Suppressors gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Because of this, you can now explore a vast number of different suppressors out there and find which one fits your needs best.
Of course, there are still some regulations regarding suppressors, and for sure you’ll have to deal with NFA (or even check the local laws as some states don’t allow suppressors), but in the end, if you get one suppressor, you’ll see why it was a good investment.
AR15 Suppressor Types
First, let’s explore 3 different types of suppressors, one by one.
Direct Thread Suppressors
This is the most popular type of suppressor you can find out there. Lots of people already use it because of its simplicity and ease of installation. The suppressor is attached to the threaded muzzle of your rifle’s barrel.
Pros:
- Easy installation.
- Lightweight.
- Cost-effective.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility.
- Heat transfer.
Quick Detach (QD) Suppressors
If you’re a fan of quick changes between suppressed and unsuppressed configs, then quick detach suppressors are a better option for you. They are made with a specialized mounting system that allows you to rapidly attach or detach the suppressor from your rifle.
Pros:
- Rapid attachment/detachment.
- Compatibility.
- Heat dissipation.
Cons:
- Added complexity.
- Cost.
Integral Suppressors
These are built-in suppressors meaning they are designed as integral parts of your rifle’s barrel. Compared to other suppressors which can be attached or detached, the integral suppressor is permanently fixed to the rifle. This offers a seamless and compact design.
Pros:
- Reduced length.
- Aesthetics.
- Balance.
Cons:
- Limited customization.
- Barrel replacement.
- Heat management.
These are the three types of suppressors you can choose from. Of course, carefully consider your priorities and you’ll have an easier time choosing the right option.
Suppressor Benefits
Noise Reduction
The first and most important benefit of the AR15 suppressor is noise reduction. You probably know how much noise shooting produces. With a suppressor attached to the barrel, you can have more pleasurable shooting sessions.
This is achieved by trapping and slowing down the expanding gases produced by a bullet when it’s fired. As a result, you’ll get a quieter muzzle report.
If you’re one of those people who spend lots of time shooting, then you should definitely consider getting a silencer to protect your hearing as it can get damaged over time.
Also, less noise is a great advantage for stealth scenarios where low noise is crucial.
Recoil Mitigation
Suppressors can help you control your weapon and recoil easier than without. It plays a role in mitigating recoil and improving shooting accuracy. When you pull a trigger and fire a bullet, the expanding gases are pushed against the suppressor's baffles which counteract the rearward force applied to the rifle.
With reduced recoil, you can get a smoother shooting experience as you can have better control over your weapon and deliver follow-up shots if the situation requires that from you.
Reduced Muzzle Flash
Suppressors also reduce the intensity of muzzle flash. This is great for low-light scenarios where you can easily uncover your location with bright bursts of light when you shoot. Another benefit of reduced muzzle flash is a clearer sight picture which allows you to easily acquire new targets more accurately.
Best AR15 Suppressors
- CGS Group Helios QD 5.56mm Suppressor
- Surefire SOCOM556 SB2 Sound Suppressor - FDE
- Daniel Defense SoundGuard SG-30 Suppressor - Black
- SilencerCo Velos LBP Suppressor
- Griffin Armament Dual-Lok Suppressor
- Huxwrx FLOW 556K Suppressor Kit - Black
CGS Group Helios QD 5.56mm Suppressor
The CGS Group Helios QD suppressor is made for 5.56 rifles, but it is also capable of handling other cartridges too. Also, CGS Group is known for the good reputation they built with their silencers which are known for durability and unique features. This sets them apart from competitors.
The Helios silencer is made to endure harsh conditions and extended use. It’s also a very adaptive model whose function can be changed easily by swapping or removing the front cap.
The suppressor has user-friendly maintenance. Compared to many other suppressors out there, that usually require a set of special tools for removal, the Helios QD can be easily disassembled using standard tools. The front cap is secured with a 7/8" socket.
The suppressor's modularity extends to its design, with the capability to function as both a standard suppressor and a flow bypass suppressor by altering the front cap. The Helios QD's construction is notable as well; the core and tube are 3D printed with Inconel 718, a high-performance material known for its strength and heat resistance.
Despite its remarkable features, the Helios QD suppressor does come with added weight due to its robust construction. With a weight of approximately 20 ounces and a price point of around $1,400, it's positioned at the higher end of the spectrum compared to competing suppressors.
Price: $1,400
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Surefire SOCOM556 SB2 Sound Suppressor - FDE
The SOCOM556-SB2 suppressor provides an optimal solution for users seeking high performance and reliability, even when used with short-barrel rifles.
Crafted from high-temperature alloys and stainless steel components, the SB2 is built to withstand the rigors of full-auto operation, reinforced by CNC laser welding. Its internal baffling system reduces back pressure, cyclic rate, and gas blowback.
The suppressor is designed with SureFire's renowned Total Signature Reduction technology, which eliminates first-round flash and reduces sound and dust signatures. Its lightweight construction, weighing only 17 ounces, minimally affects weapon handling and adds a mere 3.8 inches to the overall weapon length.
The SOCOM556-SB2 stands out as one of SureFire's lowest back-pressure suppressors. This guarantees great performance and eliminates the common phenomenon of first-round flash. It’s capable of suppressing 98.8% of visible flash.
The SOCOM556-SB2 is made from high-temp alloy and stainless steel components with landbound and Creakote finish improving its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Price: $1,124
Get yours here!
Daniel Defense SoundGuard SG-30 Suppressor - Black
The collaboration between Daniel Defense and KGM Suppressors has given rise to the Daniel SoundGuard, a suppressor that integrates gas-flow dynamics to address over-gassing concerns. This technology redirects gasses forward, effectively minimizing the unwanted blowback of gases toward the shooter's face.
The implementation of KGM's advanced technology serves to notably lower impulse noise levels, a feature geared towards hearing protection. The suppressor also features a patent-pending baffle stack and a proprietary internal coating that work together to effectively diminish the firearm's flash signature, rendering it nearly imperceptible.
The Daniel SoundGuard, designated as the SG-30, exhibits compatibility with an array of calibers, ranging from .223 to 300 PRC. It employs stainless steel for its construction, which provides a blend of lightweight attributes and durable performance.
From a technical perspective, the SG-30's specifications reveal its functional attributes. With a weight of 22.5 oz (with mount), it measures 7 inches in length and boasts a diameter of 1.75 inches. Constructed from stainless steel for both its baffle stack and tube components, the suppressor features a durable Black High-Temp Cerakote finish. Its thread pitch of 5/8x24 enhances compatibility with a diverse range of firearms.
Also, the silencer comes at a lower price point starting with $750 for one piece.
Price: $750
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SilencerCo Velos LBP Suppressor
The Velos LBP is a suppressor tailored for the 5.56 caliber that delivers good sound performance while minimizing back pressure on host firearms. This feature translates to reduced gas blowback, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
The Velos LPB incorporates a 3D-printed Inconel 625 core that is fully welded to 17-4 Stainless Steel front and rear modules. Also, this suppressor is among SilencerCo's most durable offerings, thanks in part to the patented Hoplon Blast Baffle. This baffle design effectively diverts debris, extending the suppressor's lifespan - particularly beneficial for short-barreled and full-auto firearms.
The silencer features a V-Series Cerakote finish, capable of withstanding the high temperatures associated with high rates of fire.
Price: $997.90
Get yours here!
Griffin Armament Dual-Lok Suppressor
The Griffin Armament is focused on creating a top-tier system that meets essential criteria, that’s how Dual-Lok is made.
In order to achieve optimal performance, a mounting system should be precise, robust, reliable, user-friendly, and avoid wear-prone metal components. The DUAL-LOK system was engineered with these objectives in mind.
This Dual-Lok suppressor comes with other features like minimal flash, less weight, good point of impact (POI) shift, and gas blowback while maximizing strength, durability, and sound control.
The muzzle device incorporates 60 machined anti-rotation splines, complemented by the collar's two locking positions. These positions are cleverly offset by 3 degrees, offering 120 locking possibilities, guaranteeing a secure suppressor attachment. When locked, only one position is engaged, allowing the spring to secure the collar over the splines.
Price: $888
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Huxwrx FLOW 556K Suppressor Kit
HUXWRX Safety Co., previously known as OSS Suppressors, has taken its suppressor technology up a notch with the new 3D-printed FLOW 556k suppressor. This suppressor combines HUXWRX's special Flow-Through and Torque Lock technologies with the advantages of 3D printing, resulting in a lighter, smaller, and quieter suppressor.
The Flow-Through and Torque Lock technology in the suppressor significantly reduce the visible signature without affecting how it works or how long it lasts. It works really well in reducing harmful fumes, making flashes smaller, keeping things quiet, lessening recoil, and making things repeatable.
Also, the design of the FLOW 556K suppressor means you don't have to change the weapon's parts like the bolt, gas tube, buffer, or recoil springs. It easily fits onto the Quick Detach (QD) flash hider and can also be used with both the Muzzle Brake-QD 556 and the Flash Hider-QD 556.
The FLOW 556K is suitable for full-auto use and works with 5.56, 17HMR, and 5.7 platforms. It comes with a QD 556 flash hider threaded 1/2×28.
Price: $1,125
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Conclusion
Getting a suppressor is surely a great thing with multiple benefits, including hearing protection.
However, choose silencers carefully and check the local laws regarding the silencers as some states banned them from civilian use. Also, you’ll have additional documents to fill in, but if you choose the right one, you won’t regret that decision.
Additional Reading
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