A flash suppressor, also known as a flash guard, flash eliminator, flash hider, or flash cone, is a device attached to the muzzle of a rifle or other gun that reduces the visible signature of the burning gases that exit the muzzle. This reduces the chances that the shooter will be blinded in dark conditions. A secondary benefit of flash suppression is the reduction of the flash visible to the enemy.
Although they are typically mounted in the same position and sometimes confused with each other, a flash suppressor is different from a muzzle brake. While the former is intended to reduce visible flash, a muzzle brake is designed to reduce painful recoil inherent to large cartridges and typically has no effect on visible flash.
Famous quotes containing the word flash:
“We cannot know how much we learn
From those who never will return,
Until a flash of unforeseen
Remembrance falls on what has been.”
—Edwin Arlington Robinson (1869–1935)