For too long there have only been a few viable options in brass catchers. It’s the unfortunate case that a categorically inferior design has become mainstream and tainted shooter expectations of what the best brass catcher should be.
Let’s answer some of these questions.
What is a brass catcher?
First off, let’s start with the basics. A brass catcher is a firearm accessory, an attachment that mounts to the rifle, covering the ejection port. The purpose of a brass catcher is to “catch” brass ejected by autoloaders, like AR-15s and other sporting rifles.
Some of the most common brass catchers consist of a wire frame that attaches to a section of the rail along the side of the rifle’s handguard. This frame supports a heat-resistant nylon mesh bag that can be swung over the ejection port, directing spent brass into the bag and capturing it.
The purpose of the brass catcher is to keep spent brass from being ejected to the four winds, making range clean up and reloading projects much easier.
Do I need a brass catcher?
Whether or not you need a brass catcher depends. Do you shoot at a range that doesn’t allow you to leave your brass on the ground? Does your range have an express brass catcher-only rule? If so, you need one. Brass catchers are also a generously courteous accessory because they prevent hot brass casings from flying all around your neighbors at the range.
And, whether or not you categorically need one, a brass catcher is a good idea. They can keep you compliant in ranges and on courses where you are not allowed to leave brass behind, can make it easier for you to gather your old brass for reloading, and can also prevent hunters from losing brass in the brush.
Does a brass catcher need to be easy to empty?
A brass catcher should be easy to empty. Some models come with a zipper at the bottom of the bag that enables you to empty them without removing the brass catcher from the firearm. However, some models like the Brass Goat by Magwell Mounts, available at BrassGoat.com, are compatible with a rigid, detachable hopper that is easily removable and replaceable and holds up to 30 rounds of .223.
Why the best brass catchers don’t mount to rail space on the forend
The best brass catchers (like the Brass Goat) do not attach to your rifle’s handguard or even to a Picatinny rail mount at all. You need that space for other accessories. The Brass Goat instead uses a different mounting system entirely, mounting to the magwells of mil-spec AR-15 lower receivers; they are easy to attach, snapping into place in seconds, and without the need for tools. In contrast to Pic rail brass catchers, the Brass Goat keeps your rails and your sight picture clear.
Why the best brass catchers are not made of nylon mesh
Believe it or not and despite their widespread use, the best brass catchers on the market are not made of heat-resistant mesh. Heat resistant or not, these have been known to melt or catch fire from time to time.
Instead, the Brass Goat AR-15 brass catcher is made of hard, molded ABS resin, catching spent casings without the risk of melting, burning, or catching fire. It’s extremely tough, and it also won’t get tangled up in brush or briars, a bonus for hunters.
Want to learn more about the best brass catcher on the market? Visit BrassGoat.com to learn more about the Brass Goat by Magwell Mounts – you can also contact their customer service team directly at 1-833-MAGWELL or at admin@magwellmounts.com.
