First Impressions of American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake
The American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake promises a significant reduction in recoil and muzzle rise, a critical advantage for long-range shooters and hunters alike. Designed by American Precision Arms, known for their precision components, this muzzle brake boasts a tunable gas system to tailor recoil characteristics to individual shooting styles and rifles. I was particularly drawn to the self-timing feature, which eliminates the need for shims, simplifying installation.
My primary goal was to tame the recoil of my .308 precision rifle. I’ve tried other muzzle brakes before, but found them either ineffective or overly complicated to install. I was hoping the Little Bastard would offer a noticeable improvement in recoil management while being user-friendly.
Upon opening the package, the immediate impression was one of quality. The Little Bastard felt solid and well-machined. The stainless steel construction exudes durability. The finish was clean and even.
Compared to my previous muzzle brake, a simple two-port design, the American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake looked significantly more complex. It had multiple ports and adjustable screws, indicating its advanced tunable design. It seemed less bulky than other brakes I’d considered, like the larger magnum-style brakes designed for bigger calibers.
I was definitely excited, bordering on optimistic. The design suggested a serious piece of equipment. I was eager to see if the Little Bastard’s performance matched its impressive appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local outdoor range. It was a typical, slightly windy day. I was using my .308 bolt-action rifle with a 20-inch barrel.
The most immediate difference was the reduction in felt recoil. It was significantly less than with the stock muzzle. Muzzle rise was also noticeably diminished. I found it much easier to stay on target through the recoil impulse.
Installation was incredibly simple thanks to the self-timing design. The brake screwed on easily and tightened securely against the shoulder of the barrel. I only needed a wrench and a few minutes to install.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake has performed consistently well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my rifle with it attached. There have been no issues with loosening or degradation in performance.
The stainless steel construction has proven to be very durable. There are no signs of rust or corrosion. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick scrub with a bore brush and solvent is all that’s needed.
The Little Bastard definitely outperforms my previous muzzle brake. It allows for faster follow-up shots and improved overall accuracy. I can shoot comfortably for extended periods.
Breaking Down the Features of American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake
Specifications
The American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Material: Constructed from durable Stainless Steel for longevity and resistance to corrosion.
- Threads per Inch: Features standard 5/8×24 threads, making it compatible with a wide range of .30 caliber rifles.
- Model Generation: This is the Gen 2 version, incorporating design improvements based on user feedback.
- Inner and Outer Diameter: Both measure 1 inch, providing ample space for bullet passage and effective gas redirection.
- Length: Has an overall length of 2.225 inches, a compact design that doesn’t add excessive weight or length to the rifle.
- Weight: Weighs just 4.2 oz, minimizing the impact on the rifle’s balance.
- Unique Recoil Profile (U.R.P.) Tunable Top Port Design: Allows fine-tuning of muzzle movement for improved target retention.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the brake’s effectiveness. The stainless steel construction ensures durability. The tunable ports allow the shooter to customize the recoil characteristics to their specific rifle and shooting style.
Performance & Functionality
The American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake excels at reducing recoil and muzzle rise. It allows for significantly faster follow-up shots. Accuracy is improved due to the reduced disturbance during the firing sequence.
The primary strength is its tunable design. The adjustable gas ports allow the shooter to fine-tune the recoil impulse. However, this tunability can also be a weakness for inexperienced shooters. It requires some experimentation to find the optimal setting.
The brake definitely meets and even exceeds my expectations. I was anticipating a good reduction in recoil, but the tunability took it to another level. It has transformed my shooting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Little Bastard has a robust, no-nonsense design. The stainless steel construction gives it a durable feel. It doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.
The self-timing feature makes installation incredibly user-friendly. There is a slight learning curve associated with the adjustable gas ports, but it’s manageable. A well-written instruction manual is included.
Durability & Maintenance
The Stainless Steel construction suggests the Little Bastard will last for many years. It is resistant to corrosion and wear. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a bore brush and solvent is sufficient.
The Little Bastard is designed for long-term use. With proper care, it should easily outlast the barrel of my rifle. The robust construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the necessary gas screws and a wrench for installation. It is compatible with any rifle that has a 5/8×24 threaded barrel. It can be paired with a suppressor adapter for those who want to use a suppressor in conjunction with the brake. Be sure to use an adapter with compatible threads.
Pros and Cons of American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake
Pros
- Significant Recoil Reduction: Dramatically reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
- Tunable Gas System: The adjustable gas ports allow you to customize the recoil impulse to your specific rifle and shooting style.
- Self-Timing Design: Eliminates the need for shims, making installation quick and easy.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Improved Accuracy: Minimizes muzzle rise and disturbance, contributing to more precise shots.
Cons
- Tunability Requires Experimentation: The adjustable gas ports require some time and effort to dial in the optimal settings.
- Increased Muzzle Blast: Like most muzzle brakes, it significantly increases muzzle blast, which can be unpleasant for nearby shooters.
Who Should Buy American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake?
This muzzle brake is perfect for:
- Long-range shooters seeking to minimize recoil and improve accuracy at extended distances.
- Hunters using larger caliber rifles who want to reduce recoil for faster follow-up shots.
- Competitive shooters looking for an edge in speed and precision.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Casual shooters who are primarily concerned with noise reduction.
- Those who are not willing to spend time tuning the gas ports.
Must-have accessories:
- A quality torque wrench for proper installation.
- Hearing protection due to the increased muzzle blast.
Conclusion on American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake
The American Precision Arms Gen 2 Little Bastard Self Timing Muzzle Brake is a top-tier muzzle brake that delivers exceptional recoil reduction and tunability. Its self-timing design simplifies installation. Its stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance. The price of $160.00 is justified by the performance and quality of this product.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this muzzle brake to anyone looking to tame the recoil of their rifle and improve their shooting experience. It is a worthwhile investment for serious shooters and hunters alike. If you are looking for a high-performance, tunable muzzle brake, the Little Bastard is an excellent choice.