Recoil Control Porting or Brake?

[Blaze]

When trying to reduce recoil in a rifle that really does not kick that hard to begin with what is the preferred method, porting or a brake? I have been considering Magna porting my Encore’s .256 barrel. I have read just about everything I can find on the net about Brakes and all the information I’ve digested points out that brakes don’t really shine until you apply them on large bore and or high-pressure cartridges. I like the looks of the Magna porting since to me it is more aesthetically pleasing than a brake that looks like it should be on the end of a Sherman tank. However, I am more interested in results than looks. I’m seeking any feedback from anyone who has some experience with brakes or Magna porting on typical calling rifles.

Respectfully,
Blaze

 

[Caduceus]

Here's a photo of a Harrels muzzle brake fitted to the end of my 6.5/284 barrel.

This rifle is a switch barrel set-up. I have a 6mmBR barrel without a brake and a 6.5/284 with a brake fitted. I can give you a direct comparison of the recoil of the the two rounds with and without a brake.

Well, to my shoulder, they feel almost the same. I can maintain a sight picture of the bullet impact using both combinations. The rifle weighs about 16lbs. I don't think I'd be able to do that in the 6.5/284 without the brake. In fact I'm certain I would lose the sight picture under recoil wth the 6.5/284 if not for the brake.

The gunsmith did a beautiful job fitting it. It is perfectly flush with the barrel and matches the finish. It can also be unscrewed with a twist of the wrist.

It is very loud though.

 

[jb1000br]

avoid porting like the plague!

Why would you purposely drill holes in your rifling to let HOT gas exit?

They will corrode, erode...brake is the way to go.

Kregg Slack at www.parrysgunsmithing.com will FIT and SUPPLY a brake for 80$

JB

 

[Bobs243Ackley]

I have used both. I do prefer a well designed muzzle brake. I currently use the varmint/sniper brake from the folks at Answer Products on my Rem. 700 VS that I have chambered in .22-250 Ackley. When shooting free recoil on the sandbags, I can watch the bullet holeappear on a 2" target dot at 100 yards when the scope is set at 20X. The rifle will come back no more than 1/4" to 1/2". The best way to describe it, is that it is a lot like shooting an extremely noisy .22 rimfire. Ear protection is highly suggested.

Cordially,
Bob Blaine

 

[dreever]

The only problem with a muzzle brake is that in any kind of competition the competitors on the benches to your left and right WILL hate you every time you pull the trigger!
You won't be making any friends that's for sure.

 

[jb1000br]

Danny -- does that mean you dont like me

Mount a brake, Fight back

FYI -- if you can afford it, and your state allows, a suppressor is the best thing to screw on your barrel.

JB