Posted by KEN on May 30, 1998 at 18:10:53:
In Reply to: Close....but a few minor points added.... posted by Tom on May 27, 1998 at 10:23:29:
---"There are other, more significant differences between the XM-series and the M4. The XM-xx was 1/12" twist with a "sound moderator" flash suppressor. The "flash Supressor" actually worked to dampen the sound of the blast from the shorter barreled rifle."---
This was not the intended purpose of the moderator. It was initially designed to help eliminate the tremendous "fireball" created by the 10" and later 11.5" barrel. Sound decibel reduction was a secondary effect created by the moderator. ATF, in their all knowing wisdom, deemed that the sound reduction was enough that it warranted the moderator be legally classified as a sound suppressor. Anyone ever fire an XM? Would you want to do it too many times without muffs?!!!
Ken