The Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel Made a Bold First Impression
The Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel compensator promises to tame the beast that is the .308/7.62 NATO AR10. Designed to mitigate recoil and muzzle climb, it aims to deliver faster follow-up shots, a critical aspect in both tactical and hunting scenarios. This compensator’s stainless steel construction and specific thread pattern make it a seemingly universal upgrade for AR10 platforms chambered in these calibers.
Having spent years wrestling with the recoil of various .308 rifles, I was looking for a practical solution to improve my accuracy during rapid firing sequences. I’ve tried muzzle brakes before, but the excessive noise and concussion often outweighed the benefits. I wanted something that offered a balance between recoil reduction and shooter comfort, and the Rise Armament RA-701 seemed to offer that compromise.
Upon unboxing, the RA-701’s stainless steel finish immediately stood out. The machining appeared clean and precise, suggesting a high level of quality control from Rise Armament. The compensator felt solid in hand, conveying a sense of durability despite its relatively compact size.
Compared to other compensators I’ve used – primarily those from brands like Surefire and Precision Armament – the Rise Armament RA-701 seemed less aggressively ported. This hinted at a potentially more subtle reduction in recoil, which aligned with my desire for a balanced shooting experience. I chose this over a flash hider because I prefer recoil reduction over flash suppression for my primary shooting needs.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The RA-701 looked well-made and the design seemed promising. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to the claims of recoil mitigation and faster follow-up shots.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rise Armament RA-701 at my local shooting range, mounting it on my AR10 build. The range provided a controlled environment for assessing recoil reduction and shot placement at varying distances. The weather was clear and dry, typical for a Southern California afternoon.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt noticeably softer, and muzzle rise was significantly reduced. Follow-up shots were faster and more accurate, especially during drills involving multiple targets at 50 and 100 yards.
The initial installation was straightforward, though I did need to apply some Rocksett to ensure a secure fit and proper timing. I was surprised by how effectively the compensator managed recoil without creating excessive side blast or concussion, a common issue with many brakes. It made the rifle much more manageable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a few hundred rounds downrange, the RA-701 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of loosening or damage, and the stainless steel finish still looks pristine. The compensator continues to perform consistently.
Cleaning is simple; a quick scrub with a brush and solvent is all that’s needed to remove carbon buildup. Regular maintenance is essential for any firearm component, and the RA-701 makes it easy. Compared to previous muzzle devices I’ve used, this one seems particularly resistant to carbon fouling.
The RA-701 has far exceeded my expectations. It provides a noticeable improvement in recoil management without the drawbacks of more aggressive muzzle brakes. It has quickly become an essential part of my AR10 setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel
Specifications
- Type: Compensator – designed to reduce recoil and muzzle climb.
- Model: RA-701 – Rise Armament’s specific compensator model.
- Caliber: 308 Win, 7.62x51mm NATO – designed for these calibers.
- Material: 416 Stainless Steel – provides durability and corrosion resistance.
- Thread Pattern: 5/8″-24 tpi – industry-standard threading for .308/7.62 AR10s.
- Finish: Silver – stainless steel finish for a clean look.
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with common AR10 platforms and guarantee long-term reliability. The stainless steel construction is particularly crucial, as it protects against rust and corrosion in harsh environments. The 5/8″-24 thread pitch is the standard for these calibers, ensuring a secure and reliable fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Rise Armament RA-701 excels at its primary function: reducing recoil and muzzle rise. The strategically placed ports effectively redirect gases, counteracting the natural upward movement of the barrel. This translates to faster target acquisition and improved accuracy during rapid fire.
The main strength of this product is its ability to significantly reduce recoil without creating excessive noise or concussion. The only needed improvement would be more advanced instructions for optimal timing, but this is easily overcome with experience. It significantly exceeded my expectations when I first used it at the range.
Design & Ergonomics
The RA-701’s design is clean and functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The stainless steel construction gives it a premium feel, and the overall weight is minimal, adding little to the rifle’s overall mass. The external appearance is not aggressive or flashy.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, though proper timing requires some attention. A gunsmith can easily handle the install, but it is not strictly necessary. The compensator’s compact size ensures it doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling characteristics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 416 stainless steel construction, the RA-701 should last for many years with proper care. Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures. This is particularly important for a muzzle device that is constantly exposed to hot gases and carbon fouling.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a solvent and brush will keep it in good condition. The stainless steel finish is easy to wipe down and resists carbon buildup. I expect this to remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rise Armament RA-701 doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone muzzle device. However, it’s important to use a crush washer or shims during installation to ensure proper timing and alignment. This ensures it functions correctly and doesn’t cause any issues with bullet trajectory.
It’s compatible with most AR10 platforms chambered in .308 Win or 7.62x51mm NATO with a 5/8″-24 thread pitch. While it doesn’t directly interface with other accessories, its performance can be enhanced by using a quality optic and a stable shooting platform. The Rise Armament RA-701 can also be Cerakoted to provide visual customization.
Pros and Cons of Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel
Pros
- Significant recoil reduction for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable 416 stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Relatively mild concussion compared to aggressive muzzle brakes.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Affordable price point compared to similar high-performance compensators.
Cons
- Timing requires careful attention during installation.
- Stainless steel finish may not match all rifle aesthetics.
Who Should Buy Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel?
The Rise Armament RA-701 is perfect for:
* Tactical shooters looking to improve their speed and accuracy during rapid-fire drills.
* Hunters who need to maintain sight picture on follow-up shots.
* Competitive shooters seeking an edge in recoil management.
* Anyone who wants a more comfortable and controllable .308/7.62 AR10 shooting experience.
Those who should skip this product:
* Individuals primarily concerned with flash suppression rather than recoil reduction.
* Shooters on a strict budget who may prefer cheaper, albeit less effective, alternatives.
A must-have modification is the addition of Rocksett adhesive for a secure fit.
Conclusion on Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel
The Rise Armament RA-701 308 Win,7.62x51mm NATO 5/8″-24 tpi Stainless Steel is an excellent compensator that delivers on its promises. It effectively reduces recoil and muzzle rise, improving accuracy and control without the excessive blast of some alternatives. The price is definitely justified.
For around $100, you get a durable, well-designed muzzle device that significantly enhances the shooting experience of a .308/7.62 AR10. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and effective recoil reduction solution. Upgrade your AR10 today and experience the difference!