Some firearms, like the MP5, have lugs or threads that accept certain muzzle devices. Many MP5s and MP5 clones come with muzzle devices, specifically flash hiders.
Let’s take a look at what flash hiders are, how they work, and what they aren’t.
How an MP5 3 Lug Flash Hider Works
Flash hiders suppress muzzle flash, which manifests as a bright burst of light at the muzzle which is caused by leftover, unburned powder exiting the barrel and suddenly igniting on contact with the comparatively oxygen-rich air.
Some platforms produce very bright muzzle flashes, others not so much. Others produce muzzle flashes that are only visible in low-light conditions.
Flash hiders, like MP5 3 lug flash hiders, typically have a few different ports or prongs. These break up the unburnt powder exiting the barrel and spread it out in different directions, rather than allowing it to exit en masse, where it will produce a bright flash of light.
Benefits of Using a Flash Hider
There are numerous advantages to using a flash hider. The most obvious practical advantage is in concealment. This has a significant tactical implication in combat and engagements because soldiers often cannot run the risk of betraying their positions due to a muzzle flash.
However, in sporting applications, reducing a muzzle flash can still be beneficial. For instance, some hunters use them to conceal their positions at night, although this is admittedly a rare, niche use.
These muzzle devices also have practical applications in competition, especially in the dark or in low light. A bright muzzle flash can photobleach the rhodopsin in a shooter’s eyes, temporarily damaging the night vision. Controlling the flash, however, can keep low-light vision acute.
Is a Flash Hider the Same as a Muzzle Brake?
A flash hider is not the same as a muzzle brake, also known as a suppressor (or, on pistols, as a compensator) despite the fact that both are muzzle devices and sometimes they look very similar.
Whereas flash hiders help to eliminate the muzzle flash, muzzle brakes port the gases away from the muzzle in different directions (typically upwards) which helps dramatically reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip.
There are benefits to muzzle brakes, too, but again, they are not the same. Muzzle brakes diminish muzzle jump and reduce recoil, thereby reducing fatigue. However, they also significantly increase the muzzle report and do little to reduce muzzle flash. In fact, they might even increase it.
By contrast, flash hiders, which hide the muzzle flash, do not reduce felt recoil and do little to nothing to control muzzle flip.
Where Can You Get an MP5 3 Lug Flash Hider?
Looking for a high-quality MP5 3 lug flash hider? Check out the ZF-series 3-lug flash hider, available online at ZenithFirearms.com.
It’s compatible with the ZF-5, ZF-5P, MP5, SP5, and other 9mm roller-delayed blowback firearms with barrels that have 3-lug adapters.
Their MP5 flash hiders are made from premium steel, are easy to attach and detach, and feature a parkerized finish that helps prevent corrosion.
To learn more about their MP5 parts and accessories, please visit their website, ZenithFirearms.com, or get in touch with them at [email protected].
