That's the end of it.
 

Can anyone explain the practical differences between a muzzle break, a compensator and a flash hider?

What are the strengths and drawbacks of using each and when is it appropriate to choose them?
I

A muzzle brake (not break, unless you actually broke it) serves to reduce recoil by turning some of the gasses and directing them to the rear.

A compensator may do that, OR serve to compensate for a tendency for the muzzle to climb- so it diverts gasses UP, pushing muzzle DOWN.

A flash hider serves to hide the muzzle flash from the shooter's vision- see the Lee Enfield jungle carbine.

There is also a flash suppressor, that serves to reduce the muzzle flash as seen by others.

C3 about covered it.

I would only add that IMHO a muzzle brake on anything but the biggest belted magnum Elk Rifles is a pointless, expensive, and dangerously LOUD addition to any rifle.

Decibels go WAY up when start venting those hot expanding gasses back toward the shooter.

Tack