Barrel Harmonics Testing - Part 3

Published on August 16, 2018
Duration: 26:04

This video explores the impact of muzzle device weight on firearm accuracy. The instructor tests various weighted 'lumps' and a suppressor on three different rifle platforms (6.5 Grendel AR-15, 223 Wylde AR-15, and 6.5 Creedmoor Thompson Center Compass). Results indicate that added weight can significantly tighten groups, though the effect is gun-dependent and the exact mechanism (weight vs. gas effects) remains complex.

Quick Summary

Adding weight to a firearm's muzzle can significantly tighten shot groups by influencing barrel harmonics. This testing series suggests that for certain firearms, increased muzzle weight, whether from a suppressor or custom weights, leads to more consistent and smaller groups at the range.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Barrel Harmonics Testing Part 3
  2. 00:49Understanding Gas vs. Weight Effects
  3. 01:01Testing Platforms: 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 Grendel, 223 Wylde
  4. 01:14Introducing the 'Lump' Weights
  5. 02:136.5 Grendel AR-15 Setup and Load
  6. 03:12223 Wylde AR-15 Setup and Load
  7. 03:416.5 Creedmoor Thompson Center Compass Setup
  8. 04:55Range Test: 6.5 Grendel Bare Barrel
  9. 05:596.5 Grendel with Lightest 'Lump' Weight
  10. 06:316.5 Grendel with Second 'Lump' Weight
  11. 08:006.5 Grendel with Original 'Lump' Weight
  12. 08:396.5 Grendel with Silencerco Omega Suppressor
  13. 09:15Range Test: 223 Wylde Bare Barrel
  14. 09:52223 Wylde with Lightest 'Lump' Weight
  15. 11:27223 Wylde with Second 'Lump' Weight (Loose Attachment)
  16. 11:37223 Wylde with Original 'Lump' Weight
  17. 12:09223 Wylde with Silencerco Omega Suppressor
  18. 13:19Range Test: 6.5 Creedmoor Bare Barrel
  19. 14:256.5 Creedmoor with Lightest 'Lump' Weight
  20. 14:506.5 Creedmoor with Second 'Lump' Weight
  21. 15:186.5 Creedmoor with Third 'Lump' Weight
  22. 16:076.5 Creedmoor with Fourth 'Lump' Weight
  23. 16:326.5 Creedmoor with Original 'Lump' Weight
  24. 16:546.5 Creedmoor with Silencerco Omega Suppressor
  25. 17:34Reviewing 6.5 Grendel Targets
  26. 19:00Reviewing 223 Wylde Targets
  27. 20:55Reviewing 6.5 Creedmoor Targets
  28. 22:05Overall Conclusions on Weight and Harmonics
  29. 22:59Future Testing Plans: Grendel with Devices
  30. 24:46Upcoming Videos: Limb Saver and Harold's Tuner
  31. 25:52Concluding Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

How does adding weight to a firearm's muzzle affect accuracy?

Adding weight to the muzzle can significantly tighten shot groups by influencing barrel harmonics. This testing series suggests that for certain firearms, increased muzzle weight, whether from a suppressor or custom weights, leads to more consistent and smaller groups at the range.

What is the 'lump' device used in barrel harmonics testing?

The 'lump' is a custom-made, threaded metal weight designed to screw onto a firearm's muzzle. These devices come in various weights, from around 6 ounces to 25 ounces, allowing testers to isolate the effect of mass on barrel vibration and accuracy.

Can muzzle device weight alone explain accuracy improvements?

While weight is a major factor, it's not the sole explanation. The way a muzzle device manages gas and muzzle blast also contributes to accuracy. Separating these two effects (weight vs. gas management) is complex and often difficult to achieve in testing.

Is there a predictable way to know if a muzzle device will improve a specific gun's accuracy?

Currently, there is no predictable method. The instructor notes that muzzle device performance can be highly gun-specific, making it challenging for shooters to know which device will work best without empirical testing on their particular firearm.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Johnny's Reloading Bench

View all →