ALG Defense EMR V2 Handguard and Sidewinder Muzzle Brake

Several months back we ordered an ALG Defense EMR V2 M-LOK handguard from Gun Connection in Taylor, TX. Their motto is you buy it, we'll install it so of course we took them up on it. The day we took my AR into the store to have the handguard installed, store owner Dan Kaminkow told us that ALG Defense had sent them a few Sidewinder muzzle brakes. He said that he didn't know anything about them and asked if I wanted to try one out on my AR to review. The muzzle brake that was currently on my AR was stock so there was no way I was going to resist that offer.

Once he installed the new handguard and muzzle brake on my AR it felt like I had a brand new rifle. Not only did it look better, but it was lighter too.  I had ordered the 13" handguard instead of the 10" one because my arms are really long. I like to shoot with my left arm completely extended because it helps me to control my rifle. This length allows for a longer reach than my previous handguard which makes my grip and stance feel more natural. Not only is this handguard functional but it comes in purple which I just had to order because I love the way it looks and it goes with the rest of my gear. The V2 also comes in standard colors such as Black, Desert Dirt Color, and Gray.

 Shortly after the upgrades, Gene and I did a two gun competition with our ARs and handguns. The Sidewinder muzzle brake performed very well. It really helped with recoil and I was able to keep my rifle on target. Several guys on our squad came up to me and said that my rifle did not move at all. They wanted to know what kind of muzzle brake I had and where could they get one. When I showed them the Sidewinder they were surprised how simple it is. We did another two gun competition just a couple of weeks ago and again several people on our squad commented on my muzzle brake and the lack of movement. I would like to think that some of that was my ability, but I guess I have to give the Sidewinder some of the credit. I am very impressed with both of these ALG products and I highly recommend them.

Gene: Well, first off, the color of the ALG front end is not the color I would have chosen but I am a guy, so...... lol Seriously though, no matter what the color is this handguard feels and looks good! It is solid and has a very low profile which makes it easy to use no matter how you choose to grip the handguard with your off-hand. Aside from the small section of picatinny rail at the front of the handguard, if you want to mount accessories this would be easily accomplished using M-Lok attachments. Another great thing about this handguard is that it dissipates heat very well which makes shooting in the summer possible without having to worry about leaving skin behind.

Now, for my take on the Sidewinder muzzle brake. As soon as we took Christy's AR to the range for some testing, the first thing I noticed was the lack of movement from the gun as she started to fire it. Now, I am not taking away from Christy's ability to control an AR. As a matter of fact, she controls an AR better than most people I know. Combine her ability with the sidewinder and it looks like she is shooting a .22 . When I finally convinced her to let me try it out I was surprised at how such a minimalistic design can work so well. I was really impressed with the groupings I was obtaining with the Sidewinder and how it minimized muzzle climb which made quick follow up shots a breeze. It's funny listening to all of the comments that people make at matches about the muzzle brake when Christy is shooting. I often have to remind them that a girl can actually be good with an AR and the Sidewinder makes her even better! Now I may actually have to get one for my AR.