Putting the Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer to Work
For those of us who spend time building, modifying, and testing firearms, particularly those with shorter barrels, the blast and muzzle concussion can become a significant factor. This is precisely where a product like the Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer comes into play. Midwest Industries is a name recognized for producing reliable aftermarket parts, and this blast can is no exception. My particular need for this component arose from an itch to build a compact AR pistol in 5.56/.223 that still offered a degree of blast mitigation without resorting to full-blown suppressors or bulky muzzle devices. I was looking for something that would tame the raw aggression of a short barrel without adding excessive length or weight.
After a bit of digging, I found this particular blast can from Midwest Industries. It seemed to fit the bill for its size and advertised function. I considered a few other options, including generic A2-style birdcage flash hiders, but none offered the specific blast-directing characteristics or the aesthetic appeal I was after. My initial impression upon receiving the Midwest Industries blast can was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The black hardcoat anodized finish felt robust, and the overall heft suggested it was made from quality aluminum. It delivered an immediate sense of satisfaction, knowing I had a well-built piece of hardware ready to tame the muzzle blast on my next build.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for this blast can was my personal workbench and, subsequently, the local indoor shooting range. I installed it on a newly assembled 7.5-inch 5.56/.223 AR pistol build, pairing it with a corresponding handguard that allowed the blast can to protrude slightly. The installation itself was straightforward, thanks to the included crush washer and the threaded muzzle. I appreciated the machined grooves on the exterior of the blast can, which provided excellent grip for hand-tightening before final torquing.
Performance-wise, the difference was immediately noticeable. At the firing line, the sharp, concussive blast that typically engulfs the shooter and those nearby from a short-barreled AR was significantly redirected forward. It didn’t eliminate flash entirely, but the directed blast made shooting much more comfortable, even in a confined indoor environment. It was intuitive to use; once installed, it simply functions as intended without any user input required during operation. The only minor surprise was the sheer effectiveness in directing that aggressive muzzle blast away from the shooter’s face and peripheral vision.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months and numerous range sessions, this blast can has proven its worth. It’s become a permanent fixture on my go-to AR pistol build. The black hardcoat anodized 6061 aluminium construction has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear despite repeated firings. There are no cracks, no stiffness in the threading, and its performance in directing blast remains consistent.
Maintenance is exceptionally simple; a quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked rag is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I’ll use a small brush to clear out any carbon buildup from the internal taper. Compared to similar blast cans I’ve used in the past, this Midwest Industries unit stands out for its durability and consistent performance. While some budget options might eventually loosen or show significant cosmetic wear, this blast can maintains its integrity and effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer
Specifications
The Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer is designed with a specific purpose in mind: redirecting muzzle blast. It features 1/2×28 TPI threads, making it compatible with the vast majority of 5.56/.223 AR-style firearms and pistols. Its overall length of 3.375 inches provides a substantial length to effectively channel the expanding gases forward.
Constructed from 6061 Aluminium, it offers a balance of strength and light weight, crucial for not negatively impacting firearm balance, especially on pistols. The black hardcoat anodized finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. This blast can is designed for 5.56mm and .223 Remington calibers, ensuring it can handle the pressures and velocities of these common rifle rounds. The inclusion of a crush washer simplifies installation, eliminating the need for shims in most cases.
Performance & Functionality
The core job of this blast can is to redirect muzzle blast, and it excels at this task. On my 7.5-inch AR pistol, the difference in felt concussion was dramatic. Instead of the overwhelming wave of gas and noise directly to the side and slightly backward, the blast is directed predominantly forward. This makes shooting significantly more comfortable for the user and, importantly, for anyone shooting adjacent to you on the firing line.
Its primary strength lies in its efficient redirection of gases. The tapered interior design, as noted by some users, plays a crucial role in this. It effectively funnels the expanding gases in a controlled manner. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is that it doesn’t offer significant flash suppression compared to a dedicated flash hider; its purpose is blast, not flash concealment. However, for its intended function, it performs admirably and meets, if not exceeds, expectations for a component at its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries blast can boasts a clean, functional design. The 6061 Aluminium construction feels solid in hand, not flimsy like some cheaper alternatives. The black hardcoat anodized finish is uniform and resists minor scuffs, maintaining a tactical look.
Ergonomically, the exterior features distinct grooves that provide an excellent grip for installation and removal. This tactile feature is a subtle but significant improvement over smooth cylinders, allowing for easier hand-tightening and adjustment. The 3.375-inch length strikes a good balance; it’s long enough to be effective but not so long as to make a compact firearm unwieldy. The threading is clean and precise, ensuring a smooth engagement with the barrel’s threads.
Durability & Maintenance
With its 6061 Aluminium build and hardcoat anodized finish, this blast can is designed for longevity in its intended environment. I haven’t experienced any issues with the aluminum showing signs of weakness or degradation, even after hundreds of rounds. The 1/2×28 TPI threading has remained robust, with no stripping or thread deformation.
Maintenance is minimal, which is a huge plus. A simple cleaning with a bore snake or rag is usually sufficient to remove powder residue. For more stubborn carbon buildup, a mild solvent and a brush can be used. There are no complex parts to worry about; it’s a single, solid piece of metal. Potential concerns might arise from extremely aggressive cleaning solvents or physical impact that could damage the anodized finish or threads, but under normal operational use, it’s built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory included with the Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer is the crush washer. This is an essential component for proper installation and alignment on many firearms. Beyond the included washer, this blast can is not designed for extensive customization itself.
However, its 1/2×28 TPI threading makes it compatible with a vast array of 5.56/.223 caliber firearms. This means it can be easily swapped between different rifles or pistols that utilize this common thread pitch. There are no alternative muzzle devices or internal components that are typically user-serviceable or replaceable on this specific model.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer
Pros
- Effective blast redirection: Significantly reduces the concussive force felt by the shooter and bystanders.
- Durable construction: Made from 6061 Aluminium with a black hardcoat anodized finish for excellent longevity.
- Easy installation: Includes a crush washer for straightforward mounting.
- Improved ergonomics: Machined external grooves provide a secure grip for tightening.
- Aesthetically pleasing: The 3.375-inch length offers a balanced look, especially on shorter builds.
- Excellent value: Offers robust performance at a very accessible price point.
Cons
- Minimal flash suppression: Primarily designed for blast, not flash concealment.
- Not ideal for extreme precision needs: If your main concern is pinpoint accuracy without any blast redirection, a dedicated muzzle brake or flash hider might be preferred.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer?
This blast can is an excellent choice for owners of short-barreled 5.56/.223 AR-style pistols and rifles. It’s particularly beneficial for those who frequently shoot in confined spaces like indoor ranges, where muzzle blast can be amplified. Home builders or those looking to upgrade from a basic birdcage flash hider will find this a worthwhile addition.
Individuals who require maximum flash suppression or are building a competition rifle where specific muzzle brake tuning is paramount might want to consider other options. However, for general use, home defense, or just a more pleasant shooting experience on a short-barreled platform, this blast can is highly recommended. A good torque wrench and a strap wrench or vise with appropriate clamps are helpful for proper installation, ensuring the crush washer is correctly compressed.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer
The Midwest Industries 5.56/.223 Rifles 1/2X28 TPI 3.375 Inch Aluminium Blast Can, Includes Crush Washer punches well above its weight class in terms of performance and value. It effectively accomplishes its primary mission of redirecting muzzle blast, making shooting shorter barreled 5.56/.223 firearms significantly more enjoyable and comfortable for everyone at the range. The build quality is robust, the design is practical, and the inclusion of the necessary crush washer streamlines the installation process.
For its price of $37.99, you are getting a durable, functional component that enhances the shooting experience without breaking the bank. I would absolutely recommend this blast can to anyone with a compatible firearm who wants to tame that aggressive muzzle concussion. It’s a solid, no-nonsense upgrade that delivers tangible results.