dfinan said:
I am looking at getting my first suppressor for one of my AR's. As I know nothing about them (other then what they do), I am looking for advice on what to look for in a quality suppressor and if anyone can recommend some to look at. Thanks!
There are many good replies above.
However, you didn't specify what your requirements or expectations are.
1) You said "one of my ARs" Is this going to always be dedicated to "one" AR?
2) I'm assuming "the AR" is .223/5.56. Do you own other calibers you might want to cover? Covering larger calibers can be done say a .308 can on a a .223. Usually the tube will be larger and the bore diameter is larger allowing gasses to escape faster. The larger can volume will offset the bore diameter, however. A good .308 suppressor will get very close to the best dedicated .223 suppressors, but at a cost of bulk and weight.
3) Is the suppressor always going to be mounted?
Point of impact shift needs to be considered and the ability for the mount/can combination to repeat every time it is mounted. If it is always mounted this can be less of an issue if you use a direct mount. Sight it in and you are done.
4) Are any of the rifles it will be mounted on equipped with welded and pinned mounts to meet minimum length requirements? You want to make sure a mount is available to be installed and maintain that length.
5) Do any of the rifles it might be used on have a short barrel? The blast of shorter barrels can be more damaging than that of a 16-20" barrels. The construction of the suppressor can make it last longer, usually by use of materials like inconel in the suppressor. Some mounts can also help as the mount itself may act as a sacrificial blast shield protecting the baffles.
6) What is your expectation of the report the rifle will make when suppressed? The suppressor's volume by far is the most influential factor in the sound reduction. A .223 AR is still going to be loud no matter what you put on it. But a larger can will be quieter compared to a smaller can.
I suggest making a weight and using it with a cardboard tube to simulate a a suppressor you are considering. Tape it to the barrel and see what you think of the balance and bulk.
There are suppressors that add 3.5" of length and 10"+ in length. They fit different needs and perform differently.
7) Does the suppressor you are considering have a wide variety of mounts for future needs, odd threading, etc. And if they offer them, are they always readily available?
Is the company likely to be around in 3-10 years to continue to support your needs?
