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Shooters were no doubt disappointed to learn that the blast forwarding device known as the SureFire Warden was briefly discontinued. The blast regulator had gained tremendous buzz and popularity among AR enthusiasts since it was introduced a few years ago. Exactly why the California-based tactical company opted to stop making it is unclear, but it probably doesn’t matter to those who just wanted it. Now that it is back in production, we still always get the question: Are there any alternatives to the SureFire Warden? If you're having trouble getting your hands on one, here are some of the best alternative options.
What Is a Blast Forwarding Device?
It turns out that there are multiple alternatives, but before we start listing them, let’s explain what exactly the SureFire Warden does. SureFire designed it to operate in conjunction with a muzzle device to control expelling gases. The problem that the Warden solves is that a muzzle device, like a muzzle brake, will push gas off to the sides, so it might kick up dirt or blow into the face of the shooter next to you. So, the Warden forces the redirected gases forward instead of off to the sides. Incidentally, it also pushes the gunshot noise forward.
Considering how long muzzle devices have been around, something like the SureFire Warden is fairly new. It’s so new that there’s no conventional name for it, so a company like SureFire describes it as a “blast regulator” or “blast diffuser” while other companies use the term “blast shield.” No matter what you call it, a blast control device will direct propellant gases forward.
Attaching a blast control device is usually a simple task. Some you just slide over the muzzle device and lock it, but most others require a specific brake or compensator. Then, when you fire a round, the blast control device cups expelling gases, so they have nowhere else to go except forward.
5 Alternatives to the SureFire Warden
Griffin Armament Blast Shield
Griffin Armament offers the Taper Mount Blast Shield to work with any Taper Mount muzzle device, no matter the caliber. It’s constructed from 17-4PH stainless steel material, weighs 5.4 ounces, and runs 2.6 inches in length. There’s also the Taper Mount Minimalist Blast Shield, but it works best with specific-sized barrels -- usually short -- and suppressors.
GunTec AR-15 Blast Shield
For this combo, the name says it all. It’s a GunTec AR-15 compensator with a quick detach blast shield, meaning the blast shield will work with the compensator it’s paired with. Overall, it weighs 9.7 ounces and runs 2.5 inches. GunTec says it’ll work for standard AR rifles or pistols chambered in .223/5.56 or 9mm.
SilencerCo Blast Shield
The leading suppressor maker, SilencerCo, offers the SilencerCo Blast Shield, which will work with any SilencerCo ASR muzzle device. While the blast shield might be universal, the muzzle devices are not. There are a variety of lengths and calibers. The blast shield weighs 4.8 ounces and runs 2.5 inches in length.
Odin Works Atlas Blast Shield
The ODIN Works Atlas Blast Shield will work with all ODIN Works Atlas Compensators. It’s also available in either a black and stainless steel finish, weighs 2 ounces, and runs 2.04 inches in length.
Fortis Manufacturing Control Shield
The Fortis Control Shield is compatible with muzzle brakes made by Fortis Manufacturing and Rainier Arms. The Control Shield was constructed from 4140 Steel, it weighs 4.2 ounces, and runs 2.36 inches in length.
Heading Down Range
If you’re looking for an alternative to the SureFire Warden, check out the collection of blast shields and muzzle devices on OpticsPlanet. If you have more questions about gear or training, check out our library of How-To Guides to learn more about everything related to firearms, ammo, and more, or send them directly through our Contact Us page.
