I saw an old timer shooting what appeared to be a 22WMR with a long, fat barrel & a muzzle brake. I didn't think a 22WMR would need a muzzle brake.

What is the primary function of the muzzle break.... I mean besides driving the guy wacky next to you on the firing line.

I thought it was to reduce recoil on most larger calibers. Is there something I may have overlooked?

Thanks,
Frank in Fla