Interesting MG42 flash hider

[gska3873]

Got this one in a batch of parts the other week. It is different than the others I have or have seen as the top ring is a smaller diameter than the other three. There are no markings on it. Has anyone seen one like it and what can you tell me about it if there is anything significant. Thanks.

[FR Banker]

I haven't seen one exactly like that but, I have a pic of something similar. Granted, it's a rusted and pitted battlefield find but, it was described as an "very early style" hider and was attached to a 1942 cra marked receiver.

[gska3873]

I am familiar with the early one with the extra ring as I do have one of those as well. I haven't seen one quite like this one though where the upper ring was a smaller diameter.