5 Pros and 5 Cons of Rifle Suppressors

Today, I want to zoom out and talk specifically about the pros and cons of rifle suppressors. I’m going to give you five cons and five pros in no particular order. These are based on my years of experience with NFA items and the lessons I’ve learned. Hopefully, this information will help you save money and make informed choices when purchasing and using suppressors.

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The Cons of Rifle Suppressors

1. Length

When adding a suppressor to your rifle, you’re obviously increasing the overall length of your firearm. While micro or mini suppressors are available, they may not provide the sound reduction you desire. Typically, mid-size or long suppressors offer better sound suppression but add significant length to your weapon.

2. Weight

Adding a suppressor to your rifle means adding weight, particularly at the end of the barrel. This can quickly become taxing, especially if you need to hold your rifle up for extended periods. The additional weight can affect your handling and fatigue levels during prolonged use.

3. Heat

Suppressors get extremely hot, even hotter than your barrel during firing. This heat can pose a risk of burns if you’re not careful. After firing, you’ll need to allow the suppressor to cool down before packing it away to avoid damaging your gear or injuring yourself.

4. Back Pressure

Suppressors can increase back pressure, leading to more gas blowback to the face. This can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health. Additionally, increased back pressure can cause malfunctions and undue wear on your firearm.

5. Time, Money, and Technology

Acquiring a suppressor involves a $200 tax stamp and a waiting period, which can range from a few weeks to a year. Furthermore, suppressor technology evolves rapidly, so the latest and greatest model you buy today might be outdated in a couple of years. This constant evolution can lead to frequent upgrades and additional expenses.

The Pros of Rifle Suppressors

1. Quieter Shooting

Suppressors significantly reduce the noise of gunfire, making shooting more comfortable for you and those around you. While they may not always make a gun hearing-safe, they certainly make the experience more tolerable, especially when combined with hearing protection.

2. Accuracy and Range

Contrary to some beliefs, suppressors do not reduce accuracy or range. In fact, they can sometimes increase bullet velocity slightly, leading to a marginal increase in range. While point-of-impact (POI) shifts can occur, they are usually repeatable and manageable.

3. Signature Reduction

Suppressors help reduce both muzzle flash and concussive wave, making them beneficial in various scenarios. By reducing the visible flash and the noise signature, suppressors help maintain your position’s concealment, whether in tactical situations or hunting.

4. Recoil Anticipation

Suppressors can help reduce recoil and muzzle blast, making shooting less intimidating for new shooters. This reduction in recoil and noise can also benefit experienced shooters by minimizing flinching and improving overall shooting comfort and accuracy.

5. Hearing Protection

Suppressors help protect your hearing by reducing the noise level of each shot. Even with hearing protection, constant exposure to loud gunfire can cause long-term hearing damage. Suppressors act like sunscreen for your ears, helping to preserve your hearing over a long shooting career.

Final Thoughts

Suppressors come with their set of pros and cons. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about whether to use a suppressor and which type to choose for your specific needs. Whether you’re concerned about noise reduction, recoil management, or the potential drawbacks like added length and weight, knowing the trade-offs is essential.

If you found this article useful, please share it with your fellow enthusiasts. Stay safe on your next range day and enjoy your shooting experience with the right suppressor and muzzle device combination.