Let’s clear the air: suppressors and silencers are technically the same device, but the term "silencer" is a misnomer that Hollywood made famous. They don’t magically make your gun whisper-quiet like in the movies. What they do is reduce the sound and muzzle flash when you fire, making them a practical addition for some firearm owners.

So, why would you want one? What are the upsides and downsides? And what should you think about before deciding if a suppressor is right for you? Let’s get into it.

What Suppressors Do?

When a gun is fired, hot gases rapidly expand out of the end of the barrel after the bullet, creating the loud "bang" we all know. A suppressor slows down and cools those gases before they leave the muzzle, which reduces the noise significantly. This is just like a muffler on a car; fitting, since both were invented by the same person. Suppressors also cut down on the bright muzzle flash and helps with recoil, which can improve your accuracy.

But don’t get it twisted; a suppressed gunshot is still loud. Depending on the caliber and suppressor, it can sound like anything from a loud hand clap to a fire cracker. However, if you pair a suppressor with subsonic ammo, the result is hearing-safe and much quieter since it eliminates the sonic crack that comes with supersonic ammo. This makes subsonic ammo a game-changer for stealthy shooting and protecting your ears.

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The Pros of Using Suppressors

• Improved Accuracy: By cutting down on recoil and stabilizing your shot, suppressors can help you stay on target.

• Reduced Muzzle Flash: This is particularly useful in low-light environments where bright flashes can ruin your night vision.

• Comfort: Shooting with a suppressor is less jarring, which can be a big plus during extended training sessions.

• Hearing Protection: Firing a gun without hearing protection can cause permanent damage. Suppressors reduce noise levels, making it safer for you and anyone nearby.

The Cons of Using Suppressors

• Length and Weight: A suppressor adds bulk to your firearm, which can make it less maneuverable.

• Legal Hassles: Not all states allow suppressor ownership, and federal regulations require paperwork, a tax fee, and variable waiting periods.

• Cost: Suppressors aren’t cheap, and the tax stamp required to legally own one in the U.S. adds even more expense.

• Heat:  A suppressor can get very hot after several rounds, or rapid fire, making burning your clothes or yourself a concern.

• Gas Blowback:  With no other modifications, suppressors may create back pressure that results in an unpleasant sensation to your eyes and nose.  This can be mitigated with adjustable gas blocks, specialty bolt carrier groups, and other gas mitigating devices)

Things to Consider

If you’re thinking about getting a suppressor, here’s what you should ask yourself:

1. What’s Your Purpose? Are you using it for hunting, home defense, or training? Each scenario might call for a different setup.

2. Do You Understand the Laws? Suppressors are legal in most states, but the process to own one involves registering with the ATF and paying for a tax stamp.

3. Will It Fit Your Firearm? Not all suppressors are universal. You need one that can work with your caliber, barrel length, and mounting type.

The Bottom Line

Suppressors aren’t for everyone, but they’re a game-changer for those who know how to use them responsibly. From protecting your hearing, improving your accuracy, or making training sessions more comfortable, there’s a lot to love about these tools. But like anything else in the firearms world, they come with trade-offs. Know your needs, know the laws, and make an informed choice. If you’re serious about incorporating a suppressor into your setup, invest in quality and get proper training to make it worth your while.

Intuitive Self Protection offers a variety of Protective Pistol Courses, Urban Carbine, and our newly added Night Vision Rifle Intro Course. These programs are led by an experienced team with decades of expertise forged through real-world operations across multiple continents. Our instructors, many of whom come from Military, Security, or Law Enforcement backgrounds, bring proven tactics to every class.

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About The Author

Hank Hayes is a Combat Arts Hall of Famer and inventor of the No Lie Blade. He is the founder and CEO of both Intuitive Self Protection and NLB Tactical and creator of the ISP/NLB viscous fighting system. Since 1998, he has trained well over 30,000 Military and Law Enforcement personnel via Government contract mainly at the elite special teams level and continues to train both civilians and MIL/LE how to come home safe.