Quick Tip: The Best Method for Timing Muzzle Devices

Synopsis

In this Quick Tip video, Caleb from Brownells walks viewers through his go-to method for precisely timing muzzle devices using the Precision Armament Accu-Washer Gen 2 Shim Kit. Whether you're working on an AR-15, a suppressor mount, or another rifle setup, Caleb's step-by-step approach simplifies alignment without guesswork.

What You Will Learn

In this video, you'll learn how to pick the right shim using etched markings, set up quickly with the timing chart and QR code, and install shims for consistent results. Caleb also covers proper torque techniques and adapting the system to various thread pitches and platforms.

Benefit

The benefit to watching is gaining a fast, reliable method for timing muzzle devices with precision—saving you time, avoiding guesswork, and ensuring a secure, professional-grade fit across multiple firearm setups.

Introduction

Caleb from Brownells shares a helpful Quick Tip on his favorite method for timing muzzle devices. Whether you're working on an AR-15 or another rifle platform, this approach works efficiently across many setups.

What Is the Accu-Washer System

Caleb introduces the Precision Armament Accu-Washer Gen 2 Shim Kit, a go-to solution for timing muzzle devices with precision. The kit comes in a small pouch that contains a variety of labeled washers, each with unique markings to indicate their thickness.

Washer Sizes and Identification

Each washer in the Accu-Washer kit has a set of lines etched on it—thick and thin—which indicate its specific thickness. This makes it easy to identify the right shim without needing calipers or measurements. If you're unsure, there's no need to guess.

Using the QR Code and Timing Chart

On the back of the packaging, there’s a QR code that links to full instructions and a timing chart. The chart helps you match your thread pitch and the number of degrees your muzzle device needs to rotate for proper alignment.

Caleb demonstrates how to read the chart, explaining that once you know how far off your muzzle device is from its final timed position, you can easily choose the right shim to correct the angle.

Determining Shim Fit and Installation

To start, use the thickest shim from the kit as a baseline. These shims have a beveled side and a flat side—the beveled side should face the barrel shoulder. This ensures it mates correctly, especially when the relief cut between the thread and shoulder is minimal.

Thread the muzzle device on hand-tight, and check how far off it is from being correctly timed. Use the chart to determine how many degrees you need to turn, then find the appropriate shim with that thickness.

Proper Shim Orientation

Caleb recommends installing the shim with the etched markings facing outward. This allows you to easily identify what shim is installed on any of your rifles, especially if you build or work on multiple firearms. If you need the same shim again later, you can check your collection without guessing.

Grease and Torque Tips

Before final torquing, you can optionally apply a bit of grease between the shim and the muzzle device to reduce friction. This makes it easier to rotate the muzzle device into place with the correct amount of torque.

Caleb explains that you should add an extra 10 to 30 degrees to your calculations to account for the torque needed to secure the device fully.

Torque Wrench Setup and Final Install

Using a Wheeler XL Fat Wrench, Caleb torques the muzzle device to 25 foot-pounds, a common spec for this type of install. He emphasizes orienting the torque wrench at a 90-degree angle for accurate results.

The final fit is solid, with the muzzle device correctly aligned and torqued without the need for excessive adjustments.

Timing Suppressor Mounts

This method is not just limited to flash hiders. Caleb explains that the same shim setup works great for suppressor mounts and brakes, such as the Dead Air Chemo or Xeno brakes. The flatness and consistency of these shims make them ideal for high-precision suppressor setups.

Adapter Options and Final Thoughts

The Accu-Washer system also includes different diameters and thread pitch adapters. If you only have 5/8-inch shims but want to use them on a 1/2x28 barrel, you can simply purchase the correct adapter instead of buying a whole new kit.

This flexibility makes the system efficient and cost-effective, especially for builders who work on a wide range of firearms.

Support and Contact Info

Caleb wraps up by inviting viewers to leave questions, comments, or share their experiences with the Accu-Washer system. For anyone needing assistance, the Brownells tech line is always available to help.

Thanks for watching, and stay tuned for the next Quick Tip.