[PAC 762]

I'm building a scout rifle and I'm trying to decide on whether to add a flash suppressor. I have a nice looking one that is not tapped, so it would not be hard to get the barrel threaded for a compatible thread, but it will make the rifle over Cooper's 1 meter limit. What are your opinions? Nice custom touch, or not needed and a waste of time?

[jagdpanzer347]

Pac762, from a tactical perspective it does make some sense. Especially from the barrels of the scout-type rifles. Provided it is actually effective at reducing flash, of course.
People will probably give you odd glances at the range and ask if your name is Bubba, however. That's what I like about my FR8, if anyone gives me any business, I just tell'em it left the factory like that.
On a more serious note, to me the reduction in flash would more than make up for the negligable increase in overall length. Especially so if this is a rifle that may be used for potentially "serious" encounters.
-jagdpanzer

[Koobuh]

If it adds a utility that you find useful, do it. Realistically, a flash hider is un-necessary most of the time, and unless you plan on dealing with multiple targets in low-light conditions you'll be fine without one.

Also, don't worry about the 'definition' of a scout rifle. It's not a list of hard rules, just a laundry list of beneficial features. Being a little one way or another isn't a cardinal sin against Saint Scout Rifle or something, for heaven's sake.

[brentwal]

Sounds like a plan to me.

[Andrew Wyatt]

If you do any shooting at night with military surplus ammunition, you should install one.

[Clean97GTI]

If you are going to be shooting milsurp, I'd say its almost a requirement but possibly borders on waste.
Yes it will keep flash down, but using newer ammo will too.

I'm thinking about making my M44 into a scout rifle even though it doesn't quite meet Cooper's requirements.

[PAC 762]

Thanks for the input. I'm still on the fence, but leaning towards using a flash hider. I figure I can always remove it it I don't like it.