also you generally don't flinch as much shooting off hand because your upper body can absorb the recoil better. Flinching gets worse as you go seated at a bench and into the prone position.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Reidus on June 23, 2020, 10:45:22 AM
Night and day difference with a brake. Small skinny brakes aren't as effective. Generally, the bigger the brake the more effective it is. Shooting a box through a 300 wm without a brake is punishing. With a brake you could shoot all day no problem. Wear the neckband plugs while hunting.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 23, 2020, 11:06:44 AM
 :tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: jasnt on June 23, 2020, 12:27:05 PM
Dry fire will definitely help that jerk affect! 10 dry fires for every round you shoot.  I’m liking the clam shell style brakes more and more.  Can’t help with the smith
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: huntnfmly on June 23, 2020, 12:31:55 PM
They make bolt on one's I was looking into them looked like they worked pretty darn good
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: huntnfmly on June 23, 2020, 12:33:57 PM
Whittmachine.net
Given to me by another member on here
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: jasnt on June 23, 2020, 12:37:21 PM
I’ve heard good things about those witt clamp on breaks
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: huntnfmly on June 23, 2020, 12:39:20 PM
Same here will probably be getting some for daughters rifles.
Looks like all they need from you is the measurement at end of barrel and then 1 inch in on barrel and measure
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Karl Blanchard on June 23, 2020, 01:09:08 PM
I'm a big fan of the mbm 4 port beast brakes. That would be my recommendation. That or an apa Lil *censored* though I feel the beast is a more effective brake. Order one up and have a smith spin it on. As I stated before, Practice like you play. Part of the shooting drills I have my kids do involves putting in their ear protection. Its second nature to them and they don't even give it a second thought.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Tbar on June 23, 2020, 01:20:34 PM
:tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Is he still in business? I have one of his and am very happy.


Palazzo Precision
26921 164TH AVE SE COVINGTON, WA 98042

(253) 631-3659

Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Crunchy on June 23, 2020, 01:36:23 PM
:tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Is he still in business? I have one of his and am very happy.


Palazzo Precision
26921 164TH AVE SE COVINGTON, WA 98042

(253) 631-3659



He did some work for me about 8-10 years ago.  He was long in the tooth then.  Did good work, but he has to be at least 80 years old by now.  Hope he is doing well.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: trophyhunt on June 23, 2020, 01:38:49 PM
:tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Is he still in business? I have one of his and am very happy.


Palazzo Precision
26921 164TH AVE SE COVINGTON, WA 98042

(253) 631-3659



He did some work for me about 8-10 years ago.  He was long in the tooth then.  Did good work, but he has to be at least 80 years old by now.  Hope he is doing well.
i just read his reviews and I'm not sure what to think, his eye sight was brought up.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: stlusn30-06 on June 23, 2020, 01:53:07 PM
:tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Is he still in business? I have one of his and am very happy.


Palazzo Precision
26921 164TH AVE SE COVINGTON, WA 98042

(253) 631-3659



He did some work for me about 8-10 years ago.  He was long in the tooth then.  Did good work, but he has to be at least 80 years old by now.  Hope he is doing well.
i just read his reviews and I'm not sure what to think, his eye sight was brought up.

No that direction, but Ed La Pour in Bremerton does good work. Last I had him work on something, he was down his right hand man, and it took a while to get my stuff back. But he def know what he's doing.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: huntnfmly on June 23, 2020, 01:58:38 PM
Palazzo does great work put 1 on my Browning years ago but like said he was plenty old then and it's been awhile.
But he's right off hyw 18
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Bob33 on June 23, 2020, 02:05:09 PM
I believe Mike is close to 85 and has done great work in the past. Recent reviews appear to be more mixed.

https://waguns.org/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=59844&start=15 (https://waguns.org/viewtopic.php?f=26&t=59844&start=15)
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: hogslayer on June 23, 2020, 03:11:05 PM
I called Mike a few years ago,  he is retired.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: konradcountry on June 23, 2020, 08:26:35 PM
They do not make the gun "louder" as much as they change where it is loud so that it is more noticeable to the shooter and anyone standing to the sides/ just behind them.

That's what louder is.

Bigger sound waves hitting your ears.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: mountainman on June 23, 2020, 09:26:27 PM
They do not make the gun "louder" as much as they change where it is loud so that it is more noticeable to the shooter and anyone standing to the sides/ just behind them.

That's what louder is.

Bigger sound waves hitting your ears.
Hence the term "louder"
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: stlusn30-06 on August 10, 2020, 10:01:53 AM
I'm a big fan of the mbm 4 port beast brakes. That would be my recommendation. That or an apa Lil *censored* though I feel the beast is a more effective brake. Order one up and have a smith spin it on. As I stated before, Practice like you play. Part of the shooting drills I have my kids do involves putting in their ear protection. Its second nature to them and they don't even give it a second thought.

Karl, any experience running the titanium versions? Steel is tough to find.
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Karl Blanchard on August 10, 2020, 10:51:16 AM
I'm a big fan of the mbm 4 port beast brakes. That would be my recommendation. That or an apa Lil *censored* though I feel the beast is a more effective brake. Order one up and have a smith spin it on. As I stated before, Practice like you play. Part of the shooting drills I have my kids do involves putting in their ear protection. Its second nature to them and they don't even give it a second thought.

Karl, any experience running the titanium versions? Steel is tough to find.
I've got a titanium on my wsm. Work great and a good weight savings if you are weight concius .
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: Magnum_Willys on August 10, 2020, 11:02:46 AM
Have been using brakes with tuneable top ports with good results.   Don’t want let cat out of the bag but expect more options in the marketplace soon.    :)
Title: Re: Muzzle brake, are they worth it?
Post by: buckfvr on August 10, 2020, 11:15:16 AM
:tup:   Good gunsmith closest to Bonney lake....... And GO!
Is he still in business? I have one of his and am very happy.


Palazzo Precision
26921 164TH AVE SE COVINGTON, WA 98042

(253) 631-3659



He did some work for me about 8-10 years ago.  He was long in the tooth then.  Did good work, but he has to be at least 80 years old by now.  Hope he is doing well.
i just read his reviews and I'm not sure what to think, his eye sight was brought up.

Mike was the best when we were all using his services back in the mid 80s if that tells ya anything.
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