I'm a tite wad and on a budget barrel I'd use a thread protector or A-2 Flash Hider. I just ordered a 30 caliber (5/8X24) A-2 flash hider from Brownell's for $7.62 and $2.10 for a crush washer with my LE/Mil discount. The free shipping sure helps on smaller orders where I was ordering the last few parts I need for a build.
I have only shot a couple of rifles with Linear Compensator and I didn't think any of them were hearing safe. I always use electronic ear muffs, foam ear plugs or both. One 5.56/223 AR-15 I shot had a PVS 14 and a Linear comp, the flash wiped out the view of the night vision with generic 55 grain FMJ. Linear comp had a pretty good flash signature in low light. I realize these are not designed to be flah hiders. I was just surprised by the amount of flash between the Linear Comp on a 16" AR and my 16" AR with A-2 FH.
I have only shot a couple of rifles with Linear Compensator and I didn't think any of them were hearing safe. I always use electronic ear muffs, foam ear plugs or both. One 5.56/223 AR-15 I shot had a PVS 14 and a Linear comp, the flash wiped out the view of the night vision with generic 55 grain FMJ. Linear comp had a pretty good flash signature in low light. I realize these are not designed to be flah hiders. I was just surprised by the amount of flash between the Linear Comp on a 16" AR and my 16" AR with A-2 FH.