Attending stadium rock concerts and shooting firearms without some form of ear protection are two of the most surefire ways to sustain hearing loss. I’m betting there are very few Dead Heads (Grateful Dead fans) out there who don’t answer every question with, “What?” Same goes for those rifle range junkies who go through ammo by the crate without giving their ears a second thought. Studies show that prolonged sounds above 70dB can cause hearing damage — everyday activities such as listening to loud music, frequenting loud bars and restaurants, mowing the lawn or operating power tools, for example. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the maximum level humans can tolerate without doing damage to their ears is 70dB over a 24-hour period. And loud noises above 120dB can cause immediate harm — even a single extremely loud noise event such as close proximity to the discharge of a firearm. Here are some other examples: Rock Concert = 110-120 dB; Nearby Thunder = 120dB; Jet Engine Takeoff = 140dB; Power Tools 100-110dB. Even noisy workplaces with a decibel rating of over 85dB can damage ears over the course of time.
Wearing hearing protection devices, such as earmuffs, plugs and such reduce gun reports by roughly 20 to 30dB. Unfortunately, these devices can be cumbersome in the field. A better solution for hunters and shooters is to tame muzzle blast at the source — reducing the sound signature of their firearms by equipping them with a suppressor. Suppressors decrease the acoustic intensity and recoil of the shot by modulating the speed and pressure of the propellant gas from the muzzle and suppressing the muzzle blast — anywhere from around 23 to 36dB sound reduction depending on the type of suppressor. Suppressors turn the mighty roar of that favorite high-octane rifle into a muffled snarl. Many rifles today come factory threaded for adding muzzle brakes or suppressors, which can be easily attached. Here are several models your patrons will want to check out.
Daniel SoundGuard SG-30 Powered by KGM
Daniel SoundGuard Powered by KGM Suppressors utilize cutting edge gas-flow dynamics that eliminate over-gassing by directing most gasses forward, not back in the shooter’s face. KGM technology significantly lowers impulse noise levels, protecting against hearing loss, while the baffle stack and proprietary coating on internal parts reduce a firearm’s flash signature to virtually zero. Gas-flow pathing stabilizes rounds to ensure extreme accuracy with minimal point-of-impact shift. The SG-30 is compatible with .223- through .300 PRC-caliber firearms and is constructed of lightweight, durable stainless steel. It attaches/detaches in seconds via an included adapter utilizing the HUB standard 1.375-24 UNS, which provides secure attachment while adding minimal length and allowing for the use of a variety of other muzzle attachments. MSRP: $773. www.danieldefense.com
Dead Air Silencers Lazarus 6
The Lazarus 6 from Dead Air Silencers was designed to withstand the most demanding firing schedules and harshest environments. Featuring the innovative Triskelion Gas Management System, this silencer offers exceptional acoustic performance and minimal back pressure, keeping gas away from the face while reducing wear on firearms. Crafted from advanced Haynes 282 material and utilizing the company’s proven Triskelion Baffle technology, the Lazarus 6 optimizes sound suppression across a wide range of frequencies. It is HUB compatible, allowing the use of a variety of industry mounting systems, including the KeyMo, Xeno and direct thread options. The enhanced thermal management system rapidly conducts heat from the core to the outer skin, cooling it quickly and maintaining optimal performance even under intense conditions. MSRP: $990-$1,050. www.deadairsilencers.com
Elite Iron Thud Lite
The Thud Lite from Elite Iron boasts a newer skinless design, featuring a meticulously crafted suppressor sealed with laser-welded Grade 5 titanium baffles. This achieves an unparalleled level of lightweight construction and guarantees exceptional durability, ruggedness and superior sound suppression. Crafted with versatility in mind, the Thud Lite is purpose-built to accommodate semi-automatic and bolt-action rifles. Its adaptability is further enhanced by interchangeable direct thread mounts utilizing a standard HUB system, allowing seamless integration with various platforms spanning from 5.56mm to .300 Win. Mag. For those seeking extraordinary performance, the Thud Lite M variant extends compatibility to the formidable .338 Lapua Mag. The Thud Lite features swappable end caps that empower users to optimize sound reduction performance. MSRP: $995. www.eliteiron.com
Huxwrx Flow 762 Ti
By 3D-printing with Grade 5 titanium, the Flow 762 Ti is the lightest rifle suppressor available from Huxwrx Safety Company, with zero sacrifice to quality, longevity, durability and functionality. The Flow 762 Ti is the latest evolution in Flow-Through technology, delivering above and beyond toxic fume mitigation, accuracy and repeatability. This innovative multi-caliber suppressor utilizes proven Flow-Through and Torque Lock technologies. The integrated GeoFlash Cap geometry effectively mitigates flash as part of its overall signature reduction functionality. The Flow 762 Ti is full-auto rated and compatible with 5.56mm, 6.5 and 7.62mm platforms with no barrel restrictions. No modifications (other than QD muzzle device) to the platform or gas system are required to install or operate this suppressor. MSRP: $1,623.www.huxwrx.com
Maxim Defense QD Suppressor System
The Maxim Defense QD Suppressor System utilizes a proprietary flash hider to quickly attach and remove the suppressor without the use of tools. The system is multi-caliber compatible, making it perfect for military, law enforcement, hunters, sports shooters and firearm enthusiasts. Available in the DSX, DS and DS-K models, the QD suppressor system allows for use across multiple calibers, making it easy for customers to use one suppressor for several different firearms, saving both time and money by needing only one tax stamp. Utilizing M-Kore technology, the QD ensures unmatched durability and optimized performance. This suppressor is UTM safe and passed SOCOM’s rigorous endurance and destruction tests — finished with a CR-DLC coating, providing better resistance to wear, heat and carbon buildup; making maintenance easier and less frequent. MSRP: $1,150-$1,550/Includes suppressor and QD muzzle device. www.maximdefense.com
Nosler SR-30K Compact
The SR-30K Suppressor is based on Nosler’s SR-30AlTi, which features aluminum and titanium construction for the lightest possible weight, striking a balance between overall length and noise reduction. At less than 6 inches long and weighing 7.2 ounces, the K-Can is a pleasure to carry and easier to maneuver than a full-size suppressor, making it ideal in a treestand, ground blind or on longer rifles. It incorporates the same attachment system as the rest of the Nosler suppressor line and can be mounted either over a brake or direct-threaded to the muzzle with the use of the included adaptor. When space and weight are at a premium, the K-Can is a great, economical solution for noise and blast reduction. MSRP: $729. www.nosler.com
SilencerCo Scythe-Ti
The Scythe-Ti is SilencerCo’s first suppressor completely constructed from titanium. This premium .30-caliber suppressor is extremely lightweight and short, with the body of the suppressor weighing just over 6 ounces and measuring under 6 inches in length. The real magic, however, is that the Scythe-Ti boasts impressive sound suppression while maintaining this featherlight quality — a unique accomplishment for suppressors in its class. It’s the optimal choice for suppressed hunting, long-range precision shooting or days at the range. With no barrel length restrictions and rated for calibers all the way up to .300 RUM, the capabilities of the Scythe-Ti are extensive. It ships with a new radial tool, Bravo tool, basic tool, 5/8x24 titanium direct thread mount and .30-caliber aluminum single-port anchor brake. MSRP: $1,174.www.silencerco.com
Silencer Central/MeatEater Suppressor
Silencer Central has teamed up with MeatEater to launch the new MeatEater by Banish suppressor. Designed for hunting, this .30-caliber suppressor is rated for cartridges up to .300 RUM. It features an anchor brake that reduces recoil by up to 40% in the open position and 30% when closed, while also delivering an additional 5dB of sound reduction. Overall, the suppressor cuts average sound levels by 32dB, ensuring a quieter shooting experience. With a muzzle cap insert to accommodate various calibers, users can optimize the suppressor for their specific rifle setup. Constructed from lightweight titanium, the suppressor weighs just 10.3 ounces, measures 5.85 inches in length and has a 1.73-inch diameter with an industry-standard hub mount. MSRP: $1,299. www.silencercentral.com
