How to Attach a Birdcage Flash Hider on an A2

The A2 AR-15 rifle is the civilian semi-automatic version of the military M-16. It fires .223 NATO rounds and has a 20-inch manganese phosphated steel barrel. Its upper and lower receiver are made of forged aluminum. The overall length of the A2 is 39.5 inches and total weight is 8.2 pounds. A birdcage flash suppressor or flash hider diverts glowing combustion gases at the end of the barrel through slots out to either side of the rifle. In low-light conditions, this reduces blinding, bright muzzle flashes and helps preserve the shooter's night vision. The muzzle of the A2 is threaded with the standard military specification 1/2-inch 28 UNEF (Unified Extra Fine) thread size to accept flash suppressors.

Things You'll Need

  • A2 vise block
  • A2 barrel wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the A2 upper receiver into an A2 vise block and tighten in a bench vise.

    • 2

      Slip the supplied crush washer over the threads at the end of the barrel with the cupped face of the washer pointing out.

    • 3

      Thread the birdcage flash suppressor onto the threads and hand tighten.

    • 4

      Examine the orientation of the slots in the flash suppressor. The closed-off portion of the suppressor with no slots should face down toward the ground.

    • 5

      Tighten the flash suppressor with the barrel wrench at least 90 degrees, rotating the closed-off section of the flash suppressor until it is facing straight down. This compresses the crush washer and locks the flash suppressor in place.

    • 6

      Remove the vise block from the bench vise. Remove the A2 upper receiver from the vise block.