To a majority of shooters, one of the most unpleasant things about shooting is the deafening sound that accompanies each shot fired. A combination of expanding gasses and changes in air pressure and air temperature culminate in a noise that can be louder than a jumbo jet taking off. Let that soak in for a second. That’s a sound that’s louder than a widebody on take off, just inches away from your ears with every shot. I don’t know about you, but I value my hearing, and to keep from losing it let’s see what we can do to protect it.
First, it’s important to understand how noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) pertains to shooting. NIHL can be caused by even a one-time exposure to a sharp “impulse” sound, such as a gunshot, let alone multiple exposures like you’d get at a shooting range. Sounds of less than 75 decibels, like those from a vacuum cleaner, are unlikely to cause hearing loss while long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels (think gas lawn mower) are known to cause hearing loss. The louder the sound, the shorter the amount of time it takes for hearing to be damaged.
Gunshots, which can range between 140 to 175 decibels, can rupture the eardrum or damage the bones in the middle ear, causing NIHL that can be immediate and permanent even after a single shot. What can we do about it? Ear protection such as plugs or muffs, or, even better, electronic muffs, are standard issue nowadays. I never go to the range without a good set of electronic ear protection. But is there an alternative to having your ears plugged and having pinching, hot and sweaty muffs over your head and ears? Absolutely.
Shooting with sound suppressors can be a liberating experience. With the right combination of gun, suppressor, and ammo, you can shoot without worn ear pro at safe hearing levels. Suppressors are essentially mufflers for your gun. They greatly reduce not only the level of noise coming from your gun, but they also reduce recoil and muzzle flash as well, increasing accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment. It’s worth mentioning that not all suppressed guns are hearing safe, so do consult with a knowledgeable source such as a suppressor manufacturer or your local dealer before shooting without any hearing protection.
Check out our gallery of suppressors above. For more information, please visit the websites listed below.
Rugged Suppressors, the company that created the industry’s first-ever modular rifle suppressor with the Surge 762, has now launched its little brother — the Razor 762.
At 6.4 inches long and weighing in at 15.3 ounces, the Razor is the shortest and lightest suppressor in its class. It’s built for enthusiasts and sportsmen who want maximum maneuverability and weight savings. Not to mention, rugged durability.
“We set the bar high with the Surge 762,” says Henry Graham, President. “While building the Razor, we focused on creating a light weight and compact suppressor that features a deep tone, back pressure-reducing design. The Razor really hits the mark on each of these.”
Constructed entirely of 17-4PH Stainless Steel and featuring a full circumference welded Stellite baffle core, the Razor comes more than ready for any caliber up to .300 RUM.
Like its modular brother, the Razor 762 comes with an Unconditional Lifetime Warranty and a Dual Taper Lock Mounting System that ensures wobble-free firing.
Constructed of aluminum and 17-4PH stainless steel, the Obsidian 45 also comes with Adapt Modular Technology. The Adapt module allows users to configure the Obsidian in a standard 8.6” to a 6.7” short configuration within seconds. It’s full-auto rated for pistol calibers up-to .45 ACP can be used with 300 Blackout subsonic rifle ammunition.
The Obsidian 45’s namesake comes from the tough, naturally occurring volcanic glass made from cooled lava. And it lives up to its name. It comes with an unconditional lifetime warranty. (Drop it from a mountaintop and Rugged will fix it or replace it free of charge.)
In keeping with a mantra of creating innovative products that upset the industry, Rugged has chosen to serialize the suppressor mount instead of the tube.
“We strategically place the engraving on the thickest cross section of the 17-4 stainless steel mount for fast and easy replacement should the suppressor become damaged beyond repair,” CEO Michael Derdziak said in a statement. “It also serves to make the Obsidian infinitely upgradable in the future.”
The Hogue Full-Length Aluminum Bed Block Stock features a molded-in, precision CNC-machined, 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum block that completely surrounds the action and extends into the forend. This full-length block provides rock-solid stability over the full length of the stock and free-floats the barrel. This stock is available for Mauser, Winchester, Remington, Savage, Ruger, Howa and Weatherby rifles.
The Wheeler Engineering Professional Digital Trigger Gauge is designed for firearms enthusiasts. Featuring an ergonomic overmolded design, the easy-to-use gauge has a 0- to 12-pound range and is accurate to within 0.1 ounces. A load sensor directly contacts the trigger, and the unit features an audible indicator tone. Soft-touch buttons and a low-battery indicator round out the package.
The Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) MK15 Tritium Watch is designed to be there for you when you need it. Housed in a case made from 316L stainless steel and finished in a brushed black PVD, the MK15 is water resistant to 200 meters with Swiss-made chronograph movement. Offered as a limited edition of 2,500 timepieces, each MK15 is laser engraved with a unique serial number and deploys in a custom injection-molded, glass-fiber-reinforced case.
New from Tetra Gun is its Carbon Cleaner solution, which is specially formulated to eliminate carbon buildup from metal surfaces on firearms. It is a water-based solution that is generally harmless to non-metal parts, including wood, rubber, polymer and composite materials. The product is also non-flammable and biodegradable. The result is a top-notch cleaning product for all your firearms needs.
Described by Ruger as “the next generation of self-defense technology,” the new ARX line of handgun ammunition is engineered to deliver when it matters. Developed in concert with PolyCase Ammunition and employing advanced materials, the projectiles are designed for maximum hydraulic displacement and terminal energy transfer to the threat. Currently available in 9mm, .380 and .45, with .40 coming soon.
Liberty Ammunition’s lead-free, 55-grain, .223 Remington Silverado rifle cartridge receives high marks for its accuracy, lack of overpenetration and running flawlessly with no malfunctions. The cartridge is designed to deliver flawless functioning in a wide variety of firearm types along with impressive performance on target. The result is a lead-free round that gives up nothing and brings a lot to the game.
The new Obsidian .45 ACP suppressor from Rugged Suppressors has been described as “the industry’s quietest .45 pistol suppressor.” The new multi-caliber, modular pistol suppressor measures at 129.3 decibels dry with a .45 ACP pistol. Constructed of aluminum and 17-4PH stainless steel, the Obsidian also comes with Adapt Modular Technology that allows users to configure the Obsidian from a standard 8.6-inch configuration to a short 6.7-inch configuration within seconds.
As its name implies, SPECIAL WEAPONS is dedicated to providing readers with must-read intel on the latest and greatest weapons and gear hitting the market for both civilians and military operators. Every issue of this magazine is packed with special innovations that keep our warriors safer and more effective on the front lines, and that’s why we always include a “New Products” page—a roundup of the best new products available.
The New Products listing from the April/May 2016 issue of SPECIAL WEAPONS certainly won’t disappoint. Some of the new products include Bravo Company’s MK15 Tritium Watch, which is housed in a case made from 316L stainless steel and finished in black PVD. The MK15 is water resistant to 200 meters with Swiss-made chronograph movement. Liberty Ammunition has also unveiled its lead-free .223 Remington ammo, and Ruger has begun offering its own fodder with ARX projectiles.
Some people still envision sound suppressors as those little black tubes secret agents install on guns in movies. But suppressors, silencers, cans — whatever you want to call them — are legal to own and hunt with in most states after obtaining the proper paperwork. And the benefits of suppressors are many: less hearing damage, less angry neighbors, less flinching from recoil.
So read on and scroll through the gallery to see what new suppressors are hitting the market for 2016. There are dozens available to help outfit all your weapons.
AAC Illusion 9
The Illusion 9 is AAC’s first eccentric design and is based on the Evolution 9mm suppressor. It was designed to be low enough to allow for the use of factory-height sights. This unit is also user serviceable. It is constructed with seven stainless steel conical baffles and a titanium body with a hardcoat anodized finish. The illusion is 7.88 inches long, 1.25 inches in diameter, weighs 10.4 ounces and has a rated sound reduction of 33 decibels. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AAC Ti-RANT 45M
The Ti-RANT 45M can be configured as either a short or long unit. This unit is user serviceable. In the long incarnation, the unit is 8.74 inches long and weighs 13 ounces while the short version is 6.75 inches and 11.3 ounces due to having three less baffles. The Ti-RANT 45M offers a dry sound reduction of 30 and 18 decibels in the full and short configurations, respectively. The Ti-RANT 45M is also made with a stainless steel blast baffle, anodized aluminum secondary baffles, and a titanium tube and end cap. The 1.38-inch-diameter tube is finished with Cerakote. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AMTAC CQBM
AMTAC is a new player to the suppressor business but brings with it lots of experience in precision machining. Most AMTAC suppressors use a reflex design where the suppressor fits over and around the barrel, and gas is discharged inside the suppressor to the front and rear of the muzzle. This design allows for significant volume but does not add much length the barrel. AMTAC suppressors also use an interesting and very durable monocore made from a single rod of 17-4 precipitate-hardened stainless steel and a stainless tube. The CQBM is made in 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO. Both units are 7.7 inches long, but extend the muzzle by 3.7 inches. Their diameters are 1.62 inches and they weigh 17.7 ounces. (amtacsuppressors.com; 801-505-7100)
AWC Ultra 13TD
AWC is one of the oldest suppressor manufacturers with considerable experience in integrally suppressed firearms, including the Browning Buckmark as well as Ruger’s MKIII pistols and 10/22 and 77/44 rifles. The Ultra 13TD is an integrally suppressed, stainless steel, takedown Ruger 10/22. The Ultra 13TD involves a ported and shortened Ruger barrel and adds a suppressor core in front. The suppressor is a welded baffle design made from stainless steel and is removable for cleaning with the barrel/suppressor shroud made from stainless steel. The Ultra 13TD is 35.5 inches long when assembled—1.5 inches shorter than Ruger’s original—and breaks down to 20 inches. According to AWC, because the barrel is permanently attached to the receiver, this system has only one tax stamp and is not considered an SBR. (awcsilencers.com; 623-780-1050)
Century Arms AK Suppressors
Century arms is best known for its line of U.S.-made AK-pattern rifles and imported surplus firearms. It will soon enter the suppressor market with two Red Army Standard-branded AK suppressors that are 1.5 inches in diameter and 6 or 8 inches long. These suppressors mount with 14×1 LH threads, which will attach directly to many AK-47 rifles. The AK suppressors also use a stainless steel monocore. (centuryarms.com; 800-527-1252)
Dead Air Silencers Ghost-M
Dead Air Silencers’ new Ghost-M pistol suppressor offers lots of versatility because it can handle .22 LR, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, 10mm and subsonic 300 BLK cartridges and can be converted between two configurations: short (6.2 inches) and long (8.75 inches. The Ghost-M can also handle full-auto fire (semi-auto in 300 BLK), and you can quickly change the suppressor’s length by unscrewing the forward section and replacing the end cap. The baffles in the forward section and main body stay intact, making reassembly just as quick. The Ghost-M is made with a titanium tube and 17-4 stainless steel baffles and end caps. Its weight varies from 9.6 to 12 ounces. (deadairsilencers.com; 877-892-7544)
Delta P Design Brevis II
Perhaps the most compact and certainly the most unconventionally manufactured suppressors available are the Bevis II series from Delta P Design. These short rifle suppressors are new to the market and are made with titanium or Inconel steel using 3D printing technology. This manufacturing method makes the unit one piece without any welds, seams or added parts. All Brevis II suppressors are thread mounted. The 5.56mm Brevis II is 2 inches in diameter, 3.7 inches long and weighs 11.5 ounces while the 7.62mm Brevis II is only 5.5 inches long and weighs 16 ounces. Both models are full-auto rated and made from Inconel. (deltapdesign.com; 503-487-0007)
EliteIron Delta Short
EliteIron makes detachable suppressors for 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP pistols and as well as .22-, .30- and .50-caliber rifles, as well as three integrally suppressed models for the Ruger 10/22 rifle and MKII pistol. New to the company’s lineup this year is the Delta Short for 5.56mm rifles. The Delta Short is the compact version of the 8-inch-long Delta. It’s 6.38 inches long and weighs 18.5 ounces. Like all EliteIron rifle suppressors, the Delta Short is made with a 1.5-inch-diameter, stainless steel tube finished with Cerakote. The K-baffles, made from 17-4 stainless steel, are fully welded for structural strength and durability and can withstand full-auto fire. The Delta Short mounts directly to 1/2×28 threads, but other threads and calibers are available. (eliteiron.com; 406-244-0234)
Gemtech Tracker
Gemtech’s new Tracker suppressor is designed for hunters who want a lightweight (11.3 ounces) and reasonably priced suppressor. Its MSRP of $599 makes it Gemtech’s lowest-priced centerfire suppressor. The Tracker can be used on .300 Winchester Magnum rifles with 24-inch or longer barrels, or .308 Winchester and .223 Remington rifles with 16-inch or longer barrels. It can also be used on other .30-caliber and lower-caliber firearms. The 1.6-inch-diameter, 7.9-inch-long tube is made of aluminum while the 5/8×24 thread mount is titanium. (gem-tech.com; 208-939-7222)
Hailey Ordnance AeGIS
One of the more popular suppressed rifles is the Ruger 10/22, but integrally suppressed models are scarce. Hailey Ordnance’s new AeGIS (Adjustable Gas Integrated) suppressor is a 10/22 barrel that is integrally suppressed and dropped into the Ruger .22LR or Savage .17 HMR rifles. The AeGIS allows the user to adjust the amount of gas that is bled into the baffles, thus fine-tuning the rifle for projectile velocity and noise signature. This system uses a stainless steel barrel followed by a pinned-on aluminum monocore suppressor with a steel insert on the first three baffles. The AeGIS has a stainless sleeve, is 0.92 inches in diameter and weighs 19.5 to 23 ounces. (haileyord.com; 405-813-0700)
Liberty Cosmic
Liberty’s versatile new Cosmic suppressor is a great choice for a first-time suppressor buyer who wants to buy only one suppressor and use it on several different firearms. The Cosmic can be used on pistols up to .454 Casull and rifles up to 5.56mm. Notably, the list of pistol calibers that can be used includes the 10mm and several magnums, including the .44 Mag and .400 CorBon. To handle these high pressures, the Cosmic uses a stainless steel monocore and a titanium tube finished in Cerakote, and it can be disassembled by the user for cleaning. It is rated for moderate full-auto fire in pistol calibers. The Cosmic is 8 inches long, 1.38 inches in diameter and weighs only 9.5 ounces. (libertycans.net; 706-661-6911)
Mack Brothers Helium
Mack Brothers’ new Helium is the company’s first silencer that allows the user to configure the mount to direct thread or QD for use on different rifles. The Helium is made for bolt-action rifles up to .300 Winchester Magnum where lighter weight is important. The unit is made with a titanium tube and baffles while the mount, end caps and front buffer are 17-4 stainless steel. It has a 1.63-inch diameter, a weight of 13.5 to 15 ounces and a length of 7.25 to 8.9 inches depending on the mounting configuration. The Helium is not user serviceable, but the factory can dissemble it. (macbros.com; 605-720-0002)
Octave 12
The Octave 12 is one of only two commercially available shotgun suppressors made by an affiliate of UTAS, the maker of the 14-shot pump shotgun that created lots of excitement a few years ago when it made its debut. The Octave 12 is 12 inches long and 2.25 inches in diameter yet lightweight at only 19.8 ounces. It has a carbon-fiber tube and expansion chamber, and anodized aluminum baffles set around a machined-steel muffler tube. Gases are trapped in the expansion chambers, which are filled with removable noise dampening material. The end caps are removable for cleaning, and the unit threads into shotgun barrel chokes with adapters sold for Beretta/Benelli, Remington and Winchester chokes. (octavesuppressors.com; 224-595-4578)
Ruger Silent-SR
Ruger’s first entry into the suppressor market is the Silent-SR, which is made for rimfires in .22LR, .22 WMR and .17 HMR. The Silent-SR is made with a titanium tube and an aluminum rear cap while the baffles, mount and end cap are stainless steel. The Silent-SR uses seven tightly fitted, snap-together baffles that keep lead and carbon away from the tube to make disassembly easy without fouling cementing the parts together. The Silent-SR is 1 inch in diameter, 5.37 inches long and weighs 6.3 ounces. It is rated for full-auto in .22 LR and has a stated sound reduction of up to 40 decibels. (ruger.com)
Rugged Suppressors Surge 762
Rugged Suppressors is a new company founded by Henry Graham, who previously owned or partnered in two successful suppressor makers. As its name implies, the new company aims to make very durable suppressors that withstand hard use when mounted on full-auto weapons. Some of Rugged’s designs are even designed for the sustained fire of belt-fed machine guns. The Surge 762 is a modular rifle suppressor made with a fully circumferentially welded core of Stellite baffles, a 17-4 stainless steel mount and a 316L stainless tube. Users can configure it in its full length (9 inches) or unscrew the front section for a more compact 7.5 inches. This suppressor is rated for 7.62mm NATO to .300 RUM belt-fed machine guns with certain minimal barrel lengths. It can also be used on 5.56mm weapons with or without an optional end cap that will reduce noise. (ruggedsuppressors.com)
Sig Sauer SRD762Ti-QD
The SRD762Ti-QD is a Grade 5 titanium silencer using a Fast-Attach muzzle device for mounting the silencer to the rifle. The 7.62mm muzzle device is available in 5/8×24 threads, matching the vast majority of modern sporting rifles in .308/762 on the market today. The rear mount has wrench flats to torque the silencer to the barrel. There is a secondary retention latch that is depressed to remove the silencer from the mount. The SRD762Ti-QD is rated for use up to .300 Win Mag and it comes with a Taper-Lok muzzle brake. Other muzzle devices are available. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)
SureFire Ryder 9M
This year SureFire offers a modular version of the very successful Ryder 9 Ti that was introduced in 2015. The SF Ryder 9M allows 9mm pistol and carbine shooters to use a full length or short version of the suppressor when needs dictate a different length or desired sound reduction. The Ryder 9M is 7.9 inches long and weighs 11 ounces, while unscrewing the end module brings length and weight down to 5.9 inches and 8.5 ounces. At only 1.25 inches wide, no special high-profile sights are needed on the host pistol. The Ryder 9M uses a titanium tube and end caps coated in grey, black or Flat Dark Earth Cerakote. Inside, there are five heat-treated stainless steel baffles and one spacer that are numbered and notched for correct and quick reassembly after cleaning. The unit is sold with an assembly/disassembly tool that easily removes and reinstalls the baffles as a single-stacked unit. (surefire.com; 800-828-8809)
Troy M7
Troy has added the 5.56mm M7 suppressor to its existing suppressor line. The M7 can be purchased in short or long configurations in either 17-4 stainless steel or titanium for lighter weight. Both configurations come with a three-prong flash suppressor that mounts onto the threaded barrel of the host weapon. Shooters can select either a thread mount or QD mount to attach the suppressor to the three-prong flash hider. The 5.56mm M7 has a 1.5-inch diameter, while the long and short configurations are 7.75 inches/19.3 ounces and 6.13 inches/16.2 ounces, respectively. The sound reduction ratings for the long and short versions are 34 to 36 decibels and 32 to 34 decibels, respectively. (worldoftroy.com; 866-788-6412)
Wilson Combat WCR-22
The newest Wilson Combat suppressor is the WCR-22, which is a durable rimfire suppressor that can handle full-auto .22 LR and .22 WMR calibers. It’s made with a 7075-T6 aluminum monocore, a stainless steel thread mount and a titanium tube. It has a 1-inch diameter, a length of 6 inches and a weight of only 4.2 ounces. This suppressor comes with a wrench to remove the core for cleaning and a nylon belt pouch. Five colors of Wilson’s own Armor-Tuff finish are available. Applying Armor-Tuff is a multi-step process with a resulting finish that Wilson has tested and believes offers superior performance to other thermally cured finishes in several areas, including abrasion, corrosion resistance and lubricity. (wilsoncombat.com; 800-955-4856)
Yankee Hill Machine Nitro
Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) makes rifle, pistol and submachine gun suppressors. For 2016, the company will offer the new Nitro modular suppressor that can be used on a wide range of calibers from .17 HMR to .300 Ultra Mag. The Nitro is configurable for different calibers by changing end caps for better sound reduction, and it can also use either a direct-thread or QD mount. Made from 17-4 stainless steel with an Inconel blast baffle, this nine-baffle suppressor is rated for full-auto fire up to .308 Winchester. The Nitro weighs 21 ounces, is measures 7.38 inches long and has a Cerakote finish. (yhm.net; 877-892-6533)
AAC Ti-Rant 9M: This year, Advanced Armament Corp. (AAC) has rolled out the Ti-RANT 9M, its second modular pistol suppressor behind the 45M model. Here modular means the suppressor can be shortened from its original length for compactness with, of course, a louder signature as a tradeoff. Like the 45M version, the 9M is also user serviceable. The 1.38-inch-diameter unit can used in two configurations: 8 inches long and weighing 9.5 ounces or, by removing the end section, 5.84 inches long and 7.75 ounces. The dry sound attenuation is 32 and 21 decibels for the long and short configurations, respectively. The Ti-RANT 9M is made with a stainless steel blast baffle, an anodized aluminum front module and secondary baffles, and a titanium main tube. The tube is finished with Cerakote, and the full-auto-rated unit comes with two pistons for different threaded barrels.
Alpha Dog: The Alpha Dog is a centerfire pistol suppressor with a couple of unusual twists. Designed for 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP weapons, this suppressor has a distinctively shaped tube with an integral Picatinny style rail for mounting a light or laser (for pistols without a rail) and to possibly help dissipate heat. The rear end of this rail also functions as an open sight while up front is a post-type sight integral to the end cap. These three-dot sights make aiming much easier when mounted on a pistol that lacks suppressor-height sights. Users can orient the position of the rail to 12 different positions. The Alpha Dog also has a specially shaped end cap intended to protect the unit if dropped muzzle down. Inside the can is a V-shaped monocore made from 7075-T6 aluminum and coated with Teflon for easier cleaning. This sound suppressor also has a stainless piston and housing that is pinned to the tube so that the housing does not unscrew itself from the tube when the suppressor is removed from the barrel.
BlackHawk Gas Can: BlackHawk is a brand better known for its tactical clothing and holsters, but it recently announced a line of suppressors for pistols and rifles up to .338 Lapua Magnum. The company now offers several models for rimfire and centerfire weapons, and they all use aluminum tubes and carry a lifetime warranty. BlackHawk promotes the 7.62mm Gas Can as its most versatile unit, and it’s probably the most durable with baffles constructed of abrasion- and heat-resistant Stellite, Inconel and stainless steel. It carries a full-auto rating and mounts directly by 5/8x24 threads or to an included muzzle brake with a ratchet-type QD attachment.
AMTAC Hornet: AMTAC has introduced a new 9mm suppressor specifically for pistol-caliber carbines. Like other AMTAC designs, the Hornet is a reflex design where the suppressor fits over and around the barrel and gas is discharged inside the can to the front and rear of the muzzle. This design allows for significant volume but does not add much length the barrel—only 4 inches despite the Hornet’s overall length of 7.7 inches. The suppressor mounts directly to barrels with a diameters no greater than 0.75 inches. The Hornet also uses a durable monocore made from a single rod of 17-4 precipitate-hardened stainless steel surrounded by a Cerakoted stainless tube 1.62 inches in diameter. The unit weighs 16.6 ounces and has a sound reduction rating (SRR) of 30 decibels.
Angstadt Arms UDP-9i: The UDP-9 is a high-quality AR dedicated to using Glock magazines. Angstadt Arms offers pistol, SBR and carbine variants, and has recently unveiled an integrally suppressed version with a suppressor from KG Made. The UDP-9i is different than most integrally suppressed firearms because it has 15 small gas ports ahead of the chamber that can be set to bleed gas off the barrel and into the suppressor, thus allowing a shooter to reduce supersonic ammo to subsonic velocities for quieter operation. The gas ports are adjustable with an Allen wrench, and the unit has a vented blast chamber intended to eliminate first-round “pops.” This weapon is full-auto rated and is made with 17-4 PH stainless M-type baffles and a titanium tube.
Dead Air Wolverine PBS-1: Sound suppressors specifically designed for former Soviet weapons are a rarity for several good reasons, including variability and quality control in barrel threading and design aspects of rifles like the AK-47 that limit their ability to be made quiet. But that’s not to say that the muzzle signature from these weapons can’t be diminished, and the new Wolverine PBS-1 is built for AKs, Krinks, etc. The Wolverine fits mounts with threads and locks tight to the AK’s front sight block pin. Constructed with a stainless steel tube and baffles, this suppressor is durable enough for full-auto fire and has no minimal barrel restrictions. It can also be used on AR-15s by swapping the thread insert.
Freedom Armory Minuteman: Those who want a high-performance and very lightweight suppressor for .22 LR up to 5.7x28mm weapons should consider the Minuteman from Freedom Armory. This suppressor is 100-percent titanium and weighs only 3.9 ounces yet delivers an SRR up to 42 decibels. The Minuteman is 6 inches long and uses six baffles that can be rotated to different positions by the user to adjust or optimize the sound report on different handguns and rifles. The Minuteman is full-auto rated for .22 LR weapons.
Freedom Armory Dragoon: Freedom Armory also makes the Dragoon series for 5.56mm and 7.62mm rifles. Each chambering is available with a direct-thread or a QD mount. Made of titanium, Dragoon suppressors are built differently than most centerfire models because they can be dissembled, and the tube is milled out of solid titanium. The solid titanium construction makes for a weld-free area where the mount is installed.
Hailey Ordnance AeGIS: Integral suppressors for the Ruger 10/22 rifle are nothing new, but the AeGIS suppressor from Hailey Ordnance is far more advanced that most others. AeGIS stands for “Adjustable Gas Integrated Suppressor.” This unit allows the user to bleed gas off of the barrel to reduce velocity to subsonic levels, for instance, for more quiet operation and to tune the ballistics from a variety of ammunition. The AeGIS uses a match-grade Lothar Walther barrel pinned to an aluminum monocore suppressor with a steel insert on the first three baffles, and a 0.91-inch-diameter stainless steel tube. The overall length is 23 inches, and it weighs 19.5 ounces.
Inland PM-22: Inland is best known for making reproduction M1 Carbines, but now the company is offering its first sound suppressor and an interesting ablative foam for increased sound reduction. The PM-22 sound suppressor is designed for rimfires, and weighing 3.3 ounces due to its polymer monocore and aluminum tube, it could be the lightest suppressor commercially available. The PM-22 is just under 1 inches in diameter and has a stainless steel threaded base.
OSS HX Magnum: Operators Suppressor Systems (OSS) has expanded its Helix line to include the HX Magnum, a rifle suppressor that can handle anything from the 5.56mm to the .338 Lapua. Built with OSS’ patented Flow-Through technology, the HX Magnum has an integrated flush mount and is full-auto rated. The suppressor is 8.37 inches long and weighs 25 ounces. It’s constructed with stainless steel, cobalt and titanium, and mounts with OSS’ STS-Muzzle Brake—a suppressor mount and fully functioning muzzle brake that self-tightens during fire.
Rugged Surge 762: Of the models Rugged Suppressors offers, the modular Surge 762 is the flagship. Designed for sustained fire on belt-fed full-autos, this suppressor is made with a fully circumferentially welded core of Stellite baffles, a 17-4 stainless steel mount and a 316L stainless tube. Users can configure it in full length (9 inches) or unscrew the front section for a more compact 7.5 inches. It mounts with a flash suppressor or muzzle brake. This suppressor is rated for 7.62mm NATO to .300 Remington Ultra Magnum belt-fed machine guns with certain minimal barrel lengths.
Rugged Oculus 22: The Oculus 22 is designed for .22 LR to 5.7x28mm weapons. Full-auto rated, the Oculus is modular with a long/short length of 5.25/3.25 inches and a weight of 6.9/4.3 ounces. The baffles, tube and mount are all made from 17-4 PH stainless steel.
Rugged Join or Die: Finally, for those who want a collectible set of Rugged’s best sellers, Silencer Shop is selling a cased set with a very distinctive custom Cerakote finish with the Revolutionary War “Join or Die” snake by Blowndeadline.
Q Suppressors Erector: Q is a new and curious company name in the suppressor industry, but the design and management team, led by Kevin Brittingham, has decades of experience from AAC and Sig Sauer. Q makes for four suppressors for .30-caliber rifles up to .300 Winchester Magnums and two cans for rimfires and 5.7x28mm weapons. The rifle units all have 1.75-inch-diameter, tubeless welded designs and are either made of titanium or Inconel. The rimfire Erector has a tubeless design with 10 removable baffles that screw together. The Erector can be used in full-length configuration or shortened one section at a time.
Q Suppressors El Camino: Made of stainless steel with a titanium tube, the rimfire El Camino is 0.95 inches thick, 5.95 inches long and weighs 4.3 ounce. The end caps on both can be unscrewed with a 0.5-inch socket wrench, which helps break loose fouled baffles.
Sig Sauer SRD22X: This year Sig Sauer has improved upon its SRD22 suppressor with the SRD22X, which has an internal sleeve that holds the baffle stack and prevents soot and lead from adhering it to the tube walls. The SRD22X has a removable K-type baffle stack and a titanium tube. It’s 5.8 inches long, weighs 5.8 ounces and measures 1 inch in diameter.
Sig Sauer SRD9: The 9mm SRD9 features a titanium tube and 17-4 PH stainless steel cup-type baffles for heavy use, and it comes with two pistons for the most popular thread pitches. The SRD9 can be disassembled for cleaning or baffle replacement. It’s 7.2 inches long, 1.375 inches in diameter and weighs 9 ounces.
SureFire Ryder 9-MP5: This year SureFire has adapted its Ryder 9 suppressor for use with HK MP5 submachine guns, connecting to the MP5’s tri-lug barrel using a quick-detach mount. The Ryder 9-MP5 is made with a titanium tube and end caps, stainless steel cup-type baffles and a spacer. Everything is removable for cleaning or replacement. Reassembly is aided by the numbers and notches included on each baffle. An assembly/disassembly tool that removes and reinstalls the baffles as a single-stacked unit is also included. The SureFire Ryder 9-MP5 is 9 inches long, 1.3 inches in diameter and weighs 15.4 ounces. Several Cerakote finishes are available.
Wilson Combat WCR-22: Besides being one of the largest makers of custom- grade 1911s and ARs, Wilson Combat also offers Whisper centerfire suppressors and WCR-22 rimfire suppressors. While the Whisper series is available in five different chamberings, all with Wilson’s Armor-Tuff finish, the WCR-22 uses a 7075-T6 aluminum monocore, a stainless steel thread mount and a titanium tube finished in any of five Armor-Tuff colors. The WCR-22 is full-auto rated for .22 LR and .22 WMR weapons. It’s only 4.2 ounces, 1 inch in diameter and 6 inches long, and it can easily be disassembled for cleaning with a supplied wrench.
SilencerCo Maxim 9: The long-awaited Maxim 9 suppressed pistol is finally shipping. The Maxim 9 is a striker-fired pistol that hold 15+1 rounds of 9mm ammo and is configurable into two lengths: 9.45 or 10.75 inches. Though this weapon system rightfully gets lots of attention, the more unconventional aspect is the pistol itself rather than the suppressor, which uses a fixed, un-ported barrel that protrudes into the blast baffle and has twin recoil springs located behind the barrel chamber. The grip is also extremely comfortable with imaginative yet completely functional styling. The suppressor baffles can be disassembled for cleaning, and the Maxim 9 comes with a Kydex-style holster with active retention.
YHM Turbo 5.56: Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) makes pistol, rifle and sub-machine gun suppressors, and its newest release is the Turbo 5.56. The Turbo 5.56 is a tubeless design where the baffles are fully welded together without an overlapping sleeve. This is the technique rifle suppressors are trending towards because it saves weight and costs, but it does require careful welding. The Turbo 5.56 is made with an Inconel blast baffle followed by 17-4 PH stainless secondary baffles. It’s 6.5 inches long and 1.56 inches in diameter. This can mounts onto an included brake and weighs 13.5 ounces. Using a 5.56mm with a 14-inch barrel, the rated average sound is 134 decibels.
Sound suppressors are becoming more and more popular because of all the benefits they offer shooters. They protect your hearing, won’t spook game and will certainly improve your relationships with your neighbors. Though they still fall under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and consequently are much more regulated at the federal level than most firearms (and come with a $200 transfer tax on each unit), suppressors are legal to own in most states. Moreover, there’s hope with the new Congress and Trump administration that the ultra-restrictive NFA requirements will be removed if the Hearing Protection Act becomes law. To that end, let’s look at some of the more noteworthy new suppressor models hitting the market in 2017.
After blowing up a supposed “auto-rated” suppressor with an M16, I went on a trek to find one that would not have an unscheduled and surprising demise. My research found numerous roads leading me to Rugged Suppressors.
I called the company and spoke to Michael Derdziak, one of the two owners, and explained my woeful history with the suppressor that did not live up to its hype. He assured me that Rugged’s centerfire suppressors are up to the task of M16 magazine dumps as they are not just auto rated, but are also belt-fed rated, from up to .300 RUM. As such, they are durable enough to handle sustained fire. Sounds just like what I was seeking!
Rugged Surge Specs
I received a Rugged Surge 7.62 for testing. The Surge has Rugged’s ADAPT Modular Technology, meaning that it is a two-piece suppressor, allowing the user to remove a portion for a shorter and lighter-weight suppressor. In essence, it’s two suppressors in one. This not only makes the Surge adaptable, but you only need one tax stamp. The Surge ships with a 7.62mm front cap and a flash suppressor mount. Both can be interchanged with 5.56mm versions.
The Rugged Surge’s tube and mount are manufactured from 17-4 stainless steel. The baffles—and here is where it gets interesting—are made from Stellite. According to Rugged’s website, “Stellite exhibits unparalleled hardness and toughness as well as an extremely high melting point due to its cobalt and chromium content.” It extends the life of your suppressor by negating the effects of erosion wear when compared to Inconel or stainless steel baffles.”
Stellite handles heat better than titanium, which accounts for Rugged’s ability to rate its rifle suppressors for belt-fed use. You may be like me and have not heard of Stellite, but it is currently used in M2, M60/MK43 and M240 barrels and boasts an 80-percent service-life increase over chrome-plated barrels.
Rugged’s Dual Taper Locking System is designed to eliminate wobble using constant spring pressure on the rear taper. This keeps the mount securely locked during repeating healing and cooling cycles. In terms of manufacturing, all of the machining is done in-house. The Rugged’s mount, the component that takes the most abuse, is not made from tube stock—rather, it is machined bar stock.
Every rifle suppressor is test fired for accuracy and point-of-impact shifts. As a testament to their durability, Rugged Suppressors offers an unconditional warranty: “If for any reason you have an issue with a Rugged Suppressors product, we will repair or replace it free of charge. Period. Even if you drop it from a mountain.” No small type, no restrictions, no time limit. You don’t see that level of confidence and customer support very often.
Perfect Addition
Range testing with the Rugged Surge on the LWRCI REPR MKII displayed the normal group drop. The drop happens anytime you add weight to the end of a barrel. The drop distance is dependent on the weight of the suppressor, barrel profile and barrel length. The group sizes and point of aim weren’t affected. It was the perfect addition.
Rugged suppressors are strong enough for belt-fed machine guns and accurate enough for precision shooting. Regardless of which you model you pick, you won’t go wrong Rugged Suppressors’ accuracy, durability and warranty.
To a majority of shooters, one of the most unpleasant things about shooting is the deafening sound that accompanies each shot fired. A combination of expanding gasses and changes in air pressure and air temperature culminate in a noise that can be louder than a jumbo jet taking off. Let that soak in for a second. That’s a sound that’s louder than a widebody on take off, just inches away from your ears with every shot. I don’t know about you, but I value my hearing, and to keep from losing it let’s see what we can do to protect it.
First, it’s important to understand how noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) pertains to shooting. NIHL can be caused by even a one-time exposure to a sharp “impulse” sound, such as a gunshot, let alone multiple exposures like you’d get at a shooting range. Sounds of less than 75 decibels, like those from a vacuum cleaner, are unlikely to cause hearing loss while long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels (think gas lawn mower) are known to cause hearing loss. The louder the sound, the shorter the amount of time it takes for hearing to be damaged.
Gunshots, which can range between 140 to 175 decibels, can rupture the eardrum or damage the bones in the middle ear, causing NIHL that can be immediate and permanent even after a single shot. What can we do about it? Ear protection such as plugs or muffs, or, even better, electronic muffs, are standard issue nowadays. I never go to the range without a good set of electronic ear protection. But is there an alternative to having your ears plugged and having pinching, hot and sweaty muffs over your head and ears? Absolutely.
Shooting with sound suppressors can be a liberating experience. With the right combination of gun, suppressor, and ammo, you can shoot without worn ear pro at safe hearing levels. Suppressors are essentially mufflers for your gun. They greatly reduce not only the level of noise coming from your gun, but they also reduce recoil and muzzle flash as well, increasing accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment. It’s worth mentioning that not all suppressed guns are hearing safe, so do consult with a knowledgeable source such as a suppressor manufacturer or your local dealer before shooting without any hearing protection.
Check out our gallery of suppressors above. For more information, please visit the websites listed below.
Rugged Suppressors, the company that created the industry’s first-ever modular rifle suppressor with the Surge 762, has now launched its little brother — the Razor 762.
At 6.4 inches long and weighing in at 15.3 ounces, the Razor is the shortest and lightest suppressor in its class. It’s built for enthusiasts and sportsmen who want maximum maneuverability and weight savings. Not to mention, rugged durability.
“We set the bar high with the Surge 762,” says Henry Graham, President. “While building the Razor, we focused on creating a light weight and compact suppressor that features a deep tone, back pressure-reducing design. The Razor really hits the mark on each of these.”
Constructed entirely of 17-4PH Stainless Steel and featuring a full circumference welded Stellite baffle core, the Razor comes more than ready for any caliber up to .300 RUM.
Like its modular brother, the Razor 762 comes with an Unconditional Lifetime Warranty and a Dual Taper Lock Mounting System that ensures wobble-free firing.
Constructed of aluminum and 17-4PH stainless steel, the Obsidian 45 also comes with Adapt Modular Technology. The Adapt module allows users to configure the Obsidian in a standard 8.6” to a 6.7” short configuration within seconds. It’s full-auto rated for pistol calibers up-to .45 ACP can be used with 300 Blackout subsonic rifle ammunition.
The Obsidian 45’s namesake comes from the tough, naturally occurring volcanic glass made from cooled lava. And it lives up to its name. It comes with an unconditional lifetime warranty. (Drop it from a mountaintop and Rugged will fix it or replace it free of charge.)
In keeping with a mantra of creating innovative products that upset the industry, Rugged has chosen to serialize the suppressor mount instead of the tube.
“We strategically place the engraving on the thickest cross section of the 17-4 stainless steel mount for fast and easy replacement should the suppressor become damaged beyond repair,” CEO Michael Derdziak said in a statement. “It also serves to make the Obsidian infinitely upgradable in the future.”
As its name implies, SPECIAL WEAPONS is dedicated to providing readers with must-read intel on the latest and greatest weapons and gear hitting the market for both civilians and military operators. Every issue of this magazine is packed with special innovations that keep our warriors safer and more effective on the front lines, and that’s why we always include a “New Products” page—a roundup of the best new products available.
The New Products listing from the April/May 2016 issue of SPECIAL WEAPONS certainly won’t disappoint. Some of the new products include Bravo Company’s MK15 Tritium Watch, which is housed in a case made from 316L stainless steel and finished in black PVD. The MK15 is water resistant to 200 meters with Swiss-made chronograph movement. Liberty Ammunition has also unveiled its lead-free .223 Remington ammo, and Ruger has begun offering its own fodder with ARX projectiles.
Some people still envision sound suppressors as those little black tubes secret agents install on guns in movies. But suppressors, silencers, cans — whatever you want to call them — are legal to own and hunt with in most states after obtaining the proper paperwork. And the benefits of suppressors are many: less hearing damage, less angry neighbors, less flinching from recoil.
So read on and scroll through the gallery to see what new suppressors are hitting the market for 2016. There are dozens available to help outfit all your weapons.
AAC Illusion 9
The Illusion 9 is AAC’s first eccentric design and is based on the Evolution 9mm suppressor. It was designed to be low enough to allow for the use of factory-height sights. This unit is also user serviceable. It is constructed with seven stainless steel conical baffles and a titanium body with a hardcoat anodized finish. The illusion is 7.88 inches long, 1.25 inches in diameter, weighs 10.4 ounces and has a rated sound reduction of 33 decibels. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AAC Ti-RANT 45M
The Ti-RANT 45M can be configured as either a short or long unit. This unit is user serviceable. In the long incarnation, the unit is 8.74 inches long and weighs 13 ounces while the short version is 6.75 inches and 11.3 ounces due to having three less baffles. The Ti-RANT 45M offers a dry sound reduction of 30 and 18 decibels in the full and short configurations, respectively. The Ti-RANT 45M is also made with a stainless steel blast baffle, anodized aluminum secondary baffles, and a titanium tube and end cap. The 1.38-inch-diameter tube is finished with Cerakote. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AMTAC CQBM
AMTAC is a new player to the suppressor business but brings with it lots of experience in precision machining. Most AMTAC suppressors use a reflex design where the suppressor fits over and around the barrel, and gas is discharged inside the suppressor to the front and rear of the muzzle. This design allows for significant volume but does not add much length the barrel. AMTAC suppressors also use an interesting and very durable monocore made from a single rod of 17-4 precipitate-hardened stainless steel and a stainless tube. The CQBM is made in 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO. Both units are 7.7 inches long, but extend the muzzle by 3.7 inches. Their diameters are 1.62 inches and they weigh 17.7 ounces. (amtacsuppressors.com; 801-505-7100)
AWC Ultra 13TD
AWC is one of the oldest suppressor manufacturers with considerable experience in integrally suppressed firearms, including the Browning Buckmark as well as Ruger’s MKIII pistols and 10/22 and 77/44 rifles. The Ultra 13TD is an integrally suppressed, stainless steel, takedown Ruger 10/22. The Ultra 13TD involves a ported and shortened Ruger barrel and adds a suppressor core in front. The suppressor is a welded baffle design made from stainless steel and is removable for cleaning with the barrel/suppressor shroud made from stainless steel. The Ultra 13TD is 35.5 inches long when assembled—1.5 inches shorter than Ruger’s original—and breaks down to 20 inches. According to AWC, because the barrel is permanently attached to the receiver, this system has only one tax stamp and is not considered an SBR. (awcsilencers.com; 623-780-1050)
Century Arms AK Suppressors
Century arms is best known for its line of U.S.-made AK-pattern rifles and imported surplus firearms. It will soon enter the suppressor market with two Red Army Standard-branded AK suppressors that are 1.5 inches in diameter and 6 or 8 inches long. These suppressors mount with 14×1 LH threads, which will attach directly to many AK-47 rifles. The AK suppressors also use a stainless steel monocore. (centuryarms.com; 800-527-1252)
Dead Air Silencers Ghost-M
Dead Air Silencers’ new Ghost-M pistol suppressor offers lots of versatility because it can handle .22 LR, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, 10mm and subsonic 300 BLK cartridges and can be converted between two configurations: short (6.2 inches) and long (8.75 inches. The Ghost-M can also handle full-auto fire (semi-auto in 300 BLK), and you can quickly change the suppressor’s length by unscrewing the forward section and replacing the end cap. The baffles in the forward section and main body stay intact, making reassembly just as quick. The Ghost-M is made with a titanium tube and 17-4 stainless steel baffles and end caps. Its weight varies from 9.6 to 12 ounces. (deadairsilencers.com; 877-892-7544)
Delta P Design Brevis II
Perhaps the most compact and certainly the most unconventionally manufactured suppressors available are the Bevis II series from Delta P Design. These short rifle suppressors are new to the market and are made with titanium or Inconel steel using 3D printing technology. This manufacturing method makes the unit one piece without any welds, seams or added parts. All Brevis II suppressors are thread mounted. The 5.56mm Brevis II is 2 inches in diameter, 3.7 inches long and weighs 11.5 ounces while the 7.62mm Brevis II is only 5.5 inches long and weighs 16 ounces. Both models are full-auto rated and made from Inconel. (deltapdesign.com; 503-487-0007)
EliteIron Delta Short
EliteIron makes detachable suppressors for 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP pistols and as well as .22-, .30- and .50-caliber rifles, as well as three integrally suppressed models for the Ruger 10/22 rifle and MKII pistol. New to the company’s lineup this year is the Delta Short for 5.56mm rifles. The Delta Short is the compact version of the 8-inch-long Delta. It’s 6.38 inches long and weighs 18.5 ounces. Like all EliteIron rifle suppressors, the Delta Short is made with a 1.5-inch-diameter, stainless steel tube finished with Cerakote. The K-baffles, made from 17-4 stainless steel, are fully welded for structural strength and durability and can withstand full-auto fire. The Delta Short mounts directly to 1/2×28 threads, but other threads and calibers are available. (eliteiron.com; 406-244-0234)
Gemtech Tracker
Gemtech’s new Tracker suppressor is designed for hunters who want a lightweight (11.3 ounces) and reasonably priced suppressor. Its MSRP of $599 makes it Gemtech’s lowest-priced centerfire suppressor. The Tracker can be used on .300 Winchester Magnum rifles with 24-inch or longer barrels, or .308 Winchester and .223 Remington rifles with 16-inch or longer barrels. It can also be used on other .30-caliber and lower-caliber firearms. The 1.6-inch-diameter, 7.9-inch-long tube is made of aluminum while the 5/8×24 thread mount is titanium. (gem-tech.com; 208-939-7222)
Hailey Ordnance AeGIS
One of the more popular suppressed rifles is the Ruger 10/22, but integrally suppressed models are scarce. Hailey Ordnance’s new AeGIS (Adjustable Gas Integrated) suppressor is a 10/22 barrel that is integrally suppressed and dropped into the Ruger .22LR or Savage .17 HMR rifles. The AeGIS allows the user to adjust the amount of gas that is bled into the baffles, thus fine-tuning the rifle for projectile velocity and noise signature. This system uses a stainless steel barrel followed by a pinned-on aluminum monocore suppressor with a steel insert on the first three baffles. The AeGIS has a stainless sleeve, is 0.92 inches in diameter and weighs 19.5 to 23 ounces. (haileyord.com; 405-813-0700)
Liberty Cosmic
Liberty’s versatile new Cosmic suppressor is a great choice for a first-time suppressor buyer who wants to buy only one suppressor and use it on several different firearms. The Cosmic can be used on pistols up to .454 Casull and rifles up to 5.56mm. Notably, the list of pistol calibers that can be used includes the 10mm and several magnums, including the .44 Mag and .400 CorBon. To handle these high pressures, the Cosmic uses a stainless steel monocore and a titanium tube finished in Cerakote, and it can be disassembled by the user for cleaning. It is rated for moderate full-auto fire in pistol calibers. The Cosmic is 8 inches long, 1.38 inches in diameter and weighs only 9.5 ounces. (libertycans.net; 706-661-6911)
Mack Brothers Helium
Mack Brothers’ new Helium is the company’s first silencer that allows the user to configure the mount to direct thread or QD for use on different rifles. The Helium is made for bolt-action rifles up to .300 Winchester Magnum where lighter weight is important. The unit is made with a titanium tube and baffles while the mount, end caps and front buffer are 17-4 stainless steel. It has a 1.63-inch diameter, a weight of 13.5 to 15 ounces and a length of 7.25 to 8.9 inches depending on the mounting configuration. The Helium is not user serviceable, but the factory can dissemble it. (macbros.com; 605-720-0002)
Octave 12
The Octave 12 is one of only two commercially available shotgun suppressors made by an affiliate of UTAS, the maker of the 14-shot pump shotgun that created lots of excitement a few years ago when it made its debut. The Octave 12 is 12 inches long and 2.25 inches in diameter yet lightweight at only 19.8 ounces. It has a carbon-fiber tube and expansion chamber, and anodized aluminum baffles set around a machined-steel muffler tube. Gases are trapped in the expansion chambers, which are filled with removable noise dampening material. The end caps are removable for cleaning, and the unit threads into shotgun barrel chokes with adapters sold for Beretta/Benelli, Remington and Winchester chokes. (octavesuppressors.com; 224-595-4578)
Ruger Silent-SR
Ruger’s first entry into the suppressor market is the Silent-SR, which is made for rimfires in .22LR, .22 WMR and .17 HMR. The Silent-SR is made with a titanium tube and an aluminum rear cap while the baffles, mount and end cap are stainless steel. The Silent-SR uses seven tightly fitted, snap-together baffles that keep lead and carbon away from the tube to make disassembly easy without fouling cementing the parts together. The Silent-SR is 1 inch in diameter, 5.37 inches long and weighs 6.3 ounces. It is rated for full-auto in .22 LR and has a stated sound reduction of up to 40 decibels. (ruger.com)
Rugged Suppressors Surge 762
Rugged Suppressors is a new company founded by Henry Graham, who previously owned or partnered in two successful suppressor makers. As its name implies, the new company aims to make very durable suppressors that withstand hard use when mounted on full-auto weapons. Some of Rugged’s designs are even designed for the sustained fire of belt-fed machine guns. The Surge 762 is a modular rifle suppressor made with a fully circumferentially welded core of Stellite baffles, a 17-4 stainless steel mount and a 316L stainless tube. Users can configure it in its full length (9 inches) or unscrew the front section for a more compact 7.5 inches. This suppressor is rated for 7.62mm NATO to .300 RUM belt-fed machine guns with certain minimal barrel lengths. It can also be used on 5.56mm weapons with or without an optional end cap that will reduce noise. (ruggedsuppressors.com)
Sig Sauer SRD762Ti-QD
The SRD762Ti-QD is a Grade 5 titanium silencer using a Fast-Attach muzzle device for mounting the silencer to the rifle. The 7.62mm muzzle device is available in 5/8×24 threads, matching the vast majority of modern sporting rifles in .308/762 on the market today. The rear mount has wrench flats to torque the silencer to the barrel. There is a secondary retention latch that is depressed to remove the silencer from the mount. The SRD762Ti-QD is rated for use up to .300 Win Mag and it comes with a Taper-Lok muzzle brake. Other muzzle devices are available. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)
SureFire Ryder 9M
This year SureFire offers a modular version of the very successful Ryder 9 Ti that was introduced in 2015. The SF Ryder 9M allows 9mm pistol and carbine shooters to use a full length or short version of the suppressor when needs dictate a different length or desired sound reduction. The Ryder 9M is 7.9 inches long and weighs 11 ounces, while unscrewing the end module brings length and weight down to 5.9 inches and 8.5 ounces. At only 1.25 inches wide, no special high-profile sights are needed on the host pistol. The Ryder 9M uses a titanium tube and end caps coated in grey, black or Flat Dark Earth Cerakote. Inside, there are five heat-treated stainless steel baffles and one spacer that are numbered and notched for correct and quick reassembly after cleaning. The unit is sold with an assembly/disassembly tool that easily removes and reinstalls the baffles as a single-stacked unit. (surefire.com; 800-828-8809)
Troy M7
Troy has added the 5.56mm M7 suppressor to its existing suppressor line. The M7 can be purchased in short or long configurations in either 17-4 stainless steel or titanium for lighter weight. Both configurations come with a three-prong flash suppressor that mounts onto the threaded barrel of the host weapon. Shooters can select either a thread mount or QD mount to attach the suppressor to the three-prong flash hider. The 5.56mm M7 has a 1.5-inch diameter, while the long and short configurations are 7.75 inches/19.3 ounces and 6.13 inches/16.2 ounces, respectively. The sound reduction ratings for the long and short versions are 34 to 36 decibels and 32 to 34 decibels, respectively. (worldoftroy.com; 866-788-6412)
Wilson Combat WCR-22
The newest Wilson Combat suppressor is the WCR-22, which is a durable rimfire suppressor that can handle full-auto .22 LR and .22 WMR calibers. It’s made with a 7075-T6 aluminum monocore, a stainless steel thread mount and a titanium tube. It has a 1-inch diameter, a length of 6 inches and a weight of only 4.2 ounces. This suppressor comes with a wrench to remove the core for cleaning and a nylon belt pouch. Five colors of Wilson’s own Armor-Tuff finish are available. Applying Armor-Tuff is a multi-step process with a resulting finish that Wilson has tested and believes offers superior performance to other thermally cured finishes in several areas, including abrasion, corrosion resistance and lubricity. (wilsoncombat.com; 800-955-4856)
Yankee Hill Machine Nitro
Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) makes rifle, pistol and submachine gun suppressors. For 2016, the company will offer the new Nitro modular suppressor that can be used on a wide range of calibers from .17 HMR to .300 Ultra Mag. The Nitro is configurable for different calibers by changing end caps for better sound reduction, and it can also use either a direct-thread or QD mount. Made from 17-4 stainless steel with an Inconel blast baffle, this nine-baffle suppressor is rated for full-auto fire up to .308 Winchester. The Nitro weighs 21 ounces, is measures 7.38 inches long and has a Cerakote finish. (yhm.net; 877-892-6533)
Sound suppressors are becoming more and more popular because of all the benefits they offer shooters. They protect your hearing, won’t spook game and will certainly improve your relationships with your neighbors. Though they still fall under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and consequently are much more regulated at the federal level than most firearms (and come with a $200 transfer tax on each unit), suppressors are legal to own in most states. Moreover, there’s hope with the new Congress and Trump administration that the ultra-restrictive NFA requirements will be removed if the Hearing Protection Act becomes law. To that end, let’s look at some of the more noteworthy new suppressor models hitting the market in 2017.
After blowing up a supposed “auto-rated” suppressor with an M16, I went on a trek to find one that would not have an unscheduled and surprising demise. My research found numerous roads leading me to Rugged Suppressors.
I called the company and spoke to Michael Derdziak, one of the two owners, and explained my woeful history with the suppressor that did not live up to its hype. He assured me that Rugged’s centerfire suppressors are up to the task of M16 magazine dumps as they are not just auto rated, but are also belt-fed rated, from up to .300 RUM. As such, they are durable enough to handle sustained fire. Sounds just like what I was seeking!
Rugged Surge Specs
I received a Rugged Surge 7.62 for testing. The Surge has Rugged’s ADAPT Modular Technology, meaning that it is a two-piece suppressor, allowing the user to remove a portion for a shorter and lighter-weight suppressor. In essence, it’s two suppressors in one. This not only makes the Surge adaptable, but you only need one tax stamp. The Surge ships with a 7.62mm front cap and a flash suppressor mount. Both can be interchanged with 5.56mm versions.
The Rugged Surge’s tube and mount are manufactured from 17-4 stainless steel. The baffles—and here is where it gets interesting—are made from Stellite. According to Rugged’s website, “Stellite exhibits unparalleled hardness and toughness as well as an extremely high melting point due to its cobalt and chromium content.” It extends the life of your suppressor by negating the effects of erosion wear when compared to Inconel or stainless steel baffles.”
Stellite handles heat better than titanium, which accounts for Rugged’s ability to rate its rifle suppressors for belt-fed use. You may be like me and have not heard of Stellite, but it is currently used in M2, M60/MK43 and M240 barrels and boasts an 80-percent service-life increase over chrome-plated barrels.
Rugged’s Dual Taper Locking System is designed to eliminate wobble using constant spring pressure on the rear taper. This keeps the mount securely locked during repeating healing and cooling cycles. In terms of manufacturing, all of the machining is done in-house. The Rugged’s mount, the component that takes the most abuse, is not made from tube stock—rather, it is machined bar stock.
Every rifle suppressor is test fired for accuracy and point-of-impact shifts. As a testament to their durability, Rugged Suppressors offers an unconditional warranty: “If for any reason you have an issue with a Rugged Suppressors product, we will repair or replace it free of charge. Period. Even if you drop it from a mountain.” No small type, no restrictions, no time limit. You don’t see that level of confidence and customer support very often.
Perfect Addition
Range testing with the Rugged Surge on the LWRCI REPR MKII displayed the normal group drop. The drop happens anytime you add weight to the end of a barrel. The drop distance is dependent on the weight of the suppressor, barrel profile and barrel length. The group sizes and point of aim weren’t affected. It was the perfect addition.
Rugged suppressors are strong enough for belt-fed machine guns and accurate enough for precision shooting. Regardless of which you model you pick, you won’t go wrong Rugged Suppressors’ accuracy, durability and warranty.
Sound suppressors are the fastest-growing segment of the firearms accessory market; their manufacturers invest in research and development knowing that innovative products are essential to success.
Recently, a number of different suppressor manufacturers debuted brand-new wares. In addition, a few new companies jumped into the suppressor market to make things even more interesting.
Without further ado, here are 21 suppressors you need to know about.
This article is from the May/June 2018 issue of “Tactical Life” magazine. To order a copy and subscribe, visit outdoorgroupstore.com.
AMTAC Hornet Suppressors
For those who have a short AR-style 9mm pistol or carbine, the AMTAC Hornet is worth a close look. The Hornet is 7.7 inches long, but extends the barrel length by only 4 inches. It’s rated for submachine gun use and is made using flat baffles machined from a single piece of 17-4 PH stainless steel. The stainless steel tube is finished in Cerakote. AMTAC rates its sound reduction as being up to 30 decibels, and the can weighs 16.6 ounces. (amtacsuppressors.com)
CZ S2 Ti Reflex
For 2018, CZ-USA has unveiled a new line of suppressors. The most interesting of the lot is the S2 Ti Reflex, which is made specifically for the new CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S2 Micro pistol, but will also fit Scorpion EVO 3 pistols after changing the handguard and barrel. The S2 Ti Reflex is a tubeless, fully welded suppressor designed by Aerocharger. To keep the Micro pistol short, the S2 Ti uses a 2-inch reflex chamber that wraps around the barrel so the weapon is only 5.2 inches longer with the sound suppressor mounted. A 17-4 PH stainless steel version, the S2 SS Reflex, is also available. (cz-usa.com)
CZ Ti Reflex
For those who wish to suppress 5.56mm, 7.62mm or .338-caliber weapons, CZ offers the Ti Reflex in three different sizes. Each model has a modular reflex chamber that can be attached to add an additional 3 inches of volume so the suppressor wraps around the barrel, or the unit can be mounted flush with the muzzle if the barrel does not allow it. The CZ Ti Reflex is direct-thread mounted and uses the same tubeless, fully welded construction as the S2 Ti Reflex. (cz-usa.com)
Daniel Defense Wave
The DD Wave is made via 3D printing, which offers far greater design flexibility and fewer potential structural weak spots than conventional builds using machined and welded parts. The baffling is made of nickel alloy without any seams and has a .30-caliber bore. The DD Wave mounts to Daniel Defense’s muzzle device via direct threading or a fast-attach system using Acme-type threads that are coarse enough to not become carbon cemented for easy removal. This can is 7.6 inches long, 1.5 inches in diameter and weighs 17.2 ounces. It’s also rated for full-auto use. (danieldefense.com)
Dead Air Wolf-9SD
Dead Air’s new Wolf-9SD is a true submachine gun suppressor made completely of 17-4 PH stainless steel using a tubeless, fully welded baffle stack. The Wolf-9SD is rated for 9mm and even supersonic 300 BLK rounds and can be configured into two lengths: 4.1 or 7.58 inches. Its diameter of 1.62 inches provides added volume for better sound reduction in a relatively compact footprint. The Wolf-9SD has a Cerakote finish and is available with seven pistons and six fixed-barrel mounts. (deadairsilencers.com)
Dead Air Wolverine
Soviet weapons like the AK-47 and Dragunov are hard to suppress because of the wide barrel, front sight and thread pitch variations between models. But this didn’t stop Dead Air from making the Wolverine, the only U.S.-made suppressor specifically intended for these rifles. The Wolverine is made with Stellite baffles and a stainless steel tube for extreme durability and full-auto fire. It is thread mounted and locks to the AK-47’s front sight block pin. Different thread inserts are available (include those for mounting on an AR-15), as is a .22-caliber end cap for better flash capture on AK-74 and 5.56mm weapons. (deadairsilencers.com)
Gemtech Aurora II
According to Gemtech, the Aurora was originally made for a pilot’s survival kit for the U.S. government. As such, it didn’t need to last long, but it did need to be compact. These parameters produced a commercially available follow-up that is only 3.5 ounces and 3.4 inches long. Instead of using baffles, it is filled with petroleum jelly and has eight neoprene wipes that sit between three spacers. The unit can be disassembled to replenish the ablative jelly or replace the wipes, which are effective at reducing sound but wear out after 30 to 40 shots. The Aurora II has 1/2×28 threading on one side and 13.5×1 LH on the other. (gemtech.com)
Innovative Arms IASW
Innovative Arms makes integral suppressors for several firearms, such as the IASW model for the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22. Designed for ultra-quiet operation, the IASW ports the barrel to reduce the speed of high-velocity ammo to subsonic levels. This suppressor is made with a stainless steel monocore and aluminum sleeve, and it’s user-serviceable and full-auto rated. (innovativearms.com)
NG2 Defense MAXFLO 3D
Made from either Grade 6 titanium or 17-4 stainless steel, this suppressor is offered in 5.56mm or 7.62mm. Rather than contain or block gas as with baffled designs, the MAXFLO 3D channels it into an intricate series of passageways, creating turbulence and reducing heat and flash with the gas ultimately venting out the front of the suppressor on either side of the bore. The intent of this design is to eliminate backpressure, which causes a gas-operated weapon to run faster and hotter and can negatively impact the shooter with blast and debris. The MAXFLO 3D also comes with a lifetime warranty and a 100,000-round service life guarantee. (ng2defense.com)
OSS HX-QD 762
For 2018, Operators Suppressor Systems (OSS) redesigned its entire line to simplify construction and save on costs. The resulting units that are lighter, stronger, shorter, a bit quieter and much cheaper than previous models. The new HX-QD 762 is suitable for weapons from 5.56mm to .300 Win Mag, and it’s full-auto rated for use up to 7.62mm NATO. Made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel and Grade 5 titanium, it mounts flush onto an OSS muzzle brake that is designed to self-tighten during firing. (osssuppressors.com)
Rugged Micro 30
The Micro 30 is modular and features a Stellite core as well as a 17-4PH stainless steel tube and mount. The Micro 30 has a 7.62mm bore, is 1.5 inches in diameter, and 5 and 6.5 inches long in short and standard configurations, respectively. This suppressor was designed specifically for reducing sound at the shooter’s ear when using gas-operated weapons to account for the effects of backpressure. Rugged’s tests show that sound levels at the ear using the standard-length Micro 30 were 123 and 131 decibels for 300 Blackout and 5.56mm NATO rounds, respectively. (ruggedsuppressors.com)
Rugged Obsidian 9
The Obsidian 9 is a 9mm version of Rugged’s Obsidian 45 with the same durable materials and modular design. This unit can be used in its short or standard configurations and can handle full-auto 9mm and subsonic 300 BLK shooting. The baffles and piston are made from heat-treated 17-4 stainless steel, the aluminum tube is anodized and Cerakoted. This suppressor uses a non-slotted piston and rubber O-rings at the piston and between the module to trap gas inside the can, thus reducing sound better than other designs. (ruggedsuppressors.com)
Ruger Silent SR-ISB
Ruger’s integrally suppressed barrel for the 10/22 Takedown rifle is among the most interesting and versatile products the company has launched in the past year. The Silent SR-ISB uses a stainless steel barrel permanently attached to an aluminum sleeve containing six 17-4 stainless steel baffles. The barrel is about 10.5 inches long followed by the baffle stack. This is a very high-volume design that helps reduce sound and backpressure. It’s also easily cleaned because the baffles fit together tightly to keep gas and lead away from the tube, thus allowing the stack to be readily removed. (ruger.com)
Ruger Silent-SR
Ruger also makes a detachable suppressor that is durable enough to be used on .22 WMR and 5.7x28mm pistols and rifles. The Silent-SR is 5.37 inches long, 1.06 inches in diameter and weighs 6.3 ounces. It has a durable titanium tube, and the baffles, front cap and mount are made of stainless steel. Like the SR-ISB, the baffles snap together tightly to keep combustion gases inside the core without cementing together. (ruger.com)
SilencerCo Chimera 300
The new Chimera 300 is a versatile suppressor suitable for the 5.56mm NATO through the .300 Win Mag. The Chimera uses Stellite for the blast baffle, Inconel for the primary baffles and 17-4 or 316L stainless steel for the rest. The Chimera has no minimum barrel restrictions and is full-auto rated, according to the company. It measures a compact 6.9 inches long, 1.6 inches in diameter and weighs 20.1 ounces. It also uses the company’s ASR quick-attack mount and comes with a muzzle brake to fit it. (silencerco.com)
SilencerCo Maxim 9
The Maxim 9 that debuted in 2017 is now shipping. This pistol has a polymer frame and uses a partially tensioned striker like the Glock. It holds 17+1 rounds of 9mm ammo but accepts larger Glock-type magazines. More importantly, the Maxim 9 is integrally suppressed thanks to a series of aluminum baffles with hardened 17-4 stainless steel cones held together with two rods like the system SilencerCo first used on the Salvo 12. It can be switched from a short 9.54-inch configuration to a long one (10.75 inches) by adding two baffles, and the entire baffle core can easily be disassembled for cleaning when needed. (silencerco.com)
Silent Legion Multi-Caliber Kit
The Multi-Caliber Kit from Silent Legion is a titanium suppressor suitable for use on weapons from 5.56mm to .300 Win Mag. It comes with a kit that gives the user a choice of mounting the unit using direct threading or a two-lug QD mount on either 1/2×28 or 5/8×24 threaded barrels. More significantly, changing mounts does not add any length to the suppressor as other systems do. Simply unscrew the suppressor’s end cap and replace it with the desired one. (silentlegion.com)
Suppressed Weapon Systems MISB
Suppressed Weapon Systems’ patented Monolithic Integral Suppressed Barrels (MISBs) can be used on a variety of firearms, including rimfires, bolt actions and ARs. MISBs are bull barrels that are hollowed out in selective areas along their outside, forming cavities that gas is bled into from an integral muzzle device created near the end of the barrel blank. This system is a reflex design, not a ported design like most integral units. A sleeve matching the diameter of the unaltered barrel fits around the unit and attaches to the chamber area to form a gas seal. (suppressedweaponsystems.com)
SureFire SOCOM260-SPS
SureFire has added a lightweight addition to its SOCOM line of high-end suppressors. The SOCOM260-SPS is made of titanium and is designed for 6mm and 6.5mm rounds like the .260 Remington and 6.5 Creedmoor. This unit uses Surefire’s Fast-Attach mount with a secondary retention latch, and like all others in the SOCOM series, each SOCOM260-SPS must hold 1-MOA accuracy. The can is 7.9 inches long, 1.5 inches in diameter, weighs 12 ounces and is finished in black or FDE Cerakote. (surefire.com)
Wilson Combat WCR-22
Wilson Combat’s newest suppressor is designed for .22 LR cartridges. The core is made from K-type baffles made of hardcoat anodized 7075-T6 aluminum while the tube is made of Grade 9 titanium. To keep combustion gases away from the tube, which can make disassembly for cleaning difficult, the end caps thread into the baffles, thus providing compression and a gas seal. This approach also eliminates the need for added parts such as sleeves. This new suppressor is 6.4 inches long, 1 inch in diameter and weighs only 4.4 ounces, making it one of the lightest suppressors available. (wilsoncombat.com)
YHM Resonator
The .30-caliber Resonator from Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) is suitable for calibers up to .300 RUM with an MSRP of only $630. It uses a tubeless design where the baffles are fully welded together, saving weight and costs. YHM uses an Inconel blast baffle followed by heat-treated 17-4 stainless baffles, and rates this can for full-auto use with most calibers. The Resonator has a Cerakote finish, uses a QD mount and is supplied with a choice of muzzle device. It’s 7.83 inches long, 1.56 inches in diameter and weighs 16 ounces. (yhm.net)
When shooting a pistol, keeping forward weight down is important for consistency and accuracy. So, selecting the right suppressor can be a big deal. For this reason, Rugged Suppressors adds the new ultralight Mustang22 to their rimfire line of suppressors.
Utilizing grade 5 titanium, coupled with aircraft-grade aluminum keeps the Mustang22 down to an ultralight 2.4 – 3.3 ounces. The weight depends on configuration, with short and standard configurations possible—in one package.
ADAPT Modular Technology allows you to switch between short and standard configurations in seconds. In addition, the modular technology provides you with both configurations, on one tax stamp. Furthermore, while in standard configuration the Mustang22 features no first-round pop when you come back to your pistol.
Keyed baffles create a gas seal to prevent carbon and gas build up between the tube and baffles, for easy disassembly. Additionally, indexing tabs allow for a repeatable return to zero after user servicing.
“Our goal was to create a .22LR suppressor that is quiet, modular, and ultra-lightweight,” said Michael Derdziak, CEO of Rugged Suppressors. “As a result, it is the ideal suppressor for someone seeking a compact can that is agile, without the usual first round pop.”
Availability
The Rugged Suppressors Mustang22 is available October 7, 2021, with an MSRP of $465.00. For more info, please visit RuggedSuppressors.com.
Rugged Suppressors Mustang22 Features
ADAPT Modular Technology
User Serviceable
Revolutionary Mounting System
Keyed Baffle for Repeatable Return to Zero
Interchangeable End Caps
Indexed Baffles
Mustang22 Specs
Caliber: 22LR Diameter: 1.06 inches Overall Length: 5.3 inches (standard), 3.4 inches (short) Weight: 3.3 ounces (standard), 2.4 ounces (short) Baffles & Tube Materials: Hard coat anodized aluminum Mount & Direct Thread Materials: Grade 5 titanium Finish: High temp Cerakote At Ear dB: 113dB MSRP: $465.00
Razor556: Optimized for the Most Popular Cartridge
There’s no question that 5.56 NATO or .223 Rem is the most popular rifle round in the USA. It makes sense that Rugged Suppressors, would introduce a dedicated 5.56 can for the cartridge. Because it shares design elements with the larger Razor762, the new Razor556 can has some very user friendly features. Rugged Suppressors’ dedicated 5.56mm suppressor has decreased blowback, recoil, and flash mitigation standard while clocking in at only 13.4 oz. With its 17-4 stainless steel construction and Stellite® baffles, the Razor556 can hold up to the rigors of fully automatic fire. Lastly, included with the Razor is a 1⁄2 x 28 5.56 M2 Brake for ease of attachment to your AR pattern rifle.
Razor556 Specifications
CALIBER: 5.56x45mm NATO
DIAMETER: 1.5”
LENGTH: Standard Configuration: 6.4′′
WEIGHT: Standard Configuration: 13.4oz
AT EAR dB: 132dB
In case you were wondering, the MSRP on the new suppressor is a reasonable $799. You can view more details on Rugged Suppressors’ website.
While obviously intended for AR-pattern rifles, the light weight of the new Razor556 would also make it an excellent candidate for a suppressed bolt action rifle. For example, if you were building a Ruger American Ranch rifle in .223 using the new Magpul Hunter American stock, topping it off with a lightweight suppressor like this would make a handy “do-everything” rifle that’s also 50 state legal.
Constructed of aluminum and 17-4PH stainless steel, the Obsidian 45 also comes with Adapt Modular Technology. The Adapt module allows users to configure the Obsidian in a standard 8.6” to a 6.7” short configuration within seconds. It’s full-auto rated for pistol calibers up-to .45 ACP can be used with 300 Blackout subsonic rifle ammunition.
The Obsidian 45’s namesake comes from the tough, naturally occurring volcanic glass made from cooled lava. And it lives up to its name. It comes with an unconditional lifetime warranty. (Drop it from a mountaintop and Rugged will fix it or replace it free of charge.)
In keeping with a mantra of creating innovative products that upset the industry, Rugged has chosen to serialize the suppressor mount instead of the tube.
“We strategically place the engraving on the thickest cross section of the 17-4 stainless steel mount for fast and easy replacement should the suppressor become damaged beyond repair,” CEO Michael Derdziak said in a statement. “It also serves to make the Obsidian infinitely upgradable in the future.”
As its name implies, SPECIAL WEAPONS is dedicated to providing readers with must-read intel on the latest and greatest weapons and gear hitting the market for both civilians and military operators. Every issue of this magazine is packed with special innovations that keep our warriors safer and more effective on the front lines, and that’s why we always include a “New Products” page—a roundup of the best new products available.
The New Products listing from the April/May 2016 issue of SPECIAL WEAPONS certainly won’t disappoint. Some of the new products include Bravo Company’s MK15 Tritium Watch, which is housed in a case made from 316L stainless steel and finished in black PVD. The MK15 is water resistant to 200 meters with Swiss-made chronograph movement. Liberty Ammunition has also unveiled its lead-free .223 Remington ammo, and Ruger has begun offering its own fodder with ARX projectiles.
Some people still envision sound suppressors as those little black tubes secret agents install on guns in movies. But suppressors, silencers, cans — whatever you want to call them — are legal to own and hunt with in most states after obtaining the proper paperwork. And the benefits of suppressors are many: less hearing damage, less angry neighbors, less flinching from recoil.
So read on and scroll through the gallery to see what new suppressors are hitting the market for 2016. There are dozens available to help outfit all your weapons.
AAC Illusion 9
The Illusion 9 is AAC’s first eccentric design and is based on the Evolution 9mm suppressor. It was designed to be low enough to allow for the use of factory-height sights. This unit is also user serviceable. It is constructed with seven stainless steel conical baffles and a titanium body with a hardcoat anodized finish. The illusion is 7.88 inches long, 1.25 inches in diameter, weighs 10.4 ounces and has a rated sound reduction of 33 decibels. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AAC Ti-RANT 45M
The Ti-RANT 45M can be configured as either a short or long unit. This unit is user serviceable. In the long incarnation, the unit is 8.74 inches long and weighs 13 ounces while the short version is 6.75 inches and 11.3 ounces due to having three less baffles. The Ti-RANT 45M offers a dry sound reduction of 30 and 18 decibels in the full and short configurations, respectively. The Ti-RANT 45M is also made with a stainless steel blast baffle, anodized aluminum secondary baffles, and a titanium tube and end cap. The 1.38-inch-diameter tube is finished with Cerakote. (advanced-armament.com; 770-925-9988)
AMTAC CQBM
AMTAC is a new player to the suppressor business but brings with it lots of experience in precision machining. Most AMTAC suppressors use a reflex design where the suppressor fits over and around the barrel, and gas is discharged inside the suppressor to the front and rear of the muzzle. This design allows for significant volume but does not add much length the barrel. AMTAC suppressors also use an interesting and very durable monocore made from a single rod of 17-4 precipitate-hardened stainless steel and a stainless tube. The CQBM is made in 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO. Both units are 7.7 inches long, but extend the muzzle by 3.7 inches. Their diameters are 1.62 inches and they weigh 17.7 ounces. (amtacsuppressors.com; 801-505-7100)
AWC Ultra 13TD
AWC is one of the oldest suppressor manufacturers with considerable experience in integrally suppressed firearms, including the Browning Buckmark as well as Ruger’s MKIII pistols and 10/22 and 77/44 rifles. The Ultra 13TD is an integrally suppressed, stainless steel, takedown Ruger 10/22. The Ultra 13TD involves a ported and shortened Ruger barrel and adds a suppressor core in front. The suppressor is a welded baffle design made from stainless steel and is removable for cleaning with the barrel/suppressor shroud made from stainless steel. The Ultra 13TD is 35.5 inches long when assembled—1.5 inches shorter than Ruger’s original—and breaks down to 20 inches. According to AWC, because the barrel is permanently attached to the receiver, this system has only one tax stamp and is not considered an SBR. (awcsilencers.com; 623-780-1050)
Century Arms AK Suppressors
Century arms is best known for its line of U.S.-made AK-pattern rifles and imported surplus firearms. It will soon enter the suppressor market with two Red Army Standard-branded AK suppressors that are 1.5 inches in diameter and 6 or 8 inches long. These suppressors mount with 14×1 LH threads, which will attach directly to many AK-47 rifles. The AK suppressors also use a stainless steel monocore. (centuryarms.com; 800-527-1252)
Dead Air Silencers Ghost-M
Dead Air Silencers’ new Ghost-M pistol suppressor offers lots of versatility because it can handle .22 LR, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, 10mm and subsonic 300 BLK cartridges and can be converted between two configurations: short (6.2 inches) and long (8.75 inches. The Ghost-M can also handle full-auto fire (semi-auto in 300 BLK), and you can quickly change the suppressor’s length by unscrewing the forward section and replacing the end cap. The baffles in the forward section and main body stay intact, making reassembly just as quick. The Ghost-M is made with a titanium tube and 17-4 stainless steel baffles and end caps. Its weight varies from 9.6 to 12 ounces. (deadairsilencers.com; 877-892-7544)
Delta P Design Brevis II
Perhaps the most compact and certainly the most unconventionally manufactured suppressors available are the Bevis II series from Delta P Design. These short rifle suppressors are new to the market and are made with titanium or Inconel steel using 3D printing technology. This manufacturing method makes the unit one piece without any welds, seams or added parts. All Brevis II suppressors are thread mounted. The 5.56mm Brevis II is 2 inches in diameter, 3.7 inches long and weighs 11.5 ounces while the 7.62mm Brevis II is only 5.5 inches long and weighs 16 ounces. Both models are full-auto rated and made from Inconel. (deltapdesign.com; 503-487-0007)
EliteIron Delta Short
EliteIron makes detachable suppressors for 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP pistols and as well as .22-, .30- and .50-caliber rifles, as well as three integrally suppressed models for the Ruger 10/22 rifle and MKII pistol. New to the company’s lineup this year is the Delta Short for 5.56mm rifles. The Delta Short is the compact version of the 8-inch-long Delta. It’s 6.38 inches long and weighs 18.5 ounces. Like all EliteIron rifle suppressors, the Delta Short is made with a 1.5-inch-diameter, stainless steel tube finished with Cerakote. The K-baffles, made from 17-4 stainless steel, are fully welded for structural strength and durability and can withstand full-auto fire. The Delta Short mounts directly to 1/2×28 threads, but other threads and calibers are available. (eliteiron.com; 406-244-0234)
Gemtech Tracker
Gemtech’s new Tracker suppressor is designed for hunters who want a lightweight (11.3 ounces) and reasonably priced suppressor. Its MSRP of $599 makes it Gemtech’s lowest-priced centerfire suppressor. The Tracker can be used on .300 Winchester Magnum rifles with 24-inch or longer barrels, or .308 Winchester and .223 Remington rifles with 16-inch or longer barrels. It can also be used on other .30-caliber and lower-caliber firearms. The 1.6-inch-diameter, 7.9-inch-long tube is made of aluminum while the 5/8×24 thread mount is titanium. (gem-tech.com; 208-939-7222)
Hailey Ordnance AeGIS
One of the more popular suppressed rifles is the Ruger 10/22, but integrally suppressed models are scarce. Hailey Ordnance’s new AeGIS (Adjustable Gas Integrated) suppressor is a 10/22 barrel that is integrally suppressed and dropped into the Ruger .22LR or Savage .17 HMR rifles. The AeGIS allows the user to adjust the amount of gas that is bled into the baffles, thus fine-tuning the rifle for projectile velocity and noise signature. This system uses a stainless steel barrel followed by a pinned-on aluminum monocore suppressor with a steel insert on the first three baffles. The AeGIS has a stainless sleeve, is 0.92 inches in diameter and weighs 19.5 to 23 ounces. (haileyord.com; 405-813-0700)
Liberty Cosmic
Liberty’s versatile new Cosmic suppressor is a great choice for a first-time suppressor buyer who wants to buy only one suppressor and use it on several different firearms. The Cosmic can be used on pistols up to .454 Casull and rifles up to 5.56mm. Notably, the list of pistol calibers that can be used includes the 10mm and several magnums, including the .44 Mag and .400 CorBon. To handle these high pressures, the Cosmic uses a stainless steel monocore and a titanium tube finished in Cerakote, and it can be disassembled by the user for cleaning. It is rated for moderate full-auto fire in pistol calibers. The Cosmic is 8 inches long, 1.38 inches in diameter and weighs only 9.5 ounces. (libertycans.net; 706-661-6911)
Mack Brothers Helium
Mack Brothers’ new Helium is the company’s first silencer that allows the user to configure the mount to direct thread or QD for use on different rifles. The Helium is made for bolt-action rifles up to .300 Winchester Magnum where lighter weight is important. The unit is made with a titanium tube and baffles while the mount, end caps and front buffer are 17-4 stainless steel. It has a 1.63-inch diameter, a weight of 13.5 to 15 ounces and a length of 7.25 to 8.9 inches depending on the mounting configuration. The Helium is not user serviceable, but the factory can dissemble it. (macbros.com; 605-720-0002)
Octave 12
The Octave 12 is one of only two commercially available shotgun suppressors made by an affiliate of UTAS, the maker of the 14-shot pump shotgun that created lots of excitement a few years ago when it made its debut. The Octave 12 is 12 inches long and 2.25 inches in diameter yet lightweight at only 19.8 ounces. It has a carbon-fiber tube and expansion chamber, and anodized aluminum baffles set around a machined-steel muffler tube. Gases are trapped in the expansion chambers, which are filled with removable noise dampening material. The end caps are removable for cleaning, and the unit threads into shotgun barrel chokes with adapters sold for Beretta/Benelli, Remington and Winchester chokes. (octavesuppressors.com; 224-595-4578)
Ruger Silent-SR
Ruger’s first entry into the suppressor market is the Silent-SR, which is made for rimfires in .22LR, .22 WMR and .17 HMR. The Silent-SR is made with a titanium tube and an aluminum rear cap while the baffles, mount and end cap are stainless steel. The Silent-SR uses seven tightly fitted, snap-together baffles that keep lead and carbon away from the tube to make disassembly easy without fouling cementing the parts together. The Silent-SR is 1 inch in diameter, 5.37 inches long and weighs 6.3 ounces. It is rated for full-auto in .22 LR and has a stated sound reduction of up to 40 decibels. (ruger.com)
Rugged Suppressors Surge 762
Rugged Suppressors is a new company founded by Henry Graham, who previously owned or partnered in two successful suppressor makers. As its name implies, the new company aims to make very durable suppressors that withstand hard use when mounted on full-auto weapons. Some of Rugged’s designs are even designed for the sustained fire of belt-fed machine guns. The Surge 762 is a modular rifle suppressor made with a fully circumferentially welded core of Stellite baffles, a 17-4 stainless steel mount and a 316L stainless tube. Users can configure it in its full length (9 inches) or unscrew the front section for a more compact 7.5 inches. This suppressor is rated for 7.62mm NATO to .300 RUM belt-fed machine guns with certain minimal barrel lengths. It can also be used on 5.56mm weapons with or without an optional end cap that will reduce noise. (ruggedsuppressors.com)
Sig Sauer SRD762Ti-QD
The SRD762Ti-QD is a Grade 5 titanium silencer using a Fast-Attach muzzle device for mounting the silencer to the rifle. The 7.62mm muzzle device is available in 5/8×24 threads, matching the vast majority of modern sporting rifles in .308/762 on the market today. The rear mount has wrench flats to torque the silencer to the barrel. There is a secondary retention latch that is depressed to remove the silencer from the mount. The SRD762Ti-QD is rated for use up to .300 Win Mag and it comes with a Taper-Lok muzzle brake. Other muzzle devices are available. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)
SureFire Ryder 9M
This year SureFire offers a modular version of the very successful Ryder 9 Ti that was introduced in 2015. The SF Ryder 9M allows 9mm pistol and carbine shooters to use a full length or short version of the suppressor when needs dictate a different length or desired sound reduction. The Ryder 9M is 7.9 inches long and weighs 11 ounces, while unscrewing the end module brings length and weight down to 5.9 inches and 8.5 ounces. At only 1.25 inches wide, no special high-profile sights are needed on the host pistol. The Ryder 9M uses a titanium tube and end caps coated in grey, black or Flat Dark Earth Cerakote. Inside, there are five heat-treated stainless steel baffles and one spacer that are numbered and notched for correct and quick reassembly after cleaning. The unit is sold with an assembly/disassembly tool that easily removes and reinstalls the baffles as a single-stacked unit. (surefire.com; 800-828-8809)
Troy M7
Troy has added the 5.56mm M7 suppressor to its existing suppressor line. The M7 can be purchased in short or long configurations in either 17-4 stainless steel or titanium for lighter weight. Both configurations come with a three-prong flash suppressor that mounts onto the threaded barrel of the host weapon. Shooters can select either a thread mount or QD mount to attach the suppressor to the three-prong flash hider. The 5.56mm M7 has a 1.5-inch diameter, while the long and short configurations are 7.75 inches/19.3 ounces and 6.13 inches/16.2 ounces, respectively. The sound reduction ratings for the long and short versions are 34 to 36 decibels and 32 to 34 decibels, respectively. (worldoftroy.com; 866-788-6412)
Wilson Combat WCR-22
The newest Wilson Combat suppressor is the WCR-22, which is a durable rimfire suppressor that can handle full-auto .22 LR and .22 WMR calibers. It’s made with a 7075-T6 aluminum monocore, a stainless steel thread mount and a titanium tube. It has a 1-inch diameter, a length of 6 inches and a weight of only 4.2 ounces. This suppressor comes with a wrench to remove the core for cleaning and a nylon belt pouch. Five colors of Wilson’s own Armor-Tuff finish are available. Applying Armor-Tuff is a multi-step process with a resulting finish that Wilson has tested and believes offers superior performance to other thermally cured finishes in several areas, including abrasion, corrosion resistance and lubricity. (wilsoncombat.com; 800-955-4856)
Yankee Hill Machine Nitro
Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) makes rifle, pistol and submachine gun suppressors. For 2016, the company will offer the new Nitro modular suppressor that can be used on a wide range of calibers from .17 HMR to .300 Ultra Mag. The Nitro is configurable for different calibers by changing end caps for better sound reduction, and it can also use either a direct-thread or QD mount. Made from 17-4 stainless steel with an Inconel blast baffle, this nine-baffle suppressor is rated for full-auto fire up to .308 Winchester. The Nitro weighs 21 ounces, is measures 7.38 inches long and has a Cerakote finish. (yhm.net; 877-892-6533)
