A muzzle brake can reduce recoil by up to 50% depending on the caliber and type of brake. For example, a muzzle brake for a .308 rifle can reduce recoil by up to 50%, while a muzzle brake for a 9mm pistol can barely make a difference.
Muzzle brakes work by redirecting the expanding gases created when the bullet is fired away from the shooter. This reduces the amount of force that is applied to the shooter’s shoulder, allowing them to be more accurate with follow-up shots. That’s a big help — especially for those who are shooting a gun with a shoulder or other recoil problem.
Most are vented in a way that allows the gas to flow through the sides. The propellant exhaust gases will be directed out of the muzzle when the weapon is fired. A shot with less kickback as a result. Furthermore, because shooters are not as exhausted from recoil during their shooting sessions, they can fire more rounds accurately with the help of the muzzle brake.
Check out this video about the difference the number of holes makes:
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