Indexed or 360 deg ?

[Code4]

I am having a break fitted to my .264WM. My gunsmith wants to fit a 360 degree muzzle break but I'd like a 'two sided' design, indexed to throw the gases out right and left.

Are there any accuracy disadvantages to a two sided break ?
What if it is not perfectly indexed ? Maybe 2-3 degree off.
Will that make a difference ?

 

[royinidaho]

Are there any accuracy disadvantages to a two sided break ?
What if it is not perfectly indexed ? Maybe 2-3 degree off.
Will that make a difference ?

My research and asking questions of quality smiths says the following:

There are no disadvantages accuracy wise to a 'two sided' brake. Personally I feel there are no disadvantages of any kind to one.

Being off more than 2-3 degree off of perfect will not make a difference. BUT, it will drive ya nuts every time you look at it. Been there, done that. But noted smith here put my mind at ease. Shudda had him install the brake in the first place.

The rifle I speak of looks 'off' to me which drives me nuts but shoots lights out to much farther than I ought to be shooting it.

 

[sambo3006]

I'd rather have a side discharge brake for prone shooting to avoid throwing up so much dust. Most of the brakes designed by the smiths who frequent here are side discharge so I think that speaks volumes about the accuracy potential of them.

It would certainly be easier for your smith to install a 360 degree brake, but go with what YOU want, its your rifle. Nate Dagley told me he usually installs side discharge brakes a hair "underclocked" if they are meant to be removed since they will usually tighten up a little farther after being removed and retightened several times. Hope this helps!
Sam

 

[Code4]

Thx for that guys. I appreciate the input.