American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake Review

First Impressions of American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake

Muzzle brakes. They can be loud, obnoxious, and often oversized. But when recoil mitigation is paramount, they’re a necessary evil. I’ve been searching for a brake that offers significant recoil reduction without adding excessive bulk or concussion to my shooting experience. Enter the American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake.

I’ve heard whispers about American Precision Arms‘ reputation for quality and innovation, and this “little brother” to their popular Fat Bastard brake seemed like it might be the answer. My quest: to tame the recoil of my .308 precision rifle without turning it into a shoulder-fired howitzer. The promise of being able to turn it down to blend with the barrel was also intriguing.

The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake arrived in a no-frills package, reflecting its function-over-form design. Pulling it out, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the stainless steel. The machining was clean and precise, and the overall impression was one of quality.

Compared to some other brakes I’ve used, like the larger Surefire ProComp or the flash-hiding capabilities of the VG6 Epsilon, the Little Bastard felt more refined. I ultimately chose this over those because of its smaller profile and promises of extreme recoil reduction in a more compact package. Initial impressions were definitely positive; I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake was at my local outdoor range. I mounted it on my .308 bolt-action rifle, ensuring it was properly timed by my gunsmith. The conditions were fairly standard – sunny, with a slight breeze.

The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt significantly reduced; easily by 50-60%. I was able to stay on target much easier, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The brake directed gasses to the sides, mitigating much of the recoil.

There was a bit more concussion felt by shooters to my immediate left and right, but not nearly as bad as some other brakes I’ve used. It proved to be a comfortable brake for its efficiency.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a PRS-style competition, the American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor carbon buildup, which is easily cleaned. It continues to perform exactly as it did on day one.

Cleaning is straightforward. A quick soak in solvent followed by a scrub with a brush removes any accumulated carbon. I have experienced no rust or corrosion, further attesting to the quality of the stainless steel used. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper brakes that quickly degraded or became loose, this has far outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake

Specifications

• The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake is constructed from high-quality stainless steel. This provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear.
• It features 5/8×24 threads per inch, making it compatible with most .30 caliber rifles.
• The outer diameter is 1 inch, but can be turned down to .850″ on non-magnum calibers. This is an important feature for those seeking a more integrated look.
• It is 2.225 inches long and weighs only 3.9 ounces. This minimal weight and size keeps the rifle maneuverable.
• The inner diameter is 1 inch.
  • Its size allows for a precise fit for various barrel diameters.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall performance and usability of the brake. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the compact size and weight minimize added bulk.

Performance & Functionality

The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake excels at reducing recoil. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.

It significantly tames even magnum calibers, making them more manageable for extended shooting sessions. It has exceeded my expectations, allowing me to shoot longer without fatigue.

Design & Ergonomics

The Little Bastard features a simple, functional design. Its stainless steel construction is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

It is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. The ability to turn it down to match the barrel diameter is a nice touch, creating a seamless, integrated look.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless steel construction of the American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake ensures long-term durability. With proper care, it should last for many years.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove carbon buildup. The durable materials are resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring consistent performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake does not come with any accessories, focusing on pure functionality. However, its standard 5/8×24 threads make it compatible with a wide range of rifles.

While no specific customization options are offered by American Precision Arms beyond the potential barrel blending, the aftermarket offers various tools for installation and timing.

Pros and Cons of American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake

Who Should Buy American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake?

The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake is perfect for precision rifle shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters who prioritize recoil reduction and improved accuracy. It is especially beneficial for those shooting magnum calibers.

Those sensitive to increased muzzle blast or those who frequently shoot in crowded ranges might want to consider a less aggressive brake. Additionally, shooters who lack the skills or resources to properly install and time the brake should seek professional assistance.

Must-have accessories include a proper wrench for installation and a thread protector for when the brake is not in use.

Conclusion on American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake

The American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake is a well-designed and highly effective recoil reduction device. Its durable construction, compact size, and potential for barrel blending make it a standout option in a crowded market.

At $125.00, the price is justified by its performance and quality. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to improve their shooting experience. I would highly recommend the American Precision Arms Little Bastard Muzzle Brake to anyone looking for a serious recoil solution without excessive bulk. It’s a fantastic addition to any rifle, offering a noticeable improvement in shooting performance and comfort.