Patent Publication Number: US-11397066-B1

Title: Muzzle device and blast sleeve

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/005,595, filed Apr. 6, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable. 
     REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX 
     Not Applicable. 
     NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL 
     The disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Unless otherwise noted, the applicant owns all trademarks and service marks identified herein. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE 
     1. Field of the Present Disclosure 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the field of firearms. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to enhanced muzzle device and blast sleeves for firearms. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     A muzzle brake is a device that is attached to the second end of a firearm muzzle, which redirects propellant gases to counter recoil and unwanted barrel rise that normally occurs during the firing sequence. 
     During normal operation of a firearm, and particularly a rifle, when a round is fired, expanding gasses from the burning propellant forces the bullet through the barrel. As the bullet travels down and out of the barrel, the bullet and the propellant gases act on barrel, along the longitudinal axis, or centerline, of the barrel, to produce a recoil force. Because of the difference between the longitudinal axis of the barrel and the average point of contact between the firearm and the user (the average point where the user resists the recoil force), the muzzle end of the firearm&#39;s barrel rotates upward. 
     Muzzle brakes typically utilize one or more slots, vents, holes, and/or baffles to divert and/or redirect the propellant gases as they leave the barrel. 
     A flash suppressor, flash guard, flash eliminator, or flash hider is a device that is attached to the second end of a muzzle of a firearm that reduces the visible flash signature of the firearm, when it is fired, by dispersing or cooling the burning propellant gases, as they exit the muzzle of the firearm. The flash suppressor reduces the chances that the individual shooting the firearm will be temporarily blinded in lowlight shooting conditions and/or reduce the degree of muzzle flash visible to others. 
     Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, or the like, which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE 
     The typical flash suppressor geometry and arrangement has various shortcomings. For example, known flash suppressors do not allow for sufficient propellant gas to be cooled or disbursed prior to exiting the muzzle end of the firearm. Because of this, known flash suppressors do not produce an effective amount of muzzle flash reduction. 
     Additionally, a typical muzzle device is either a flash suppressor or a muzzle brake, with no option for converting between a flash suppressor and a muzzle brake. 
     Thus, the features and elements of the presently disclosed muzzle device and blast sleeve provide various muzzle device features and design elements that overcome the shortcomings of known muzzle devices and provide improved blast mitigation, flash suppression, and optional muzzle brake features. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the muzzle device and blast sleeve of the present disclosure includes at least some of a main body or muzzle device, an outer blast sleeve, and an anti-rotation screw. 
     The muzzle device has a standard mounting provision for AR style barrel. In various exemplary embodiments, there is a tight bore diameter running thru the forward section of the muzzle device, which has substantially perpendicular, vertical intersecting venting apertures that come to the outer diameter spaced in intervals and pattern radially around the borehole. Parallel to the main tight borehole, positioned at different diametral heights are venting recesses that pattern radially to intersect the previously mentioned vertical venting apertures and vent to and impose against the inner diameter of the blast sleeve. 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, each of the vertical venting apertures and horizontal venting recesses are at least partially internally threaded to aid in gas disruption and flame dispersion. At the outer diameter of the muzzle device, positioned at equal and radial intervals, are widened troughs/slots that act as a vertical surface to give a “brake” type action for the gas to impose against. This is all contained within the blast sleeve. When positioned around the muzzle device, the blast sleeve vents propellant gases forward, between an inner surface of the blast sleeve and the venting troughs, parallel to the main bore. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, two venting ports are formed through the blast sleeve. When the blast sleeve is aligned with the muzzle device, the venting ports are aligned with corresponding venting apertures and optionally venting recesses to give a vertical muzzle rise mitigation factor. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the blast sleeve is tight-tolerance, press fit onto the muzzle device. This is a friction fit system. 
     Optionally, a screw aperture is formed at a 6 o&#39;clock or other position through the blast sleeve, so as to be aligned with an at least partially internally threaded screw recess in the muzzle device. In this manner, an anti-rotation screw can be positioned between the aligned screw aperture and screw recess to resist rotation of the blast sleeve relative to the muzzle device. This may also aid in removal of linear movement of the blast sleeve relative to the muzzle device, particularly due to effects of thermal growth. 
     The present disclosure is directed to a muzzle device and blast sleeve comprising a muzzle device formed of a portion of substantially cylindrical material that defines a muzzle device body having an attachment portion and a suppressor portion, wherein a muzzle device borehole is formed through the muzzle device, wherein one or more venting apertures extend between the muzzle device borehole and an outer surface of the muzzle device so as to allow fluid communication between the muzzle device borehole and an exterior of the muzzle device, wherein a series of grouped venting apertures are positioned along the suppressor portion of the muzzle device at spaced apart locations and wherein each series of grouped venting apertures is positioned radially or angularly from each subsequent series of grouped venting apertures, wherein at least one venting trough is formed so as to extend from or through each venting aperture to the muzzle device first end of the muzzle device, wherein a venting recess is formed around at least a portion of each venting aperture, and wherein at least one at least partially internally threaded screw recess extends into at least a portion of the muzzle device body; a blast sleeve formed of a substantially cylindrical material that defines an outer blast sleeve sidewall, wherein a blast sleeve borehole extends through the blast sleeve and is defined by an inner blast sleeve sidewall, wherein the blast sleeve borehole has an inner diameter and shape, which matingly corresponds to and allows for frictional engagement between at least a portion of the outer surface of the muzzle device and at least a portion of the inner blast sleeve sidewall if the muzzle device is at least partially positioned within the blast sleeve borehole, wherein a screw aperture is formed at a 6 o&#39;clock or other position through the blast sleeve, and wherein one or more venting ports are formed through the blast sleeve body so as to allow fluid communication between the blast sleeve borehole and the outer blast sleeve sidewall, such that if the blast sleeve is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device, the venting ports are appropriately aligned with at least two venting apertures; and an anti-rotation screw, wherein if the blast sleeve is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device, the screw aperture is aligned with the screw recess and the anti-rotation screw can be positioned through the screw aperture and threadedly received within at least a portion of the screw recess. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, an outer diameter of the attachment portion is less than an outer diameter of the suppressor portion. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, an outer diameter of the attachment portion is substantially similar to or greater than the outer diameter of the suppressor portion. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the venting apertures extend radially from the muzzle device borehole and are formed at an acute angle relative to one another. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each of the grouped venting apertures in the series of grouped venting apertures is equally spaced from each other series of grouped venting apertures, along a longitudinal axis of the suppressor portion of the muzzle device. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, sidewalls of each venting aperture are substantially smooth. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, sidewalls of each venting aperture our at least partially internally threaded. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each venting trough extends from the outer surface of the muzzle device, toward the muzzle device borehole. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each venting trough extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the muzzle device. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least one venting trough intersects or extends between aligned venting apertures. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least two of the venting troughs our formed at different diametral heights or depths from the outer surface of the muzzle device. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the venting troughs are formed so as to extend from equally spaced apart locations around an outer perimeter of the muzzle device and so as to extend radially inward from the outer surface of the muzzle device toward the muzzle device borehole. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, each venting recess comprises an elongate, substantially cylindrical, or oblong shape recess, extending substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the muzzle device. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, sidewalls of each venting recess and/or venting trough are substantially smooth. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, sidewalls of each venting recess and/or venting trough are at least partially internally threaded. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the screw recess is formed at a 6 o&#39;clock position of the muzzle device body and wherein the screw aperture is formed at a 6 o&#39;clock position of the blast sleeve. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, the venting ports have a substantially cylindrical or oblong shape. 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, if the blast sleeve is appropriately secured to the muzzle device, the venting ports are appropriately aligned with venting apertures so as to allow fluid communication between the muzzle device borehole, via the aligned venting ports and the venting apertures, to the exterior of the blast sleeve. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a muzzle device and blast sleeve comprising a muzzle device having an attachment portion and a suppressor portion, wherein a muzzle device borehole is formed through the muzzle device, wherein one or more venting apertures extend between the muzzle device borehole and an outer surface of the muzzle device so as to allow fluid communication between the muzzle device borehole and an exterior of the muzzle device, wherein a series of grouped venting apertures are positioned along the suppressor portion of the muzzle device at spaced apart locations and wherein each series of grouped venting apertures is positioned radially or angularly from each subsequent series of grouped venting apertures, wherein at least one venting trough is formed so as to extend, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the muzzle device borehole, from or through each venting aperture to the muzzle device first end of the muzzle device, wherein a venting recess is formed around at least a portion of each venting aperture, and wherein at least one at least partially internally threaded screw recess extends into at least a portion of the muzzle device; a substantially cylindrical blast sleeve, wherein a blast sleeve borehole extends through the blast sleeve and is defined by an inner blast sleeve sidewall, wherein the blast sleeve borehole has an inner diameter and shape, which matingly corresponds to and allows for frictional engagement between at least a portion of the outer surface of the muzzle device and at least a portion of the inner blast sleeve sidewall if the muzzle device is at least partially positioned within the blast sleeve borehole, wherein a screw aperture is formed through the blast sleeve, and wherein one or more venting ports are formed through the blast sleeve so as to allow fluid communication between the blast sleeve borehole and an outer blast sleeve sidewall, such that if the blast sleeve is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device, the venting ports are aligned with at least two of the venting apertures; and an anti-rotation screw, wherein if the blast sleeve is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device, the screw aperture is aligned with the screw recess and the anti-rotation screw can be positioned through the screw aperture and threadedly received within at least a portion of the screw recess. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a muzzle device and blast sleeve comprising a muzzle device having an attachment portion and a suppressor portion, wherein a muzzle device borehole is formed through the muzzle device, wherein one or more venting apertures extend between the muzzle device borehole and an outer surface of the muzzle device between the muzzle device borehole and an exterior of the muzzle device, wherein a series of grouped venting apertures are positioned along the suppressor portion of the muzzle device at spaced apart locations and wherein each series of grouped venting apertures is positioned radially or angularly from each subsequent series of grouped venting apertures, wherein at least one venting trough is formed so as to extend, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the muzzle device borehole, from or through each venting aperture to the muzzle device first end of the muzzle device, and wherein a venting recess is formed around at least a portion of each venting aperture; and a substantially cylindrical blast sleeve, wherein a blast sleeve borehole extends through the blast sleeve and is defined by an inner blast sleeve sidewall, wherein the blast sleeve borehole has an inner diameter and shape, which allows for frictional engagement between at least a portion of the outer surface of the muzzle device and at least a portion of the inner blast sleeve sidewall if the muzzle device is at least partially positioned within the blast sleeve borehole, and wherein one or more venting ports are formed through the blast sleeve between the blast sleeve borehole and an outer blast sleeve sidewall, such that if the blast sleeve is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device, the venting ports are aligned with at least two of the venting apertures. 
     Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a muzzle device and blast sleeve with improved muzzle flash suppression. 
     The present disclosure separately provides a muzzle device and blast sleeve that provides improved muzzle rise suppression. 
     The present disclosure separately provides a muzzle device and blast sleeve that provides improved cooling, burning, and/or disbursement of propelling gases exiting the muzzle end of a firearm. 
     The present disclosure separately provides a muzzle device and blast sleeve that can be retrofitted to an existing flash suppressor or other muzzle device. 
     The present disclosure separately provides a muzzle device and blast sleeve that can be easily installed by a user. 
     These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure are described in or are apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure and the accompanying figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure in concert with the figures. While features of the present disclosure may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and figures, all embodiments of the present disclosure can include one or more of the features discussed herein. 
     Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the present disclosure discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as device, system, or method embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure. 
     Any benefits, advantages, or solutions to problems that are described herein with regard to specific embodiments are not intended to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature(s) or element(s) of the present disclosure or the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are provided herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present disclosure. 
       The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  shows an upper front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  shows an upper rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  shows a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  shows a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  shows a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  shows a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  shows a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  9 - 9  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 7 , according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  10 - 10  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 7 , according to the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  11 - 11  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 3 , according to the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  12 - 12  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 3 , according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  13 - 13  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 3 , according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  shows cross-sectional view taken along line  14 - 14  of the muzzle device of  FIG. 3 , according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 15  shows an upper, front, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 16  shows an upper, rear, perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  shows a right side view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 18  shows a left side view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 19  shows a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 20  shows a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 21  a right side view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 22  a right side, cross-sectional view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 23  an upper, right, perspective view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 24  an upper, right, perspective, cross-sectional view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 25  an upper, right, perspective view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 26  an upper, right, perspective, cross-sectional view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 27  a right, side view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 28  a right, side, cross-sectional view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 29  a front view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 30  a right, side, cross-sectional view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 31  an upper, right, front perspective view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 32  an upper, right, rear perspective view, illustrating exemplary alignment of certain components of the exemplary embodiment of the muzzle device and blast sleeve, according to the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE 
     For simplicity and clarification, the design factors and operating principles of the muzzle device and blast sleeve according to the present disclosure are explained with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a muzzle device and blast sleeve according to the present disclosure. The basic explanation of the design factors and operating principles of the muzzle device and blast sleeve is applicable for the understanding, design, and operation of the muzzle device and blast sleeve of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that the muzzle device and blast sleeve can be adapted to many applications where a muzzle device and blast sleeve can be used. 
     It should also be appreciated that the terms “firearm”, “muzzle device and blast sleeve”, and “blast shield” are used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms “firearm”, “muzzle device and blast sleeve”, and “blast shield” are not to be construed as limiting the systems, methods, and apparatuses of the present disclosure. 
     For simplicity and clarification, the various embodiments of the muzzle device and blast sleeves of the present disclosure will be described as being used in connection with a rifle barrel. However, it should be appreciated that these are merely exemplary embodiments of the muzzle device and blast sleeves and are not to be construed as limiting this invention. Thus, the muzzle device and blast sleeves of the present disclosure may be utilized in connection with any rifle, pistol, artillery piece, firearm, or other device. 
     Throughout this application the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used. It will be understood that these terms are meant to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer, step, or group of elements, integers, or steps. 
     Turning now to the drawing F IGS .,  FIGS. 1-32  illustrate certain elements and/or aspects of an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device system  100  comprising a muzzle device  110  and blast sleeve  130 , according to the present disclosure. In certain illustrative, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-32 , the muzzle device  110  and blast sleeve  130  comprises at least some of a muzzle device  110 , a blast sleeve  130 , and an anti-rotation screw  145 . 
       FIGS. 1-14  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a muzzle device  110  that may optionally be used in connection with the currently disclosed muzzle device  110  and blast shield. The illustrated muzzle device  110  comprises an elongate portion of substantially cylindrical material that forms a muzzle device body  113 , which extends along a longitudinal axis A L  from a muzzle device first end  111  to a muzzle device second end  112 . The muzzle device body  113  comprises an attachment portion  121  and a suppressor portion  123 . A muzzle device borehole  105  is formed through the muzzle device  110 , substantially along the longitudinal axis, A L , of the muzzle device  110 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, an outer diameter of the attachment portion  121  is less than an outer diameter of the suppressor portion  123 . Alternatively, the outer diameter of the attachment portion  121  may be substantially similar to or greater than the outer diameter of the suppressor portion  123 . 
     An initial portion of the muzzle device borehole  105 , extending from the muzzle device second end  112 , includes an internally threaded portion. The internally threaded portion of the mobile device borehole is formed so as to generally interact with external threads of a barrel for attachment of the muzzle device  110  to a firearm barrel. In various exemplary embodiments, the muzzle device  110  has a standard mounting provision for AR style barrel. 
     To aid in the installation of the muzzle device  110 , adapter flats  104  may optionally be formed of opposing parallel surfaces in various locations around the muzzle device  110 , generally within the attachment portion  121 . The flats  104 , if included, provide parallel surfaces for a wrench or other installation device to grip the muzzle device  110 . 
     One or more venting apertures  108  extend between the muzzle device borehole  105  in the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 . The one or more venting apertures  108  are formed through the muzzle device body  113  so as to allow fluid communication between the muzzle device borehole  105  and an exterior of the muzzle device  110 . Thus, the one or more venting apertures  108  allow fluid communication between the central muzzle device borehole  105  of the muzzle device  110  and the outside surface of the muzzle device  110 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the venting apertures  108  extend radially from the muzzle device borehole  105  and are formed at an acute angle Θ 1  relative to one another. In various exemplary embodiments, each of the venting apertures  108  is formed at an angle Θ 1  of 72° relative to each other venting aperture  108 . As illustrated, five equally spaced venting apertures  108  may extend radially from the muzzle device borehole  105  at a given distance from the muzzle device first and/or muzzle device second end  112 . Additionally, a series of grouped venting apertures  108  may be positioned along the suppressor portion  123  of the muzzle device  110 . 
     As illustrated, the muzzle device  110  may include a series of grouped venting apertures  108 , each of the series of grouped venting apertures  108  comprises equally spaced venting apertures  108  extending radially from the muzzle device borehole  105 . Each of the grouped venting apertures  108  in the series of grouped venting apertures  108  is equally spaced from each other series of grouped venting apertures  108 , along the longitudinal axis A L  of the suppressor portion  123  of the muzzle device  110 . Additionally, each series of grouped venting apertures  108  may optionally be positioned radially or angularly from each subsequent series of grouped venting apertures  108 . 
     As illustrated, the muzzle device  110  may optionally include a series of four grouped venting apertures  108 , each of the series of four grouped venting apertures  108  comprises five equally spaced venting apertures  108  extending radially from the muzzle device borehole  105 . Each of the grouped venting apertures  108  in the series of grouped venting apertures  108  is equally spaced from each other series of grouped venting apertures  108 , along the muzzle device body  113 . Additionally, each series of grouped venting apertures  108  is positioned radially or angularly approximately 36° from each subsequent series of grouped venting apertures  108 . 
     Each of the venting apertures  108  comprises a substantially cylindrical aperture extending from the muzzle device borehole  105  toward or to an outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 . In certain exemplary embodiments, the sidewalls of each venting aperture  108  are substantially smooth. Alternatively, the sidewalls of each venting aperture  108  may be at least partially internally threaded to aid in gas disruption and flame dispersion as propellant gases flow from the muzzle device borehole  105  through each venting aperture  108 . 
     As illustrated, the venting apertures  108  have substantially parallel sidewalls and have a substantially cylindrical or oblong shape. Alternatively, one or more of the venting apertures  108  may be tapered or reversed tapered and may take on other shapes. Thus, it should be understood that the overall angle, diameter, size, shape, and sidewalls surface preparation of each venting aperture  108  is a design choice based upon the desired functionality (i.e. fluid capacity, fluid flow characteristics, etc.) of the muzzle device  110 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, there is a tight bore diameter running thru the forward section of the muzzle device  110 , which includes the substantially perpendicular, vertical intersecting venting apertures  108  that extent to the outer diameter spaced in intervals and pattern radially around the borehole. 
     At least one venting trough  106  is formed so as to extend from each venting aperture  108  to the muzzle device first end  111  of the muzzle device  110 . Each venting trough  106  extends from the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 , toward the muzzle device borehole  105 . Each venting trough  106  extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A L  of the muzzle device  110 . 
     If venting apertures  108  are aligned with one another substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, A L , of the muzzle device  110 , a venting trough  106  may intersect and extend between aligned venting apertures  108  to the muzzle device first end  111 , as the venting trough  106  extends to the muzzle device first end  111 . 
     The venting troughs  106  may optionally be formed at different diametral heights or depths from the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 . Thus, for example, a depth of a venting trough  106  extending between an initial venting aperture  108  and a subsequent aligned venting aperture  108  may be at a first depth, while the portion of the venting trough  106  extending from the subsequent aligned venting aperture  108  to the muzzle device first end  111  may be at a second, greater depth. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the venting troughs  106  are formed so as to extend from equally spaced apart locations around the outer perimeter of the muzzle device  110  and so as to extend radially inward from the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110  toward the muzzle device borehole  105 . 
     A venting recess  109  may optionally be formed around at least a portion of each venting aperture  108 . If included, each venting recess  109  extends from the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 , toward the muzzle device borehole  105 . In various exemplary embodiments, each venting recess  109  comprises an elongate, substantially cylindrical, or oblong shape recess, extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A L  of the muzzle device  110  and substantially perpendicular to any venting trough  106  intersecting a given venting aperture  108 . The length, width, and depth of each venting recess  109  from the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110  is a design choice. 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, the sidewalls of each venting recess  109  and/or venting trough  106  are substantially smooth. Alternatively, the sidewalls of each venting recess  109  and/or the venting trough sidewalls  107  of each venting trough  106  may be at least partially internally threaded to aid in gas disruption and flame dispersion as propellant gases flow from the muzzle device borehole  105  through each venting recess  109  and/or venting trough  106 . 
     In various exemplary, nonlimiting embodiments, at least one screw recess  125  is formed so as to extend into at least a portion of the muzzle device body  113 . The screw recess  125  is at least partially internally threaded and is optionally formed at a 6 o&#39;clock or other position of the muzzle device body  113 . 
     As illustrated most clearly in  FIGS. 15-20 , the blast sleeve  130  comprises an elongate portion of substantially cylindrical material, defining an outer blast sleeve sidewall  137 . The blast sleeve  130  forms a blast sleeve body  133 , which extends along a longitudinal axis A L  from a blast sleeve first end  131  to a blast sleeve second end  132 . 
     A blast sleeve borehole  135  extends through the blast sleeve  130 , from the first blast sleeve end to the second blast sleeve end and is defined by an inner blast sleeve sidewall  136 . 
     While the blast sleeve  130  is shown and described as having a substantially cylindrical outer shape, defined by the outer blast sleeve sidewall  137 , and a substantially cylindrical borehole or blast sleeve borehole  135 , defined by the inner blast sleeve sidewall  136 , it is to be in understood that the blast sleeve  130  may comprise any outer or inner shape. Thus, while a substantially cylindrical shape of the outer blast sleeve sidewall  137  would allow for ease in manufacturing and would correspond to the shape of the muzzle device  110 , the shape of the outer blast sleeve sidewall  137  of the blast sleeve  130  is not limited to being substantially cylindrical and, for example, may be substantially oval, oblong, triangular, square, rectangular hexagonal, octagonal, etc. 
     Likewise, while the blast sleeve  130  is shown and described as having a substantially cylindrical blast sleeve borehole  135 , as defined by the inner blast sleeve sidewall  136 , is to be understood that the blast sleeve  130  may comprise any inner or blast sleeve borehole  135  shape. The size and shape of the blast sleeve borehole  135  is dictated by the shape of the outer surface  124  of the suppressor portion  123  of the muzzle device  110 . The blast sleeve borehole  135  has an inner diameter (and shape), which matingly corresponds to and allows at least a portion of a muzzle device  110  to be at least partially positioned within the blast sleeve borehole  135 , as illustrated most clearly in  FIGS. 25-30 . Thus, it should be appreciated that the size and shape of the blast sleeve borehole  135  corresponds to the size and shape of the outer surface  124  of the suppressor portion  123  of the muzzle device  110 . 
     Optionally, a screw aperture  134  is formed at a 6 o&#39;clock or other position through the blast sleeve  130 , so as to be aligned with the at least partially internally threaded screw recess  125  in the muzzle device  110 . In this manner, an anti-rotation screw  145  can be positioned between the aligned screw aperture  134  and screw recess  125  to resist rotation of the blast sleeve  130  relative to the muzzle device  110 . This may also aid in removal of linear movement of the blast sleeve  130  relative to the muzzle device  110 , particularly due to effects of thermal growth. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the anti-rotation screw  145  is selected so as to be received a sufficient distance within the screw aperture  134  and screw recess  125  such that a top of the anti-rotation screw  145  is at least flush with, and potentially below, the outer blast sleeve sidewall  137  of the blast sleeve  130 . In this manner, the anti-rotation screw  145  does not extend beyond an outer blast sleeve sidewall  137  of the blast sleeve  130 , when appropriately fitted within the screw aperture  134  and screw recess  125 . 
     While the muzzle device  110  is shown having a single screw recesses  125  and the blast sleeve  130  is shown having a single screw aperture  134 , it should be understood that this is merely exemplary and not limiting. Thus, the number of corresponding screw recesses  125  and screw apertures  134  is a design choice and may be varied. 
     One or more venting ports  138  are formed through the blast sleeve body  133  so as to allow fluid communication between the blast sleeve borehole  135  and the outer blast sleeve sidewall  137  of the blast sleeve  130 . Thus, the one or more venting ports  138  allow fluid communication between the blast sleeve borehole  135  of the blast sleeve  130  and the outside surface of the blast sleeve  130 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the venting ports  138  are formed at an acute angle Θ 1  relative to one another. Each venting port  138  is formed at the same angle Θ 1  as the angles at which the venting apertures  108  are formed. 
     As illustrated, the venting ports  138  have a substantially cylindrical or oblong shape. Alternatively, one or more of the venting ports  138  may be tapered or reversed tapered and may take on other shapes. Thus, it should be understood that the overall angle, diameter, size, and shape of each venting port  138  is a design choice based upon the desired functionality (i.e. fluid capacity, fluid flow characteristics, etc.) of the blast. 
     In certain exemplary embodiments, the muzzle device  110  is formed of 4140 heat treated steel and is optionally Nitride (black) coated. The blast sleeve  130  may optionally be formed of Nitrided steel (black), bead blasted SS steel (silver), or TiN coated (gold) steel. Alternate materials of construction of the various components of the muzzle device  110  and/or blast sleeve  130  may include one or more of the following: steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and/or other metals, as well as various alloys, combinations, and/or composites thereof. Thus, it should be understood that the material or materials used to form the muzzle device  110  and/or blast sleeve  130  is a design choice based on the desired appearance, strength, and functionality of the muzzle device  110  and/or blast sleeve  130 . 
     During attachment or coupling of the blast sleeve  130  to the muzzle device  110 , as illustrated most clearly in  FIGS. 21-32 , as a user begins to attach or couple the blast sleeve  130  to the muzzle device  110 , the blast sleeve borehole  135  of the blast sleeve  130  is aligned with the muzzle device first end  111  of the muzzle device  110  and the blast sleeve second end  132  of the blast sleeve  130  is urged over the muzzle device  110 . 
     As the muzzle device  110  is inserted further into the blast sleeve borehole  135  of the blast sleeve  130  (from the blast sleeve second end  132  toward the blast sleeve first end  131 ), the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110  will contact the inner sleeve sidewall of the blast sleeve borehole  135 . The shape of the inner sleeve sidewall allows fourth frictional engagement between the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110  and the inner sleeve sidewall of the blast sleeve  130 . 
     As the muzzle device  110  is further positioned within the blast sleeve borehole  135  of the blast sleeve  130 , the blast sleeve  130  will be appropriately positioned relative to the suppressor portion  123  of the muzzle device  110  and the screw aperture  134  will be aligned with the screw recess  125 . 
     When the blast sleeve  130  is appropriately positioned relative to the muzzle device  110 , the anti-rotation screw  145  can be positioned through the screw aperture  134  and threadedly received within at least a portion of the aligned screw recess  125 . When the blast sleeve  130  is secured in place, rotational or longitudinal urging or pulling forces applied to the blast sleeve  130  will not remove the blast sleeve  130  from the muzzle device  110  unless the anti-rotation screw  145  is withdrawn a sufficient distance from the screw recess  125 . 
     When the blast sleeve  130  is appropriately secured to the muzzle device  110 , the venting ports  138  are appropriately aligned with venting apertures  108  so as to allow fluid communication between the muzzle device borehole  105 , via the aligned venting ports  138  and the venting apertures  108 , to the exterior of the blast sleeve  130 . Thus, blast propellant gases are able to exit from the muzzle device borehole  105 , through the aligned venting ports  138  and the venting apertures  108 , to the exterior of the blast sleeve  130 . 
     Because of the tight frictional engagement between the inner sleeve sidewall and the outer surface  124  of the muzzle device  110 , when the blast sleeve  130  is appropriately secured to the muzzle device  110 , propellant gases that travel through venting apertures  108  and venting recesses  109  that are covered by the inner sleeve sidewall of the blast sleeve  130  are urged against the inner sleeve sidewall and directed through aligned or intersecting venting troughs  106 , to be directed and expelled from the muzzle device first end  111 , via the open terminating ends of the venting troughs  106 . Thus, certain of the propellant gases are all contained within the blast sleeve  130  and directed through the venting troughs  106 . When positioned around the muzzle device  110 , the blast sleeve  130  vents propellant gases forward, between the inner blast sleeve sidewall  136  of the blast sleeve  130  and the venting troughs  106 , parallel to the main borehole. 
     In various exemplary embodiments, two venting ports  138  are formed through the blast sleeve  130 . When the blast sleeve  130  is aligned with the muzzle device  110 , two of the venting ports  138  are each aligned with a corresponding venting aperture  108 . As the propellant gases are expelled through the venting ports  138 , the expelled gases provide a vertical muzzle rise mitigation factor to the muzzle device system  100 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the blast sleeve  130  is tight-tolerance, press fit onto the muzzle device  110 . 
     It should also be appreciated that a more detailed explanation of the muzzle device  110 , further considerations for selecting an appropriate muzzle device  110 , instructions regarding the use and operation of the muzzle device  110  and/or blast sleeve  130 , and certain other items and/or techniques necessary for the implementation and/or operation of the muzzle device  110  and blast sleeve  130  are not provided herein because such information will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, it is believed that the level of description provided herein is sufficient to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to understand and practice the present disclosure, as described. 
     While this invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting and the fundamental invention should not be considered to be necessarily so constrained. It is evident that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular variation set forth and many alternatives, adaptations modifications, and/or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. 
     Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the present disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and is also encompassed within the present disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the present disclosure. 
     It is to be understood that the phraseology of terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. 
     In addition, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described herein may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. 
     Accordingly, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments will reveal the general nature of the present disclosure, such that others may, by applying current knowledge, change, vary, modify, and/or adapt these exemplary, non-limiting embodiments for various applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and elements or methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practicing the present disclosure. Any and all such changes, variations, modifications, and/or adaptations should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments and may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 
     Also, it is noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “and”, “the”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Conversely, it is contemplated that the claims may be so-drafted to require singular elements or exclude any optional element indicated to be so here in the text or drawings. This statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely”, “only”, and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a “negative” claim limitation(s).