The Most Common Suppressor Issues and How to Fix Them
Suppressors are an essential tool for firearm enthusiasts, hunters, and law enforcement professionals, offering benefits like reduced noise and recoil. However, like any piece of equipment, suppressors can encounter issues that impact their performance. Whether you’re a new suppressor owner or a seasoned pro, understanding these common problems—and knowing how to fix them—can ensure your suppressor continues to function at its best. In this article, we’ll cover the most common suppressor issues and provide practical solutions.
1. Carbon Build-Up
Issue: Over time, carbon residue from burnt gunpowder accumulates inside the suppressor, leading to reduced performance and potential malfunctions. This build-up can cause the suppressor to become heavier and affect its ability to effectively reduce noise.
Fix: Regular cleaning is key to preventing carbon build-up. However, it’s important to note that not all suppressors are user-serviceable. For those that can be disassembled, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Use a carbon cleaner or solvent to remove the residue, and a nylon brush to scrub away stubborn deposits. Make sure to thoroughly dry and lubricate the suppressor before reassembly. If your suppressor is sealed and not user-serviceable, periodic professional cleaning is recommended to maintain performance.
To clean a non-user-serviceable suppressor using the bore solvent soak method, start by plugging one end of the suppressor with a rubber stopper or a similar device. Next, fill the suppressor with a bore-cleaning solvent, ensuring that the solvent is safe for the suppressor’s materials (such as Hoppes No. 9 or a similar product). Allow the suppressor to soak for several hours or even overnight to loosen any carbon build-up and fouling inside. After soaking, drain the solvent from the suppressor and let it air dry completely. Finally, use compressed air to blow out any remaining solvent or debris, ensuring the suppressor is thoroughly clean.
2. Baffle Misalignment
Issue: Baffle misalignment occurs when the internal baffles, responsible for reducing the sound of the gunshot, are not properly aligned. This can lead to uneven sound suppression, bullet instability, or even strikes against the suppressor’s walls, known as "baffle strikes."
Fix: If you suspect baffle misalignment, stop using the suppressor immediately to avoid further damage. For user-serviceable suppressors, disassemble and inspect the baffles for wear or damage, and realign them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. For non-serviceable suppressors, contact the manufacturer or a qualified gunsmith for evaluation and repair.
3. Loose Mounting
Issue: Suppressors need to be securely mounted to the firearm to function properly. Over time, the suppressor can loosen from repeated firing, leading to accuracy issues and potential damage.
Fix: Before every use, ensure that your suppressor is tightly secured to the firearm. If your suppressor uses a quick-detach (QD) system, check that the latching mechanism is fully engaged. For direct-thread suppressors, regularly inspect the threads for wear and ensure they are clean before mounting. Applying a small amount of thread locker can help keep the suppressor firmly in place. If you notice consistent issues with mounting, consider consulting the manufacturer for possible solutions or upgrades.
4. Suppressor Overheating
Issue: Firing multiple rounds in quick succession can cause the suppressor to overheat. An overheated suppressor can be difficult to handle, cause burns, and may affect the material’s integrity over time.
Fix: To prevent overheating, allow time for the suppressor to cool between shooting sessions. Using a suppressor cover can help manage heat, making it safer to handle. If you’re shooting in a high-volume scenario, consider using a suppressor designed for sustained fire, which typically has better heat dissipation properties.
5. Decreased Sound Suppression
Issue: Over time, you may notice that your suppressor isn’t as effective at reducing noise as it once was. This decrease in sound suppression can be due to several factors, including carbon build-up, baffle damage, or wear on the suppressor’s components.
Fix: Start by cleaning your suppressor if it’s user-serviceable to remove any carbon build-up. Inspect the baffles for signs of wear or damage, and replace them if necessary. For non-serviceable suppressors, professional cleaning or repair may be required. If cleaning and maintenance don’t restore the suppressor’s performance, it may be time to contact the manufacturer for further evaluation or replacement.
6. Difficulty in Disassembly
Issue: Regular cleaning is crucial for suppressor maintenance, but disassembly can sometimes be challenging, especially if the suppressor hasn’t been cleaned in a while or has been exposed to harsh conditions. This issue primarily applies to user-serviceable suppressors.
Fix: To make disassembly easier, apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the suppressor’s threads before reassembly. This will prevent the parts from sticking together and make future disassembly smoother. If parts are stuck, use a strap wrench for extra leverage, but be gentle to avoid damaging the suppressor. For non-serviceable suppressors, ensure that you follow a regular maintenance schedule with a professional to avoid buildup that could affect performance.
7. Baffle Strikes
Issue: Baffle strikes occur when the bullet makes contact with one of the suppressor’s internal baffles. This can be caused by improper mounting, baffle misalignment, or a manufacturing defect. Baffle strikes can damage both the suppressor and the firearm, leading to accuracy issues and safety concerns.
Fix: If you experience a baffle strike, stop using the suppressor immediately. Inspect the suppressor and the firearm for damage. If the strike is minor, realign the baffles and remount the suppressor if it’s user-serviceable. For significant damage or non-serviceable suppressors, contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement. To prevent future strikes, ensure the suppressor is properly mounted and aligned before use.
8. Corrosion and Rust
Issue: Suppressors are often exposed to harsh environments, including moisture, which can lead to corrosion and rust. This is particularly common in suppressors made from steel or other non-corrosion-resistant materials.
Fix: To prevent rust and corrosion, regularly clean and lubricate your suppressor, especially after exposure to moisture or humidity. Storing the suppressor in a dry, controlled environment can also help prevent rust. If rust does appear, use a rust remover or fine steel wool to clean the affected area, and apply a protective coating to prevent future corrosion. For non-serviceable suppressors, extra care in storage and handling is crucial to prevent corrosion.
9. Poor Thread Engagement
Issue: Poor thread engagement occurs when the suppressor doesn’t fully engage with the firearm’s barrel threads, leading to instability and potential damage during firing.
Fix: Ensure that both the suppressor and barrel threads are clean and free of debris before mounting. If the threads are worn or damaged, consider having them re-threaded by a professional gunsmith. Always check for proper thread engagement before firing to avoid issues.
10. Loss of Zero
Issue: Mounting a suppressor can sometimes cause a shift in the point of impact, resulting in a loss of zero. This can affect accuracy, especially at longer distances.
Fix: After mounting the suppressor, re-zero your firearm to account for any shift in point of impact. Keep a record of your zero settings with and without the suppressor, so you can easily adjust when switching between suppressed and unsuppressed shooting.
Conclusion
Suppressors are valuable tools that, when properly maintained, can enhance your shooting experience by reducing noise and recoil. By understanding the most common suppressor issues and how to fix them, you can keep your suppressor in top working condition and avoid potential problems down the line. Regular maintenance, careful inspection, and following the manufacturer’s guidelines are key to ensuring your suppressor’s longevity and performance. For non-serviceable suppressors, professional maintenance is essential to preserving their effectiveness.
Need help choosing or maintaining a suppressor? Contact us at Black Creek Firearms for expert advice and top-quality products.