Help me choose a muzzle device for hunting

[Northpoint]

I want a new muzzle device, one that will direct muzzle blast away from me while varmint hunting. I don't wear ear protection while out, and am not going to throw some plugs in while a coyote is running away, so noise is the #1 reason for wanting to switch from the stock device.
Other criteria I would like to consider is:
Length: I would like to keep it at least as short as the stock device
Price: $100ish or less
Flash: prefer it to at least not create a fireball, although I don't know if this is an issue with barrel length. The A2 style device does such a good job at reducing flash, but I am willing to give some of this up in order for the blast to be directed away from my ears, and downrange.

I found a few other threads discussing brakes, but muzzle flip was more of a concern over muzzle blast direction.

Whadayathink?

 

[hbean]

something like a KAC flaming pig, PWS CQB, ATRS Eliminator or Dlask XB1, with the exception Dlask they are all above $100

 

[na1lb0hm]

I was in a similar position with my xcr.
still very loud. hearing protection required. just not so obnoxiously loud.

A lot of the linear brakes/ devices are designed for short barreled firearms, and as such, increase back pressure to assist with bolt cycling etc. someone who knows more than me, i'm sure will be along shortly.

I ended up with a levang linear. not ###y, but does the job. paid $50 for it off of the EE.

 

[toomanyhobbies]

I think you should wear muffs. Don't be asking the government to pay for your hearing aids in a few years.

 

[Stevebot-7]

The ATRS Eliminator looked good based on the videos I've seen of it.

However, there is hearing protection available that does not dampen all noise. I use a set of Howard Leight Impact Sport muffs, and they have built in microphones and speakers to amplify noises under 80dBB I believe, but still muffle loud noises like gunshots. I think you can find them as cheap as $60 online. Or of course there are other similar options, these are just the ones I have experience with.

With the muffs on, and the volume carefully adjusted, I have better hearing than with them off. No fumbling with them trying to get them on when a shot becomes available, you can leave them on and benefit from it. At the indoor range I can hear the door open behind me, so I know to hold off on the shot until the door closes again. If you're near Edmonton I'm willing to let you try them out.

 

[cr5]

I have an Alen Gunworks linear comp and it is very good on my 12 inch AR. It was only $60 so the price is great.
I would use any of the linear comps or just remove the muzzle device completely and put on a thread protector.

 

[Northpoint]

Thanks everyone for your input. I'm not going to sit there with electronic earmuffs to maybe get the chance for one shot, so I'm going to get a thread protector, and just take the muzzle device off.
Best regards.

 

[J996]

The ATRS Eliminator looked good based on the videos I've seen of it.

However, there is hearing protection available that does not dampen all noise. I use a set of Howard Leight Impact Sport muffs, and they have built in microphones and speakers to amplify noises under 80dBB I believe, but still muffle loud noises like gunshots. I think you can find them as cheap as $60 online. Or of course there are other similar options, these are just the ones I have experience with.

With the muffs on, and the volume carefully adjusted, I have better hearing than with them off. No fumbling with them trying to get them on when a shot becomes available, you can leave them on and benefit from it. At the indoor range I can hear the door open behind me, so I know to hold off on the shot until the door closes again. If you're near Edmonton I'm willing to let you try them out.

Same here. I have the electronic Peltor muffs. I can hear better with them on also and hear every damn little sound in the woods. Crank em up, batteries are cheap.

 

[Pooker]

Same here. I have the electronic Peltor muffs. I can hear better with them on also and hear every damn little sound in the woods. Crank em up, batteries are cheap.

Yep. Hunt with my MSA Sordin Supreme ProX and couldn't be happier with them.

 

[Tack Driver Armoury]

I have electronic ears, and they're great for hunting. They don't amplify anything over 102dB (cuts out during report) and also give me super hearing, on par with prey if not better.

Just make sure you keep lithiums in them, the regular AAAs dont last a day. And they keep my ears warm.

 

[rdavidson]

Any linear comp.

 

[Northpoint]

I'm breaking down and buying a pair of electronic earmuffs. Too many suggested them, so I can't ignore that one. Thanks everyone.

 

[Death]

I wear the Surefire EP4 earplugs when out and about. They have the option to plug off completely or use the "noise reduction" device built into them. Great for the bush. Not so good for a covered range

 

[toomanyhobbies]

Short barrels and hearing loss go together, compensators & brakes make it worse. I've had some tinnitus for 35 years now, ever since I thought it would be cool to blast six rounds of .357 Magnum outdoors without hearing protection. It doesn't take much. Lots of good advice from the gang here, glad to see you are listening to it.