Volunteer XV

[southern2025]

Hello everyone, interested in purchasing a Volunteer XV (base model with fixed front sight) as my first AR15. From what I've read, it is basically an upgraded Sport 2. The Volunteer XV has a carbine length gas system, so my question is: Can I use a suppressor with this particular model and if so, will the A2 flash hider have to be removed (does it simply screw off?) or can the suppressor be placed over the A2 flash hider? Thanks

 

[SSGRock]

I went to Smith & Wesson web site. There I found Volunteer XV and Sport 2 show Discontinued. Are you looking to buy a new or used rifle?

 

[southern2025]

I went to Smith & Wesson web site. There I found Volunteer XV and Sport 2 show Discontinued. Are you looking to buy a new or used rifle?

Yes, both models are discontinued. There still are Volunteer XV's available for sale. The Sport 2's are pretty much gone (new ones at least). I'm interested in purchasing a new rifle. I know that there are a bazillion other AR15 choices out there, but I just want to keep things simple. Also S&W has a good reputation and from what I've read, their customer service is good too. I've always wanted a Sport 2 but the Volunteer XV (base model) comes with the upgrades (1:8 twist rate, better hand guard, etc). This would be my first rifle and I know nothing about suppressors and their usage. Thanks.

 

[SSGRock]

I know since about 2015 some AR-15 manufacturers have permanently attached flash suppressors. DPMS is one manufacturer that has done this. Maybe you should call Smith and Wesson and ask you concerns.

 

[bamashooter]

I know since about 2015 some AR-15 manufacturers have permanently attached flash suppressors. DPMS is one manufacturer that has done this. Maybe you should call Smith and Wesson and ask you concerns.

I have 3 DPMS uppers newer than 2015 with their basic removable A2 - type flash suppressors. Perhaps some do but the majority remain removeable. Perhaps you're speaking of barrels with an overall length shorter than 16". Otherwise, the gun is classified as "other", etc and will be covered by the NFA (stamp) rules.

 

[WR Moore]

OK, per the S&W website, the XV has a threaded barrel, but it doesn't have a hard chrome finished chamber & bore. So:
removal of the flash hider/compensator to install a suppressor depends upon the design of the suppressor. The USAMTU determined that the melonite interior barrel finish isn't as resistant to erosion as a hard chrome finish. Not really an issue unless you're into mag dumps.

Also, supressors are expensive and add length & weight out at the end of the barrel. Will likely change point of impact, but that can vary widely.

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

I know since about 2015 some AR-15 manufacturers have permanently attached flash suppressors. DPMS is one manufacturer that has done this. Maybe you should call Smith and Wesson and ask you concerns.

WHO? And how do they permanently attach a flash hider and why?...........I've met one that couldn't be screwed off

 

[southern2025]

OK, per the S&W website, the XV has a threaded barrel, but it doesn't have a hard chrome finished chamber & bore. So:
removal of the flash hider/compensator to install a suppressor depends upon the design of the suppressor. The USAMTU determined that the melonite interior barrel finish isn't as resistant to erosion as a hard chrome finish. Not really an issue unless you're into mag dumps.

Also, supressors are expensive and add length & weight out at the end of the barrel. Will likely change point of impact, but that can vary widely.

Thank you for this info and to everyone that has replied. I must have missed that detail about the threaded barrel on their website. I don't plan on doing any mag dumps. This rifle will be for plinking mostly. I know that S&W owns Gemtech and thought maybe one of the Gemtech suppressors may be exactly what I'm looking for. Just from reading online, it seems that using a suppressor is better suited for a mid-length gas system rather than a carbine length system, due to higher back pressure with carbine length. But like I said, I'm not going to be putting a lot of rounds down range. Also, I thought if there is one that fits directly on the flash hider that would be perfect. The Sport 2 is considered outdated (if you listen to all the Guntubers). I couldn't care less. I actually like the clean simple design and dig the fixed front sight, LOL! I have a damaged ear, hence the desire for a suppressor. If anyone else would like to add more, please do. BTW, did contact S&W, still waiting for reply. Lastly, heard about the Axe 15 (which is made for suppressor use) but hardly any reviews on it since it's so new, looks promising.

 

[WR Moore]

A suppressor jacks up back pressure regardless of the length of the gas system. The mid length is really the thinking persons choice for a 16 inch barrel AR as it reduces operating pressure in the carrier assembly and increases reliability. There is a suppressor (can't recall which one) that clamps to the birdcage using the blank adapter grooves as the anchor. BUT, real world suppressors aren't as effective as Hollywood would have you believe. You're still going to need ear protection. The Peltor MT15H7F SV active hearing protection will protect your ears and give you normal-or better-hearing for a lot less money.

 

[southern2025]

That's what I've read, a suppressor on an AR15 only reduces the noise by a few decibels. But any reduction in noise is better than nothing, for me at least. I've used Peltors (just the plain passive ones that are quite thick, you can get them at Home Depot) along with foam plugs. I did this with a 20 gauge shotty with 18.5 inch barrel. It was tolerable. Thanks for the specific Peltor model recommendation. Just did a quick search for good AR suppressors and the SOCOM RC2 popped up, supposed to fit over the flash hider if I read it correctly.

 

[lunger]

Have you considered the Sport III ? You get mid length gas system along with the 1/8 5R rifling and free float handguard .Very pleased with mine . Soft shooting and better groups than my original Sport

It out shoots some of my buddies higher end rifles.

 

[southern2025]

Have you considered the Sport III ? You get mid length gas system along with the 1/8 5R rifling and free float handguard .Very pleased with mine . Soft shooting and better groups than my original Sport

It out shoots some of my buddies higher end rifles.

I did, but wish they had at least put flip-up sights on the Sport 3. That would have been ideal in my eyes.

 

[WR Moore]

While plinking is your intended use, a fixed front sight and a cheek/chin weld can save your butt up close and personal. Especially if your optic takes a dump. Gas blocks should ALWAYS be pinned.

OK, the USAMTU doesn't/didn't pin the gas blocks on their match guns-or when they built the rifles for the Designated Marksmen in infantry units. BUT, unless you're both that good a shot and whoever built the rifle takes the same pains they do when they install gas blocks, stick with pinned. I've seen a number of gas blocks that decided to relocate during use and I expect it's really exciting for the shooter.

 

[wood714]

WHO? And how do they permanently attach a flash hider and why?...........I've met one that couldn't be screwed off

Only ones I've ever saw with a pin and welded flash hider are on shorter barrels. The flash hider is longer and makes it a legal 16".