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  • Post category:Suppressors
  • Post last modified:September 21, 2023
  • Post published:December 6, 2022

Best Pistol Suppressor

What is a Pistol Suppressor? 😏

It is also known as a silencer, a device attached to the barrel of a firearm to reduce the amount of noise and visible muzzle flash generated by firing. Suppressors are typically constructed of a metal cylinder with internal baffles to decrease the sound of the explosion by slowing the escaping gases. While they don’t completely silence the noise, they significantly lower the sound level and make the shot less conspicuous.

Our Top Pick
Advanced Armament – Ti-Rant® 45 Auto Pistol Suppressor
The user-friendly, fully serviceable design of this suppressor allows for effortless cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, it delivers exceptional sound and flash reduction. To further enhance performance, introducing a wet charge of water can result in an impressive 30% improvement.
Buy Now On Brownells
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Features 🧐

⚪ Foremost, they are characterized by their cylindrical shape and metal construction, which is designed to endure the high temperatures and pressures generated by the firing process. The interior of a suppressor is equipped with a series of baffles, a key feature that assists in reducing the sound of the explosion. These baffles work by slowing down and cooling the escaping gases, which in turn mitigates the sound produced during firing.

⚪ Another important feature is their ability to reduce visible muzzle flash. This is achieved by allowing the propellant gases to expand and cool within the suppressor before they exit the barrel, significantly reducing the visible signature of the shot.

⚪ Despite their name, it’s critical to note that ‘silencers’ do not completely eliminate the noise of a gunshot. Instead, their function is to lower the sound to less harmful levels and make it less conspicuous, thereby protecting the shooter’s hearing and minimizing disturbance to the surroundings.

⚪ Some models also feature a recoil-reducing mechanism, which can improve the shooter’s control over the firearm and enhance accuracy.

It’s worth noting that the specifics of these features can vary significantly between different models and manufacturers, influenced by factors such as the intended use of the firearm, specific design philosophies, and regulatory constraints.

Our Top Pick
Dead Air Armament – Ghost-M Pistol Suppressor
This suppressor holds a full auto-rating and boasts an innovative, patent-pending modular construction, setting it apart as one of the most adaptable options available. Crafted from durable materials such as high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, titanium, and anodized 7075 aluminium, the Ghost-M is engineered to endure rigorous usage, all while maintaining a lightweight profile for easy portability wherever your travels take you.
Buy Now On Brownells
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Types 🤠

Indeed, there are several different types of suppressors, each designed with specific applications and requirements in mind. The main types include the monocoque, K-baffle, and reflex suppressors.

  • 🟢 The monocoque suppressor features a single-piece baffle design, simplifying cleaning and maintenance. This type often delivers excellent sound reduction but might add more weight and length to the firearm.
  • 🟢 K-baffle suppressors, on the other hand, consist of a series of individual baffles that direct and slow the propellant gases. These suppressors are generally lightweight and compact, making them a popular choice for smaller firearms.
  • 🟢 Reflex suppressors extend back over the barrel of the firearm, offering a larger volume for gas expansion and cooling without increasing the overall length of the weapon. This type can deliver a superior noise reduction performance and is often chosen for larger calibre firearms.

Each type has its advantages and potential drawbacks, and the choice between them is typically influenced by factors such as the specific firearm model, the intended use of the suppressor, and personal preferences regarding size, weight, and maintenance.

Benefits 😎

✴️ Firstly, they significantly reduce the noise signature when firing, making pistol shooting much quieter. By containing and cooling the propellant gases within the suppressor, these devices greatly diminish the muzzle blast noise emitted with each shot. ↪️ This benefit is hugely advantageous for hearing protection.

✴️ Secondly, these items mitigate muzzle flash, which helps preserve night vision for shooters. The large muzzle flash emitted from firing a pistol can temporarily impair vision in low-light shooting situations. By containing gases and particles within the suppressor, it practically eliminates visible muzzle flashes. ↪️  This is critical for maintaining visual acuity in tactical or self-defence low-light conditions.

✴️ Moreover, suppressed pistols have less felt recoil, further aiding shooter control and precision. By dampening and regulating the escape of propellant gases, the suppressor soaks up some of the rearward impulses when firing. ↪️ This slightly reduces the motion of the pistol, allowing the shooter to get back on target more easily and track the pistol through its recoil arc better.

✴️ Finally, due to the above benefits, suppressed pistols are enjoyable and comfortable to shoot extensively. The reduction in noise, flash, and recoil mitigates much of the concussive effects of pistol shooting. ↪️ This enables suppressed pistol shooting for extended training sessions without excessive fatigue or discomfort afterwards.

Best Pistol Suppressors Reviews

1# Advanced Armament – Ti-Rant® 45 Auto Pistol Suppressors

Advanced Armament - Ti-Rant® 45 Auto Pistol Suppressors

View on Brownells

If you need a top-of-the-line performance in a 45 Auto suppressor, note the Ti-Rant® series from Advanced Armament. Made from the highest quality materials, the Ti-Rant® series is designed for superior durability and reliable operation. The fully serviceable design allows users to easily clean and maintain the suppressor, while the advanced “K” baffles provide outstanding sound and flash reduction. For even more performance, a wet charge of water will increase performance by up to 30%. So whether you’re a competitive shooter or just want the best possible suppression for your 45 Auto pistol, the Ti-Rant® series from Advanced Armament is the way to go.

Video review

Pros:
  • Fully serviceable design
  • “K” baffles provide outstanding sound and flash reduction
  • Wet charge of water increases performance by up to 30%
Cons:
  • Higher price tag than some other models

 

2# Dead Air Armament – Ghost-M Pistol Suppressor

Dead Air Armament - Ghost-M Pistol Suppressor

View on Brownells

The DeadAir Ghost-M is the perfect choice for those looking for a modular, multi-calibre pistol/sub-gun suppressor. It is fully auto-rated and features a unique patent-pending modular design, making it one of the most versatile suppressors on the market. Made from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel, titanium, and anodized 7075 aluminium, the Ghost-M is built to withstand anything you throw at it while still being lightweight enough to carry with you everywhere you go.

Video review

Pros:
  • Rugged construction
  • Lightweight
  • Multi-caliber compatible
  • Full auto rated
Cons:
  • May be too lightweight for some users

 

Installation 🛠️

💠 Firstly, ensure the firearm is unloaded: Before attempting to attach a suppressor, always ensure your pistol is unloaded. After that, you can remove the magazine, clear the chamber, and visually inspect the bore to confirm it is empty.

💠 Secondly, check compatibility: Verify that your pistol is compatible with the suppressor you intend to use. It is quite important to ensure the suppressor’s threading matches the threaded barrel of your pistol, as different models may have varying thread pitches.

💠 Moreover, prepare the suppressor: Based on our experience we recommend checking if the suppressor is clean and in good condition. We advise removing any dirt, debris, or fouling from the suppressor’s internals and threads. Inspect for any damage or defects that could affect its performance.

💠 Thirdly, prepare the pistol: If your pistol does not have a threaded barrel, you will need to replace the stock barrel with one that is threaded to accommodate the suppressor. Here we hope that your new barrel is properly installed, and the threads are clean and undamaged.

💠 Fourthly, lubricate the threads: We tried to do it several times and noticed that it is necessary to apply an appropriate firearm-specific lubricant to the threads on both the pistol barrel and the suppressor. This will facilitate easier installation and reduce the risk of threads binding.

💠 Additionally, align the suppressor: Carefully align the suppressor with the threaded barrel, ensuring that it is centred and straight. Avoid cross-threading, which can damage the threads and suppressor.

💠 Furthermore, hand-tighten initially: Using your hand, gently thread the suppressor onto the barrel until it is snug. This ensures initial alignment without the risk of over-tightening or damaging the threads.

💠 Finally, use a suppressor wrench: Using a suppressor wrench designed for your specific suppressor model, securely tighten the suppressor onto the barrel. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications, as over-tightening can cause damage or negatively affect performance.

FAQ ❓

What is the difference between a suppressor and a silencer?

The terms “suppressor” and “silencer” are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinction in their technical definitions and their use in the firearms industry:

Suppressor:

  • A suppressor is a device attached to the muzzle of a firearm, such as a pistol or rifle, with the primary purpose of reducing the noise generated when the gun is fired.
  • They work by capturing and dissipating the rapidly expanding gases and the sonic crack created by the bullet as it exceeds the speed of sound, thereby reducing the loudness of the gunshot.
  • They do not make firearms completely silent but significantly reduce the noise, making them less disruptive to the shooter and those nearby.
  • “Suppressor” is the more accurate and commonly used term in the firearms industry and among regulatory bodies.

Silencer:

  • “Silencer” is a term that is sometimes colloquially used to refer to the same devices as suppressors. However, it can be misleading, as these devices do not actually silence a gunshot but only reduce the noise.
  • The term “silencer” was coined by Hiram Percy Maxim, the inventor of the first commercially successful firearm noise-reduction device in the early 20th century. He used this term for marketing purposes, and it has stuck in popular culture.
  • Legally and technically, “silencer” is not an accurate term, and it is important to use the term “suppressor” in legal and regulatory contexts.

While “silencer” is a historical and colloquial term for devices that reduce firearm noise, “suppressor” is the more precise and widely accepted term in the firearms industry and legal frameworks. These devices do not make guns silent but significantly reduce the noise associated with gunfire.

What materials are pistol suppressors made from?

🔘 Firstly, stainless steel is a very common material. Stainless steel provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance, which is important for the suppressor housing that endures intense heat and gas pressure during firing. Stainless steel construction allows the suppressor to have a long service life.

🔘 Secondly, aluminium is sometimes utilized for this type of suppressor, allowing for lighter-weight suppressor models. Aircraft-grade aluminium alloys maintain strength and resist wear while enabling suppressors to be more portable and add less mass to the end of the pistol.

🔘 Moreover, titanium is an exotic metal increasingly used in high-end suppressor construction. Titanium is exceptionally tough yet lightweight, though more costly to machine than steel or aluminium. Titanium shed significant weight off the pistol while maintaining structural integrity under firing stresses.

🟨 Additionally, some suppressor parts like baffles and spacers may be constructed from 17-4 pH stainless steel. This allows for excellent corrosion resistance while handling intense heat and carbon buildup from firing. Internal suppressor components see the most extreme conditions and require hardy materials.

Can you legally own a pistol suppressor in the US?

At the federal level, suppressors are legal to own in the United States. They are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA). To legally possess a suppressor, individuals must go through a specific process that includes paying a $200 transfer tax, submitting fingerprints, and undergoing a background check. This process is similar to the requirements for owning other NFA items, such as short-barreled rifles and machine guns.

While suppressors are federally legal, their legality at the state level varies. Some states allow private individuals to own and use suppressors without additional restrictions, while others have more stringent regulations. It is crucial to research and understand the laws in your specific state, as some states may ban these items altogether or have additional requirements beyond federal regulations.

In addition to state laws, there may be local ordinances or regulations within certain cities or counties that further restrict or regulate the ownership and use of suppressors.

⚠️ Since laws can change over time, we strongly recommend checking with your local law enforcement or legal counsel and reviewing the most up-to-date information from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations regarding suppressors.

How do I clean and maintain my pistol suppressor?

Proper cleaning and maintenance are important for keeping an item functioning optimally and preventing potential issues like baffle strikes. Here are some tips:

🟡 Firstly, they should be regularly disassembled to clean all the internal components. We noticed that after firing, carbon buildup and lead deposits accumulate inside the suppressor and need removal. So start by detaching the suppressor from the firearm and removing any accessories.

🟡 Next, following the manufacturer’s instructions, take the suppressor apart piece by piece. This allows access to the baffle stack, tube, and end caps. Once disassembled, inspect each part for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged elements.

🟡 Then, using gun cleaning solvents and brushes, meticulously clean all the suppressor parts to remove fouling, residue, and deposits. We advise you to soak baffles and tubes in solvent to break up stubborn carbon and soils. Properly cleaning all areas prevents function issues.

🟡 Moreover, once the cleaning process is complete, ensure the suppressor components are fully dried of all solvents. Any remaining solvent can impact the suppressor’s performance. Re-lubricate parts as needed before reassembly.

🟡 Finally, carefully reassemble the suppressor exactly as directed by the manufacturer’s guidelines. Incorrect assembly can cause baffle strikes or suppressor damage. Proper maintenance keeps the suppressor operating as designed for maximum sound suppression.

Regular cleaning ensures optimal functioning and safety when using your trusted pistol suppressor. Follow the manufacturer’s advice and treat your suppressor with care for the best performance.

Do suppressors affect the performance of my pistol?

The addition of a suppressor does result in some changes to a pistol’s handling and performance characteristics, but quality suppressors are designed to minimize negative impacts:

Firstly, they add weight to the end of the barrel, which can shift the pistol’s balance and centre of mass rearward. This alters the way the pistol handles and responds during shooting. With training, shooters can adapt their grip and stance to compensate for the suppressor’s added mass.

Secondly, the increased length of a suppressed pistol can potentially affect the concealability for concealed carry purposes, depending on the size of the suppressor model. Larger suppressors may impact the ability to effectively conceal the pistol.

Moreover, attaching a suppressor will change the sight picture of the pistol. The shooter will need to get used to sighting over the length of the suppressor. Suppressor-height sights can help ensure proper sight alignment with the pistol’s bore axis.

Conclusion 🤩

Pistol suppressors, or ‘silencers’, are complex devices that contribute significantly to a safer and more manageable shooting experience. They exhibit a range of features, including sound reduction, visible muzzle flash mitigation, and in some cases, recoil reduction. There are also various types of suppressors, such as monocoque, K-baffle, and reflex, each with its unique advantages, catering to different firearms and user requirements.

However, it’s vital to remember that suppressors do not entirely eliminate the noise of a gunshot but lower it to less harmful and less noticeable levels.

Choosing the right suppressor requires consideration of multiple factors and often comes down to personal preference and specific shooting needs.

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Huffington
Huffington
4 months ago

I’ve encountered issues with my suppressor not staying tight during extended shooting sessions. Any recommendations for preventing it from loosening up?

    Natalia
    4 months ago
    Reply to  Huffington

    Here are a few tips that might help you keep your suppressor snug:

    *️⃣ Proper Torque: Make sure you’re tightening the suppressor to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Using a torque wrench can help you achieve the right level of tightness without over-tightening.

    *️⃣ Thread Locker: Consider using a thread locker like Loctite specifically designed for firearms. Apply it sparingly to the threads before attaching the suppressor. Be sure to use a type that allows for removal when needed.

    *️⃣ Check Alignment: Ensure that your suppressor is correctly aligned with the barrel. Misalignment can cause the suppressor to come loose. Some shooters even mark their suppressors and barrels to ensure they always mount them in the same position.

    *️⃣ Heat Cycling: Suppressors can expand and contract with heat. During extended shooting sessions, they can get hot and potentially loosen. Pausing occasionally to let the suppressor cool down a bit can help.

    *️⃣ Maintenance: Regularly inspect the suppressor for any signs of wear or damage, especially around the threads. Keeping it in good condition can prevent issues down the line.

      Marigold
      Marigold
      4 months ago
      Reply to  Huffington

      Using thread locker (like Loctite) on the suppressor threads can help prevent it from coming loose. Just be sure to use a type that allows for removal when needed. Also, check the torque specifications recommended by the suppressor manufacturer to ensure it’s tightened to the proper level.

        Smuth
        Smuth
        4 months ago

        I’ve been looking for a good holster for my suppressed Glock 19, and it’s been a bit of a challenge. The extended barrel and suppressor make it tough to find a holster that fits right. Any recommendations?

          Natalia
          4 months ago
          Reply to  Smuth

          Yes, there are specific holsters designed for use with suppressed pistols, often referred to as “suppressor-ready” or “suppressor-compatible” holsters. These holsters are specially designed to accommodate handguns equipped with suppressors, taking into account the added length and bulk of the firearm when the suppressor is attached. Here are some key features and considerations regarding holsters for suppressed pistols:

          🔰 Extended Barrel and Suppressor Clearance: Suppressor-ready holsters are designed with longer pouches or holsters to accommodate the extended barrel length of a suppressed pistol. This extra space allows the suppressor to protrude without obstructing the holster’s functionality.

          🔰 Height and Width Adjustments: Many suppressor-compatible holsters are adjustable in terms of height and width, allowing users to fine-tune the fit for their specific handgun and suppressor combination.

          🔰 Retention and Security: A good holster should provide adequate retention to secure the firearm in place. Ensure that the holster you choose offers sufficient retention even with the added weight and bulk of the suppressor.

            Sam
            Sam
            4 months ago
            Reply to  Smuth

            I had the same issue with my CZ P-10C. After some research, I found a few Kydex holsters that are designed for suppressed pistols. The ones have worked well for me.

              Mike
              Mike
              4 months ago
              Reply to  Smuth

              I prefer an inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry for my suppressed SIG P226. There are a few molded to my gun and suppressor combo, and it’s super comfortable.

                Clover
                Clover
                4 months ago

                Hello! Do suppressors make my pistol completely silent?

                  Natalia
                  4 months ago
                  Reply to  Clover

                  ❌ No, suppressors do not make pistols completely silent. While suppressors are designed to reduce the noise generated by a firearm when fired, they do not eliminate all sound.

                  ✅ Suppressors significantly reduce the noise created by the expanding gases and the sonic crack of the bullet as it travels downrange. This reduction in noise makes the gunshot less disruptive and can help protect the shooter’s hearing.