Are you considering joining all the cool kids and buying a suppressor? You’ve probably figured out some things by reading the internet. Things such as:
– They aren’t movie-quiet.
– They tend to multiply.
– They get hot and make your gun dirtier.
I wanted a suppressor so I could shoot my AR at the indoor range without being obnoxious and for shooting in the National Forest without bothering everyone else’s tranquility. Here are some things I learned that you might benefit from knowing:
#1 Pick a reputable brand, and go with it.
Have you tried to figure out some specifics about which is the best suppressor? Which is the quietest? Which has the least blowback? Which has the least impact shift? Which company has perfect quality control? Well, all of those questions are good questions. If you can determine clear-cut answers, and arrive at a definitive conclusion, then you win the internet! Enjoy your perfect suppressor!
I was not able, by doing research on the internet, to determine which is the perfect suppressor. There are quite a few companies with good reputations and good products. I actually decided on a brand, Dead Air Silencers, because I live near their headquarters. I also noticed that they have a nice selection of accessories.
If I had waited until the internet agreed about the perfect suppressor, I would still be waiting.
In summary: Pick a brand that you like for whatever reason, and go with it.
Make a choice, and act on it!
#2 Start the process.
I finally ventured into the suppressor world with the introduction of e-filing my unconstitutional paperwork. It was supposed to take 60 – 90 days. It took 148. If I had waited until the backlog died down, I would still be waiting. There will never be a perfect time.
So, get started!
#3 Plan ahead, for when the suppressor is hot.
You know it’s going to get hot. Really hot! Well, how are you going to make sure it’s still tight? How are you going to put it in your shooting bag without melting the bag? These issues are not rocket-science, but they do require some planning ahead.
For those who are wondering, I’ve been happy with my choice. I suspect most people would be happy with it. I went with the Dead Air Nomad 30 and the Dead Air Xeno Adapter. It’s mostly been used on an 11.5-inch AR.
Now, quit the analysis paralysis, and make a decision!