[Murphster]

Just bought an unfired SAR-8 (with the "8" stamped over a "3"), made in Greece with the steel receiver. Came with the thumbhole stock removed and a green pistol grip stock and forearm attached. I'm happy. The only problem is that it has this politically correct non muzzle brake thing on the end of the barrel. It has either two pins or maybe screws holding it on. I'm guessing they're screws that have been spot welded over the slots to keep them in place. I'd like to remove this and screw on a real muzzle brake or flash hider, presuming there are threads underneath it. Point of all this is: has anybody with an SAR-8 removed this lump? And if so, how did you do it. It's not really hurting anything being there so I guess I could leave it. It's just knowing that it's not a real flash hider or muzzle brake that mildly irritates me. If I stand a better than average chance of messing up the barrel or barrel threads (if it has them), I won't do it. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

[NMshooter]

The barrel is not threaded. Cut or grind off the pin and the "muzzle protector" can be pulled off (with some force). You might want a gunsmith to do this for you. You will need to thread the barrel afterwards.

Whatever you do, take your time and be careful.:)

[Murphster]

NMshooter: Thanks for info. Since it's not threaded, I think I'll just leave it as is for the time being. Maybe let a gunsmith have at it at a later time. Thanks again.

[Southern Raider]

Hold on there! It is very likely the barrel is threaded!

There are two different versions of muzzle devices on these. If it looks like a fake flash hider, I think it is pressed onto an unthreaded barrel.

If it is a big knob on the end of the barrel with two apparent spot welds, it is a pinned on muzzle device. This is especially true if there is a bit of rotational play. The device is screwed on, a pin is run across it and spot welded at the ends.

The overstamp vintage leads me to think you have the second. This what was under my overstamp model. I had someone cut the metal out over the pin. With the pin removed, the device just unscrews.

[Murphster]

That's good news. This is what I'd definitely describe as a big knob. No phony slots, grooves, or anything else to try and make it look like a flash hider or muzzle brake. Thanks.