Suppressors and Shooting Accuracy

[Arthury]

First, let me start by saying that I understand there are different types of suppressors:

• muzzle brakes -- to reduce muzzle rise
• noise suppressors
• flash suppressors

And, obviously, many products these days have overlapping functionalities of the above 3.

Primarily, I am interested to know more about Noise Suppressors affecting the shooting accuracy of a long sniping gun in a long distanced hunting application.

Some technical experts believe that by redirecting the exhaust gases to the side, the bullet is stabilized just before it exits the muzzle; thus providing a good start for a more predictable trajectory. How true is this? Do you know of counter-arguments against this belief?

Thanks,
Art

 

[Leonard]

Adding the additional weight to the end of the barrel changes its harmonics this could be good or bad.

 

[Arthury]

When is it good and when is it bad? Could you elaborate a little, please?
Thanks!

 

[Leonard]

If you have a really accurate rifle changing the harmonics may effect its accuracy if center fire you could possibly adjust your load to compensate. Shooting it with it on or off will probably change its point of impact. The shorter and heavier the barrel the less of an effect the add weight will have.

While I understand to some extent the effect of barrel harmonics I am no expert. I know Les Baer refused to hang a muzzle brake on an AR he built for me for this reason.

Last week a friend of mine wanted advise on buying a Savage .22 that is pre-threaded so he could easily attach a suppressor. I discussed this with a good friend of mine retired writer and ballistician Ed Matunas. Ed said it was a **** shoot as to its effect on accuracy and of course outside of trying different brands of .22 there is no load adjustment.

I have a.22 Marvel that has a can on it very accurate but its hung on a short fixed barrel.

If you really need more advise PM me and I will put you in touch with Ed.

 

[KEN L]

Military and Law Enforcement snipers have been using these combinations for years. The people you should really be asking are the ones that manufacture the suppressors. SureFire, AAC, GemTech, AWC, to name a few. Do your research and hang out on some of the Class III friendly sites. You'll have your answers very soon. Subguns.Com, Sturmgewehr.Com will get you started.

In my experience, and I've been involved with Class III for years, there are more positives to suppressing a high powered rifle than negatives.