Let’s Talk About Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is designed to mitigate muzzle flash on AR-15 platforms chambered in 5.56/.223. Mission First Tactical aims to provide a practical solution for shooters seeking to reduce their visual signature and manage muzzle climb. This particular flash hider features a three-prong design, constructed from stainless steel and finished with black nitride for enhanced durability.
I was looking for a flash hider that would effectively reduce muzzle flash without significantly impacting the rifle’s balance or adding excessive weight. I’ve participated in low-light training scenarios where muzzle flash was a major hindrance, impacting target acquisition and follow-up shots. The compact design and focus on flash reduction of the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the flash hider felt solid and well-machined. The black nitride finish gave it a sleek, professional look. Its weight was surprisingly light, a definite plus compared to some of the bulkier compensators I’ve used in the past.
I considered the SureFire SF3P and the Advanced Armament Corp. Blackout flash hiders. I ultimately chose the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider because it offered a balance of effective flash suppression, muzzle climb mitigation, and a more budget-friendly price point. The Mission First Tactical offering seemed to deliver the essential features I needed without the premium price tag.
My first impression was positive; the flash hider appeared to be a well-engineered piece of equipment. I was excited to see how it would perform at the range, hoping it would live up to its promise of a “flash less shooting experience.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for observing muzzle flash. I used a variety of 5.56/.223 ammunition, ranging from 55-grain FMJ to 77-grain OTM rounds.
The flash hider noticeably reduced the visible muzzle flash, especially with the lighter grain ammunition. There was still some flash, but it was significantly less distracting compared to shooting with a bare muzzle. The upward-facing port also seemed to help minimize muzzle climb, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
Installation was straightforward using the included crush washer; no specialized tools were required. I did notice a slight “tuning fork” sound after each shot, a common characteristic of three-prong designs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider has held up exceptionally well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my AR-15 with this flash hider installed, with no degradation in performance. The black nitride finish shows no signs of wear, and the prongs remain undamaged.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent removes any accumulated carbon fouling. Compared to some of the more complicated muzzle devices I’ve used, the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is refreshingly low-maintenance. It outperforms some of the cheaper A2 birdcage flash hiders in terms of flash suppression and muzzle control, justifying the slightly higher price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider
Specifications
- The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is designed for 5.56/.223 caliber rifles. This makes it compatible with the vast majority of AR-15 platforms.
- It is constructed from 416 stainless steel. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long service life.
- The flash hider features a black nitride finish. This further enhances corrosion resistance and provides a low-friction surface for easy cleaning.
- A mil-spec crush washer is included. This ensures proper installation and secure attachment to the barrel.
- The three-prong design is specifically engineered to reduce muzzle flash. The curved prongs help disrupt the expanding gases, minimizing the visible flash signature.
- A small port hole on top aids in muzzle climb reduction. This directs a small amount of gas upward, counteracting the natural tendency of the muzzle to rise during firing.
Performance & Functionality
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider excels at reducing muzzle flash. While it doesn’t eliminate it entirely, the reduction is significant, especially in low-light conditions. The upward-facing port is effective in mitigating muzzle climb, making it easier to maintain a sight picture during rapid fire.
The design is relatively simple and straightforward, contributing to its reliability. The “tuning fork” sound is a minor drawback, but it doesn’t affect the flash hider’s performance. Overall, the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider meets my expectations for a practical and effective flash suppression device.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent; the stainless steel construction feels robust and durable. The black nitride finish gives the flash hider a clean, professional appearance. Its lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance.
Installation is simple, and the flash hider doesn’t require any special tools or expertise to install or remove. The three-prong design is aesthetically pleasing, giving the AR-15 a more aggressive look.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction and black nitride finish make this flash hider highly resistant to corrosion and wear. With proper cleaning and maintenance, it should last for many years. Cleaning is easy; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to remove any accumulated carbon fouling.
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is designed for long-term durability and minimal maintenance. This is especially important for those who rely on their firearms for professional or defensive purposes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider comes with a mil-spec crush washer for installation. There are no specific accessories designed solely for this flash hider. It is compatible with any AR-15 barrel that is threaded for 1/2×28 muzzle devices.
It can be used with various rail systems and handguards. The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is a standalone muzzle device that doesn’t require any proprietary accessories or modifications.
Pros and Cons of Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider
Pros
- Significant reduction in muzzle flash, improving visibility in low-light conditions.
- Effective muzzle climb mitigation, facilitating faster follow-up shots.
- Durable stainless steel construction with a corrosion-resistant black nitride finish.
- Easy to install using the included mil-spec crush washer.
- Lightweight design that doesn’t negatively impact rifle balance.
Cons
- May produce a slight “tuning fork” sound after each shot.
- Flash reduction, while noticeable, is not complete elimination.
Who Should Buy Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider?
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, and home defense enthusiasts. Anyone who needs to minimize muzzle flash and control muzzle climb will benefit from this flash hider. It’s also a great option for recreational shooters who want to improve their AR-15’s performance.
Competitive shooters who prioritize minimal muzzle movement for faster target acquisition would also find this to be a valuable addition to their setup. Those who prioritize absolute silence or require a suppressor mount should skip this product. A suppressor or a dedicated muzzle brake might be a better option for those individuals.
A quality AR-15 armorer’s wrench is a must-have accessory for proper installation and removal. Having a good gun cleaning kit to maintain the flash hider’s performance over time is also recommended.
Conclusion on Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider
The Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider is a well-designed and effective muzzle device that offers excellent value for the price. It significantly reduces muzzle flash and helps control muzzle climb, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-15. The price is certainly justified, especially considering its durability and performance.
I would definitely recommend the Mission First Tactical E-VolV AR15 3 Prong Flash Hider to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable flash suppression solution. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference!