A flash suppressor, also known as a flash guard, flash eliminator, flash hider, or flash cone, is a muzzle device attached to the muzzle of a rifle that reduces its visible signature while firing by cooling or dispersing the burning gases that exit the muzzle, a phenomenon typical of carbine-length weapons.

What does a flash hider do?

A well-designed flash hider can reduce the "bloom" caused by the muzzle blast while viewing through night vision goggles. The reduced flash also helps keep a shooter's night vision, the ability to see in low-light conditions, from being disabled.

Does a flash hider actually work?

Primarily the shooter — flash hiders do a good job of protecting a shooter's vision in low light or no light, when a bright muzzle flash can ruin your natural "night vision."