7 June 2024
TRAINING BULLETIN
Subject: Muzzle Brakes/Compensators
Information continues to emerge supporting the damage caused by concussive blast from firearms. For the past several years we have seen increasing evidence regarding hearing loss and possible TBI caused by the use of muzzle devices that direct blast pressure at angles to the rear. While the shooter with a brake-equipped weapon is not in the direct line of this concussive blast wave, shooters to either side of the muzzle brake as well as instructors behind the line absorb the full blast wave of these devices.
Those of us in the firearms training industry recognize that hearing loss and tinnitus are more than likely after prolonged exposure, even with the use of hearing protection. Many of us have first-hand experience in this regard. Consequently, it is our responsibility to mitigate hazards faced by our staff and our course participants as much as possible. With increasing substantiation of brain injury from blast overpressure, it is imperative to take action.
Effective 1 July 2024 — Rifles equipped with muzzle brakes/compensators will be restricted from all SPS/HGTG courses. Rifles equipped with compensators must have either a suppressor or blast shield diverter that redirects vented gasses down range. There will be no exception to this policy.
This decision is in keeping with current trends in the training and shooting industries. In 2022, the NRA banned the use of muzzle brakes on certain rifle matches and increasing numbers of training facilities and companies have restricted the use of muzzle brakes. We anticipate this to become a best practice in the industry.
We further recommend that agencies consider equipping all rifles in their arsenals with suppressors. While suppressors do not alleviate all sound, and ear protection remains necessary, they do provide a reduction in harmful blast and pressure exposures for armed professionals.
Please direct any questions to SPS HQ at sniperproshop@bellsouth.net
Denny R. Elliott, CEO/Instructor