When we watch action movies, say James Bond for example, we see that the various guns and rifles used may have a special attachment, which silences (or suppresses) the sound made by the weapon when it is fired. We often hear this attachment being called a silencer, and that exactly is what a suppressor is.

Suppressors are used not only in hollywood movies, they also have real-life applications as well – which has nothing to do with being a British or International spy. Special forces, for example, may utilise suppressors during their operations to avoid detection.

If you do not know how to choose a multi-calibre suppressor for your rifle, you are in the right place because I am going to walk you through the whole process.

Things to Consider before Buying a Suppressor

Now before you go and choose a suppressor for your rifle or gun, first you need to consider a number of things.

1. Why Are You Buying a Suppressor?

Reason for purchsing a suppressor could include:

• Happier Neighbours:
  • One of the largest challenges facing gun owners today is noise complaints stemming from normal activities at suburban gun clubs.
• Enhanced Accuracy:
  • Most people shoot a .223 Rem. better than a .338 Win. Mag. Why?
  • Despite what we want to believe, few of us are actually immune to recoil, so we tend to shoot better with light-recoiling weapons.
  • Much like a muzzle brake, silencers reduce recoil by countering the gas pressure that would otherwise force the weapon straight back into a shooter’s face and shoulder.
• Noise Level:
  • Suppressors also reduce perceived noise.
  • Quiet guns are easier to shoot. Try it.

Whatever your reason for the purchase may be, you will have to find a type of silencer that is attuned to the kind of activity you want to perform.

2. Is the Weight of the Suppressor Important to You?

The next question you might have to ask yourself is whether the weight and build of the suppressor are a significant factor. There are many people who are unaffected by the addition of a few pounds on their weapon, while there are others who are very conscious and, in many cases, it can reduce their shooting performance.

This could be a big deal if you are on the range all day and you do not want to add a few extra pounds on your weapon.

Just as the weight is important, the build, too, is something to keep an eye on. You might be okay with getting something a little bulkier which does an excellent job or might want something small and sleek, which may not work as well.

3. Will You Be Using the Suppressor with Different Weapons?

There are a number of people who own, or use, a range of different weapons – getting suppressors for all those weapons is going to be a lengthy and expensive process. So, if you do plan to use suppressors with your rifles, you may want opt for getting one that can be attached to multiple weapons.

It might take you a little bit of time to change rifles, but at least you will not have to wait months on end to receive the desired silencer. Rather than getting a suppressor which fits well with different rifles, you could get one that has a good adaptor. This will enable you to utilise a variety of rifles with one suppressor.

If you only have one rifle, then this is not something you need to worry about and can get a suppressor that is optimal for your rifle.

4. Are You Willing to Wait?

If you did not already know, when getting a silencer, you will have to wait for a very long time. The average waiting time is approximately 10 to 12 months. So, you will need more time to get a suppressor than you would to get the weapon it will be affixed to. You have to be patient during this process as there is not much you can do about it.

How to Choose a Suppressor for Your Rifle

Buying a suppressor is not an easy task. There are a number of things you have to look into before you find one that meets all your needs.

1. Multi-Calibre

As noted above, when buying a suppressor, you will want to know whether this can be attached to one or multiple weapons.

Most people tend to opt for multi-calibre suppressors as they have more freedom with them. Even if you do not have a variety of calibres at the time of purchase, your multi-calibre suppressor will enable you to branch out in the future.

2. Point of Impact (POI) Shift

Using a suppressor with your weapon may lead to a change in how you perform or how you grip the weapon. Changing the position of your hand while shooting can be very uncomfortable, and if you do not, then chances are there is the possibility of a POI shift.

With this in mind, your main ‘aim’ is you find a suppressor that would not require you to make too many adjustments to your position to hit the same target.

It is noteworthy to state that while silencers may slightly alter the POI, they do not necessarily make the weapon less accurate. To the contrary, oftentimes they cause the grouping to shrink.

3. Suppressor’s Service

The amount of money you spend and the kind of service you get are interconnected. If you do not pay the price, then you will not get the service you desire. Also, it is advisbale to look into weapon accessories that are actually reliable. You do not want any kind of mishap when it comes to your weapon.

Do some research and find out which one has the best performance at the best price. How much sound can the suppressor, for example.

4. Durability

As noted above, getting a suppressor is a very long process and, consequently, you want one that lasts longer that than the time it takes waiting for it to arrive!

A suppressor’s longevity is dependent on how many rounds you fire, whether the suppressor is supersonic or subsonic, and also the calibre.

Take these into account and choose one that fits the bill, as well as your budget.

Summary

Choosing the right suppressor for your rifle is not a very difficult task, but first you need to identify your needs and your budget, and then match them up to the suppressors available to find the perfect one for you.