OPTIMIZATION AND EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF MUZZLE BRAKE FOR SNIPER RIFLE

Abstract

Muzzle brakes have a significant effect on reducing the recoil force of weapons during firing. In this paper, muzzle brake as recoil compensator and recoil force for sniper rifle with and without muzzle brake are considered. The objective is to obtain the optimum inclination angle for the blades (side openings) of the muzzle brake in order to reduce recoil force. The calculation of the muzzle brake was performed according to the methods of Ratto and Orlov-Tolockov. Based on the obtained input data for the calculation of muzzle brakes according to the Orlov-Tolockov method, a software solution was made in the Matlab software package. Based on the performed simulations, the optimal value of the side openings angle of the muzzle brake was determined in order to improve efficiency. The advanced muzzle brake model was created in the CATIA V5 software package. The prototype solution was produced using a 3D printer. After that, the muzzle brake prototype was made by processing the semi-finished product. Experimental testing of prototype and a comparison with the existing muzzle brake solution was performed. Based on the presented results, it can be concluded that the new muzzle brake design is more efficient than the existing one.