Don’t Blow Up Your Suppressor – 3 Tips to Avoid Catastrophe

Hey everybody, Rob Orgel here. Today, we’re diving into an important topic: how to avoid blowing up your suppressor. With 300 days a year spent on the shooting range giving classes, I’ve seen my fair share of suppressor mishaps. So let’s discuss why this happens, how likely it is, and what you can do to prevent it.

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The Risk of Suppressor Failure

Blowing up your suppressor is a catastrophic event. It can act like a hand grenade, sending shrapnel flying and potentially causing serious injury. Additionally, losing a $1,000+ silencer, along with the time and money spent on the $200 tax stamp, is a significant blow. Here’s what you need to know to prevent such disasters.

1. Proper Installation

The most common reason suppressors fail is improper installation. Here are the key points to ensure your suppressor stays put:

• Check for Tightness: Always ensure your suppressor is screwed on tightly. If it’s loose, it can unscrew itself and go downrange. This is not only embarrassing but also dangerous.
• Locking Mechanism: Make sure the locking latch is fully engaged. Some suppressors, like the SureFire mounts, have specific collars that need to be securely fastened.
• Regular Checks: After shooting a mag or two, let the suppressor cool down and then check for tightness again. This can prevent it from coming loose during prolonged shooting sessions.

Visual and Physical Checks

• Wiggle Test: Shake the gun slightly to see if anything moves or makes noise.
• Visual Alignment: For a first-time setup, remove the upper from the lower and the bolt carrier group. Look down the barrel from the chamber side and move your head in a circle to check if the suppressor is misaligned.

2. Use of Loctite and Proper Tools

Modular suppressors offer great versatility, but they also have more points of potential failure. Here are tips to ensure everything stays in place:

• Loctite: Once you decide on a specific setup, use high-temp red Loctite to secure the suppressor body to the mount. This prevents the suppressor from coming loose during use.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: For muzzle devices, manufacturers often recommend using Rocksett. While I personally prefer high-temp red Loctite, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety.

3. Understand Barrel Length and Rate of Fire Restrictions

Suppressors have specific guidelines regarding barrel length and rate of fire. Ignoring these can lead to catastrophic failures:

• Barrel Length Restrictions: Ensure your suppressor is rated for the barrel length of your firearm. Older titanium suppressors often have stricter barrel length limitations.
• Rate of Fire: Suppressors must be rated for full-auto fire, especially when used on shorter barrels. Overuse or using a suppressor outside its rated specifications can lead to a blowout.

Additional Considerations

Caliber Restrictions

Always check the manufacturer’s website for caliber and barrel length restrictions. For example, a 30 caliber suppressor might not be rated for every 30 caliber cartridge, especially in shorter barrels. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly.

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you can ensure your suppressor remains safe and functional:

Pros:

• Enhanced Safety: Regular checks and proper installation prevent accidents.
• Longevity: Proper maintenance and adherence to guidelines extend the suppressor’s lifespan.
• Performance: Ensuring your suppressor is correctly installed and maintained guarantees optimal performance.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Requires regular checks and cleaning, especially for modular suppressors.
• Initial Setup Time: Proper installation and alignment take time, but it’s worth the effort to prevent mishaps.

Blowing up your suppressor is a serious concern, but with the right precautions, it’s entirely avoidable. If you found this video helpful, please like, comment, and subscribe. Your support helps us continue bringing you valuable content. Stay safe, and see you on the next one.