dumb question about flash hider/washer

[nza]

which direction should the washer face? it has a slight angle to it, and I am assuming it faces towards the barrel?
and I have a standard birdcage flash hider that only has the slits half way around. when I torque it on, should the the slits be facing down or sideways?

 

[MikeyT]

Slits should be facing up. My washer appears to be flat, so I'm not sure which way yours should be facing.

 

[willwagspal]

flash hider

The only dumb question is the one not asked.

The solid (unslotted) part of the flash hider goes at the bottom. The idea of this is that with a solid bottom, muzzle blast would not kick up dust and give away the shooter's postion. Also, as the ignition gases are only escaping upward from the muzzle brake they theoretically force the muzzle down, reducing perceived muzzle jump.

There are two types of muzzle brake washer. With the old peel washer (just looks like a regular metal washer although thin layers can be 'peeled' off to properly index the muzzle brake) it doesn't matter which way it is put on.

You have the new 'crush washer' style. It should be installed with the bevelled edge TOWARDS the muzzle.

While these washers are supposed to be 'one time use only' (so don't overtighten it) I have heard that they can be re-used.

 

[nza]

I probably shoulda pm'd ya, since you were the one who sold it to me!
Thanks G.