Suppressors reduce a weapon’s noise signature. While they do not completely make a weapon silent when firing, enough noise is stifled so a user’s position is not compromised. A system of baffles is used in suppressors to channel the muzzle blast so a loud report is reduced to a soft snap or click. Sound reduction varies between calibers and the use of subsonic ammo helps reduce the report further.
The other added benefit of a suppressor is reduced muzzle flash and reduced muzzle flip. The muzzle flip reduction also translates into less felt recoil to the operator. The way some current suppressors are constructed they not only mute the sound but also slightly increase muzzle velocity of the exiting bullet, so there is actually an increase in bullet velocity.
Here’s a look at suppressors specifically designed for use on AR platforms.
Advanced Armament 7.62-SDN-6
The 7.62-SDN-6 is a .30-caliber compact can that attaches to a weapon fast. It was designed for 7.62mm NATO and 300 Blackout calibers, but it can also be used for 6.8 SPC, 6.5mm and 5.56mm NATO. It is 6.1 inches long and weighs 20 ounces. The 7.62-SDN-6’s internal baffle system is constructed of welded Inconel for maximum durability and uses a 51T ratchet mount. When firing 300 Blackout the decibel rating is about 126 decibels.
For more information, please visit advanced-armament.com or call 770-925-9988.
Black Rain Ordnance Aris
Designed for 5.56mm NATO, the Aris is ready for tactical applications as well as varmint hunting. It is manufactured from stainless steel and is 6 inches long and weighs 21 ounces. It adds 5.5 inches to a weapon’s barrel length. The stainless steel Aris guarantees noise reduction between 32 and 34 decibels.
For more information, please visit blackrainordnance.com or call 888-836-2620.
Elite Iron CQC 1
The CQC 1 is made for .22-caliber weapons (5.56mm NATO) and is designed in three components: suppressor, brake and sleeve. The exterior diameter is 1.5 inches and the overall length is 5.5 inches. The CQC 1’s weight is 16 ounces and it extends 6.6 inches from the barrel. Sound reduction was rated at 32-33 decibels on an M4 carbine with a 16-inch barrel and using Lake City 55-grain ball ammunition.
For more information, please visit eliteiron.com or call 406-244-0234.
GemTech GMT-300BLK
The GMT-300BLK suppressor is part of GemTech’s G-Core series. This model is specifically designed for use with 300 Blackout cartridges in either super or subsonic loadings. Sound reduction is rated at 36 to 39 decibels. It is a two-piece, all-titanium suppressor that is rated for full-auto. At 6.7 inches in length and with a 1.5-inch diameter, the GMT-300BLK weighs only 14 ounces.
For more information, please visit gem-tech.com of call 208-939-7222.
Miller Precision Arms Bulldog
At only 4.8 inches long, Bulldog suppressors from Miller Precision Arms are some of the shortest and most effective suppressors in their class. Two types are offered, separated by either stainless steel or titanium construction. The external surface of the can’s body is fluted to help increase surface cooling. A glass-breaching spiked face is also integrated into the front cap. Noise signature is reduced by 25 to 30 decibels, depending on caliber. Either suppressor can be had in .22 or .30 caliber variants.
For more information, please visit millerprecisionarms.com or call 406-892-2149.
Sig Sauer SIG-SD
The SIG-SD 5.56mm suppressor has a unique tapered shape that allows it to be used under some longer handguards or rails. It tapers up to a 2-inch diameter tube at the muzzle. The large diameter allows for greater gas volume in a compact package, plus it helps to reduce heat and backpressure. The baffles are made from stainless steel with a high nickel content, and the body is made of stainless steel. The SIG-SD is rated for full auto and is compatible with SOPMOD accessories. It weighs 23.5 ounces and is 6.8 inches long.
For more information, please visit sigsauer.com or call 866-345-6744.
SureFire SOCOM68
The SureFire SOCOM68 Fast-Attach suppressor is specifically designed for .277 caliber/6.8mm cartridges. Using advanced internal venting to reduce backpressure, it also features an integrated blast shield. The internal baffle system improves gas flow to all but eliminate first-round flash and reduce the overall sound and dust signatures. The SOCOM68 uses the Fast-Attach system. The suppressor produces minimal zero shift regardless of the number of times it is attached/detached.
For more information, please visit surefire.com or call 800-828-8809.
Wilson Combat Whisper
The Whisper suppressor from Wilson Combat has a 1.8-inch tube diameter with a monocore baffle design to more effectively trap gases. It is completely machined from titanium, which offers a light weight, quick cooling and heat-erosion resistance. The Whisper is truly compact, adding only 4.5 inches to an AR’s overall length. The suppressor does not shift zero or impact barrel harmonics. Minimal backpressure also means your AR will run cleaner.
For more information, please visit wilsoncombat.com or call 800-955-4856.
