So being in CT, I need to pin a brake on. I’m not looking to spend $100+ on a brake. I’d like to grab 2-3 so I have an extra on hand. I also don’t plan on putting a can on or anything so I don’t need something that works with them.
What are you running? I’d like to keep it around $50 or less for each brake.
I am in CT as well and use a Battle Comp 1.5" on my 14.5" mid length gun. It is a excellent muzzle device and not too obnoxious to other shooters near me. However it is out of your desired price range. For ~$50.00, I believe a VLTOR Comp may be one of your best bets.
You’d do well to pin the BCM comp. The compliant version (Mod 1?) is in stock last time I knew. I believe it runs for $90.
How is this brake? More than I want to spend, but I really like the way it looks. How’s it perform.
SureFire MB556K
http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/SureFire-MB556K-Muzzle-Brake-Adapter-p/sf%20mb556k.htm
EDIT: I’d guess I would want this one though as it is probably easier to pin and/or spot weld.
http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/SureFire-MB556K-PN-Muzzle-Break-p/surefire%20mb556k-pn.htm
Why is the Mod 1 compliant, but the Mod 0 not? My barrel is 16", not 14.5" if that is what you are thinking.
Griffin Armament M4SD II Flash Comp.
http://griffinarmament.com/accessories/centerfire-muzzle/m4sd-flash-comp/
Probably the best hybrid device i’ve had an opportunity to run.
Great muzzle control, manageable blast and concussion, and best flash suppression than most brakes and comps on the market. Oh and its in your price range.
If you want something that actually provides maximum recoil reduction and is cheap, try the Miculek brake. For $35 it is a good deal. Be warned though that the side blast is significant although it is not bad for the shooter. Other than that I would also try the VLTOR comp.
Trust me, stay away from anything that is going to side blast. My buddies have nicknamed my gun “the thumper” because of how loud it is. You do not want to pin something like that on a gun. I am in the market myself for a new flash hider.
I posted this recently in another thread. I am also in a ban state. I like Battle Comps because of the relatively low concussion, but I am going to try the new BCM. I think it is worth the extra $50 to reduce the blast, but that is your call
Rainier makes a comp that is closer to your state price range that might also be worth a look. I have not used one, but have heard it is more concussive than the options above, but less than some more traditional side-port designs.
BattleComp 1.0 on three different rifles, two of which are SBR’s. I’ve found no reason to look at other brands…they’ve completely met my expectations.
Battle Comps. I have many muzzle devices, Battle Comp offers the best blend of features (IMHO), and coupled with that Alan and his crew are absolutely wonderful to work with, I’ll continue to collect and play with other muzzle devices, but Battle Comps stay on the rifles I shoot all the time.
It’s also the lightest of my collection at the time.
I just put a Z-Comp on my gun. It’s sick. Keeps the muzzle crazy flat when shooting at speed, and the concussion is minimal (albeit more than what you’re looking to spend).
On the cheap (50 bucks), the Rainier Arms RMC is excellent. Just a heads up though. It throws a WICKED fireball shooting 5.56 NATO. Someone else on the forum posted dusk pictures of the blast. Invigorating to say the least. Mine has been dubbed a “loudener” by my shooting buddies. It does shoot really flat, which I like, and the movie style fireball puts a grin on my face. YMMV.
http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=2841
If cost is the driver and you just need something for the muzzle, try the Troy Ind. Claymore (I think) brake.
If you want one that behaves most like a flash hider, BattleComp is pretty good. Yes, they’re expensive, but there’s a reason they keep selling at that price.
I run a PWSFSC 556, it is amazing in reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise. As far as those categories go i don’t think it can be beat. The downside is the concussion it throws out on the sides. For me, i dont care about concussion because its not a big deal when/where i go shoot. If i want something for protection or that i can bet my life on i would choose accuracy over pissing off some of my buddies occasionally… Just my .02 but im sure there are a number of brands that would satisfy you as well. Cant go wrong with any of the major brands.
I run a Griffin flash comp. The flash suppressing capabilities might not fly legality wise in your area. It’s about on par with the A2 in my unofficial scientific test. Shooting at night with and without my PVS.
That is pretty nice. I just watched some videos and may give one a try.
Thanks guys for all the ideas. Lots of high quality options, just depends how much I want to spend.
I just got a Damage Industries brake. I needed something just to protect the threads and wasn’t a flash hider. I haven’t had a chance to fire it yet but it could be what you’re looking for.
I have a few PWS556 brakes. Look good, work better and not “terribly” loud.
Primary Weapon Systems FSC556. Works well keeping your muzzle down, but is loud as hell! 
…sent from my mind, using telepathy!
Dynacomp does a good job at keeping your muzzle on point. Concussion isn’t terrible and the fire ball is sweet.