Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake Review

Let’s Talk About Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake

The Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake is a recoil-reducing attachment designed for rifles chambered in .450 Bushmaster and .45 ACP. Manufactured by Next Level Armament, this brake aims to improve accuracy and allow for faster follow-up shots by mitigating recoil and muzzle rise. This particular brake caught my attention because I wanted a reliable way to tame the sometimes-unpredictable recoil of my .450 Bushmaster AR pistol.

My journey to the Next Level Armament NLX-11B began with a simple quest: to control the muzzle rise of my .450 Bushmaster AR pistol. While the .450 Bushmaster packs a punch, that punch can make accurate follow-up shots challenging. I was hoping for something that would offer a noticeable improvement without breaking the bank.

Upon receiving the NLX-11B, I immediately noticed its robust construction and the clean Nitride finish. The 4140 steel felt substantial, hinting at its ability to withstand the abuse that the .450 Bushmaster can dish out. Its simple, no-nonsense design gave me confidence it would perform as advertised.

I considered a few other muzzle brakes on the market, including some from Strike Industries and Fortis Manufacturing. However, the Next Level Armament offering struck a balance between price, purported performance, and a reputation for solid manufacturing. Ultimately, it was the positive reviews highlighting its effectiveness with the .450 Bushmaster that swayed my decision.

My initial impression was positive, yet cautious. The brake appeared well-made, but the proof would be in the shooting. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype and noticeably reduce recoil and muzzle climb.

Real-World Testing: Putting Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and cool, perfect for spending an afternoon dialing in my .450 Bushmaster. I set up targets at 50 and 100 yards to gauge the brake’s impact on accuracy and recoil management at different distances.

The installation was straightforward, threading onto my 5/8×32 threaded barrel without issue. The first shot was a bit of a revelation: the muzzle rise was noticeably reduced compared to shooting without a brake. It allowed me to maintain a better sight picture and get back on target much quicker.

The only initial issue was the increased sound directed back towards the shooter. This is a common trade-off with muzzle brakes, but it highlighted the need for good hearing protection. Other than that, the initial experience was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips spanning a few months, the Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of loosening or damage, despite the significant recoil it endures. The Nitride finish remains unblemished, showing good resistance to wear and tear.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth after each range session keeps it in top condition. So far, maintenance has been minimal, which is a huge plus. I’ve grown to appreciate its reliability and consistent performance.

Compared to my previous experience shooting the .450 Bushmaster without a brake, the NLX-11B is a game-changer. It allows for faster follow-up shots, improved accuracy, and an overall more enjoyable shooting experience. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake

Specifications

• Caliber: Designed for both .450 Bushmaster and .45 ACP, offering versatility for different firearms. This caters to shooters who own firearms in either of these calibers and want a single brake solution.
• Material: Constructed from 4140 steel with a Nitride finish, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance. This robust material choice guarantees a long lifespan, even with heavy use.
• Threads: Features 5/8×32 threads per inch, a common standard for .450 Bushmaster barrels. This thread pitch provides a secure and reliable attachment to compatible firearms.
• Length: Measures 2.5 inches in length, providing sufficient surface area for effective recoil reduction. This length offers a good balance between performance and overall firearm length.
• Weight: Weighs approximately 0.25 lbs (4 ounces), adding minimal weight to the end of the barrel. This lightweight design helps maintain the firearm’s balance and maneuverability.
• Outer Diameter: The outer diameter is 0.88 inches. This allows for compatibility with a variety of handguards.

Performance & Functionality

The Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake excels at reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise. This results in improved accuracy and quicker follow-up shots. The brake effectively redirects propellant gases to counteract rearward movement.

Its performance is especially noticeable with the .450 Bushmaster, a round known for its significant recoil. The reduction in muzzle climb allows for a more stable shooting platform. While not a complete elimination of recoil, the NLX-11B provides a substantial improvement.

The main weakness is the increased noise level directed back towards the shooter. This is inherent to most muzzle brake designs, but it requires the use of proper hearing protection. Some users might find the aggressive gas redirection unpleasant, especially when shooting next to others at the range.

Design & Ergonomics

The NLX-11B boasts a simple, functional design with clean lines and a matte black Nitride finish. The overall build quality is excellent. The 4140 steel construction feels robust and capable of withstanding significant abuse.

Installation is straightforward, requiring only a wrench to tighten it onto the threaded barrel. There is no complex timing or adjustment needed. The ergonomic design does not interfere with the firearm’s handling.

Durability & Maintenance

The Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake is built to last. The 4140 steel and Nitride finish provide excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and heat. With proper care, this brake should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove carbon buildup. The Nitride finish makes it easy to wipe down and prevents rust. There are no small parts or intricate designs that could easily break or become damaged.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Next Level Armament NLX-11B itself does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with any firearm that has a 5/8×32 threaded barrel. This allows for customization with various aftermarket accessories.

It pairs well with adjustable gas blocks, allowing further tuning of the firearm’s recoil impulse. Some shooters might choose to add a thread protector when the brake is not in use. The simple design doesn’t limit accessory options.

Pros and Cons of Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake

Who Should Buy Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake?

The Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake is perfect for .450 Bushmaster and .45 ACP shooters who want to reduce recoil and improve accuracy. It’s an excellent upgrade for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone looking to make their rifle more manageable. Anyone looking to tame the recoil of their .450 Bushmaster or .45 ACP rifle will benefit greatly from this brake.

Someone who is highly sensitive to noise or frequently shoots indoors might want to skip this product. The increased sound levels could be problematic in enclosed spaces. Similarly, if budget is no concern, higher-end brakes with more sophisticated designs might offer marginally better performance.

A must-have accessory is a good set of ear protection. Electronic hearing protection is recommended to mitigate the amplified sound while still maintaining situational awareness. Some shooters may also benefit from an adjustable gas block to further fine-tune the rifle’s performance.

Conclusion on Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake

Overall, the Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake is a well-made, effective, and affordable recoil-reducing device. It offers a significant improvement in recoil management and muzzle control, particularly for .450 Bushmaster and .45 ACP rifles. While it does increase noise levels, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for most shooters.

The price is definitely justified. It provides a tangible improvement in shooting performance without breaking the bank. For anyone seeking a reliable and budget-friendly muzzle brake, the NLX-11B is an excellent choice.

I would definitely recommend the Next Level Armament NLX-11B Muzzle Brake to anyone looking to tame the recoil of their .450 Bushmaster or .45 ACP rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience today!