Let’s Talk About Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber promises to tame the beastly recoil of .338 caliber rifles, and that’s a promise I intended to hold them to. Manufactured by Precision Armament, this muzzle brake boasts an impressive 84% recoil reduction, along with user-tunable gas biasing and a host of other features designed to enhance shooting performance and comfort. This isn’t just another accessory; it’s a precision-engineered component aiming to transform the shooting experience for high-powered rifles.
My interest in the Hypertap stemmed from a persistent problem: taming the recoil of my Fierce CT Edge in .338 Lapua. Even with a rifle known for its inherent accuracy, the punishing recoil made consistent shot placement challenging, especially during extended range sessions. I was hunting for a muzzle brake that could significantly mitigate recoil without negatively impacting accuracy or adding excessive weight and bulk.
Upon unboxing the Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and compact design. The 17-4 stainless steel exuded quality, and the skeletonized crown hinted at meticulous engineering. The included universal timing nut was a welcome sight, suggesting a hassle-free installation process.
I considered other popular muzzle brakes on the market, like those from Area 419 and SJC Customs. However, the Hypertap’s claim of 84% recoil reduction, combined with its user-tunable features, ultimately swayed my decision. Its compact size and weight (4.9 oz) also made it a more attractive option compared to some of the bulkier alternatives.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this relatively small device truly deliver on its bold claims? I was excited to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber was at my local shooting range, known for its 300-yard lanes and relatively controlled environment. I mounted the brake on my Fierce CT Edge and prepared for what I hoped would be a drastically improved shooting session. Initial tests were conducted on paper targets at 100 yards to gauge accuracy and recoil reduction.
The performance was immediately noticeable. The felt recoil was significantly reduced; it transformed the .338 Lapua from a shoulder-punishing beast into a manageable and even enjoyable rifle to shoot. The muzzle rise was also noticeably lessened, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
The installation process was straightforward thanks to the provided spanner wrenches and universal timing nut. No shims were required, which greatly simplified the setup. There were no issues or surprises after the initial use, only a growing sense of satisfaction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The brake shows no signs of wear and tear, despite enduring numerous range sessions and exposure to varying weather conditions. Cleaning is also relatively straightforward.
The 17-4 stainless steel construction has held up remarkably well, resisting corrosion and maintaining its finish even after prolonged use. A simple brush and solvent cleaning routine keeps it in top condition. Compared to previous muzzle brakes I’ve used, the Hypertap far surpasses them in terms of both recoil reduction and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber
Specifications
- Projectile Caliber: .338 Caliber. This ensures optimal performance with .338 Lapua and similar cartridges, maximizing recoil reduction.
- Fabric/Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel. This provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance, crucial for withstanding the harsh conditions of high-powered shooting.
- Inner Diameter: 1.09 in. Generous bore clearance ensures projectiles pass through without any contact, maintaining accuracy and preventing damage.
- Length: 2.94 in. This compact length minimizes added weight and bulk, preserving the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.
- Weight: 4.9 oz. The lightweight design contributes to overall rifle balance, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
- Included Accessories: Spanner Wrenches. These facilitate easy installation and removal, allowing for quick cleaning and adjustments in the field.
- Country of Origin: USA. Proudly made in the USA, ensuring high quality and adherence to strict manufacturing standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber excels in its primary function: recoil reduction. It delivers on its promise, mitigating recoil by a significant margin, allowing for improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The user-tunable gas biasing feature allows further customization to optimize performance for specific rifles and ammunition.
The muzzle brake’s performance exceeded my expectations, transforming my .338 Lapua from a challenging rifle to shoot into one that is now consistently accurate and enjoyable. The user-tunable feature is a definite strength, allowing for fine-tuning to eliminate any remaining sight picture movement. One minor weakness might be its aggressive side blast, which can be disruptive to nearby shooters.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber is exceptional. The 17-4 stainless steel construction feels solid and durable, while the skeletonized crown adds a touch of aesthetic appeal. The brake’s compact size and weight contribute to a well-balanced rifle.
The installation process is remarkably user-friendly, thanks to the included universal timing nut and spanner wrenches. There is minimal learning curve; even novice shooters can easily install and adjust the brake.
Durability & Maintenance
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber is built to last. Its robust stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability, even under heavy use. The brake is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a simple brush and solvent after each shooting session.
With proper care, the Hypertap should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for any .338 caliber rifle owner.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber comes with the necessary spanner wrenches for installation and adjustment. Its user-tunable gas biasing allows for customization to optimize performance with different ammunition and rifle configurations. While there are no direct accessories for the Hypertap, its standard threading makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket suppressors and blast shields.
Pros and Cons of Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber
Pros
- Exceptional Recoil Reduction: Reduces recoil by at least 84%, significantly improving shooting comfort and accuracy.
- User-Tunable Gas Biasing: Allows for fine-tuning to eliminate sight picture movement and optimize performance.
- Durable Construction: Made from rugged 17-4 stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Universal timing nut and included spanner wrenches simplify the installation process.
- Compact and Lightweight: Minimizes added weight and bulk, preserving rifle balance.
Cons
- Aggressive Side Blast: Can be disruptive to nearby shooters.
- Price: The cost may be a barrier for some users, although the performance justifies the expense.
Who Should Buy Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber?
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber is perfect for serious long-range shooters, hunters who need to make accurate shots in demanding conditions, and anyone who wants to tame the recoil of their .338 caliber rifle. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters looking to improve their speed and accuracy.
Those who are primarily concerned with minimizing noise and muzzle blast for those nearby might consider a different type of muzzle device, like a suppressor or blast shield, in conjunction with the Hypertap. Also, if budget is a major constraint, there might be cheaper options available, albeit with potentially compromised performance.
A quality scope and bipod are must-have accessories to fully realize the accuracy potential afforded by the drastically reduced recoil.
Conclusion on Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber
The Precision Armament Hypertap Muzzle Brakes, .338 Caliber is a game-changer for anyone shooting a .338 caliber rifle. Its exceptional recoil reduction, user-tunable features, and durable construction make it a top-tier muzzle brake. While the price may be a consideration for some, the improved shooting experience and enhanced accuracy are well worth the investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hypertap to anyone looking to tame the recoil of their .338. This is a product that delivers on its promises, transforming a shoulder-punishing rifle into a manageable and accurate platform. Invest in your shooting comfort and accuracy; you won’t be disappointed. Go get yours today!