When it comes to suppressors, there's no shortage of questions, myths, and a bit of confusion. We at Black Creek Firearms are here to clear the air with some straightforward answers to the most commonly asked questions on the internet. Whether you’re new to the suppressor game or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered.
Will a .22 Silencer Work on an AR-15?
Short answer: No, it’s not a good idea. A .22 silencer is specifically designed for the smaller .22 LR caliber, which operates at much lower pressures than the 5.56/.223 rounds an AR-15 typically fires. Using a .22 silencer on an AR-15 could result in damage to the silencer and possibly even injury. Always match your suppressor to your firearm’s caliber to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can a Silencer Work on a Revolver?
Yes, but only on certain revolvers. Most revolvers have a gap between the cylinder and the barrel where gas escapes, which makes suppression less effective. However, some revolvers, like the Russian Nagant M1895 (Photo Credit: SilencerCo), are designed in a way that can accommodate a suppressor because the cylinder seals against the barrel when firing. That said, if you’re thinking of suppressing your typical revolver, it’s probably not going to be very effective.
What Silencer Does the Military Use?
The U.S. military utilizes a diverse array of suppressors tailored to specific weapons and operational needs across various branches and special operations units. Among the most widely used is the SureFire SOCOM556-RC2, favored by SOCOM for its durability and minimal impact on performance, particularly with 5.56mm rifles like the M4A1 and Mk 18. Knight’s Armament Company (KAC) contributes with the NT4 and QDSS-NT4 suppressors, known for their ruggedness and quick-detach systems.
In my Sniper Team days we used the Knight’s Armament Company (KAC) M110 Suppressor (pictured below), it has one of the most straight forward QD mounting devices in the game.
For larger calibers, the military employs the SureFire SOCOM762-RC2 and SOCOM338-Ti, designed for 7.62mm and .338 Lapua Magnum rifles, respectively. This doesn't cover every possible suppressor the military might use but it hits the main ones.
Are Silencers Legal in Illinois?
No, suppressors are not legal in Illinois. In fact, there are currently a few states where suppressors are illegal, including:
California
Delaware
Hawaii
Illinois
Massachusetts
New Jersey
New York
Rhode Island
Washington D.C.
If you’re in one of these states, you’re out of luck—at least for now. For the rest of you, enjoy those sweet, sweet decibels.
Are Suppressor Covers Necessary?
Suppressor covers are not strictly necessary, but they can be very useful. They help reduce the heat mirage that can affect your aim after firing multiple rounds. They also protect your hands from burns, since suppressors can get extremely hot. Plus, they can prevent your suppressor from snagging on things. So while not absolutely essential, a suppressor cover is a smart accessory to have.
Are Suppressor Alignment Rods Necessary?
Depends: If you are direct threading a suppressor and you now how to properly screw on a bottle cap then no. Suppressor alignment rods are recommended when installing a suppressor on a firearm over a muzzle device. These rods ensure that your suppressor is properly aligned with the bore of your firearm, which is crucial for preventing baffle strikes. A misaligned suppressor can cause serious damage to both the suppressor and your firearm, so it’s definitely worth the extra step to use an alignment rod.
Will a .223 Suppressor Work on .22 LR?
Yes, you can use a .223 suppressor on a .22 LR firearm. Since the .223 suppressor is built to handle much higher pressures, it will work just fine with the lower-pressure .22 LR round. However, it might be a bit heavier and bulkier than a dedicated .22 suppressor, but it will still do the job.
Who Made the Suppressor?
Suppressors are made by a variety of manufacturers, each with their own unique designs and specialties. Some of the most reputable suppressor manufacturers include SureFire, SilencerCo, Dead Air, and Otter Creek Labs. These companies are known for their high-quality, reliable suppressors that cater to both military and civilian markets.
Why Does a Suppressor Shift POI (Point of Impact)?
A suppressor can shift the point of impact because it adds weight to the end of your barrel, which can change the barrel’s harmonics when firing. This shift in harmonics can cause the bullet to exit the barrel at a slightly different angle, resulting in a change in the point of impact. The shift is usually minimal and consistent. Run a dedicated can on a single firearm zero and let that suppressor live on that weapon.
Will a Suppressor Increase Velocity?
Yes, but only slightly. A suppressor can slightly increase the velocity of a bullet because it contains the gas behind the bullet for a bit longer, allowing more of the gas to push the bullet forward. The increase in velocity is typically minor and not enough to drastically affect the performance of your firearm.
What Is a K Suppressor?
A "K suppressor" refers to a compact or "K" (Kurz, German for "short") model of a suppressor. These suppressors are shorter and lighter than standard models, making them easier to handle and less cumbersome. However, the trade-off is that they may not offer the same level of sound suppression as their full-sized counterparts. K suppressors are a great option if you need something more compact for a specific application.
Are Silencers Legal in California?
No, suppressors are illegal in California. As mentioned earlier, there are several states where suppressors are not allowed, including:
California
Delaware
Hawaii
Illinois
Massachusetts
New Jersey
New York
Rhode Island
Washington D.C.
If you’re in one of these states, you’ll have to admire suppressors from afar. If you are not in one of these states let Black Creek hook you up. Don't see what you want? Let us know and we will make it happen.
Comments